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December 23, 2023

The Arborist’s Guide: How to Save a Sick Tree From Dying

Depending on the species and where it’s planted, you can expect the average suburban tree to live anywhere from 10 to 75 years. Many trees can live even longer!

Unfortunately, not all of our trees will live to see the natural end of their lifespan. Diseases, infestations, poor soil, inadequate watering, root stress, and other factors can result in a sick tree that doesn’t survive past its early years. Worse, these conditions can be hard to identify and treat, and it’s not always clear what you can do to help.

If you’ve noticed common signs of a sick tree, from bark issues to drooping leaves to discoloration, be sure to follow our recommendations below.

Diagnose the Problem

If you can, try to figure out what’s wrong with your tree. This can often give you a better idea of how to treat the issue.

Unfortunately, this can sometimes be trickier than it sounds. Wilting and yellowing leaves, for example, can be a sign of underwatering, diseases, or bad soil composition, and some types of insect infestations will cause similar problems. A bit of online research can sometimes clear the air with more obvious problems.

If you’re not sure what’s causing your sick tree, you might need to reach out to an expert. In the meantime, you can still take the following steps to preserve the tree as best you can.

Treat Diseased Areas

If you think a tree disease is causing your problems, try using a fungicide spray.

Fungal diseases can be hard or even impossible to get rid of through pruning. In fact, by the time a fungal disease has become noticeable, it’s a sign that the sickness has penetrated deep within the tree.

That’s where the right countermeasures come in. Anti-fungal sprays and injections will kill the invading fungus without destroying the tree’s leaves, bark, or branches. Be careful to follow the instructions on the products you use, as these sprays can be hazardous to pets, children, and wildlife.

Prune Diseased or Dead Branches

When a tree is sick, removing some of its foliage is like taking a load off its shoulders. This simple act can help your tree put more of its energy and resources toward keeping its remaining branches as healthy as possible. In some cases, it can also help remove an infection or disease that has taken hold of your tree.

If you’re doing this on your own, make sure to sharpen your pruning shears for a clean cut. Look for branches with missing bark, hollow wood, and dead, brown, damaged, or leafless limbs. A lack of buds at the nodes can also be a subtle sign that the area is dead.

When you’re dealing with diseased wood, the signs can vary. Lesions on the bark, discoloration on leaves and stems, and powdery or textured patches are all red flags.

Keep in mind that pruning diseased wood isn’t enough on its own. You’ll also need to remove it from your yard, as the spores, eggs, or bacteria from the pruned branches can move back into the tree or other plants in the area. Throw out or burn these branches and disinfect your pruning shears to keep the diseases at bay.

Experts don’t recommend removing more than around a third of a tree’s foliage at a time. Any more than this, and you’re likely dealing with a tree that needs to be removed.

Fine-Tune Your Watering Schedule

Sometimes, what looks like a sick tree is just a tree in dire need of water.

If your tree isn’t dealing with the arid Texas heat well, you’ll likely see it start to die from the top down. Wilting and yellow leaves are common. Unfortunately, under-watering can also make your tree more prone to disease.

On the other hand, over-watering or poor drainage can impact your tree’s health as well. If the area around your tree often becomes spongy and damp or collects standing water after it rains, you may need to create a drainage ditch to protect your tree.

As a general rule of thumb, experts suggest giving a tree ten gallons of water for every inch of its diameter. Focus on deeper watering by leaving a hose running at a slow drip around the tree’s roots. If you never remember to water the tree as often as it needs, set up an automatic sprinkler system instead.

Check Your Soil

Your tree gets most of its nutrients from the soil around it, so it’s crucial to strike the right balance.

If it’s been a while, add some fertilizer spikes in your yard. To be safe, a soil test can help you understand the soil composition, giving you a chance to tell what (if any) nutrients are missing. If you’re not sure how to do this or you don’t know what kind of nutrients your tree needs, talk to an arborist for help.

