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Tree Services

The Importance of Tree Care in Landscapes

Tristan Ashley

When trees are planted properly, they should be able to thrive without any extra help. If that isn’t the case, it’s time to consult a professional. For more information, you can visit on this link https://www.newbraunfelstreecare.com to proceed.

ISA-Certified arborists are trained to spot and address potential problems before they become bigger issues. Learn more about what tree care services include:

Trees in a landscape need care from the time they are planted through their mature years. This can include supplemental watering, fertilization, and protection.

Preventative tree services help keep the landscape aesthetically pleasing, which increases property values and creates a more welcoming environment for guests. It also helps reduce the risk of future problems. Unhealthy trees are more vulnerable to pests and can easily fall in a storm, posing serious safety hazards for the homeowner and surrounding neighbors.

Regular visits by a tree expert will improve the tree’s structural integrity, reducing the chances of it falling during a storm. The expert will examine the trunk and root collar for signs of damage and check the soil to see if it needs nutrient testing and fertilization.

A trained tree professional will remove dead branches and promote regrowth. Proper pruning and trimming will also help improve the tree structure, preventing branches from crossing each other or developing weak crotches. The expert will inspect the trees for various problems, including disease symptoms, insect infestations, and root rot.

If a client still needs regular preventative maintenance, they may be surprised to find that their tree is in decline before it is noticed. This can lead to a more costly repair or even a full removal.

Trees that are properly pruned and treated for pests, diseases, and root rot will have a much longer lifespan than those that are not. This is why it is important to encourage your clients to invest in preventative care instead of waiting until something goes wrong. It will save them both time and money in the long run.

Whether you want to shape your landscape, promote new growth, or create a distinctive form, pruning is an important aspect of tree care. It can also help reduce hazard potential, minimize maintenance costs, and prevent damage from storms or power lines.

Pruning is a process of selectively removing dead, diseased, or broken twigs and branches, crossing or rubbing limbs, sucker growth from the rootstock, water sprouts from limbs, and other objectionable growth. It also includes thinning to manage size and enhance light penetration. Pruning can be done on various shrubs and trees to maximize flowering, fruit production, and overall vigor.

Knowing how and when to prune a tree for the best results is essential. The wrong cut can leave an open wound, which opens the tree to fungus and insect infestation. This can lead to future health issues and decline, or even death. Two of the most common errors are “flush cuts” and “stub cuts.” Both are made during Cut 3. A flush cut removes too much branch, leaving a stub susceptible to infection or decay. A stub cut leaves too little branch beyond the collar of the trunk.

Certain shade and flowering trees tend to bleed or exude large amounts of sap from pruning wounds. This is caused by the plant’s natural defense mechanism to close the wound to protect the exposed tissue. Prune these species after they have finished blooming. This can be as early as late winter. If pruning is necessary during this time, avoid pruning oaks and other thorny species during the “maple syrup season,” January through early March, as they are vulnerable to the oak wilt beetle.

Insects can cause significant damage to trees. They can defoliate, weaken, or discolor, and even transmit diseases. Insect control is a vital component of any tree care program. A professional arborist can inspect a tree for signs of insect infestation and recommend the proper treatment and prevention regimen. This may include spraying or injections, depending on the insect species and severity of the infestation.

Aphids, Leafhoppers, Sawflies, Caterpillars, and Borers can harm your landscape’s health. They can chew or pierce leaves and stems, causing them to discolor and drop off. They can also cause structural defects, like twig dieback or bark necrosis. They can also leave behind a sticky residue called black mold that attracts ants.

A systemic insecticide like 12 Month Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed is available for year-long protection for these and other damaging insects. It is applied in the spring, before the bugs become active, and works by absorbing into the root system of plants and trees.

Other methods for controlling insect infestations include pheromone traps and sticky traps, which can capture specific insect species and their eggs or larvae. Another option is manually removing cocoons and egg masses when they first appear. However, these are time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Chemical pesticides are used to treat serious and extensive insect infestations but must be properly administered for effective results. This includes using the right application technique and following safety guidelines to minimize impacts on non-target organisms and the environment. A professional arborist can advise on your property’s most appropriate and safest chemical treatments. In addition, they can suggest horticultural practices that can reduce the likelihood of insect infestations in the first place.

