Lafayette Tree Service Bringing Sexy Back Into Your Yards

Category: Tree Service

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Crash Course in Tree Fertilizers: How to Choose the Best One

tree fertilizer

There are many misconceptions about tree fertilizers. Most people don’t realize that not all tree fertilizers are created equal – different trees and soil types will yield different results – and tree fertilizer isn’t the miracle-in-a-bag that will save your trees. This article will serve as a crash course in tree fertilizers – we’ll discuss how to choose the best one for your needs, as well as some of the benefits and drawbacks of different types!

Does it NEED Fertilizer?

Many established trees will never need fertilizer, while others will benefit from periodic applications. The best way to determine if your tree needs fertilizer is to have a soil test done. Most tree roots are relatively shallow, so even if the topsoil looks healthy, the tree may not be getting all of the nutrients it needs from just that layer. A simple soil test will tell you what nutrients are already present in the dirt and which ones may be lacking.

Other Signs Your Tree Might Benefit from Fertilizer

  • If your tree is newly planted or young
  • If your tree is showing signs of poor growth such as poorly colored, pale leaves, unusually small leaf size, earlier than normal fall coloring and leaf drop, little annual twig growth, or twig or branch dieback (Note: Heavily compacted soil or poor weather conditions can also cause these symptoms)
  • If your tree is planted in sandy soil with little organic matter
tree fertilizers

Types of Fertilizer

There are two main types of tree fertilizer: organic and inorganic.

Inorganic tree fertilizers are made with synthetic chemicals and can offer a quick-fix solution for nutrient deficiencies. However, they can also harm the environment if not used correctly, as they can easily leach into groundwater. Additionally, inorganic tree fertilizers can burn tree roots if misapplied.

On the other hand, organic tree fertilizers are made from natural materials such as manure, compost, and bone meal. They release nutrients slowly over time and are much less likely to cause root burn. However, they may not be as immediately effective as inorganic tree fertilizers.

The best tree fertilizer for you will ultimately depend on your specific tree and soil type, as well as your budget and goals. If you’re unsure where to start, we recommend talking to a local tree expert. They can help you determine which product will work best for your needs!

Choosing the Best Fertilizer for Your Trees

1. Do Your Research

Before you start shopping for tree fertilizer, it’s essential to do your research. Only some products are created equal, and the best tree fertilizer for your needs may not be the most popular or well-known brand. Start by reading the label carefully. The three numbers on a fertilizer bag (known as the N-P-K ratio) will tell you the product’s percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These are the three most important nutrients for tree growth.

Tree and shrub growth is more often limited by a nitrogen deficiency than by a lack of other elements. As a result, trees usually respond best to fertilizer with a 2-1-1 or a 3-1-1 ratio (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium).

2. Fertilize Correctly

Once you’ve selected a fertilizer, following the application instructions carefully is important. Overfertilizing can be just as harmful as not fertilizing at all! Tree roots are sensitive to high concentrations of fertilizer, and, as we mentioned earlier, too much can cause root burn.

When applying tree fertilizer, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Talk to a tree care specialist if you need clarification on how much or how often to apply the product. They can help you create a fertilization schedule that meets your tree’s needs.

3. Consider Timing

The timing of your fertilizer application is also essential. Generally, it’s best to fertilize trees in the early spring before new growth begins. This gives the tree a chance to absorb the nutrients before it puts out fresh leaves and branches. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If your tree shows signs of nutrient deficiency, you may need to fertilize it more than once a year.

And that’s it! With some research and careful planning, you can ensure that your trees get the nutrients they need to thrive. Just remember: more is not always better when it comes to tree fertilizer. A little goes a long way!

