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Meet Sherri

Sherri

Meet Sherri, the newest arborist at Sexy Trees. With eight years of experience as an arborist technician apprentice, Journeyman and certified arborist for the City and County of San Francisco, Sherri brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Working for the city, she was the only female in her program and operated under the guidance of her instructor, Alex, who happens to be one of our very own ISA Certified Arborists. Sherri became an arborist technician for the first program to be state-certified. As part of her new role, she climbed trees to prune them and emphasized tree diagnosis. 

Sherri

Sherri’s interest in arboriculture stems from her background in emergency medical services. During her arboriculture studies, she became fascinated by the similarities between the vascular systems of trees and humans. Trees have complex circulatory systems that transport nutrients, water, and other vital substances throughout their structure. They also have specialized cells that perform functions similar to those of human blood cells. This connection between trees and the human body piqued Sherri’s interest – she recognized the importance of understanding how trees function in order to properly care for them and ensure their health and longevity. As she learned more about arboriculture, she became increasingly interested in the science of diagnosis and the art of pruning.

Sherri’s background in emergency services also prepared her well for the fast-paced and sometimes hazardous work of arboriculture. She deeply emphasizes the importance of safety and the need to be prepared for unexpected events. Her experience taught her to be calm and focused in high-pressure situations and to take a systematic approach to problem-solving.

Sherri’s goal is to gain board-certified Master arborist status through the ISA, and she is always seeking new ways to expand her education. As a lead arborist with Sexy Trees, Sherri meets with clients and asks questions regarding their trees, from aesthetic pruning to health issues. She determines which issues are urgent or emergent, such as split limbs, and creates a plan of action. Sherri also specializes in tree risk assessments and thrives in the “emergency side” of the field, enjoying the science, adrenaline, and desire to be there for her clients.

Sexy Trees is a family-oriented company, and Sherri felt welcomed with open arms when she joined the team. She loves working here and the ever-changing titles that she holds. With her passion for trees and desire to learn, Sherri takes on every task with the same level of respect and attention. She is also passionate about continued education and knowledge, ensuring that she is always up-to-date with the latest research in arboriculture. She takes pride in being able to find answers to any questions that she may not have the answer to.

Sherri is a mother of three wonderful sons, one of whom is a certified gardener. She is a second-generation San Francisco native who spent summers climbing trees with her dad in Nevada City. As a kid, her dad called her the “goat” after her love of climbing.

Sherri currently resides in Novato with her Husband. When she first moved to Novato, there was a suffering magnolia tree in front of her house that hadn’t been adequately cared for. As she studied arboriculture in school, she started to learn more about tree care, including dehydration, pruning times, and root care. She applied her knowledge to the magnolia tree, and five years later, the tree is gorgeous and thriving. Seeing the results of her work firsthand only reinforces her passion for the field and her desire to help others care for their trees.

Sherri is a knowledgeable arborist who is dedicated to her craft. Her passion for trees and desire to learn continually make her an asset to the Sexy Trees family.

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Do You Have Damage From the Storms?

Homeowners and renters who had damage or losses as a direct result of the storms are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance by the March 16, 2023, deadline. Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs as well as other serious disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses, transportation, childcare, and moving and storage expenses.

If you have insurance, first file a claim with your insurance provider. FEMA provides assistance to applicants for your uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses and serious needs.

There are several ways you can apply for FEMA assistance under the Individual Assistance program:

Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Ventura Counties Can Now Request FEMA Assistance | FEMA.gov

We just wanted to keep you all informed! As always, if you need anything, please reach out! You can get in touch with us at (925) 477-2769.

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Nesting Season is Almost Here!

Be on the lookout and enjoy the show while the birds begin to build their nest! Bird nesting season usually occurs in spring (around March 20 – June 20). Many birds are gathering materials, starting construction, and even starting to care for their young.

Some birds weave together grass and twigs to form a basket. Others might use binding materials, such as mud or even their own saliva to build or help support the nest. Nest construction can take 3-4 days up to 2 weeks. Egg laying is Usually 1-2 days after nest construction.

