Weed whips can be devastating to young trees. The whip can cut right through thin bark and girdle the tree. Use clippers around young trees. Use guideposts to mark boundaries for snowplows. This will keep them off the shr ubs and trees.
Some trees are extremely susceptible to deicing salts.
Salt can also intensify the effects of drought, and vice versa. Avoid using salt around your trees. When planting in areas which may be exposed to salt, choose trees more tolerant to salt. Use pesticides and fertilizers around the home with care. Stick to the recommendations on the label.