Common Misconceptions About Tree Health & Professional Tree Care
Trees are one of the most valuable features of any garden — but they’re also among the most misunderstood. Every week, we speak to homeowners who’ve heard conflicting advice from neighbours, online forums, or old gardening myths passed down through generations. While much of it is well-intentioned, some of these misconceptions can cause real, long-term damage to your trees.
To help clear things up, we’ve put together a list of the most common tree-care myths and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: “Trees take care of themselves — they don’t need maintenance.”
While trees in natural forests manage perfectly well, garden trees live in very different conditions.
Reality:
Regular inspections, selective pruning, and proper soil management dramatically increase a tree’s lifespan and reduce risk. If you’re unsure what your trees need or how often to maintain them, Tall Tree Services can carry out a quick health check and give tailored advice.
Myth 2: “Topping a tree will make it safer.”
This is one of the most harmful myths.
Reality:
Topping weakens trees and usually creates even bigger problems. If your tree is getting too large or close to a structure, our trained arborists can recommend safe alternatives such as crown reduction or reshaping, which maintain both safety and health.
Myth 3: “New trees don’t need watering; rain will be enough.”
Newly planted trees often struggle in their first two years.
Reality:
They need deep, consistent watering. If you’re planting a new tree and want guidance on aftercare, we’re happy to advise on the right watering schedule and planting techniques.
Myth 4: “All pruning is the same — anyone with a saw can do it.”
Poor pruning creates long-term damage.
Reality:
Proper pruning takes training and understanding. If a tree needs reshaping, deadwood removal, or general maintenance, our team can carry out the work safely and in line with British Standards.
Myth 5: “If a tree looks healthy on the outside, it must be safe.”
Many problems are invisible from the surface.
Reality:
Internal decay, weakened root systems, or fungal infections can make an outwardly healthy tree dangerous. Tall Tree Services can carry out a professional inspection to assess structural soundness and spot any early warning signs.
Check out our blog here for what signs to look out for!
Myth 6: “Mulching means piling it high around the trunk.”
This “mulch volcano” trend is surprisingly common.
Reality:
Mulch should be kept away from the trunk and applied sparingly. If you’d like help improving the soil around your trees, we can recommend the right type and amount of mulch for your garden.
Myth 7: “Tree wounds should be painted or sealed.”
Many people still follow this outdated advice.
Reality:
Trees naturally compartmentalise wounds. Paints and sealants usually slow healing. If you’re worried about storm damage or broken limbs, we can clean the wound properly and advise on the best next steps.
Myth 8: “It’s cheaper to delay tree work until absolutely necessary.”
Delays usually cost more.
Reality:
Small issues become expensive ones. Regular inspections and preventative pruning keep trees healthy and reduce long-term cost. Our team can schedule routine maintenance to keep everything under control year-round.
Final Thoughts
Tree care is full of myths, and it’s easy to see why — trees grow slowly, problems develop quietly, and incorrect advice spreads fast. Working with qualified, insured professionals ensures the long-term health and safety of your trees and property.
If you’d like expert advice, a tree health check, or help managing any of the issues above, Tall Tree Services is here to help.
If you’d like a free quote, get in touch with our team via our contact form.