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Non-Invasive Tree Roots

non-invasive tree roots

Non-invasive tree roots are a beautiful addition to your yard, providing beauty, structure, and shelter for birds and animals. Many homeowners avoid growing trees in their gardens because the roots can cause home foundations or plumbing pipes to break, resulting in costly repairs. An expert arborist can help you pick out the finest trees for your garden’s layout and those that won’t intrude on your plumbing.

Why Do Most Homeowners Prefer Trees with Non-Invasive Tree Roots?

The roots of a tree are its respiratory system. They absorb water and nutrients from the soil to transport them to the rest of the tree. The roots also anchor the tree in the ground and help it withstand strong winds. A tree’s root system can extend well beyond its branch spread. Some trees, like maples, have very shallow root systems that can easily damage underground pipes and foundations. Other trees, such as oaks, have deep taproots that are less likely to cause problems.

There are several reasons why you might want to choose trees with non-invasive tree roots for your garden:

  1. Avoid damage to your home’s foundation or plumbing: Most people choose trees with roots that are non-invasive to prevent damage to their home’s foundation or plumbing.
  2. Prevent soil erosion: Trees with deep roots help anchor the soil, preventing erosion.
  3. Provide shade and wind protection: Trees can provide shade for your home, reducing your cooling costs in the summer. They can also block out strong winds, providing protection for your home and garden.
  4. Attract wildlife: Many birds and animals rely on trees for food and shelter. By planting trees with less intrusive root systems, you can create a habitat for these creatures in your own backyard.
  5. Improve air quality: Trees produce oxygen and filter pollutants from the air, improving air quality in urban areas.

Which Tree Types Have Non-Invasive Systems?

There are many types of trees with non-invasive tree roots, including:

  1. Oaks: Oaks have deep taproots that anchor the tree in the ground. They are less likely to damage foundations or pipes than other tree types.
  2. Pines: Pines have shallow root systems that spread out wide, making them ideal for preventing soil erosion.
  3. Maples: Maples have shallow root systems that can easily damage underground pipes and foundations.
  4. Ashes: Ashes have deep taproots that make them resistant to high winds. They are also good at preventing soil erosion. 
  5. Elms: Elms have shallow root systems that can cause damage to foundations and pipes if they are not maintained.
  6. Fruit trees: Fruit trees have shallow root systems that can damage foundations and pipes if they are not maintained.

It’s important to consult with an arborist before planting any tree in your yard, as some tree roots can be very invasive. An arborist can help you choose the best tree for your garden’s layout and those that won’t intrude on your plumbing.

4 Types of Trees with Non-Invasive Roots that are Best for Your Yard

Ornamental Trees

Ornamental Trees non-invasive

Ornamental trees are a great solution for yards where you want the decorativeness of a beautiful tree without the risk of invasive roots. Ornamental trees grow to a manageable height and are designed to fit into smaller spaces and be easy to maintain. Many ornamental trees can even be grown in planters so that their roots have no chance of getting out of hand.

Popular ornamental tree varieties in California include – 

  • Japanese Maple
  • Crape Myrtle
  • Eastern Redbud
  • Cornus Mas
  • Serviceberry
  • Kousa Dogwood
  • Japanese Tree Lilac
  • Dwarf Korean Lilac
  • Star Magnolia
  • Crabapples: Red Jewel, Royal Raindrops, Prairiefire

Fruit Trees

Fruit Trees non-invasive tree roots

Fruit trees not only look beautiful, but they can also provide a source of fruit for your family to enjoy when the right season comes around. Some fruit trees, like figs, can have voracious root systems that can quickly grow out of control. A greater variety of fruit trees can be made suitable for smaller gardens when pruned regularly and given routine tree care from a skilled arborist. If the tree is not allowed to grow too large the root system will not extend as far either. If in doubt, choose a beautiful decorative fruit tree variety that is known not to have invasive root systems.

The following fruit trees can be both ornamental for your garden and productive when it comes to providing fruit. 