The much-needed nutrients in fertilizer spikes can often help strengthen your tree, allowing it to combat any pests or diseases that have taken root. In addition, these products can help keep moss at bay.

Protect the Tree With Mulch

Once you’ve walked through the strategies above, the last step is to protect your hard work. Mulch is a great way to prevent root stress, block weed growth, and shield your tree from future diseases.

Spread a five-inch-high layer of mulch around the base of the tree, leaving a few inches of free space around the trunk. Putting mulch too close to the tree allows moisture to collect, creating a breeding ground for mold and fungus.

Get Expert Help With a Sick Tree

Dealing with a sick tree can be frustrating and tricky, especially when you don’t have experience with plant care. If you’re struggling to save your tree, the tips above are a great place to start.

When you need help with a diseased or dying tree, get in touch with the team at Arbor Tech Tree Service. Protecting tree health is what we do, and we’d be happy to diagnose your issue, provide pruning services, and help you maintain the health of your trees and landscaping. To get started, call us at 214-445-8319 or contact us online.

October 30, 2023

What Do You Need to Know About Commercial Tree Removal?

There’s nothing quite like a yard filled with trees sprinkled here and there as a way to add some depth and life to your property. Even though they may shed their leaves in the winter, you get to enjoy some beautiful colored foliage in the fall. However, there are times when you’ll need to invest in tree removal.

Maybe a couple of trees have gotten sick and threaten the rest of your plants. It’s also possible that the roots are sucking all the nutrients out of the ground.

Here’s what you need to know about tree removal and how a tree service benefits your business.

Why You May Need Tree Removal Services

Since trees look so good on your property, why would you want them removed?

First of all, trees tend to shed a lot. Left alone, these leaves can smother your grass and inhibit growth. This layer of leaf matter will also promote mold diseases and create a playground for pests.

Secondly, some trees have roots that spread out deep and wide. While you may not notice these on the surface, they can cause all kinds of havoc underground.

For example, tree roots can worm their way into cracked septic lines and cause leaks. They can leech nutrients out of the ground and limit the growth of other plants on your property. If they’re visible aboveground, they can also cause damage to your pavement and sidewalks.

Finally, tree removal services have the tools and experience needed for tree trimming, cutting down trees, and stump removal. Trying to do so on your own may result in personal injury and property damage.

Types of Trees and Their Risk Factors

Another factor to consider before removing a tree is its risk factor. Not all trees are made equal, and some have much more damaging roots than others.

A silver maple tree has a fast-growing root system that will easily clog up your water lines and break up nearby sidewalks. It has weak branches that will fill up your property. Even worse is that those branches act as saplings for new trees.

Other trees to avoid include Callery pear trees, weeping willows, and mulberries. In general, you should avoid any fruiting trees because they attract animals and pests.

Some of the better options for your commercial buildings include spruce trees and green ashes.

Spruce trees are narrow and can easily fill in small spaces. They’re also dense and slow-growing. Green ashes are hardy and can survive periods of drought and flooding with ease.

You may also want to consider whether or not trees on your property are right for the climate. Struggling trees are more likely to shed their leaves and branches than ones that can handle your city’s weather patterns.

Tree Removal vs Tree Care

Does an ailing tree need to be removed for its own good, or can it be saved? This is an important distinction if you want to avoid tree removal and potentially planting a new tree in the future.

There are a few ways to see if a tree is dying.

Sticks everywhere on the ground point to an unhealthy tree. This is especially true if the bark is following off or if you see visible rot. Termites are also a death sentence for your tree as well as any others in its vicinity.

If the problem is an ailing tree, then your tree service can help care for it. This may involve pruning off dead wood, setting up a sprinkler system, and treating it for termites.

How to Remove a Tree

Removing a tree is not an easy process, which is why you’ll want to hire a professional tree removal company.

First of all, your arborist or landscaper will need to clear the area of any obstacles. The tree will need to lay flat on the ground when it comes down.

