Promoting Healthy Trees

Healthy trees are a result of many variables and the complex interplay of natural and human-influenced conditions. Factors such as weather, wind, and watering practices as well as soil, sunlight, and site conditions all play critical roles in a tree’s well-being. Although we can’t control every element, like climate and inclement weather, there are proactive steps we can take to support tree health and provide a favorable environment in which trees can grow and thrive.

Promoting healthy trees commences and continues with managing and improving the conditions we can influence.

• Tree Selection and Site Conditions

  Trees thrive when growing in favorable conditions within environments to which they are suited. In natural woodlands, native tree species typically dominate, supporting healthy and sustainable forests. However, it’s important not only to promote the right species, but also to discourage the growth of invasive, opportunistic, or otherwise unsuitable trees or other plant material that can threaten forest health, diversity, and long-term sustainability. The Kansas Forest Service maintains a Rural Forestry Program and a Conservation Trees Program that offer a wealth of resources, services, and products related to the management and planting of our Kansas forests.      (maybe include links to those program pages?) 

  In urban and residential landscapes, pairing the right tree with the right site remains essential—not only to support healthy growth, but to prevent future challenges and protect the broader ecosystem. The Community Forestry Program within KFS assists Kansas communities and their citizens with urban tree inventories, planting initiatives, and a wide range of other community-based tree endeavors. 
  
  Trees for Widlife Habitat
  Recommended Trees
  Arbor Day Tree Finder

• Watering and Weather
  Once a tree is properly paired with and planted in a suitable environment, it requires consistent watering—whether from a garden hose or rainfall—to survive and thrive. Healthy trees and forests depend on timely and frequent waterings, especially during a tree's early years and periods of high heat and drought. Adequate moisture during these times, and throughout the life of the tree, is critical to helping it withstand other stressors such as pests and disease. 
  
  Watering Newly Planted Trees
  Watering Established Trees
  
  

  The Kansas Mesonet—a network of weather stations that collect real-time weather and climate data—is an excellent alternative to traditional tools like rain gauges and weathervanes, though these instruments are also helpful. Together, these tools and resources enhance our understanding of the water availability essential for sustaining healthy woodlands. 

  Visit the Kansas Mesonet

• Maintenance and Safeguarding
   As with any living organism, the long-term health of trees and forests depends on the conditions in which they live. Protecting trees from environmental stressors—including mechanical, chemical, and physical damage—is central to promoting their overall health and longevity.

  • 24 Ways to Kill, and Not Kill, a Tree
    
  • Tree Protection Standards in Construction Sites
  • Herbicide Damage to Trees
  • Weed Control Options in Tree Plantings
  • Tree and Shrub Problems in Kansas