  • Citrus
  • Adams crabapple
  • Cornelian cherry dogwood
  • Pawpaw
  • Dwarf Apple Tree
  • Dwarf Cherry Tree
  • Dwarf Pear Tree
  • Dwarf Apricot Tree
  • Dwarf Orange Tree
  • Dwarf Plum Tree

Shade Trees

shade trees non-invasive tree roots

Want the protection and coolness of shade from your tree without the extensive and invasive root system? There are varieties of trees that can provide you with thick foliage and fuller shade while still having smaller root systems. These trees can be a stunning focal point of your landscape without taking up too much space or overwhelming your garden with their root systems. Some with colored leaves and some with flowers, these shade trees can liven up small gardens while maintaining small root systems.

Here are some non-invasive shade trees varieties – 

  • Amur maple
  • Chinese pistache
  • Southern sugar maple
  • Red tip photinia
  • American hornbeam
  • Trident maple

Shrubs

shrubs non-invasive tree roots

Shrubs can provide good coverage, privacy, and protection for your garden. While some shrubs may look small, their root systems can grow quickly, so it’s important to choose the right variety for your garden. Shrubs create the perfect addition for smaller gardens where low-lying yet full plants are preferred.

Some of the most popular shrubs with non-invasive tree roots include – 

  • Hollywood juniper
  • Fraser photinia
  • Glossy abellia
  • Hydrangeas
  • Viburnums
  • Boxwoods
  • Gardenia
  • Barberries
  • Camellias
  • Hollies 

To keep your plumbing and home foundations safe, choose trees and shrubs with non-invasive root systems, and receive the professional advice of your arborist before planting.

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Your Tree Watering Guide

Walnut Creek Tree Removal

Extended periods of dry weather leave backyard trees dependent on homeowners for survival. Surprisingly, lack of rainfall kills millions of trees across the country. In fact, according to KPCC’s environment and science coverage, 27 million trees died just in California during the 2017 drought. In an average year, the Golden State loses roughly a million trees. But excessive watering can make a tree overly reliant on irrigation, so we’ve put together this handy tree water guide to clear up any confusion.

How Much Water Do Trees Need?

The goal is to supplement enough water to support the growth and health of your trees. But you still want them to be resilient. It’s important not to water so much that it encourages more canopy growth than would occur (on a good year) with natural rainfall.

For mature trees, aim to moisten the soil up to 10” or more. A weekly deep soaking is better than a frequent shallow watering guide. Even if your lawn receives direct irrigation, it’s probably not sufficient for your trees. Shallow waterings cause tree roots to stay near the upper layers of soil. They’re more likely to dry out on the surface, and also more vulnerable to drought.

Watering Guide to New Trees

When you plant a new tree, most of its roots will remain within a root ball for a few months. You can help the tree anchor itself by keeping the surrounding soil moist. This encourages healthy roots to grow. After several months, extend the watering zone to include the area under the tree’s canopy. If nature doesn’t provide soaking rains, water your new tree as many as three times per week, or the root ball can dry out. It takes a couple growing seasons for your new tree to establish itself.

Should I Mulch Under My Trees?

Mulch prevents weeds and grass from taking over and bullying your tree for water. A layer of organic mulch also conserves moisture. Use two to three inches of shredded bark or pine straw, but avoid piling it against the trunk because it could cause rot.

The amount of water a tree needs is decided by multiple factors, such as its species and age, as well as the soil quality and local climate. For a more personalized tree watering guide, please contact our team of trained arborists at (925) 233-6877.

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Do All Trees Need Fertilizer?

Alamo Tree Removal

If you haven’t fed your trees lately, they might be hungry. Fertilizing your trees is important to replace lost minerals and nutrients. Unfortunately, our soils don’t always provide everything trees require. Even if a tree is getting enough nutrients from the soil, it still might benefit from occasional fertilizing to help it look and grow its best. After all, healthy trees are less likely to succumb to pests or illness. Yes, even trees can become sick from bacteria or viruses. Read on to learn more about when trees need fertilizer.

Why Should We Fertilize Domestic Trees?