Related Reading: Fertilizer Root Injections to Support Tree Health

Contact a Bay Area Tree Care Specialist Today

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How to Identify and Get Rid of Elm Leaf Beetles

elm leaf beetle

Elm trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape. With their large, shady canopies and rounded green leaves, elms are a stately and elegant tree and very popular in North America. Unfortunately, elms are also the favorite food of the elm leaf beetle – and Sexy Trees has been seeing quite a lot of trees with elm leaf beetle infestations in recent months. These pesky insects can cause significant damage to elm trees if left untreated.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify elm leaf beetles and provide tips on how to get rid of them.

Identifying Elm Leaf Beetles

The elm leaf beetle feeds heavily on elm trees in both its adult and larval forms, so it’s essential to be able to identify this pest at every stage in its life cycle. Photos by Colorado State University.

Elm leaf beetle, with the yellow coloration of the form found during the growing season

Adult Beetles

Adult elm leaf beetles are yellow or olive-green and have a black stripe on each wing. They also have several dark spots behind their head. These beetles grow to about six millimeters or just under a quarter of an inch long.

Egg mass of an elm leaf beetle

Eggs

Elm leaf beetles commonly spend winter in sheds or other sheltered locations in cold climates. They emerge in the spring and deposit eggs in clusters of 15 to 20 on the undersides of leaves after feeding for a few weeks. These eggs are oblong and yellow and hatch seven to ten days later.

Late stage elm leaf beetle larvae

Larvae

The larvae are tiny and black with yellow stripes running down their backs. They mature in about four weeks and then pupate into adults. The entire life cycle from egg to adult takes about six to eight weeks.

Signs of Infestation

Elm leaf beetles typically infest elms that are already stressed or unhealthy. This is because these trees are more likely to produce a chemical that the beetles find attractive. Signs of elm leaf beetle infestation include:

  • Skeletonized leaves, with only the veins remaining
  • Holes in leaves
  • Stippling or mottling on leaves (this is caused by the larvae feeding)
  • Yellowing or browning of leaves
  • Premature defoliation

If you notice any of these signs on your elm trees, it’s time to take action. Keep reading to learn how to get rid of elm leaf beetles.

Getting Rid of Elm Leaf Beetles

You can use several methods to get rid of these elm-devouring pests.

Insecticides

You can use chemical insecticides, such as pyrethroids or neonicotinoids. These products should be applied when the beetles are actively feeding, typically from late spring to early fall. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, as these products can harm humans and animals if misused.

Natural Control Methods

Unfortunately, there are very few natural predators of the elm leaf beetle. Predators such as predaceous stink bugs and plant bugs may feed on the beetle in various stages of its life cycle, as may parasitic wasps. A fungus called Beauveria bassania may also kill these beetles in the pupae stage.

Related Reading: How Do I Know When a Tree is Sick?

Preventing Beetle Infestations

If you have elm trees on your property, the best way to prevent elm leaf beetle infestations is to keep your trees healthy. This means watering them regularly, fertilizing them as needed, and pruning them to remove dead or dying branches. Additionally, you can use physical barriers such as insect netting to prevent the beetles from accessing the tree’s delicate leaves.

If you suspect an elm leaf beetle infestation, the best course of action is to contact a professional pest control company. Our experts at Sexy Trees can help you get rid of these pesky pests and protect your elm trees from further damage.

Contact us today to learn more!

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When is the Best Time to Trim Trees: Fall, Spring, or Winter?

best time to trim trees

To prune or not to prune… That is the question.

There is no one “right” answer to the question of when is the best time to trim trees. Different trees respond differently to pruning, so it’s important to know your species before you take a saw to its branches! That being said, there are some general best practices that can help you decide when to trim your trees.

Knowing when to trim trees is important for a variety of reasons. This guide breaks down the best time to trim trees in order to keep them healthy and beautiful.

Why Is Pruning Important?

Pruning is an important pillar of tree care. It helps to:

  • Remove dead or diseased branches
  • Stimulate new growth
  • Improve the shape and appearance of the tree
  • Encourage fruit production (in some species)
  • Have certified climber make sure the tree is safe for the public

Well-pruned trees are healthier and stronger, with a reduced risk of damage from storms or other hazards. Dead branches, diseased trees and weak limbs are all more likely to cause problems during extreme weather conditions.