Tree disease issues are a natural part of landscapes, but there is a lot we can do to limit their impact. We start with preventative maintenance like tree pruning and soil health management to keep the plants healthy and strong. This also helps them develop resistance to pests and diseases that they might not have if environmental conditions stressed them.

Signs of disease on trees and shrubs include discoloration or wilting leaves, branches, or stems. Fungus diseases, such as powdery mildew and verticillium wilt, prefer mild temperatures that prevail in spring and fall and spread quickly during these times. They grow on the surface of leaves, flowers, fruit, and stems as spores that look like baby powder or flour. They can rot or cause buds to wither and drop off the plant. Infected limbs and trunks eventually die and decompose, leaving holes in the bark and a scaly appearance.

Symptoms of fungal diseases can be difficult to identify, but close inspection by an experienced arborist can help you identify problem areas. Keeping trees and shrubs pruned as needed helps reduce the number of leaves, twigs, and branches that can be infected. Avoiding soil disturbances like construction or lawn mowing also limits the spread of fungus pathogens.

Tree pests are another issue to watch for, including invasive insects such as the Emerald Ash Borer and oak wilt, Dutch Elm Disease, and bacterial diseases such as fire blight on pear trees and other members of the rose family. Our tree service team will inspect your landscape regularly to identify and treat potential problems before they become serious. Minimally invasive fertilization preserves root structure, strengthens the tree, and stimulates growth to minimize damage from stress or insect infestations.

Lush green trees improve the appearance of landscapes, add curb appeal to homes and businesses, and provide homes for local wildlife. They also help reduce air pollution and increase the value of your property. However, unhealthy, dead, or dying trees become a nuisance, invite pests and rodents into your yard, and may pose structural dangers if they fall. Moreover, they are susceptible to fungal infections and decay and can spread the disease to other trees on your property or neighborhood.

If you have an ill or damaged tree, consider tree removal services. Professional tree care specialists have a variety of methods for removing large or overgrown trees that threaten the safety of people and property. Still, they also know how to minimize the impact on surrounding plants and structures.

For example, a company that uses a bucket truck can remove a tree without using climbing gear and without the risk of falling branches or debris on your home or neighbors. A professional can use a crane if the tree is in a difficult-to-reach place, such as a location over your house, power lines, or other buildings.

Lastly, choosing a licensed and insured tree removal specialist is important. Ask to see their insurance information before hiring them. A reputable contractor will have no problem providing this information and will be willing to answer any questions you may have about their coverage.

Before a tree is removed, it’s important to clear the area so that workers have plenty of room for equipment and access to vehicles that will be hauling the wood or stumps away. A good tip is to have an alternate route for them when they need to get back and forth between their vehicle and the work site. This is especially helpful if your property is in a neighborhood with a busy street.

Tree Services

The Pros and Cons of Stump Grinding

Tristan Ashley

Austin Stump Removal can be a real eyesore in your yard and are expensive to remove, even with the help of a professional. There are some ways to remove a stump, each with pros and cons.

One method involves chemically killing the stump and roots with potassium nitrate or high-nitrogen fertilizers. This process takes a while and may harm surrounding vegetation, so you must be patient.

Stump Grinding

While stump grinding is a relatively safe project to tackle with the right machinery and training, there are a few precautions that everyone involved should take. First, ensure the work area is clear of obstacles such as twigs, rocks, and fences that the grinder could kick up. Also, check for buried utilities such as water and gas pipes, sprinkler lines, and property markers to avoid accidentally cutting them during grinding.

Next, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a dust mask, eye protection, and steel-toed boots. Long hair and loose clothing should be removed, as dangling limbs can become caught in the machinery. Lastly, ensure all family members and neighbors are clear of the working area. If they’re too close, they could be injured by flying debris from the stump grinder.

If you’re using a stump-killing chemical, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s important to tackle this task during dry weather so the product has a chance to work.

