Our Services
Tree pruning is undertaken for several reasons. Our objectives dictate which type of pruning should be performed. The most common reasons to prune are to reduce risk of failure, provide clearance for buildings, utility lines, etc, reduce shade and wind resistance, maintain health, and to improve aesthetics. These objectives are met by incorporating the correct style of pruning. There are several described below.
- Structural Pruning - Structural
pruning involves the removal or reduction of co-dominant stems in order to develop a stronger, more sustainable trunk and
branching pattern. This style of pruning is most effective in training younger trees (5yrs-35yrs), but is also helpful
in large mature trees.
- Crown
Cleaning - Crown cleaning is the selective removal of dead, diseased, broken, crossing/rubbing, and closely competing
limbs. This helps to remove obvious hazards from a tree as well as helping to impede the movement of decay, insects,
and diseases, throughout the tree.
- Crown
Reduction - This type of pruning is similar to structural pruning in that longevity is reduced from limbs in order
to limit the trees overall volume. This in turn reduces weight, and more importantly the forces that wind, snow and
ice loads can exert on the tree. The amount that should be removed depends also on the species, age, and health of the
tree. This style is also commonly used to maintain the size and aesthetics of Ornamental trees and shrubs.
- Cabling - Cabling can be very effective when structural pruning alone is not enough to assure competent tree structure. Trees with two or more co-dominant stems and trees with otherwise weak branch attachments are the most frequent candidates. Cables help to minimize the risk of limb and tree failure when used appropriately. Cabling relies heavily on counterweight of stems, and changes the dynamic of a tree. Careful consideration should be exercised before the installation of cables.
Tree Takedown and Removal
Tree removal is not always, but can often be useful or necessary within the landscape. Many reasons for removal include; hazardous trees, increased sunlight for other trees, shrubs, grass, etc, selective thinning of woodland or yard settings, vista clearing, yard expansion, and excavation. Whatever the reason may be, we have the tools, knowledge, and experience to conquer these tasks, safely, efficiently, and economically, while reducing any impact to your landscape.
Insect & Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
Many trees are susceptible to a variety of diseases and insect infestations. Dutch Elm’s Disease and Hemlock Wooly Adelgid are just two examples of a very long list. Many diseases or infestations can be avoided by simply maintaining proper tree health and vigor. However, some pests and diseases are extremely virulent and require immediate treatment when detected. Contact us immediately if you notice anything that may be of concern.
Tree Selection and Installation:
- Selection - There are many advantages to consulting an arborist when choosing what plants to incorporate into your landscape. A knowledgeable arborist will consider such factors as plant hardiness, growth habit, size, compatibility with the landscape and other plants, insect and disease susceptibility, aesthetics, function, sunlight and soil requirements, long term care, and should offer a general idea of what to expect in years to come.
- Installation
– Just as with plant selection, many factors influence the success and failure of introducing new plant material.
Starting at the nursery, it is important to choose plants with an adequate root system to physiologically and structurally
support the plant itself, making sure it has not become pot bound or girdled in any way. During planting, any container,
wire basket, and even burlap should be removed before placing the specimen into a planting hole no deeper than and two to
three times wider than the root ball itself. Because the roots are exposed to the air, watering is especially critical
at this time. There’s so much more involved than simply putting a plant in the ground.
Stump
Removal
Stumps can be an unsightly
blemish on an otherwise beautiful landscape. Our conventional grinding methods can eliminate these eyesores, and allow you
to plant grass, shrubs, or even another tree. The depth of grinding will vary depending on your needs.