Pruning also helps to keep your trees looking their best. Overgrown trees can be unsightly, and poorly shaped trees can lose their aesthetic appeal. Regular pruning can help you maintain the natural shape of your tree, or even improve its appearance if it’s looking a little worse for wear.

What is the Best Time to Trim Trees?

Although there is no one-size fits all pruning guide, anytime between late fall and early spring is generally best. This is because the trees are dormant during this time and can better tolerate the stress of pruning.

Pruning in late fall and early spring helps to:

  • Reduce the risk of infection and disease
  • Stimulate new growth
  • Encourage fruit production (in some species)

Summer and Fall Pruning

In general, it’s best to avoid pruning in the summer and fall as it can be stressful for trees. When trees are not dormant, they are actively growing and producing new leaves, flowers and fruit. Pruning during this time can interfere with this process and damage the tree.

Additionally, pruning in the summer and fall can promote the spread of disease. This is because fungi spores are more prevalent in these seasons and can easily infect cuts made to trees.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If you need to remove dead or diseased branches, it’s best to do so as soon as possible. These branches can be a haven for pests and diseases, and can quickly spread to the rest of the tree if left unchecked.

Winter Pruning

Winter is also a good time to prune trees, as long as you take care not to damage the bark. Be extra careful when working with power tools in cold weather, as they can be more likely to malfunction.

Pruning in winter has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. On the plus side, pruning during this time can help to prevent frost damage and encourage new growth in the spring. However, it’s important to be aware that some trees are more susceptible to damage from cold weather. If you’re not sure how your tree will react, it’s best to consult with a professional before pruning.

Properly Trimming a Tree

Now that you know when the best time to trim trees, it’s time to learn how! Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Start by removing any dead, diseased or damaged branches. These limbs are a risk to the rest of the tree and should be removed as soon as possible.
  2. Next, focus on any branches that are rubbing against each other or other fixtures in your yard. Friction can damage the bark and should be trimmed back to avoid problems.
  3. If you’re looking to improve the shape or appearance of your tree, start by pruning back any overgrown branches.
  4. Remove suckers (or water sprouts) which are fast-growing shoots that often appear at the base of the tree.
  5. When trimming, make sure to cut back to a branch junction or bud. This will help encourage new growth in the right direction.
  6. Finally, avoid topping your trees! This is when the main trunk of the tree is cut back, leaving only stubs. Topping can damage trees and make them more susceptible to disease and damage in the future.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start trimming your trees! Just remember to take your time and work carefully to avoid damaging the tree. If you’re not confident in your pruning skills, it’s always best to consult with a professional. They can help you determine the best course of action for your tree.

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How to Save a Dying Birch Tree: (Detection, Treatment, & Prevention)

how to save a dying birch tree

Fairytale white bark, dripping green foliage… Birch trees are beautiful and provide shade during the hot summer months, but they can be very sensitive to their environment. If they’re not taken care of, or if they’re subjected to pests or harsh conditions, they can quickly sicken and die. But how can you identify the warning signs – do you know how to save a dying birch tree?

We do. Here’s a quick guide on how to save a dying birch tree. Detect, treat, and prevent birch tree death, plus learn a few tips to keep your trees healthy and resilient!

Signs Your Tree is Failing to Thrive

Defoliation and Yellowing or Browning of Foliage

A common sign that a birch tree is unhealthy is when its foliage starts to die off or change color. If you notice that your birch tree’s leaves are yellowing, browning, or falling off prematurely, it’s important to take action immediately. This is usually a sign of pests or disease – both of which can quickly kill a birch tree if left unchecked.