Next, they’ll have to decide which way the tree will naturally fall based on how it leans or bends. Any decayed parts or areas eaten by termites will affect where the tree wants to fall.

Any trees close to a building will need to be secured with ropes to prevent them from falling the wrong way. They may need to remove sections from the top down if there isn’t enough space.

Depending on the size of the tree, they may need to use a bucket truck to saw off larger branches. If the other methods are deemed too dangerous, then they may bring in a crane to pull the tree from the ground.

How to Find a Reliable Tree Service

Before you hire a commercial tree trimming service, there are some questions you need to ask.

Are they insured and licensed? The last thing you want is for a tree trimmer to get injured on your property and sue you for damages. You also want to make sure that they have the necessary certifications to do their job legally.

What kind of experience do they have with commercial tree trimming, and do they have references from their past jobs? The latter will help prove the former, which is important when dealing with commercial properties.

Last but not least, can they provide a detailed estimate and timeline for the project? Commercial properties need to know if a tree trimming job is going to interfere with their operations or distract potential clients. Employees may also need to be advised to park elsewhere while the tree service works.

Professional Tree Trimming Services

Tree removal may be necessary depending on the state of your trees and your property. In some cases, removing a single tree can open up room to plant flowers, bushes, and more. However, it should always be left to the professionals if you want to avoid an accident or suffering a personal injury.

Arbor Tech Tree Service is your trusted company in the Dallas area, operating since 2009. Our services include tree removal, stump grinding, deep root feeding, and more. Reach out to learn more about our company and to schedule a quote.

October 7, 2023

5 Common Signs You Need to Hire a Tree Removal Service

Is your tree looking a little under the weather? Perhaps it’s more than just a bad hair day for your green friend.

Trees, like humans, can fall ill and sometimes need professional help for recovery. When home remedies don’t work, it’s time to call in the experts.

In this case, a tree removal service. This blog post will help you identify the five common signs that your tree needs professional attention. So, sit tight, keep reading, and let’s dive into the world of tree removal.

1. Decay: More Than Just a Bad Look

Decay is not just an aesthetic issue; it’s a sign of a deeper problem. The most prominent symptoms of decay in a tree include its physical appearance and changes in its growth pattern. Here are the most apparent indicators:

Fungi Growth

Fungi are opportunistic. They thrive in trees that are already weakened or distressed. The presence of mushrooms or other fungi can suggest the tree’s internal structure is compromised. This can be a serious hazard, especially during storms or high winds.

Fungal spores can spread to other trees, potentially causing a bigger issue. So, if you’re seeing more fungal growth, contact a tree removal service for an assessment.

Dead Branches

Dead or dying branches are a sign that your tree is struggling to nourish all its parts. Often, these branches will lack leaves, even during the growing season.

Cracked or Peeling Bark

A tree’s bark is its first line of defense against the outside world. Sometimes it sheds its bark as it grows. But at other times, this protective layer is cracking, peeling, or falling off, it’s a sign of an unhealthy tree.

Leaning Trunk

If your tree looks like it may fall, it probably will. A leaning tree is a dangerous tree. If you notice your tree tilting more than usual, it’s time to consider the tree removal process. This is a severe issue as it could result in the tree falling over, posing a significant risk.

Remember, early detection of these signs can help save your tree. But if the decay is too advanced, you will need professional help from tree removal services.

2. Storm Damage

Broken branches can expose your tree to diseases and pests, compromising its health. If you notice large branches scattered around your yard after a storm, it indicates that your tree has been battered severely.

Split trunks, another telltale sign of storm damage, are a serious concern. A split trunk signifies that the tree’s structure has been critically damaged and may not be able to support the weight of the tree anymore. This poses a risk to your property and safety.

3. A Threat to Your Building

Trees can be a beautiful addition to your property. But if a tree is too close to a building, its roots can damage the foundation, or its branches can cause structural damage. In these cases, tree trimming or removal is necessary.