It might surprise you to learn that they are not snuggled into cozy nests. The only time of the year when birds sleep in nests is when they are incubating eggs or keeping their young warm. During the rest of the year, birds select a roosting spot. Often they use the same roost night after night.

In general, the best thing you can do for a bird nesting near a human dwelling is to try to minimize the disturbance—stay at a respectful distance, minimize foot traffic, door openings/closings, and postpone projects or construction slated for the area. Never attempt to remove or relocate a nest if there are birds or eggs present. It is best to wait until after nesting season for any removal or relocation. Eggs in a nest without signs of the parents don’t necessarily mean the nest has been abandoned.

As always, if you need anything from us, please let us know! You can call us at (925) 690-3620.

Enjoy this video of some bird friends making a nest:

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Aphids, Bees, and Other Springtime Pests to Look Out For

springtime pests

Spring is almost here, and with it comes an abundance of new growth and life. However, along with the beauty of spring also comes a host of springtime pests that can cause damage to your trees. As a tree care company, we like to educate our clients about the various pests that can harm trees so that they can take steps to protect them.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most common springtime pests to look out for and what you can do to prevent them from causing harm to your trees.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of trees. They are most commonly found on deciduous trees, but can also be found on conifers. Aphids feed on the sap of trees, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and curl. They can also cause the tree to produce a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can attract other pests and lead to sooty mold growth on the leaves.

Prevention

To prevent aphids from causing damage to your trees, there are a few things you can do. One is to attract beneficial insects to your yard, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which will feed on aphids. Another is to use a strong stream of water to blast the aphids off of the tree, which can be effective for small infestations. For larger infestations, you may need to use a pesticide specifically labeled for aphid control.

Bees

Bees are important pollinators that are vital to the health of our environment. However, they can also be a nuisance when they decide to build a hive in or around your trees. Bees can cause damage to the tree by burrowing into it to create a hive, which can weaken the structure of the tree and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.

Prevention

To prevent bees from building a hive in your tree, there are a few things you can do. One is to keep an eye out for bees that are flying in and out of a hole in the tree. If you notice this, it’s important to call a professional beekeeper to remove the hive as soon as possible. Another is to keep trees trimmed and pruned so that bees do not have a place to build a hive.

Other Springtime Pests

There are a variety of other springtime pests to look out for, such as caterpillars, scale insects, and spider mites. Caterpillars can defoliate a tree and make it more susceptible to disease, while scale insects and spider mites can cause the tree to become stunted and weak.

Prevention

To prevent these pests from causing damage to your trees, it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of infestation, such as holes in the leaves or discoloration. If you notice any signs of infestation, it’s important to contact a professional tree care company as soon as possible. They can help to identify the pest and determine the best course of action for treatment.

In conclusion, spring is a wonderful time of year for tree growth, but also a time when pests can cause significant damage. By being aware of the most common springtime pests and taking steps to prevent them from causing harm, you can ensure that your trees remain healthy and beautiful all season long.

If you notice any signs of infestation or damage, don’t hesitate to contact a professional tree care company for assistance.

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Be Prepared For Aphids!

Aphids

What are Aphids?

Aphids are small sap-sucking insects and members of the superfamily Aphidoidea that feed on green leafy plants. An aphid colony can destroy a garden, and unfortunately, they tend to attract colonies of ants.

Most aphids that cause problems early in the season will hatch from eggs in spring. Initially they stay on the plants where they hatched, but later in spring and summer you may see them moving to other plants.

That means in early spring, before bud break (usually in April/early May), is a great time to treat plants with our soil injection method containing a systemic insecticide. This application will provide season-long control of aphids and other insects that can damage your plants.

If you had problems with aphids last year, call us or contact us to get on the treatment schedule before overwintering aphids hatch.