Bark Discoloration and Dark Patches

When bark starts to discolor or develop soft, tarry, or dark patches, it can be a sign of disease, pests, or even physical damage to the tree. If you notice any changes in the color or texture of your birch tree’s bark, it’s important to have a professional take a look as soon as possible.

Leaf Spots, Blotches, and Blisters

Leaf spots, blotches, and blisters on birch trees can be caused by a variety of fungal diseases. If you notice any of these symptoms on your tree’s leaves, it’s important to act quickly. Fungal diseases can spread rapidly and kill a birch tree if left untreated.

Split Branches or Dead Branches

Dieback and canker diseases from various pathogens attack the bark and cambium layers of birch trees. Diseased tissue widens and kills living tissue underneath the bark. Knotty growths form on bark and girdle stems, or the bark may split, revealing dead wood underneath.

Treatment

Here are a few things you can do to save a sick or dying birch tree:

Identify if Pests are the Culprit

Birch trees are particularly susceptible to attack from borers, aphids, and mites. The adult Bronze Birch borer is yellowish brown with coppery wings, with white and elongated larvae. These pests eat away at the insides of the tree, blocking the food and water supply and creating a maze of damage. Treatment for borers is best done early – otherwise the tree cannot be saved. As soon as you notice dieback or identify pests, treat the tree with insecticide. 

Diseased Branches

Prune Away the Diseased Branches

If your tree is suffering from a fungal disease, you’ll need to prune away the affected branches. This will help stop the spread of the disease and give your tree a chance to focus its energy on healing. Be sure to sterilize your pruning tools before and after use to prevent the spread of disease to other trees.

Related Reading: Birch Tree Roots Removal: When and How to Cut Them

Opt for a Professional Diagnosis

If you’re not sure what’s wrong with your tree or how to treat it, your best bet is to call in a professional tree care company with certified arborists. They will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and provide you with the best course of treatment.

How to save a dying birch tree? – Prevention

Water and Fertilize Regularly

Birch trees are not drought-friendly. They need a lot of water, especially when they’re young. Make sure to water them regularly (about once a week), and fertilize them yearly in the spring. This will help them to stay healthy and resist pests and disease.

Mulch the Roots

Mulching the roots of your birch tree will help it to retain moisture and resist temperature extremes. It’s important to use an organic mulch, like wood chips or shredded bark, and to keep it away from the trunk of the tree.

Plant Low-Growing Plants Around the Base

If you live in an area with hot summers, planting low-growing plants around the base of your birch tree will help to keep the roots shaded and cool. This will help the tree to resist stress and disease. By following these tips, you’ll know how to save a dying birch tree. If you think your tree is beyond help, it’s important to remove it before it has a chance to spread disease to other trees. Call in a professional tree removal company to safely and quickly remove the problem tree.

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Lichen on Trees: Hurtful or Harmless?

lichen on trees

Lichen, comprised of green algae and fungus, can be found in even the most inhospitable corners of the Earth. But should you be concerned if you notice lichen on trees in your yard? In this article, we’ll answer all of your questions about this weird and wonderful organism.

What is Lichen?

Most people think of lichen as a plant when in reality it’s the result of algae and fungus working together in a symbiotic relationship. The fungus provides the body in which the algae can live, protecting it from damaging conditions such as UV radiation and drought, while the algae provide food for the fungus through carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight.

Despite its unassuming appearance, lichen plays an important role in the ecosystem. The slow-growing organism is an important food source for animals like slugs, reindeer, and caribou. Lichen also provides shelter for small animals and helps to prevent soil erosion.

With over 13,000 species, lichen can be found in a variety of colors and shapes, from neon green to crusty black to deep orange. The organism is commonly seen on surfaces like rocks, trees, soil, and shrubs.

Lichen on Trees: Should I Be Concerned?

Contrary to popular belief, lichen is not harmful to trees. Lichen tends to be found on trees already in a state of decline and is rarely found on young, healthy trees. Furthermore, because this organism isn’t a plant, it doesn’t make roots that can penetrate the tree bark. It will simply sit on the surface of the tree.