So, how close is too close? It depends on the tree’s species, age, and health. Generally, large trees should be at least 20 feet from your building, while smaller trees should be no closer than 10 feet.

However, it’s not always the proximity that’s the problem, but the tree’s condition. Look for signs of root damage, disease, or decay early on. If a tree’s roots are visible on the surface or its branches touch the building, these could indicate potential issues.

4. Deep Roots, Deeper Problems

When tree roots run too deep, they can interfere with gas, sewer, or even your home’s foundation.

Deep roots can damage underground utilities, cause soil erosion, and even harm the structural integrity of nearby buildings. When roots grow too shallow, they can also lead to issues with the tree’s stability, causing it to tilt or even fall over.

Identifying vigorous root growth can be complicated, but some telltale signs exist.

Bulging Soil at the Base of the Tree

This is usually the first and most obvious sign of a problematic root system. You may notice a visible rise in the ground, indicating that the roots have grown too extensive and are pushing the soil upwards.

Cracked Pavements or Sidewalks

As tree roots expand, they can exert pressure on anything in their path. If you notice cracks on your pavement or sidewalks around the tree, this may be due to the roots pushing against them.

Exposed Roots

Overgrown roots may start to become visible above the ground. This is a clear sign that your tree’s roots may be running too deep.

Unusual Leaf Drop

Is your tree losing leaves during a time of year when it shouldn’t? It could indicate root damage or disease.

Leaning Tree

A tree leaning or looking off-balance may have an overgrown root system affecting its stability. That can lead to the tree falling over, posing a safety risk.

If you spot any of these signs, seek professional help. A trained arborist can assess the situation and provide the necessary solutions, ranging from root pruning to tree removal.

5. Dead or Dying: The Saddest Sign

The most obvious sign that you need a tree service is if your tree is dead or dying. Look for symptoms like a lack of leaves, brittle branches, or discolored bark. If more than 50% of the tree is dead, it’s time to call in the experts.

A dead or dying tree can pose a safety hazard. It may fall over at any time, potentially damaging property or injuring someone. Moreover, it can attract pests and diseases, affecting other trees and plants in your yard.

Tree Removal in Dallas, TX

Your tree’s health is essential for its beauty and the safety of your property. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best not to risk it and call a professional tree removal service.

Arbor Tech Tree Services in Southlake, TX, are experts in tree care and can help determine your tree’s best course of action. Get a quote or learn more about tree removal, stump removal, and tree trimming today. Remember, a healthy tree is a happy tree, and a safe home is a comfortable home!

September 4, 2023

Tree Trimming Service: 9 Best Reasons to Trim Your Trees

More than 311,000 people in the United States alone work in the tree trimming market. But why is there so much demand for the services of people who offer tree trimming help?

If you have ever had your trees trimmed before, you will have seen for yourself be surprising variety of benefits it can provide. On the other hand, if you have never trimmed your trees, it is worth learning about the benefits of doing so. In this article, we will discuss the biggest reasons investing in tree trimming might be the right choice for your home.

So what are some of the advantages that trimming your trees can provide? Read on to learn all about the biggest benefits of keeping your trees trimmed!

1. Tree Trimming Can Encourage Tree Growth

Tree trimming can be the perfect way to elevate your home’s outdoor space. But some people wonder, “What is tree pruning, exactly?”

In some ways, you can compare tree trimming to getting a haircut or cutting your nails. It is the practice of cutting off targeted parts of your trees to enjoy the benefits that skillful trimming can provide.

For one thing, trimming your trees is one of the most powerful ways to encourage them to grow. After your tree trimming is done, you will notice that your trees start to produce new growth near the cuts. The right tree trimming practices can help your trees grow denser and lusher foliage.

This is because your tree needs to devote its limited resources to its old growths. Removing some of those growths can give it the opportunity to free up resources and devote them to new growth that may be healthier in the long run.