First, drill multiple holes into the top of the stump and more along the sides at a downward angle. Then, fill the holes with your chosen product and cover the stump with a tarp. You can usually tell the treatment works when the stump feels softer and sponge-like. This method is relatively inexpensive, but it can take up to a year for the chemicals to fully effect. It’s also not ideal if you plan to grow plants around the stump, as it can damage the soil. For these reasons, it’s best to hire a professional. They have the experience and the machinery to do the job quickly and safely.

Stumps are eyesores that occupy valuable yard space, causing tripping hazards and inviting pests and diseases. Stumps may also be a breeding ground for wood-eating insects like termites and carpenter ants and can harbor fungi that could infect other trees or plants in the surrounding area.

When left untreated, a stump will slowly decompose and cause soft, sunken spots in the soil around it. This can lead to many issues, including attracting invasive pests and diseases and damaging lawn equipment. Moreover, as the stump decays, it can release toxic chemicals that harm nearby plants and trees.

The good news is that removing and grinding a stump is relatively inexpensive, especially compared to the complete removal cost. The latter involves heaving up the stump and digging out its widespread roots, which is much more labor-intensive and requires heavy-duty tools. Plus, it leaves a hole in the yard that needs filling in and can be a major headache if you plan to plant in the same spot.

On the other hand, stump grinding involves using a machine to grind the stump and roots into mulch. While it won’t do anything about the underground portions of the root system, the resulting mulch will give your landscape a clean slate, allowing you to design and create new spaces for outdoor activities, entertainment, or simply relaxing.

Removing that unsightly protrusion will make all the difference whether you want to build a patio, a fire pit, or just a cozy spot for sitting in the sun. If you’re ready to start, contact Green Drop today to see how we can help.

Termites can cause serious damage to structures that they invade. Stump removal services can help reduce your home’s risk by preventing termite infestation from starting on an innocuous tree stump and spreading to nearby property. Taking swift action is vital if you notice the telltale signs of a termite infestation in a stump.

Termite colonies thrive on moisture and accessibility. A woody, rotting stump provides both of these things in abundance. Once a termite colony has made itself at home in your innocuous tree stump, it’s only a matter of time before they decide to move on and infest the surrounding structures, including your house.

While it’s true that damp wood and dry wood termites can live in a tree stump, the latter will only use the stump as a source of water and cellulose. On the other hand, the former will likely eat their way to the heartwood of the stump, which can cause substantial damage.

When a stump is infested with termites, you will most likely see piles of mud tubes around the sides and top of the stump. You can also hear the stump squirming when you tap on it with a screwdriver or other sharp object. If you break one of the tubes open, you will likely find live termites inside and wings that have dropped off.

While covering a termite-infested stump with mulch may be tempting, this can be counterproductive. This will expose the wood of the stump to too much moisture, making it more susceptible to termite attacks. Ultimately, the best course of action is to have your stump ground by an experienced professional. Having a trusted stump grinding service complete the task quickly and efficiently will help you reclaim your yard for landscaping projects, create an appealing outdoor space, and prevent costly termite damage control measures.

The roots of tree stumps can become a habitat for pests and damage other surrounding trees and plants. If the stump is near your home, it can lead to expensive foundation damage over time. Pests such as carpenter ants, termites, and wood bees are naturally attracted to decaying stumps and can easily migrate to nearby trees, plants, and structures like your home. JLG Tree Service swiftly removes unwanted stubs, eliminating the potential for pest migration and protecting your property and yard from costly pest infestations.

Stumps left to rot are a major safety hazard, creating tripping hazards for children and pets. They also attract fungi and molds, reducing the overall aesthetic of your yard. In addition, rotting stumps can harbor diseases and fungi that put other trees and landscape plants at risk.

Stump grinding is an effective way to eliminate unwanted stubs. Rather than digging up the stump or using toxic herbicides and fungicides like copper sulfate, which can destroy every plant it touches, professional stump grinding uses an industrial grinder to grind the stump down below the soil surface. This removes the roots as well, making it easier to fill in the area and allowing you to replant with confidence.