Trees are resilient, but they still need care, or they can be more susceptible to stressors. Biodiversity is more prolific in nature. Think of the rich soil in a redwood forest. Logs rot, animals come to the end of their lives and break down, becoming a part of the nutrient cycle. But in our own yards, we rake up leaves. Our lawns are tame and manicured. And while this looks beautiful, it means the soil has less nutrient density. To compensate, our domestic trees need fertilizer to mimic a wilder world.

When to Fertilize Trees

October is a good month to fertilize trees, as well as April, once the frost leaves the ground. As a general rule, remember drought-stressed trees shouldn’t be fertilized. Trees slow their growth when there’s a lack of water, and the salts in many commercial fertilizers may harm stressed roots.

How to Tell When Trees Need Fertilizer

There are some signs that your trees need fertilizer. For example, if its leaves are discolored or fall off out of season. Or, if the tree grows very little, even with plenty of watering or rainfall. Another concerning indicator would be dead and brittle branches.

Our Services

If your trees are experiencing any of the above symptoms, or you’re just not sure, give us a call at Sexy Trees. Our skilled team of arborists can inspect your trees and the quality of your soil. Contact our office at (925) 233-6877.

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Nontoxic Mistletoe Removal

Danville Tree Pruning

Staying on top of mistletoe removal is especially important in Northern California where it’s a common annoyance for homeowners. Wild mistletoe can be found in many parts of North America, but it won’t grow on all tree species. It’s a parasitic evergreen shrub that draws water and mineral nutrients from a host tree, despite the fact that it does create some of its own energy through converting sunlight. Here’s a more in-depth look at this festive weed.

It’s For the Birds

Healthy bird populations mean more mistletoe plants. This is because birds spread mistletoe seeds when they ingest its white berries, which ripen in the winter. While poisonous to humans, mistletoe berries are an important food source for wildlife during the lean months when calories are scarce.

Seeds pass through the bird’s digestive system and stick to a tree branch. Additionally, some bird species even prefer to nest in mistletoe.

How Does Mistletoe Work?

Mistletoe can only survive on living trees. If the host tree dies, it won’t be able to feed any longer. Mistletoe doesn’t root in the earth. Rather, it has root-like structures that thread into tree branches, stealing resources. These organs are called haustoria.

Is Mistletoe Harmful to Trees?

Mistletoe grows slowly, so it’s not an immediate threat to the health of a tree. The greatest risk to a host tree is the water loss that incurs, especially while the weed is flowering or producing berries. Trees that are heavily infested with mistletoe can be killed if there are additional stressors, such as root damage, drought, or insects.

Do You Need Mistletoe Removal Services?

It’s easiest to spot mistletoe in the wintertime. It looks like a tangled green mass, usually connected to a bare tree branch.

Mistletoe Decorations

If you decide to use mistletoe in holiday decorations, be aware that its white berries are toxic and should be kept out of reach of curious children and pets.

Nontoxic Mistletoe Removal

While it’s easy to prune back mistletoe leaves and twigs, this won’t kill the entire plant because it’s also necessary to kill the roots. If the host tree is strong enough, one option is to simply remove infested branches. However, this can be harmful to trees so it’s best to consult with a certified arborist.

We hope you found this article helpful. To schedule a consultation, please contact our office at (925) 233-6877.

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What You Should Know About Tree Removal

Berkeley Tree Pruning

Did you know that the trees in Los Angeles alone neutralize around 2,000 tons of pollution every year? Planting more trees and keeping them in good health is paramount to reducing carbon dioxide emissions and improving the air we breathe. However, in some unfortunate cases, a tree can become diseased, making it necessary to remove it from your yard. But this isn’t as simple as it sounds. Keep reading to learn more about tree removal.

Is the Tree Dead or Alive?

As mentioned earlier, trees can become seriously diseased and infected with all sorts of pests. In the worst instances, the tree might simply die. The wood of a dead tree is different when compared to the wood of a living tree, so it’s necessary to be cautious because it might fall on an unintended path and cause injuries or property damage.

Consider the Size of the Tree

As a rule of thumb, the larger the tree, the harder it is to remove. That’s because the sheer size and weight of the tree can cause destruction to the surrounding area. If you decide to take advantage of tree removal services, the professionals might begin by cutting the tree branches first.