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An Arborist’s 10 Best Tips for Controlling Fusarium Wilt

fusarium wilt

Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that can infect a wide range of trees, including maple, oak, and elm. The fungus attacks the tree’s vascular system, which can cause wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the tree. It is important to take steps to control this disease to keep your trees healthy and beautiful.

Here are the 10 best tips for controlling Fusarium wilt:

1. Proper Tree Selection

The first step in controlling Fusarium wilt is to select trees that are resistant to the fungus. Some species of trees, such as red maples, are more susceptible to the disease than others, such as sugar maples. When selecting new trees for your property, be sure to choose species that are known to be resistant to Fusarium wilt.

2. Proper Planting Techniques

Proper planting techniques can also help to prevent Fusarium wilt. When planting new trees, make sure to dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This will give the roots room to spread out and establish themselves properly. Also, be sure to plant the tree at the same depth it was growing in the nursery.

3. Proper Watering

The fungus thrives in moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil around your trees well-drained. Water your trees deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and frequently. Also, make sure not to over-water, as this can lead to waterlogged soil.

4. Proper Pruning

The fungus can enter a tree through wounds, so it is important to minimize the number of wounds on your trees. Prune your trees during the dormant season, when the tree is less susceptible to infection. Also, be sure to sterilize your pruning tools before and after each cut to prevent the spread of the fungus.

5. Proper Fertilization

The fungus can weaken a tree, making it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. Fertilize your trees with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

6. Mulch

Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil and suppress weed growth. Use a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees, being sure to keep it at least 6 inches away from the trunk.

7. Proper Drainage

The fungus thrives in moist soil, so it is important to ensure that the soil around your trees drains well. If you notice that water is pooling around the base of your trees, consider installing drainage systems such as French drains or swales.

8. Crop rotation

Crop rotation is a great way to prevent Fusarium wilt. The fungus can survive in the soil for several years, so rotating crops can help to break the life cycle of the fungus. If you have a vegetable or flower garden, rotate your crops each year to reduce the risk of Fusarium wilt.

9. Remove and destroy infected plants

Another way to prevent Fusarium wilt is to remove and destroy any infected plants. The fungus spreads easily through the soil, so it is important to remove any infected plants as soon as possible. If you notice signs of disease on your trees, contact an arborist for assistance in removing and disposing of the infected plant material.

10. Use fungicides

Finally, you can use fungicides to help control Fusarium wilt. Fungicides are chemicals that can prevent the growth of fungi and other plant diseases. However, it is important to note that fungicides should be used as a last resort, as they can be harmful to plants and the environment if misused. If you do decide to use fungicides, be sure to follow all label instructions carefully.

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of Fusarium wilt on your trees and help keep them healthy and strong. Give Sexy Trees a call today to learn more about how we can help you protect your trees from this devastating disease. We offer expert advice and services that can help keep your trees healthy and happy for many years to come! Contact us today to get started.

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5 Biggest Spring Tree Care Mistakes: Plan Ahead This Winter

spring tree care

Spring is around the corner, and before we know it, the trees in our yards will be waking up. But how often do we stop to consider their well-being during winter? Tree care should happen all year round – not just in spring when leaves are budding or summer when they bloom. To keep your trees healthy and happy this coming season (and every season thereafter), make sure you’re paying attention to some common spring tree care mistakes that too many of us unintentionally make; there’s no better time than right now to plan ahead, so let’s dive into the biggest spring tree care mistakes and how you can avoid them!

1. Improper Planting

This tip is a preventative measure and makes all the difference in establishing a strong and healthy tree. When planting a new tree, follow the directions on the label of the specific type of tree you have purchased; each species has unique needs for sunlight, soil, water, and nutrients.

A few major planting mistakes we often see are:

  • Planting too close to buildings or power lines. Trees need room to grow and spread their branches.
  • Planting in an area that receives too much or not enough sunlight, water, and/or nutrients.
  • Failing to consider the future size of the tree when planting. It’s important to know that mature trees can grow to very large sizes and may need more space than what is available right now.
  • Suffocating the trunk flare with soil. This happens when too much soil is placed around the tree’s base.

