When Branches Become a Threat How to Spot Hazardous Trees

Flowering shrubs bring color, fragrance, and year-round charm to your landscape—but only when they’re cared for properly. Many homeowners unintentionally harm their shrubs through pruning errors, watering issues, or simple misunderstandings about plant needs. At West Atlanta Tree Service, we help homeowners in West Atlanta keep their landscapes thriving by identifying common mistakes and offering practical solutions. Below, we break down the most frequent shrub-care missteps—and how to avoid them to keep your flowering shrubs blooming beautifully season after season. 🌸 Why Proper Care Matters Healthy flowering shrubs don’t just look good—they promote better curb appeal, stronger plant health, and more resilient growth during Georgia’s hot summers and unpredictable winters. Avoiding common mistakes can mean the difference between full, vibrant blooms and stressed, declining shrubs. ❌ Mistake #1: Pruning at the Wrong Time The Problem: Many shrubs bloom on old wood (last year’s growth), meaning pruning in late winter or early spring removes the very buds that would have bloomed. Examples of shrubs that bloom on old wood: Hydrangea macrophylla Azaleas Rhododendrons Forsythia Camellias How to Avoid It: Know whether your shrub blooms on old or new wood. Prune old-wood bloomers immediately after flowering. Prune new-wood bloomers (like butterfly bush or panicle hydrangea) in late winter. If you're unsure, West Atlanta Tree Service can help you identify proper timing for each plant species in your yard. ❌ Mistake #2: Overwatering or Underwatering The Problem: Inconsistent watering leads to root stress, fungal issues, or poor flowering. Georgia’s clay soil doesn’t drain fast, so too much water often causes more damage than too little. How to Avoid It: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root systems. Check soil moisture before watering. Add mulch to maintain even moisture levels and reduce evaporation. A professional evaluation can determine if drainage issues are affecting your shrubs’ performance. ❌ Mistake #3: Planting Shrubs in the Wrong Location The Problem: Sun-loving shrubs planted in shade—or shade-loving shrubs planted in direct sunlight—struggle to bloom, grow sparsely, or develop leaf scorch. How to Avoid It: Know your shrub’s light requirements before planting. Consider airflow, soil type, and spacing requirements. Avoid planting too close to structures, where airflow is reduced. Choosing the right location from the start helps shrubs thrive long-term. ❌ Mistake #4: Using Too Much Fertilizer The Problem: Fertilizer overload results in excessive leafy growth with minimal blooms. It may also lead to burned roots, especially in hot conditions. How to Avoid It: Use slow-release fertilizers designed for shrubs. Follow recommended application amounts and timing. Consider a soil test before fertilizing to understand nutrient needs. A soil analysis from West Atlanta Tree Service can guide you toward the correct nutrient plan. ❌ Mistake #5: Neglecting Mulch Management The Problem: Mulch piled too high (“volcano mulching”) suffocates roots and encourages pests and disease. How to Avoid It: Keep mulch at 2–3 inches deep. Maintain a mulch-free zone around the base of the trunk. Refresh mulch seasonally without creating thick, compacted layers. Proper mulching protects your shrubs without restricting their growth. ❌ Mistake #6: Ignoring Pests and Disease The Problem: Flowering shrubs—especially azaleas, hydrangeas, and roses—are prone to specific pests and fungal issues. Early symptoms often go unnoticed until major damage occurs. How to Avoid It: Inspect shrubs regularly for discoloration, leaf spots, or unusual growth. Keep shrubs properly spaced to improve airflow. Seek professional diagnosis if symptoms persist. Early intervention keeps small issues from becoming costly problems. ❌ Mistake #7: Forgetting Annual Maintenance The Problem: Shrubs need routine maintenance throughout the year. Skipping seasonal care can lead to weak flowering, reduced growth, or dieback. How to Avoid It: Trim dead or damaged branches each season. Watch for soil compaction around the plant base. Refresh mulch and check moisture weekly during summer heat. Consistent care prevents surprises and supports long-term plant vitality. 🌿 Let West Atlanta Tree Service Help Your Shrubs Thrive Caring for flowering shrubs doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when you have professionals on your side. At West Atlanta Tree Service, we offer expert pruning, shrub care, soil evaluation, and seasonal maintenance to keep your landscape healthy and beautiful. Whether you’re dealing with poor blooms, struggling plants, or simply want to improve your yard’s appearance, our team can help diagnose problems and deliver solutions tailored to your shrubs’ needs. 📞 Contact West Atlanta Tree Service today to schedule shrub maintenance, pruning, or a full landscape evaluation. Let’s bring your flowering shrubs back to life! Tree Service, Tree Removal, Tree Trimming, Stump Removal Bowdon, Bremen, Buchanan, Carrollton, Cedartown, Dallas, Douglasville, Franklin, Hiram, Lithia Springs, Mt. Zion, Newnan, Palmetto, Rockmart, Roopville, Tallapoosa, Temple, Villa Rica, and Whitesburg Georgia and Abernathy, Fruithurst, Heflin, Macedonia, Muscadine, and Ranburne Alabama. West Atlanta Tree Service Carrollton, Ga 30116 770-830-3828 https://www.westatltree.com