2. Enjoy More Fruit With Tree Service Help

The right tree trimming for homeowners can even help your trees grow more fruit. If you have an old branch on your tree that never grows fruit, there is a good chance that it will never start to grow any fruit.

On the other hand, trimming that branch off might help your tree grow a new branch that will have a much higher chance of creating fruit. On top of that, having fewer old limbs on your trees will free up resources that it can spend on producing extra fruit.

3. Stop Disease With Home Landscape Tips

In some cases, trimming your trees is more about avoiding problems than about enjoying new benefits. For example, some of your tree branches might have developed a disease of some kind.

If a tree gets too wet for too long, there is a good chance that one or more of its branches will start harboring fungal infections. If you leave these kinds of infections alone, they will tend to spread to the other branches of the tree. In fact, a determined fungus can even end up infecting the rest of your trees or yard if you don’t take care of it soon enough.

Trimming off diseased branches is often the most efficient way to help your tree maintain its health.

4. Consider Safety Reasons to Trim Trees

If some of your trees have dead branches on them, you have a safety hazard on your hands. If the weather gets bad enough, these branches might snap off and hit someone or damage your property. They might even cause damage to healthy parts of your tree as they fall.

The good news is that you can avoid these potential problems by trimming your tree’s dead branches. That can be especially important if any of your tree branches are near electrical lines.

5. Improve Your Tree Shapes

Many people love the beauty that their trees add to their property. However, if your tree has several unattractive branches on it, trimming them off can help you enjoy even more beauty.

On top of that, as we have discussed, this can encourage your tree to grow new branches. That increases the chance that your tree will grow in a pleasing shape. If you want to, you can even find tree trimming services that will make sure that your trees grow in specific shapes that you prefer.

6. Get Rid of Excess Tree Growth

There are a number of kinds of tree growth that you might want to avoid.

Large roots might be beginning to damage your sidewalk or driveway. You might have branches that block your view or are beginning to grow into your home. You might also have low branches that get in your way while you walk around your property.

Trimming your trees can get rid of all types of unwanted growth.

7. Cut Down on Tree Care Costs

If you don’t trim your trees, you might end up paying for it. Whether you end up paying for repairs due to fallen branches or for tree removal services, it is much more efficient to invest in trimming instead. Proper tree pruning can keep your trees in good shape and prevent them from developing more expensive problems.

8. Prepare Trees for Big Storms

In a bad storm, it is often the largest and heaviest branches that end up snapping. In other cases, trees have more branches on one side than the other, creating imbalances that leave them vulnerable to high winds. Balancing out your trees or getting rid of heavy branches can be the perfect way to make sure that they don’t suffer significant damage during your next huge storm.

9. Avoid Tree Removal With Pruning

If you have a special tree that you love, you might be hesitant to trim it. However, carefully targeted tree trimming can reduce the chance that you will have to remove this tree later on. That can help you hold on to your favorite trees while cutting your costs as well.

Enjoy the Top Benefits of Tree Trimming

A lot of people are surprised when they realize how many benefits tree trimming services can provide. We hope understanding the benefits we’ve discussed in this article will help you decide if investing in tree trimming is the right choice for you. In many cases, trimming your trees is the perfect way to promote beauty and health while cutting down on costs.

To find out more about what tree trimming might be able to do for you, contact us at Arbor-Tech Tree Service at any time!

August 3, 2023

7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Commercial Tree Trimming Services

Maintaining landscaping is crucial for creating a positive and professional business image. Trees, in particular, play a significant role in enhancing a commercial property’s aesthetics and curb appeal.

Regular tree trimming is the best way to keep trees healthy, safe, and looking their best.

When seeking commercial tree trimming services, choosing a reputable, experienced company that can handle the job efficiently and safely is essential. To ensure you make the right choice, here are seven questions you should ask before hiring a commercial tree trimmer.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

The first and most critical question to ask any commercial tree trimming company is whether they are licensed and insured. A reputable company will hold the necessary licenses and certifications to perform trimming safely and legally.