2. Neglecting Pruning

Pruning is essential for maintaining an attractive and healthy tree. It’s important to remember that trees need to be pruned differently at different stages of their lives; for instance, young trees will require more frequent and lighter pruning than mature trees.

Pruning mistakes we often see include:

  • Using the wrong tools for the job and making improper cuts on branches. This can lead to the death of a branch or even the entire tree.
  • Pruning at the wrong time of year. Many trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring, but certain species may require a different timing for optimal results.
  • Failing to follow up with proper wound treatment. Pruning can leave wounds on trees that are vulnerable to infection and decay. Make sure you seal the wound correctly with a dressing or paint to protect your tree from further damage.

3. Poor Fertilization Practices

Fertilization is vital for providing trees with nutrients that may be missing from their soil, but too much of a good thing can quickly become a bad thing! Fertilizing mistakes we often see include:

  • Applying too much fertilizer, which can burn the tree’s roots and cause poor growth.
  • Using a fertilizer that is not suited for your tree type. Different species require different nutrients at different rates and cycles.
  • Failing to water the tree after fertilizing. Fertilizer should be applied with enough water to ensure that the nutrients make it down to the roots.

4. Improper Watering

Most trees require deep watering regularly, especially during the summer months when there is less rainfall. Common mistakes include:

  • Failing to water deeply enough for an extended period of time. In general, trees should be watered slowly and deeply for at least 30 minutes in order to ensure that the roots are receiving enough water.
  • Watering too much or too little. Too little water can cause stress or death to a tree, while too much can lead to problems such as root rot.
  • Failing to monitor soil moisture. If a tree is in an area that receives regular rainfall, it may not need to be watered at all; the best way to know for sure is to check the soil for signs of dryness before watering your tree.

5. Ignoring Pests and Diseases

Be proactive about checking your trees for pests and diseases. Various diseases and pests can affect trees, so it’s important to take the necessary steps to diagnose and treat any issue properly. Common mistakes include:

  • Failing to identify the pest or disease correctly. Different pests and diseases require different treatments, so it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis before taking action.
  • Misusing pesticides or other treatments. Pesticides and other treatments should be used in accordance with the label, as misusing them can lead to more harm than good.
  • Failing to monitor trees for signs of further damage after treatment. You may need to take additional steps if the problem persists or worsens despite your efforts.

Taking proper care of trees requires knowledge, vigilance, and effort. While these five common spring tree care mistakes are some of the most frequent issues we see, they’re certainly not the only ones. It’s essential to be aware of all potential spring tree care hazards in order to ensure your trees stay healthy and beautiful for years to come!

To schedule a consultation with an experienced arborist for spring tree care (or anything tree-related), you can reach us at 925-233-6877 or send an email by clicking here.

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Getting Ready for Spring: Tree Fertilizing Guide

tree fertilizing

In the midst of rainy days and cold weather, it’s easy to forget that spring is right around the corner. And that means that all the trees in your yard are gearing up for a new season of growth and beauty. While it may not look like much now – just hefty bundles of twigs and branches – what you’re really looking at is a goldmine of potential.

Proper tree fertilizing care can help make sure that your tree turns into its full-fledged former self. But if you don’t know your NPK from your magnesium sulfate, never fear! We put together this helpful guide to walk you through all the basics, so you get the most out of spring with your tree friends!

WHY Fertilize Trees?

Trees need nutrients just like we do to stay healthy and strong. Fertilizing can help replenish the tree’s existing stores of energy, making it easier for your tree to take in water, grow foliage and support its own ecosystem. A good fertilization plan will make sure that your tree gets the nutrients it needs throughout all four seasons.

Trees in the wild almost never show nutrient deficiency symptoms because of both natural nutrient recycling and the fact that plants only grow where they’re best adapted. Landscape plantings, on the other hand, are especially vulnerable to nutrient deficiency because of their artificial environment and the lack of natural nutrient recycling.

WHEN to Fertilize Trees?

