By Clarence Rumancik
Trees Shade vs Grass
Homeowners often face an issue with tree shade affecting the health of their grass, especially during the Spring and Summer. Customers of Canopy Tree Service frequently inquire about remedying dead grass below their trees. While families enjoy the sun protection provided by trees, they also realize the negative impact on their lawns. Their desire is to maintain a thriving tree and achieve lush green grass beneath it.
Tree Thinning to Permit Light
As a tree trimming company, Canopy Tree Service is often called upon to thin a tree to permit more light to filter to the lawn. There are several factors that influence whether we will agree to do crown thinning for this purpose. Reducing tree shade can in some cases adversely affect the health and growth rate of the tree. Our arborists must examine how the lawn and tree interact with one another. One factor is whether the tree is fairly young or established.
Grass Free Zone
According to the University of California Agriculture and Natural Sciences, “grasses are very competitive with trees and shrubs, especially young stock.” During the time that a tree is getting established, it is ideal that below the tree canopy and even going out a foot or so further than the drip line that the ground be clear.
A lawn surrounding a young tree may stunt its growth when compared to a grass-free zone. Customers who move into a new subdivision often compare the growth of trees given by their builder to that of their neighbors. For a young tree to thrive, it needs nutrients and water. Competing with grass could deprive the tree of these elements.
Reducing Tree Shade below Established, Mature Trees
If done properly, established, mature trees can be trimmed to allow more light to reach the lawn. A Certified Arborist who cares about your tree’s health will follow professional foliage removal standards. For instance, knowledgeable arborists will remove no more than 25% of a tree’s foliage in one year. They will avoid removing 25% of a tree’s foliage on a single branch as well. According to TCIA, if a tree trimmer fails to follow this guideline, it can lead to the canopy being damaged by wind and the trunk being scalded by the sun. Additionally, process of photosynthesis uses tree foliage to perform its work. The document found at ANSI A300 contains these standards. If you are looking at a tree trimming estimate, that estimate should be detailed enough to show that the trimming will follow ANSI standards. Our company offers free estimates.
