Caring for Our Canopy: A Homeowner’s Guide to Street Trees
Why care for street trees?
Trees provide shade, clean air, and beauty to our community. Proper care and pruning are essential to their health and longevity. As a homeowner, maintaining street trees ensures a thriving urban canopy for generations. As required by town code, ensure 8 feet of clearance above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets. This helps buses, street sweepers, first responders, trash trucks, and others have safe street access.
Street Tree Care and Pruning: Ensuring Healthy Growth
Homeowner Responsibilities
Tree Maintenance: Care for street trees in the right-of-way adjacent to your property, including pruning and replacing dead trees with Town-approved species.
Clearance Requirements: As required by town code, ensure 8 feet of clearance above sidewalks and 14 feet above streets.
Pruning Basics
When to Prune:
- Best: Late winter before buds swell (e.g., February–March).
- Okay: Summer after growth flush, if the tree is healthy and watered.
- Avoid: Spring (growth flush) and late fall to midwinter (risk of damage).
- How Much to Prune:
- Remove no more than 25% of a healthy tree’s canopy annually.
- Deadwood can be removed any time.
Proper Pruning Techniques
- Focus on maintaining a strong central leader.
- Remove branches with narrow angles or competing growth.
- Use the Three-Cut Method for larger branches to prevent bark tearing.
- Avoid cuts over 2 inches in diameter to minimize decay risks.
Recommended Tools:
- Hand pruners: For small branches.
- Loppers: For branches up to 2 inches.
- Handsaws: For larger branches..
How Much to Prune
- Remove no more than 25% of a healthy tree’s canopy annually.
- Deadwood can be removed any time.
For large cuts or complex pruning, hire a certified arborist.
Planting and Caring for New Trees
- What to Plant: Use Town-approved species suitable for Colorado’s climate.
- When to Plant: Ideal seasons are spring (March–June) and fall (September–October).
- How to Plant: Dig a wide, shallow hole, ensure the root flare is visible, and use mulch to retain moisture.
- Watering Tips: Provide consistent moisture, especially in summer and dry winters.
Resources and Support
- For tree care guidance, visit resources like Colorado State University Extension.
- Need help? Find a certified arborist through the ISA Rocky Mountain Chapter.
FAQs
- Why prune street trees? To promote health, prevent breakage, and ensure sidewalk/street clearance.
- What if I can’t prune? Contact a certified arborist. Find a certified arborist through the ISA Rocky Mountain Chapter.
Report Issues: Contact Timnath’s Community Development Department at [email protected] for concerns about street trees.
By following these simple guidelines, we can nurture a vibrant, healthy urban canopy that benefits everyone.