This makes the whole job less complicated, and the tree trunk becomes easier to manage. If you have a smaller tree, its potential for damage is reduced, but it’s still a good idea to let tree removal experts handle the job for you.

Consider the Surrounding Power Lines

This is one of the reasons removing a tree can be dangerous. A tree that falls on nearby power lines is a real risk. Not only that the power to your house might be cut, but your neighbors might lose electricity, too. Fixing this problem can be very expensive, but it’s an issue you can prevent.

Is There Easy Access to Your Yard?

Removing a tree involves having the right equipment for the job. It also means you need easy access to the place where the tree is located. Are there a lot of plants, shrubs, or other trees around it? Do you need to remove a dog house or chicken coop to create easy access to the tree? Is your house located in a remote location?

Are You Aware of the Regulations Regarding Tree Removal?

Although the tree is located on your property, there might be certain laws you need to follow when removing it. These rules can differ from state to state. In some cases, the tree might even be protected. Remember that following these ordinances is mandatory when removing a tree, so you should familiarize yourself with them.

Now You Know More About What Tree Removal Involves!

As you can see, removing a tree is not that easy, so it’s best to take advantage of a tree removal service. The experts in tree removal are aware of the latest rules and regulations, plus they can do the job faster and more safely.

If you have a tree problem, please contact us today! We have years of experience when it comes to tree removal services, and we can work with any type of tree.

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What’s the Best Tree to Build a Treehouse?

Concord Tree Pruning

Building a treehouse is a fun and challenging project for the whole family, but it also requires some careful planning. Otherwise, you can run into safety risks, as well as damage the health of your tree. If you’re ready to build a treehouse, this article will help you make the most important decision— selecting the best tree.

Species of Tree

When considering your options to build a treehouse, remember you need a tree with deep roots and dense wood to hold your structure in place and withstand strong winds. Some species are simply more prone to having weak forks and brittle branches. In general, look to deciduous trees like apple, oak, or maple. It’s easy to recognize deciduous trees because, unlike evergreens, they shed their leaves in the colder months.

Ready to Build a Treehouse? Safety Comes First

While it depends on the design and its location in the tree, a trunk diameter of 12 inches or greater is the suggested starting point. Of course, another possibility when building a treehouse is to support the load between two (or even three) trees, instead of one. This would allow for smaller minimum diameters, especially if you select a tough species.

To determine diameter use a pliable fabric measuring tape, or even a piece of string. First, measure the circumference where you intend to build supports, then divide this figure by pi (3.14) to find the diameter. Remember, the size of the tree will ultimately limit the size of your treehouse.

If I Build a Treehouse, Won’t it Damage the Tree?

Eventually, a tree will compensate for the extra weight on its frame, but in the first few years, it’s most vulnerable during windy storms. Make sure you choose sturdy but lightweight materials that will hold up against the elements. Nails and screws just aren’t strong enough to be used for major supports and can cause health problems for the tree. Additionally, cables and ropes slice through bark. The trouble with these exposed punctures is that they provide an entry point for infections. For fixing supports it’s best to use a single large bolt that’s fitted properly into a drilled hole, but this isn’t a guide on the actual practice of building a treehouse, so it’s important for you to do your own research.

Getting a Professional Inspection

One common mistake homeowners make when building a treehouse is they forget the tree is alive and needs room to grow. To ensure you don’t overlook anything, and your treehouse lasts for years to come, it’s best to have the tree inspected by an arborist before you begin to build. Our trained professionals can help you assess your trees for any hidden signs of weakness that might put your treehouse at risk. We love a good DIY project. Please contact us at (925) 233-6877.

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Tree Trimming: How to Determine When Your Tree Needs It

Walnut Creek Tree Pruning

If you’re a homeowner, you know how satisfying it can be to renovate and maintain your own property. Most homeowners have yards where they can sit and relax, let children and dogs run around, or plant a garden. Trees are an essential part of any landscape design. They provide beautiful homes for wildlife, give us oxygen and shade, and allow for places to hang hammocks or swings. But keeping your trees healthy is essential. Here, we’re going to talk about how to identify when it’s time to call in a tree trimming service to help your yard flourish.