The good news is that lichen isn’t causing the decline of your tree, but is merely a symptom of an underlying issue.

What Causes Lichen to Grow on Trees?

Lichen prefers sunlight and moisture, so you’re likely to find it in sunny spots that have been exposed to rain. If your tree has recently lost leaves or a branch, this creates favorable conditions for lichen growth.

Should I Remove Lichen From Trees?

Lichen isn’t harmful to trees, so there is no reason to get rid of it.

Removing lichen can actually damage the tree’s bark, opening the perfect entry point for pests and disease.

If you’re concerned about the appearance of lichen on your tree, simply prune away the most densely-covered branches.

The Benefits of Lichen

Lichen actually offers several benefits to homeowners and the ecosystem.

As we mentioned before, lichen is an important food source for animals. The slow-growing organism can also help to prevent soil erosion.

Some types of lichen can be used to make a natural dye, while others are used in traditional medicine.

Furthermore, since lichen consumes carbon dioxide as a primary food source, it plays a role in lowering air pollution.

Warning Signs of a Declining Tree

While lichen isn’t harmful to trees, it can be a warning sign of a declining tree. If you notice lichen on your tree, pay close attention to the overall health of the tree.

Some common signs of a declining tree include:

  • Sudden loss of leaves
  • Branches falling off
  • More discolored leaves than healthy leaves
  • Deep cracks in the tree’s bark or trunk
  • An abundance of critters (they prefer weakened, dead, or dying hosts)
  • Mushrooms or other fungi growing at the base of the tree
  • Leaning or odd growth patterns

If you notice any of these warning signs, contact a certified arborist for an assessment.

Preventing Lichen Growth on Trees

The best way to prevent lichen on trees is to ensure that your trees are healthy and strong.

Here are a few tips:

  • Water your trees regularly, especially during periods of drought.
  • Prune away dead or dying branches.
  • Add mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture.
  • Avoid wounding the tree bark with lawnmowers or string trimmers.
  • Inspect your trees regularly for signs of stress or decline.

By following these simple tips, you can help prevent lichen growth on your trees.

Contact a Certified Arborist

At Sexy Trees, our wide range of services and care will keep your trees healthy and beautiful for decades to come. We believe in supporting our communities of trees through evidence-based techniques that you can depend on. 

Give us a call at 925-233-6877 for an estimate, or email us at [email protected] anytime with questions!

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Learn How to Trim a Palm Tree to Make it Stronger and Healthier

palm tree trimming

If you’re wondering how to trim a palm tree, wonder no more! In this blog post, we will teach you everything you need to know about palm tree trimming. Unlike many other plants, palm trees don’t need to be trimmed frequently in order to stimulate new growth. However, there are still certain times when it’s necessary to prune your palm tree. We’ll cover when and why you should trim a palm tree, as well as how to go about it safely and effectively. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, read on for all the information you need to keep your palm trees looking healthy and beautiful!

Caring for Palm Trees

Palm trees are a California beach staple: they invoke images of tropical vacations, palm-lined streets, and sandy beaches. But what many people don’t realize is that palm trees are actually quite low-maintenance when it comes to care and upkeep, especially once they are established.

Young Palm Tree Care Guide

When palm trees are young, they will need a little more care and attention in order to ensure that they grow into healthy adults. For the first few years of their lives, palm trees should be fertilized regularly. This will help them to develop strong roots and fronds, as well as produce new leaves more quickly. Once palm trees are established, they will need to be fertilized less frequently.

As with any plant, watering is crucial for palm tree health. Young palm trees should be watered deeply and regularly, about once a week or more if necessary. Established palm trees can usually get by with being watered less frequently, about every two weeks or so.

