Plant Health Care is an industry buzzword referring to a holistic approach of managing landscape trees and shrubs. Similar to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) which began in the 1980’s, PHC seeks to improve the health of a tree by addressing the environmental conditions affecting it – not just the insect or disease feeding on it. Plan Health Care is a proactive approach to creating the ideal growing conditions so the plant can naturally resist insects and disease. Some of the strategies may include:
- Mulching
- Watering
- Pruning
- Soil Aeration/Drainage
- Soil Amendments
- Removal of Symbiotic Host Plants
- Targeted Spray Program
- Site Monitoring
We are plant specialists too. Trees and shrubs grow differently than grass. They have their own unique set of insects and diseases that plague them. As a result, the state of New Hampshire requires separate licensing in order to legally apply pesticides to woody ornamentals. At Groundhog Turf Care, we have licensed technicians dedicated to the maintenance of trees and shrubs.
Targeted fertilizer formulations. A cornerstone of our Tree and Shrub Care program is fertilization. We apply a deep root liquid fertilizer in the spring and the fall. In the spring, the soil amendments have a boost of nitrogen to promote foliage and branch growth. In the fall, when trees are developing their root system, our fertilizer formulations contain more phosphorus to help stimulate root growth.
Targeted insect control. Our tree and shrub program includes three visits per season. Rather than blanketing all of the shrubs on a property with pesticides on every visit, our staff will selectively target problem areas. They may not spray some plants, but focus the attention to treating only one. Some insects are better controlled through soil soak methods, some through foliar sprays, and some through trunk injection. Our techs will choose the most desirable method for optimal results.
Cultural methods. Aside from selective treatment and monitoring, Groundhog Turf Care is well-suited to provide those environmental solutions as well through our sister company, Groundhog Landscaping. Mulching and irrigation services can be provided to all Groundhog Turf Care customers upon request.
Have you been ignoring your trees and shrubs? Give us a call today for a free plant health examination!