Tree Trimming vs. Pruning: What’s the Difference?

While tree trimming and pruning are similar services, there’s a distinction. Understanding the difference will help you determine if you need one or both of these services performed.
Tree trimming is done to make sure that a tree, shrub, or hedge grows in the shape you want it to. It’s primarily meant to ensure that the tree looks good and doesn’t become an overgrown eyesore.
Pruning, on the other hand, is done for the overall health of the tree. When pruning, a professional will remove dead or infected branches to ensure that it continues to thrive.

When Are Tree Trimming Services Necessary?

There are a few signs that tree trimming and pruning services are necessary. However, in general, aim for at least twice a year. If six months have passed, it’s a surefire sign that it’s time to call someone in. Even if you don’t think there are any issues with your trees, an expert may be able to identify some that you wouldn’t notice. This is also a preventative measure. You don’t want branches getting infected because too much time lapsed without pruning.

It’s also a good idea to hire a tree trimming service to keep foliage from spilling over a fence into a neighbor’s property. There are actually some legal issues you can become entangled in if you allow this to happen, so it’s best to take precautions and avoid any disputes from arising. Additionally, if you happen to notice branches drying on any of your trees, pruning services are a must. If you don’t cut off these branches, they could infect the rest of the tree and cause a lot of problems.

Bring In the Pros!

Deciding when to get tree maintenance can be a challenge, but there are a few signs that it’s time to get the job done. Now that you understand the difference between tree trimming and pruning, you’ll know when it’s time to call in the pros. We’re a 2018 Yelp award winner, and since our services have only improved in quality since then, you know you’re hiring the best. Keep your trees sexy!

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Signs You Have Sick Trees

Alamo Tree Pruning

Trees are living things, and like us, they can become diseased and die. This is why it’s important to examine your trees on a regular basis. Fortunately, it’s actually pretty easy to determine if you have sick trees by performing a simple visual test. Knowing what to watch out for will help you avoid damage to your home and property.

Here are some telltale signs you have sick trees:

Poor Structure

Leaning limbs or branches that cause abnormal growth patterns are worrisome. Healthy trees have strong trunks that hold up the weight of branches, so be on the lookout for weak branch unions.

Peeling Bark

Depending on the species, peeling bark is one possible sign you have sick trees. Bark protects a tree from water loss, disease, and extreme temperature fluctuations, among other things. If it’s shedding bark, the tree may not be able to preserve enough essential nutrients.

Dead Branches

Naked branches can indicate a sick tree during seasons when they should be covered with foliage. If you look closely, you may discover insect damage, or tree rot.

Abnormally Colored Leaves

Leaf problems? Trees that aren’t thriving probably won’t have leaves that appear healthy, either. Look out for deformed leaves, spots, or unusual coloration.

Noticeable Pest Movement

Pest infestations can do a lot of damage to your trees. Have you noticed small holes bored into the wood? This is a clear indication of insects. Bark beetles and moths are common offenders. At least this is one sign of a sick tree that’s easier to spot.

Abnormal Fungi and Mushroom Growth

Examining a tree from the ground up can reveal a lot about its health. Search the base of your trees for signs of decay, fungi and mushrooms, or severed roots. Not all mushrooms are harmful to trees, but unfortunately, they can indicate a sick tree may be infected with a rot-inducing pathogen.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call in an expert. Sick trees should be treated quickly, or they can infect other trees, and even die. But sometimes it’s tricky to identify just what the problem is. Our experienced professionals are ready to help with any further questions. Please contact our office today.

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Apple Tree Care

Tree Care Concord

An apple a day keeps the doctor away but how long does it take to grow an apple? Turns out, longer than you think.

In this article we will tell you how to take care of an apple tree, the additional apple tree care required for these plants, and provide you insight into apple tree maintenance for the life of the tree.

Keep reading to learn everything you want to know about apple tree care!

Apple Tree Care Requires Time and Diligence to Bear Fruit

Fruit tree care, especially apple tree care, is different from the care needed for other trees. It’s an investment in time and nurturing that not everyone is willing to make.

