Besides the street and park trees in Snoqualmie, there are many trees on private property that enhance the natural setting of the community. Below are a few tips on tree care. For more general information on tree care, visit the International Society of Arboriculture website at: www.treesaregood.com.

1. Select the right tree: Avoid planting trees that are prone to problems. The City of Snoqualmie maintains a list of recommended trees of various sizes and spreading habits.

2. Plant in the right place: Make tree selections based on fully mature height and width. Do not plant tall canopy trees under utility lines or close to buildings.

3. Fertilize lightly: Do not over fertilize. Excessive tree growth requires more water and can lead to future problems.

4. Keep tree bases clean: Roots take up water and essential minerals so remove weeds to allow roots to function properly.

5. Mulch properly: Mulch the area surrounding your tree with 2-4 inches of mulch to reduce the need for watering. Take care not to place mulch against the tree trunk. Mulch will protect the trunk from mowers and weed eaters. It will also prevent soil compaction and help maintain soil moisture.

6. Watch for signs of disease: Signs of problems include dead or dying branches, mushrooms or conks on the trunk or at the base of the tree, cracks or cavities. If you see problems, a certified arborist can most accurately diagnose the problem and offer solutions. You can find out more about plant and tree diseases, including where to go for diagnosis of existing diseases, visit the Washington State University’s Cooperative Extension Website

7. Trim away from utilities, sidewalks, streets: Trees need to be trimmed to keep them away from utility lines and 8’ above any sidewalk or street to allow for easy passage. For tips on how to properly prune trees, visit the ISA website above or hire a qualified arborist. You can check for ISA certification or find a specialist by visiting the website at www.isa-arbor.com and clicking on the "Certification" tab at the top.

8. Plan ahead for construction: When any type of construction activity is going to be performed near trees there are several steps to take to ensure the tree does not suffer from damage. Visit www.treesaregood.com for more information on tree preservation during construction.