Additionally, they should carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Liability insurance protects you from any damage that might occur to your property during the trimming process. Workers’ compensation insurance ensures that you won’t be liable for any injuries sustained by the crew while working on your property.

You don’t want to end up with your business tangled in a lawsuit for years on end just for a simple tree trimming job.

2. What Experience Do You Have in Commercial Tree Trimming?

Commercial tree trimming can be vastly different from residential tree trimming due to the scale and complexity of the job. Inquire about the company’s experience in handling commercial projects, including the types of properties they have worked on and the size of trees they have trimmed.

A company with a proven track record of successfully completing commercial projects is more likely to deliver quality results for your property. This is important since many tree trimming companies have more experience doing residential jobs than commercial ones.

3. Can You Provide References or Portfolios of Past Projects?

Ask the commercial tree trimming company to provide references from past clients or show you a portfolio of their previous projects. This will give you insight into the quality of their work and the level of customer satisfaction they have achieved.

Speaking with previous clients can help you gauge their experience with the company. Also, you will find out whether they would recommend their services to new customers or not.

You should also do some research on the side on your own. All the clients they will send you will give raving reviews, of course. But when you go through online Yelp or Google reviews, these should give you a better clue into their reputation and credence.

4. What Trimming Techniques Do You Use?

Different tree trimming techniques are employed for various purposes, such as shaping, thinning, or crown reduction. A reputable company should be well-versed in a variety of trimming techniques.

They should also be able to recommend the most suitable approach for your specific trees and landscaping goals. Each commercial property has its own unique needs. Tree removal services should be aware of these due to their varied commercial experience.

They should follow industry best practices and adhere to ANSI A300 tree care standards to ensure the health and vitality of their trees.

5. Do You Have Certified Arborists on Staff?

Certified arborists are tree care professionals who have undergone specialized training. They have also obtained certification from recognized organizations. Having certified arborists on staff is a strong indication of a company’s commitment to quality and expertise in tree care.

Arborists can provide valuable insights into:

Tree health
Disease prevention
Long-term tree care strategies

Unless you hire a tree service monthly, a lot of the ongoing care will happen on your end.

Knowing what to do is crucial in this regard. This will ensure your trimming service costs don’t go to waste.

6. Will You Provide a Detailed Estimate and Timeline?

Before hiring a commercial tree trimming service, request a detailed estimate. It should outline the following:

Scope of work
Cost breakdown
Timeline for completion

A reputable company will be transparent about pricing and provide a clear timeline for the project.

You shouldn’t have to wait long for your commercial property to look pristine again. You want it done asap so that clients can come in and not be surprised by the noise and debris everywhere.

Additionally, they should be willing to answer any questions you may have about the estimate to ensure you fully understand the services they will be providing.

7. Do You Offer Emergency Tree Services?

Trees can pose safety hazards during severe weather events or unexpected emergencies. Inquire whether the company offers emergency tree services to handle urgent situations. These could be fallen or damaged trees or something else related.

With the increased occurrence of hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural phenomena, it’s important to have a tree trimming company on call at all times.

Knowing that you can rely on the same company for both routine tree removal and maintenance and emergencies can provide peace of mind. This will also streamline your tree care needs.

If you are a previous customer, they might prioritize you over other emergency customers. That’s always a great bonus to have.

Tree Trimming Services – Pick the Best One for Your Needs

Maintaining trees on commercial properties is vital for enhancing the overall appearance and safety of the landscape. Yet, it’s not easy to find the right commercial tree trimmer for your business.

It does take a bit of research and effort on your part. But once you find the right match, you are golden (or green!).

We offer commercial tree trimming services in Southlake and Frisco, TX. Contact us today to get a quote or to ask any burning questions you might have.