Spring is the best time to fertilize your tree. That’s when the tree starts growing new foliage and needs additional energy for photosynthesis. Depending on what type of tree you have, you may want to fertilize twice during spring – once in early spring and again mid-spring.

HOW to Fertilize Trees?

The key to tree fertilizing success is finding the right balance. If you over-fertilize, you may end up burning your tree’s roots and leaves; if you under-fertilize, your tree won’t get enough nutrients. When in doubt, opt for a slow-release fertilizer that gives your tree a steady dose of nutrients throughout the season. If you’re going for liquid fertilizer, make sure to dilute it with water and apply it at least 6 inches away from the tree trunk.

WHAT are the best evidence-based fertilizers?

There are plenty of evidence-based tree fertilizers out there with the right combination of nutrients for your tree needs. A granular tree fertilizer is typically a good choice, as it’s easy to spread and lasts longer. You can also get tree fertilizers that are specially formulated for certain tree types (i.e. evergreens, deciduous trees). Whatever you choose, make sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully.

Soil pH

Soil pH is measured using a logarithmic scale of 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Soils with a pH below 7 are acidic, and those above 7 are alkaline. Adjusting pH levels is important for three reasons:

  1. Specific plants grow best within a certain range of pH
  2. Soil pH affects the availability of both major and minor nutrient elements
  3. Soil pH influences the level of microbial activity in soils

It’s important to test your tree’s soil pH and adjust the levels as needed before fertilizing. Knowing the tree’s optimum nutrient range and soil pH will help you choose a tree fertilizer that best meets its specific needs.

Plant Nutrition

Besides carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen– which come from air and water– plants need 16 other minerals to grow. Of those minerals, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are required in the largest quantities. These three elements are referred to as macronutrients and are the primary ingredients in tree fertilizers.

Knowing & Using Nutrient Ratios

The ratio of N-P-K in tree fertilizer is an important part of tree nutrition. The ratio should be adjusted based on the tree’s specific needs, as well as the soil type and pH. Generally speaking, a tree fertilizer for deciduous trees should have slightly more nitrogen than phosphorus, while evergreen tree fertilizers should be higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.

Following these tree fertilizing tips can help make sure your tree gets the nutrients it needs for growth and health. With a good tree fertilizer plan and enough patience, you’ll have a thriving tree in no time!To schedule a consultation with an experienced arborist, you can reach us at 925-233-6877 or send an email by clicking here.

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Can You Replant a Christmas Tree?

can you replant a Christmas tree

If you’re like most people, you probably enjoy having a Christmas tree in your home during the holiday season. But what happens to the tree once the holidays are over? Can you replant a Christmas tree and keep it alive, or is it destined for the compost heap? The short answer is yes, you can replant your holiday tree. Whether or not it will thrive in the long run depends on the type of tree, the care you give it, and a pinch of luck. Read on for tips on how to care for your tree after the holiday season. 

Caring For Your Tree Over the Holidays

When the holiday season is over and it’s time to say goodbye to your live Christmas tree, there are a few things you can do to give it the best chance at survival. If you’re planning on replanting your tree, it’s important to keep the roots moist in order to promote new growth and prevent it from drying out. One thing to remember is that heaters are being run during the winter so your tree is more likely to dry out over the holidays. Don’t forget to water it!

can you replant a Christmas tree

Can You Replant a Christmas Tree? Yes!

Now that you know the answer to: “Can you replant a Christmas tree,” what comes next? When it comes time to replant your holiday tree, make sure you choose a spot far enough away from your home that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Soil that doesn’t drain properly can suffocate a tree’s roots, or lead to fungal growth.

You’ll also want to dig a hole that’s deep enough to fully accommodate the roots of your tree. If you’re not sure how deep to dig, a good rule of thumb is to make the hole twice as wide as the roots of your tree, but no deeper than the root ball to the trunk flare. Make sure the tree sits slightly above the soil grade, too. Another tip is to break up the soil before planting and remove any weeds. You can also mix in some high-quality soil from your local garden store to give your tree the best chance at surviving. 

