By Tim Winegard
Owner, Muskoka Tree Solutions Inc.
Tree-framed vistas across the lake are major selling features and highlights for owners in Muskoka. As real estate dynamics evolve in 2023 due to interest rate changes, curbs on international ownership, and pent-up demand, owners should be taking proactive approaches to preserving or increasing the value of their investments. Healthy, well-maintained trees contribute to the value of your property by providing shade and privacy from neighbours, accentuating the natural beauty of your property’s views, and reducing overall risk. Maintained trees add the “wow factor” to your property’s curb appeal and ensure you enjoy a carefree summer at the cottage. Investing in the health and longevity of your trees starts with these tips for spring from Muskoka Tree Solutions.
Find your storm-damaged trees
Assess your property for damaged trunks and separated or stress-fractured branches. Winter snow and wind storms can weaken or break tree branches and tops, resulting in partially fallen “widow-makers” and other potential hazards above parking areas, buildings and utilities, as the stability of storm damage decreases over time.
Identify and eliminate hazards and disease
Identify dying and diseased trees or branches near key cottage areas by looking for visible mushrooms, significant bark loss or recent pileated woodpecker activity. These early warning signs indicate comprised wood quality and are common sites for tree failures. Removing diseased branches from large hardwoods, pines and hemlocks helps to minimize risk and improve tree health.
Maintained trees add the “wow factor” to your property’s curb appeal and ensure you enjoy a carefree summer at the cottage.
Care for recently planted trees
Mulch recently planted trees to preserve soil moisture and reduce root zone competition. Recently planted trees are prone to drought stress because their root system is still developing, which can leave them susceptible to insects and disease. A weekly routine of deep and slow watering at the base of the tree should be established during spring and summer periods without rain.
Determine your future risk
Have your property’s health and hazard risk assessed by professionals. To the trained eye, differences in the vibrancy of leaf colour, foliage density and the timing of leaf production provide clues to the health of your trees—and potential problems to come. Trees under stress or in decline can fail to produce leaves vigorously or may leaf out substantially earlier (or later) than nearby members of the same species. Arborists in Muskoka can help identify your short-and long-term priorities for your properties’ tree health and safety, ensuring the cottage season goes off without a hitch.
Spring in Muskoka is heralded by the return of warmer and longer days, the call of loons across the lake, and the seasonal buzz of energy that fills the air as cottage country bounces back to life. Your trees and cottage landscaping set the stage for memorable experiences with friends and family. By following our spring care guide, Muskoka property owners can rest assured they are working with (not against) the flow of the natural landscape. If you are looking for help with your property’s spring tree care, or have questions for arborists in Muskoka about improving your views or the health of your cottage property—call Muskoka Tree Solutions to organize your spring assessment at 705-388-8733 (TREE).
For more information on Muskoka Tree Solutions Tree Care, check out our website at muskokasolutions.com
