Trees are a constant presence in our lives. Even if we fail to notice them or take them for granted, they have a tremendous positive impact on our health and well-being. Whether you’re taking a moment to be still beneath the branches of a majestic tree or simply enjoying a forest landscape, the mystery, wonder and beauty of trees has enhanced your life in some way.
The Currier Museum of Art recently commissioned artist Konstantin Dimopoulos to create a temporary art installation: a landscape of nearly 100 vibrant blue trees meant to start a conversation about the importance of trees to our state, cities, towns and our lives.
With this exhibit in mind, take a minute to look closely at the trees you see every day. What do these trees do for us and what can we do for them? How can we give back to make their lives better? Consider these tips below for ideas about how you can care for trees.
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Plant and Care for Trees
Planting the right tree in the right place is just the beginning. Just like people, trees need care and attention, especially when young. Watering, mulching, and pruning trees properly provide a lifetime of benefits: improving our health, climate, air, water and wildlife for current and future generations.
Tip: Visit your local garden center and ask which tree is right for you and how best to care for it.
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Monitor Tree Health
Living in a cramped yard or along a street can be a tough environment for a tree, but you can help! Monitor and care for your trees and call a certified arborist who can evaluate their condition and help you find solutions to keep them healthy.
Tip: Learn what to look for when selecting a certified arborist to evaluate and care for your trees.
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Give Your Time for Trees
The biggest issue facing N.H. forests is fragmentation, the subdivision of larger contiguous forests into smaller, disconnected lands, normally created by roadways or other human intervention. This creates several issues affecting the health of these lands and the wildlife that live here.
Tip: Volunteer to care for trees and town lands in your community. UNH Extension’s Natural Resources Stewards program is a great place to start.
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Learn How Property Owners Can Care for Trees
Private citizens own the majority of N.H. forests. Our quality of life, clean air, water, wildlife, recreation and forest industry depend on the actions of these individuals to care for their trees and forests.
Tip: Contact your UNH Extension county forester for a woodlot consultation and learn how to steward the trees on your land.
To learn more, visit our Forests and Trees resources.