Common Tree Planting Mistakes

When it comes to replanting a Christmas tree, one of the most common mistakes people make is not properly preparing the planting site. The roots of your tree need room to spread out, so be sure to dig a hole that’s wide enough for it to stretch out. It’s also important to loosen the roots before planting and backfilling it with high-quality soil. This will help the roots establish themselves more quickly, and with less effort. 

Another mistake people make is not watering their new tree regularly, but this is less of a concern in the winter. Live Christmas trees need to be watered frequently, especially during the first few weeks after replanting, but this step won’t be as necessary during the rainy season. Be sure to check the soil around your tree regularly and water it whenever necessary.

Talk to an Arborist Today!

With proper care and a little luck, you can replant your Christmas tree and enjoy it for many years to come. Just remember to keep the roots moist if there isn’t any rain, plant it in a sunny spot, and give it plenty of room to grow. With a little TLC, your holiday tree will be a cherished part of your landscape for years to come.

For advice on tree care, or to schedule a consultation, give us a call at 925-233-6877. 

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How Mistletoe Grows & Other Facts About the Poisonous Plant

how mistletoe grows

Are you wondering how mistletoe grows? If you think you’ve spotted it on your property, it’s best to have a trained arborist inspect your trees. Why? Well, mistletoe is actually a parasitic plant that grows and feeds on the branches of trees, so it can do a lot of damage!

Read on to learn more about how mistletoe grows and other interesting facts about this strange plant we’ve come to associate with holiday kisses. 

How to Recognize Mistletoe in Your Trees

It’s easiest to spot this festive tree vampire in the winter when there are fewer leaves to conceal its presence. It looks like a green bundle with rounded leaves and white berries. In fact, mistletoe is an evergreen shrub that steals nutrients and water from host trees. Pay special attention if you have oak, maple or other hardwoods in your yard, as well as pine trees and various other conifers. 

Mistletoe in Your Trees

Blame it on the Birds

Birds are responsible for spreading mistletoe far and wide. The plant produces beautiful, white berries that are poisonous to humans, but a prized snack for our avian friends. The birds eat the berries and excrete the seeds on tree branches, where the mistletoe takes root and begins to grow, tapping into the tree’s branches.

What’s in a Name? 

Mistletoe gets its rather unflattering name from the Anglo-Saxon word misteltan, which means “dung twig.” The plant is also known as mislin-bush, kiss-and-go, and churchman’s greeting. The evergreen was actually venerated in Ancient Greece as a symbol of male virility, and can grow on over a hundred tree species. 

What’s With All the Kissing? 

Mistletoe has long been associated with winter solstice celebrations. Kissing under a sprig of mistletoe was supposed to bring love and luck, and maybe even marriage. Traditionally, after each kiss, a berry was removed until none were left.  

How Mistletoe Grows and Harms Trees

Because mistletoe is a parasitic plant that inserts its roots into the branches of your trees, it’s best to have it professionally removed as soon as possible. The more mistletoe spreads, the harder it becomes to save infected trees. Mistletoe is harmful to the tree it is growing on, as it steals water and nutrients from the host tree. In addition, mistletoe can also harbor insect pests and diseases. If you find mistletoe growing on a tree, it is best to remove it to prevent the infection from spreading. Mistletoe can be especially damaging to trees during droughts. 

All in all, mistletoe can be a serious threat to the health of your trees, so it’s important to have it removed by a professional arborist. Mistletoe can cause damage to the host tree by stunting its growth, too, weakening its structure, and even causing premature death. If you attempt to remove mistletoe yourself, you could cause more harm, despite your good intentions. It can also be dangerous work, since mistletoe can spread high into a tree’s branches, not to mention branches can be much heavier than they appear.

Mistletoe Removal

Now that you know how mistletoe grows, be sure to check out your yard for signs it’s stealing nutrients from your trees.  

To schedule a consultation with an experienced arborist, you can reach us at 925-233-6877 or send an email by clicking here.