For those who are familiar with general household maintenance, pressure washing is no doubt a recognizable and common method that is used to clean various surfaces, from sidewalks to buildings and pretty much everything in between! However, when it comes to trees, this practice has proven to be potentially detrimental to their health and well-being. A Canada tree service often advises against pressure washing trees due to the potential risks and negative consequences involved, so let’s take a closer look at exactly why that is.

Why A Cañada Tree Service Does Not Recommend Pressure Washing For Trees

  • Risk Of Damage To Bark And Wood

Pressure washing releases high pressure water onto surfaces in order to remove dirt, grime, and debris. When applied to trees, this forceful water stream can damage the delicate bark and underlying wood. The intense pressure can strip away the protective outer layer of the bark, exposing the tree to various infections, diseases, and pests. The force of the water can also create wounds or gashes in the wood, which results in compromising the tree’s structural integrity and increasing the risk of decay.

  • Disruption Of Beneficial Microorganisms

Trees host a diverse community of beneficial microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, and algae, that all play essential roles in nutrient cycling, soil health, and tree vitality. Pressure washing can disturb these microorganisms, disrupting the delicate balance of the tree’s ecosystem. If you strip away surface layers and alter the microenvironment, pressure washing can negatively impact the symbiotic relationships between trees and the aforementioned beneficial organisms, leading to inevitable long term health consequences.

  • Loss Of Natural Protection

Think of the outer bark of a tree as a protective barrier against negative environmental factors like pathogens, insects, and extreme weather conditions. Pressure washing removes this natural protection, leaving the tree vulnerable to a host of potential threats. Without the outer bark layer, trees are more susceptible to diseases, infestations, and environmental damage, compromising their overall health and resilience.

  • Impact On Root System

Pressure washing not only affects the above ground portions of the tree but can also impact the unseen root system. The forceful water stream can disturb the soil around the tree’s base, compacting soil particles, and disrupting root growth and function. Compromised root systems are less able to absorb water and nutrients, leading to reduced tree vigor and increased vulnerability to the kinds of negative factors that have already been highlighted.

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Hopefully, these insights into why power washing isn’t the best solution for your trees will help you to make more informed decisions in the future, and that can start with getting in touch with the best Cañada tree service in the area, Cañada Tree Care. There is no problem too big or too small for our experienced team, so contact us with your specific issues and we will be more than happy to recommend the services you need to ensure the best outcomes possible for your trees. We very much look forward to being able to assist you with whatever garden related problems you might be experiencing!