Stump grinding is one of the most cost-effective ways to address an unsightly stump. While removing a single stump may seem trivial, it can significantly reduce the overall aesthetics of your yard and hinder your ability to utilize your outdoor space fully. Moreover, if the stump sprouts new growth, it can cause tripping and safety risks for your loved ones. It also increases your time mowing and performing other maintenance tasks on your property.

If a stump remains after tree removal, it can quickly become an eyesore and pose a tripping hazard. Stumps also interfere with future landscaping plans and attract fungi, insects, and diseases. They are also a fire hazard and may cause damage to lawnmowers and other tools. It can take years for a stump to decompose naturally, leaving it vulnerable to unwanted pests or fungi infestations.

To speed up the natural rotting process, a stump can be treated with safe chemicals for the environment. One popular choice is copper sulfate. It is an extremely strong chemical that doubles as a herbicide. It will easily kill off vegetation around the stump, including grass and flowers. Still, it is also very effective at killing off the fungus and algae responsible for the stump’s decay.

Another method of removing a stump is by burning it out. This can be done by drilling holes into the stump and filling them with kerosene or fuel oil. Once completely soaked into the wood, a match can be dropped, and the stump will quickly burn to ashes. This method is very effective at eliminating the tripping hazards associated with stumps, and it is much less labor-intensive than digging out a stump with heavy machinery.

Complete stump removal is often impractical for many property owners. Not only is it time-consuming and difficult, but it can also destroy existing trees or shrubs with their deep roots. Additionally, it can be expensive due to the heavy equipment required. Hiring a professional to grind the stump can save you money and ensure all the proper safety measures are taken.

Tree Services

Tips For Palm Tree Trimming

Darius Arnold

Palm Tree Trimming Las Vegas is necessary for keeping your yard’s trees healthy and beautiful. However, there are some important things to remember before starting. For one, wear gloves and other safety gear before starting. Covering or moving any items that might get damaged by the sharp tools is also a good idea.

tree service

Palm trees are a welcome addition to any landscape and require regular pruning to maintain health. Proper trimming will allow light and air to reach the ground without hindering essential processes such as photosynthesis, water uptake, and growth. It also prevents disease and nutrient deficiencies. A professional horticulturist can provide valuable insights into the ideal pruning timing for your palm trees.

Several tools are commonly used during palm tree trimming. The type of pruning tool needed will depend on the size of the fronds and branches that need to be cut. For smaller fronds, pruning shears are best. They come in various sizes, from small to large, and feature two sharp blades that make a clean, smooth cut.

For larger fronds or branches, a pruning saw is often required. Before making a single cut, it is important to sanitize your pruning tools. This is done by wiping them down with rubbing alcohol. This will ensure that no diseased fronds or insects are transferred to healthy fronds or the tree trunk.

If you prune a palm tree with many dead fronds, you may risk causing damage to the trunk. To avoid this, always look for fronds that are yellowing or brown. Remove these fronds immediately because they will attract pests and rot.

You also want to ensure you’re pruning the right parts of the palm. For example, you should avoid doing a “hurricane cut,” which involves cutting away large crown portions. This isn’t good for the tree and can even be illegal in some places.

In addition, it’s important to sterilize your tools before and after using them. This will reduce the risk of transmitting diseases between palm trees. Soaking your tools for 15 minutes in a 1:1 solution of disinfectant and water should be sufficient. Clean up any debris after trimming, including fruit, flowers, and seeds. These can attract pests, lead to stains on concrete, and produce unpleasant odors. Disposing of these items in a bin specifically for organic waste is best.

As with any pruning project, start with assessing the palm tree. Then, decide on what tools you’ll need. Smaller trees are usually fine with a pruning knife and shears, while larger, old trees may require a chainsaw. Before beginning, ensure your ladder is stable and secure, and you’ve donned your safety gear.

Begin by looking for mature fronds (green and turning yellow). If your palm is healthy, it’ll grow more if you leave the older fronds alone. Moreover, removing them too early will invite disease, pests, and wind damage.

Once you’ve found mature fronds, cut them at least 2 inches from the tree trunk. This will help minimize wounds that can attract bugs and diseases. When you’re done, 

dispose of the fronds, petioles, and other debris in a waste bin for organic waste. This will help prevent the spread of the fungal pathogen that causes palm death, known as Ganoderma spp., which can cause rot and deformities.

