When the summer comes to an end, nature introduces a mixture of ochres, reds, dark browns and yellows which announce the arrival of autumn. Autumn is a surprising season which invites us to look at and admire its colours and during which the plants and flowers hide to draw our attention to the trees, the genuine stars of this time of year.

 

Autumn is the best time to plant trees in the garden since their growth slows down and the damage they might suffer as a result of the change lessens. Choosing the type of tree is a complicated task and it is advisable to consult a landscape gardener, who will take into consideration the size, design and dominant colour of the garden as well as listening to the client�s preferences.

 

In order to make the correct choice, we must assess aesthetic and functional criteria equally for both are essential to hit on the appropriate species. A tree must be in keeping with the rest of the plants in the garden and as such we must look at its height, colour, shape, family, future shadow, fruits and need for light, food and moisture.

 

Its situation is fundamental, not only for the reasons mentioned above but also because this will determine whether the design of the garden benefits or loses out. In order to improve it we just have to think about what we are looking for in a tree, shady areas or peaceful areas, and depending on the answer, we can choose from the following species: for shaded areas, among other types, oak trees, ash trees, birch trees and horse chestnut trees are good, whilst the weeping willow, beech tree, Japanese maple, American red maple and Oregon maple create a sense of peacefulness, to name a few.

 

The main care that trees require is related to supporting the trunk, protecting the sap, trimming the branches and treating certain diseases. The first step in planting is to hammer wooden or steel stakes into the ground to support the tree and ensure that it takes root firmly in the ground.

 

Then we place the tree in the hole up to the mark on the trunk, the same height as when it was in the nursery, and lastly we cover the roots with fine enriched soil and give it plenty of water. We repeat this process, pressing down the soil and watering again, until the hole is completely covered. So as to make sure the tree retains the moisture it is advisable to cover the trunk with a heated blanket, sackcloth, straw or pine bark.

 

With the exception of certain species which require a serious pruning depending on the intended design: hedges, straight lines, avenues..., trees do not need pruning as it is best to preserve their original shape. However, dry, sick and hanging branches do need to be trimmed or removed. In winter, we must shake the snow from the branches so that they do not break if they are fragile.

 

A tree�s need for water depends on the climate, species, size, soil and its location in the garden, but in general, as with all plants, in dry periods it will need more watering and during such periods it is sensible to water at dusk.

 

Care must be taken when watering. Over watering can increase the tree�s dependency on water to the point that it needs more than is necessary. Consequently, in periods of drought if there is a water shortage the tree will not survive without the amount it is used to. A large amount of water can also encourage the growth of mushrooms in the soil; these will attack the tree roots, causing them to die.

 

The problems that trees may present stem from pests, diseases and damage.

 

Among the first, we can highlight woodlice, caterpillars, plant lice, maggots, thunder flies..., of the second, the most significant are mushrooms, and where damage is concerned, this is usually caused by the cold, heat, wind, incorrect pruning, aging, inadequate watering and other circumstances which negatively affect the tree.

 

Every pest, disease and type of damage has its own characteristics, but many of them are displayed by the discolouring and deformation of the leaves, as well as their subsequent loss. In order to overcome them, the best thing to do is to show a leaf from the affected tree to a member of staff at a nursery or garden centre, so that they may determine the problem as accurately as possible and provide a solution.