Tree Care Myths That Could Be Costing Your Garden Its Health
Good intentions do not always lead to healthy trees. Overwatering, heavy pruning and unnecessary fertiliser can weaken the very plants you want to protect. In Wollongong, coastal exposure, humid conditions and differences between sandy and clay soils make a one-size-fits-all approach especially unhelpful. Understanding these common tree care myths can help you maintain a healthier, safer garden.
Myth 1: Every Tree Needs Frequent Watering
Newly planted trees need regular moisture while their roots establish, but established trees do not necessarily need frequent irrigation. Waterlogged soil limits oxygen around roots and can encourage root disease.
Check the soil before watering. Feel beneath the surface mulch, around 10–15 centimetres deep, where practical without damaging roots. If the soil is still moist, postpone watering. When irrigation is needed, water slowly across the root zone rather than concentrating it against the trunk. Adjust your approach to rainfall, drainage, tree species and planting age.
Myth 2: Cutting the Top Off Makes a Tree Safer
Topping removes major branches or the upper crown indiscriminately. It creates large wounds and can trigger vigorous shoots that may develop weak attachments. Rather than providing lasting safety, topping can increase decay and future maintenance needs.
A qualified arborist can assess whether selective pruning, crown reduction or another approach is appropriate. Pruning should follow relevant guidance in AS 4373, Pruning of amenity trees, where applicable. Large limbs and work near powerlines require specialist attention, not DIY cutting.
Myth 3: More Mulch Means Better Protection
Mulch helps conserve moisture, moderate soil temperature and suppress weeds. However, piling it against the trunk keeps bark damp and can conceal problems around the root flare.
Apply organic mulch approximately 5–10 centimetres deep, using a thinner layer on poorly drained ground. Keep it clear of the trunk and leave the root flare visible. Extend the mulched area outward where space allows, rather than building a mound upward.
Myth 4: Every Struggling Tree Needs Fertiliser
Yellow leaves, sparse growth and canopy dieback do not automatically indicate a nutrient shortage. Compacted soil, damaged roots, poor drainage, pests and unsuitable growing conditions can produce similar symptoms.
Identify the cause before adding fertiliser. Check watering and drainage first, and consider soil testing or an arborist assessment if symptoms persist. Some Australian native plants, including many banksias, are sensitive to excess phosphorus, so a general-purpose product may be unsuitable.
Myth 5: Tree Roots Only Grow Beneath the Canopy
Roots commonly extend beyond the canopy, with many absorbing roots growing close to the soil surface. Digging trenches, adding paving or parking vehicles near a tree can damage roots and compact soil, even when the trunk remains untouched.
Before installing a driveway, retaining wall or underground service, https://treeremovalwollongong.com.au/tree-pruning/ seek advice about protecting nearby trees. Avoid cutting substantial roots without professional assessment: root loss can affect both tree health and stability.
Myth 6: Wound Paint Helps Every Pruning Cut Heal
Trees do not heal pruning wounds like human skin. They compartmentalise damaged tissue and grow new tissue around the wound. Routine wound paint is generally unnecessary and does not replace correct pruning.
For small, manageable branches, use sharp tools and cut just outside the branch collar without leaving a long stub or cutting flush against the trunk. Obtain professional help for large branches, structural defects or work at height.
Myth 7: Trees on Private Property Never Need Council Approval
Owning a tree does not automatically mean you can prune or remove it without permission. In Wollongong, approval requirements can depend on tree characteristics, location, applicable exemptions and other environmental or heritage protections.
Before arranging substantial pruning or removal in 2026, check Wollongong City Council’s current tree management requirements. Do not assume a neighbour’s approval, a contractor’s quote or a tree’s unhealthy appearance authorises the work.
A Better Approach to Tree Care in Wollongong
Inspect your trees regularly and after severe weather, looking from a safe distance for hanging branches, new cracks, sudden leaning or disturbed soil around the base. Keep people away from suspected hazards and contact a qualified, insured arborist. With suitable watering, sensible mulching and well-planned pruning, you can support healthy trees without relying on costly myths.
Wollongong Tree Removal Pros
106 Gipps St, Wollongong NSW 2500
(02) 4210 5945