An apple tree, from seedling, will take between six and ten years to produce fruit. In addition to the long maturation time, these trees can grow to 40 feet tall with roots spreading outward about that high.

You’ll have to carefully consider placement to make sure the tree stays happy and healthy so you’ll eventually be able to pluck the fruits of your labor.

The best time to plant an apple tree is in the late fall or the early spring. Make sure to pick a spot protected from major wind gusts and where the tree will have plenty of room to stretch and grow. Windy spots tend to make the fruit fall before they’ve reached their maturity.

Protecting the Tree From Pests

Apple trees are particularly susceptible to insect and disease problems. This is common with any fruit-bearing tree as they are more attractive to a variety of different types of animals, or microscopic bacteria looking for food.

When it’s warm, in the early spring or summer, get on a good routine of antifungal treatments to keep the tree in good shape. The tree will benefit from regular pruning making sure you remove any dead leaves or branches and any signs of decay.

Common Apple Tree Ailments:

  • Diseases:
    • Apple scab
    • Leaf spot
    • Rust
    • Powdery mildew
    • Fire blight
  • Creepy Crawlers:
    • Scales
    • Mites
    • Aphids
    • Apple maggot

Some common symptoms to look out for that point to an infestation or disease are:

  • Spots and/or holes on leaves or fruit
  • Stunted growth
  • White coating on leaves
  • Branch dieback
  • Yellowing or browning of foliage

It’s best to act right away if you notice any of these signs and symptoms because they can quickly spread and lead to the death of the tree.

Too Much Effort? Let Us Take Care of Your Apple Tree Care For You!

The last thing you want to do in the midst of your already busy life is fret over the apple tree in your backyard. That’s why the professionals here at Sexytrees.com want to get you on a maintenance plan today.

Let us handle the pre-treatments and when they happen. Let us make sure your apple tree has everything it needs to give you bountiful crops every single year.

Contact us today to book an appointment!

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How to Handle Overhanging Branches

Berkeley Tree Care

A tree belongs to the individual who owns the land on which it grows. However, if you own a property on which the branches of trees overhang, you are usually permitted to chop back the branches to the borderline. You don’t need to get the owner’s permission before removing overhanging branches, but it’s a good idea to inform them before doing so – they are less likely to complain about it.

If you do plan to get rid of overhanging branches, there are certain matters you should bear in mind:

 

Dangerous Tree

If you think that a tree of your neighbors could be dangerous to your property and house – you should discuss it with your neighbor. If they are not willing to do anything about it or not allowing you to act, contact your local authorities.

 

Possibility of Damaging Property or Hurting Someone

If you damaged the property or injured someone while removing overhanging branches, the owner of property or the injured person may claim damage coverage from you. This is a good reason to employ a professional arborist to perform the job for you. You should also check that they are insured against property damages and injuries, before employing them.

 

Possibility of Damaging the Tree

If you damaged the tree while removing the overhanging branches, the tree’s owner could bring a claim against you for trespass or damages. If you aim to get rid of a substantial part of trees, hire a professional arborist.

 

Possibility of Trespassing

If you remove the trees branches beyond the boundary line without the permission of your neighbor, you will commit a trespass. Obtain legal advice if you are in doubt to figure out the boundary line.

 

Possibility that the Tree May be the Matter of Tree Preservation Order

If the tree in question is the subject of a tree preservation order, you may need to get permission from your local planning authority before doing any work on it.

 

Ownership of the Overhanging Branches After the Removal

The owner of the tree remains the owner of any branches, even after the branches have been removed. Therefore after removing the branches, you should return them, together with any fruit that is growing on them. If you fail to do, your act will amount to stealing.

Before removing the overhanging branches ask the owner what they would like to with the branches and any fruit growing on them, rather than throwing them back into their backyard. If you are unable to speak to the owner of the tree, write to them clearing up that you aim to dispose of the overhanging branches, for example, seven days of their removal.

 

If you’re seeking professional help or have questions, please feel free to contact us at Sexy Trees.