Palms are not like typical trees that branch out with leaves. Instead, the roots of a palm stay at its base, and it gets most of its energy from the fronds. As a result, trimming dead fronds is important to keep the tree healthy and growing strong.

However, it’s also essential to avoid over-pruning the plant. Taking away too many fronds can cause stress and deprive the palm of its food-producing ability. As such, you’ll want to carefully select which fronds you cut, removing only those dead or damaged.

Climbing up to trim a palm tree can be dangerous, particularly since the fronds are heavy and can fall on people or property below. It’s also important to wear proper safety gear and use tools that have been properly disinfected.

Finally, you’ll want to clean up the area after trimming the palm. Remove the discarded fronds and petioles and dispose of them properly according to local waste disposal regulations.

Palm tree trimming is a great time to look for dead or drooping fronds and remove any seed pods obstructing walkways. It’s also a good opportunity to remove any low-hanging branches in danger of falling onto a house or car. You’ll need a ladder to get up high enough to do the job, and you should be careful not to strip the trunk.

A good tip is to start at the bottom of the tree and work your way up. This will help you avoid stripping the trunk and leaving it vulnerable to infection. It’s important to use a sharp blade when cutting fronds and not too close to the trunk, as this can lead to disease.

Once you’ve finished trimming, please dispose of the fronds properly by placing them in a green waste bin. You should also pick up any fallen fruit or seeds, as they can attract pests that can damage the palm tree. It’s also a good idea to wear gardening gloves when handling the debris, as the fronds can have needle-like protrusions that may prick you.

Palm tree trimming is a valuable service that helps the landscape look healthy and beautiful. However, over-trimming can be detrimental to the health of the palm. A professional trimmer can identify and remove only dead or unhealthy fronds while keeping the healthy ones intact.

This prevents a thatched appearance and reduces the chances of the palm falling during a storm. Additionally, professionals are trained to cut seed pods and prune the crown to promote new growth.

Leaving the seed pods on the ground can attract pests and lead to disease. They also stain concrete and produce unpleasant odors.

Bud rot results from fungal infections and typically appears as black spots on young buds or wilting leaves. This infection is difficult to treat and requires digging up and destroying infected leaves and buds.

Anaerobic conditions in poorly-draining soil cause root rot and can be fatal to the tree. This fungus can cause mushy roots that are dark and soft, yellow leaves, and stunted growth.

Palms are beautiful and resilient, but storms can still impact them. When this happens, the trunk can be damaged, creating an inviting environment for fungus and insects. In addition, a damaged trunk can become a safety hazard, leading to potential injury or property damage.

Restoring a damaged palm tree trunk is a delicate process. Treating the tree with the utmost care and precision is essential to tend to a deep wound on the skin.

Begin by sterilizing your tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of infection. 

Then, gather your supplies, including a bucket of clean water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristle brush or sponge. Clean away loose debris and dirt clinging to the wound. Be sure to avoid scrubbing too harshly, further damaging the trunk tissue. Once the damaged area is free of foreign matter, it can be treated. After the treatment phase, monitoring the area for signs of recovery is important. In addition, continue to fertilize the palm tree according to its species and climate. Proper nutrition promotes growth and supports healing.

Palms can be a major part of the landscape, but they also require a regular cleanup to maintain health. This is especially important in the case of larger trees, where fronds can fall and damage valuable items or structures like roofs or pool areas. This is why having the proper safety equipment, including gloves, eye protection, and a hard hat, during palm tree trimming is crucial.

Healthy palms grow a bit each year, which is easy to spot when you look at their base. Beneath the outer layer of bark, living branches will show green, while dead ones will snap easily. Dead fronds that remain on the trunk can be a major “come hither” for insects and diseases, so it’s important to trim them as soon as possible.

It’s also a good idea to check for water sprouts, mushrooms, and holes in the trunk. These are signs of cavities and heart rot, which can seriously threaten your tree’s health. While these aren’t common in healthy trees, they should be monitored and removed.