Young Palm Tree Care Guide

Palm Tree Trimming and Pruning

When to Trim

As we mentioned previously, palm trees don’t need to be trimmed as frequently as other plants in order to encourage new growth. In fact, pruning healthy fronds will actually reduce food production and ultimately weaken the tree. So when should you trim a palm tree?

The most common rule of thumb for palm tree trimming is to break the cutters out when you notice dead or dying fronds. Removing dead fronds helps to keep the palm tree healthy and looking its best. Fronds that are brown or black, as well as those that are hanging down or drooping, are probably dead and should be removed.

Another reason you might need to trim a palm tree is if it has become too tall. If the palm tree is interfering with power lines, for example, it will need to be trimmed down.

How to Trim

When it comes time to actually trim your palm tree, there are a few things you’ll need in order to do the job safely and effectively. First, you’ll need a pair of cutting blades. This tool will help you clean the trunk, cut the leaves, and remove any fruits that might be present.

You’ll also need a pair of pruning shears. Pruning shears are versatile instruments that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as trimming branches and removing leaves. If you need to remove thicker or larger fronds, pruning shears will make the job much easier.

Finally, you’ll need a ladder. Palm trees can get quite tall! Make sure the ladder is tall enough to reach the palm tree’s fronds and set it up on level ground to avoid injury.

When trimming your palm tree, start by removing any dead or dying fronds. Once all of the dead fronds have been removed, you can begin trimming back any branches that are interfering with power lines or other objects. When trimming branches, make sure to cut them back to a main branch or trunk to avoid damaging the palm tree.

Finally, use your pruning shears to remove any leaves that are hanging down or drooping. Once all of the palm tree’s fronds have been trimmed, you can step back and admire your handiwork!

Why to Trim Palm Trees

Although palm trees can go long stretches between prunings, trimming off the dead fronds keeps them healthy and beautiful. A beautiful palm tree is a stunning addition to any landscape, and with a little bit of care, it will thrive.

So don’t be afraid to break out the cutting blades and pruning shears when your palm tree needs a trim!

Get in Touch With a Local Arborist 

At Sexy Trees, our wide range of services and care will keep your trees healthy and beautiful for decades to come. We believe in supporting our communities of trees through evidence-based techniques that you can depend on. 

Give us a call at 925-233-6877 for an estimate, or email us at [email protected] anytime with questions!

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What Is a Tree Surgeon? 9 Things (2022) You Ought to Know

tree surgeon

What is a tree surgeon? A tree surgeon is someone who helps to maintain and care for trees. This can involve things like pruning, trimming, and removing branches or limbs that are damaged or dead. Tree surgeons can also be helpful in terms of public safety – by removing dangerous branches or limbs from trees, they can help minimize the risk of injury or property damage.

Fast Facts About Tree Surgeons

What does a Tree Surgeon Do?

A tree surgeon is a professional who is responsible for the health and well-being of trees. They may be called upon to perform a variety of tasks, including planting trees, caring for young trees, removing trees, and diagnosing and treating tree diseases.

Qualifications to Become a Tree Surgeon

To become a tree surgeon, one must first have a degree in forestry or arboriculture from a recognized institution. They need to have at least three years of experience working as a tree surgeon. Additionally, one must pass an examination given by the International Society of Arboriculture to become a licensed tree surgeon.

Importance and Safety Tree Surgeon Offers

Tree surgeons must be skilled in the use of ropes and climbing equipment to work safely at height, and must also be aware of the dangers posed by working with large trees. They may also use machinery such as chainsaws and stump grinders. When choosing a tree surgeon, it is important to select someone qualified and experienced.

How Much Experience is Needed to Be a Tree Surgeon

In order to be a tree surgeon, one will need at least five years of experience working with trees. This experience can be gained through working in arborist, landscaping, or forestry industries. One should also have a strong understanding of tree biology and how to properly care for trees. Additionally, it is important to be physically fit and able to safely climb and work in high places.

