Got Woods? Here's How To Maintain Them On Private Property
If you're among the lucky homeowners whose residence is situated on acreage that contains a lovely wooded area with mature trees and other forest vegetation, you probably want to keep this area as healthy and beautiful as possible. Natural areas on your property have great aesthetic value, and if you have children, they're ideal places for curious minds to explore and learn about nature. However, wild areas near human habitats that are left completely to their own devices often become choked with too much vegetation of all kinds, which can not only result in an unhealthy ecosystem that looks but it can also create a significant fire hazard. For these reasons, it's important for homeowners to properly maintain the wooded areas on their property. Here's what you need to know:
Remove Invasive Species
Invasive plants can outcompete native species and disrupt the natural ecosystem. Remove any invasive species you find and replace them with native plants. Your local County Extension office can provide you with hyper-local information on invasive species in your area. Examples of invasive species that are found in many parts of the country include English ivy, purple loosestrife, and Scotch broom. Invasive species of all kinds will eventually choke out other vegetation.
Provide Wildlife Habitat
Provide food and shelter for wildlife by planting native trees and shrubs, creating brush piles, and leaving some dead trees standing. However, leaving wooded areas entirely to their own devices may result in wildfire hazards
Consider Forest Mulching
Forestry mulching is a method of land management that involves using a specialized machine, called a mulcher, to grind and shred vegetation and woody debris into small pieces. Although this process is often used to clear land for development, it can also be used to control invasive plant species and to remove overgrown brush and dead vegetation. The shredded material is left on the ground, where it can act as a natural fertilizer and help to improve soil quality. It is a good option for naturalized areas that have been allowed to become overgrown to an unhealthy and/or unsightly extent.
By following these steps, homeowners can maintain natural wooded areas on their property and preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the ecosystem. It's important to keep in mind that some tasks might require professional help. Consulting with a local forestry mulching professional is highly recommended to ensure your management plan is safe and appropriate for your specific property and the local area.
For more info about forestry mulching, contact a local company.
