In urban areas humans often put trees under extraordinary pressures. Ultimately these pressures can affect their health and shorten their lives.

A squirrel or a bird can plant a tree, but trees rely on people to plant them in suitable locations and take good care of them. When we plant a tree in potentially adversarial circumstances its beauty and benefits cannot be achieved. People commonly plant trees in places where they are ill-adapted to site constraints and environmental conditions. Ultimately, these trees often pose a risk to people and property and are frequently mismanaged. Mismanagement increases their risk for pests and pathogens and ultimately reduces their life expectancy.

The average tree in metropolitan areas survives only about eight years. Of every four city trees that die or are removed, only one is replaced on average. Bruce Hagen, Certified Arborist, retired professional forester and author writes, “Pruning is best used to maintain safety, strong structure, provide clearance for cars and pedestrians, avoid conflicts with structures or overhead powerlines, minimize risk of wildfire, and enhance shape and attractiveness. When done without regard to a tree’s health, function, basic structure, appearance, and inherent value, it can be disastrous.”

Do you know how long it usually takes a tree to reach its most productive stage of carbon storage? About ten years. Urban trees need us, we need them, and wildlife need them too! We may own a tree, but we don’t necessarily know what’s best for it. Trees should be cared for by certified professionals.

Here are examples to assist you in recognizing the actions that harm a tree.

We are deeply grateful to Bruce Hagen for supplying and explaining photos for this project.

Additional Resources:

• How to select the right tree for the right place
• Find an arborist near you
• What you should know before hiring an arborist or tree care worker.
• Arbor Day Foundation, Tree City Bulletins on various topics