Tree Care in Melbourne: From Planting to Removal

Trees shape how a home feels. They cool our summers, frame views and add quiet value to streets and backyards across Melbourne. But great outcomes don’t happen by accident. From the day you plant through to mature maintenance—and, sometimes, safe removal—good choices pay off. This guide walks you through the essentials so your trees look better, last longer and cause fewer headaches.

Start Smart: Right Tree, Right Place

Before you plant, pause. Consider final height, spread, root behaviour and nearby assets such as paving, fencing, pools and service lines. A beautifully sited tree needs less pruning, causes fewer conflicts and costs less to manage over time. Not sure which species will thrive where you live? Book advice through our full range of tree services and we’ll match species to sun, soil and space.

Planting and Early Care

Plant at the correct depth, keep the root flare visible and backfill with the soil you dug out—no buried compost pockets that can sink later. Water deeply and less often to encourage downward roots. Stake loosely for support (if needed) and remove stakes within a season so the trunk strengthens. A light mulch ring helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch clear of the trunk to avoid rot.

Pruning Basics: Shape for Strength

Good pruning is strategic. It removes deadwood, discourages competing leaders and encourages balanced, storm-ready structure. Heavy “topping” or indiscriminate lopping can create weak regrowth, so it’s best avoided. If you’re planning seasonal work, this guide to the best time of year to prune a tree will help you schedule the right cuts at the right time. And if you’re unsure about methods, our explainer on pruning versus lopping clarifies the difference so you can ask the right questions on site.

Routine Maintenance That Pays Off

Small, regular adjustments prevent big, expensive problems. Think clearance over driveways, shape corrections after windy spells, and removing minor defects before they grow. Over a year, planned care is cheaper—and safer—than last-minute fixes. Learn how a simple schedule reduces risk and improves appearance in our article on the benefits of regular tree maintenance.

When to Call an Arborist

Some signals deserve a closer look: new lean, fresh cracks at the base, sudden die-back, fungus at the root flare, repeated limb drop, or branches close to service lines. A qualified arborist can separate “watch and wait” issues from urgent hazards. If you’re choosing a provider, this checklist on how to choose the right arborist in Melbourne explains what to look for—training, insurances, equipment and a tidy work process.

Permits and Local Rules

Across Melbourne, councils may require approval to remove or significantly prune certain trees. Criteria vary by species, size and overlays, so it’s smart to check the rules early—especially in spring when approvals are popular. Start with our plain-English overview of tree removal permits in Melbourne; we can guide your application and, if needed, provide the arborist evidence councils expect.

Safe Removal: How It Works

Sometimes removal is the right call—severe defects, unsuitable species, or persistent conflicts with structures and powerlines. A professional crew will assess access, rigging options and drop zones before a single cut. Sections are lowered safely, gardens are protected and waste is chipped on site. To see how we plan and deliver tidy outcomes, browse the projects on our Our Work page.

Aftercare: Stumps, Replanting and Sustainability

Grinding a stump below soil level allows new lawn, paving or replanting without trip hazards. Many clients also use the moment to refresh the garden plan with species better suited to the site. If you value low-waste solutions, you’ll appreciate how we manage green waste and timber in our guide to eco-friendly tree removal. Prefer local help near you? Explore coverage via the suburb index on Areas We Serve and we’ll schedule a visit that fits your calendar.

Ready to Improve Your Trees?

Whether you’re planting the first tree at a new build or managing mature gums that need careful attention, a little planning goes a long way. We’ll help you prioritise jobs, navigate permits and keep the property safe and looking great. Learn more about our end-to-end care on the expert tree care in Melbourne page, or jump straight to a quick quote below.

Book a site visit: Our team provides friendly advice, clear pricing and neat results. Contact Dawson Tree Services to get started.