Typical Services Offered by Tree Surgeons

Tree surgeons offer a wide variety of services aimed at maintaining the health and appearance of trees. Some of the most common services provided by tree surgeons include pruning, cabling and bracing, and tree removal.

Insurance and Bonding for Tree Surgeons

Tree surgeons typically have a degree in horticulture, forestry, arboriculture, or landscape architecture. In order to protect the public, tree surgeons are often required to carry insurance. Bonding is also usually required, as it guarantees that the tree surgeon will complete the job properly and meet all safety regulations.

Benefits of Employing a Tree Surgeon

A well-trained tree surgeon can preserve a tree’s health and extend its life. Improved safety. They can assess the condition of a tree and make necessary repairs to make it safe. Well-maintained trees that add beauty and value to a property are often the work of experienced tree surgeons too.

Cost of Tree Surgery Services

The cost of tree surgery services can vary depending on the size and complexity of the job. Typically, though, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 per hour for a tree surgeon’s services.

When To Call a Tree Surgeon

A tree surgeon is a professional who helps to maintain the health and appearance of trees. They may be called upon to remove dead or diseased branches, thin the canopy to allow more light through, or prune trees for safety reasons.

Trees that are healthy and well-maintained can add value to your property – so if you’re thinking of selling in the future, it’s worth considering hiring a tree surgeon to help keep your trees looking good!

Get in Touch With a Local Tree Surgeon

At Sexy Trees, our wide range of services and care will keep your trees healthy and beautiful for decades to come. We believe in supporting our communities of trees through evidence-based techniques that you can depend on. 

Give us a call at 925-233-6877 for an estimate, or email us at [email protected] anytime with questions!

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8 Things You Should NOT Do When Cutting Down a Tree

Cutting down a tree

If you’re thinking about cutting down a tree on your property, there are some things you should keep in mind. Cutting down a tree is a big job, and if you’re not careful, it can be quite dangerous. 

There are many things you should NOT do when cutting down a tree because you could injure yourself or damage your property.

Here are eight things you should avoid when cutting down a tree.

1. Don’t try to cut the tree down by yourself. 

Trees are typically tall and sturdy, so it will take more than one person to cut it down. Working together will make the job much easier and safer. Each person can handle a different part of the tree, such as cutting through the trunk or trimming branches. It is also safer to work on cutting down trees with one person looking after the other.

2. Drop the chainsaw unless you have prior experience.

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be dangerous in the hands of someone who is not experienced. If you’re not experienced with using a chainsaw, it’s best to avoid using one.

3. Don’t cut the tree trunk too close to the ground.

The closer to the tree’s trunk roots are cut, the more significant and harmful the damage will be. The 25% Rule – Never cut roots beyond 25 percent of a tree’s total volume. The tree may die or fall as a result of this. 

It can be dangerous to cut a tree too close to the ground. The entire weight of the tree might be too heavy and may damage properties around the tree area.

4. Don’t top the tree – this can damage it and make it more likely to fall over.

Topping the tree can destroy its natural shape and stability, making it more susceptible to high winds and storms. If you want your tree to stay healthy and safe, leave the pruning to professionals who are more trained and informed in cutting and pruning trees correctly.

5. Don’t cut branches that are bigger than your arm.

Don’t cut branches that are bigger than your arm. It’s not safe, and you could end up seriously injured. It can fall on you or the surrounding property that can cause accidents and injuries.

6. Don’t stand underneath the tree while someone else is cutting it down.

If you don’t want to get hit by a falling branch, make sure you’re not standing underneath the tree while someone else is cutting it down. It’s much safer to stand to the side or back away from the tree entirely. When cutting a tree with a helper, it is best to be aware of each other’s location to avoid unnecessary accidents.

7. Don’t try to catch a falling tree with your hands or body.

While cutting a tree or a branch, it may move towards a direction that you did not expect it to move, causing damage to nearby properties. It would be best to let them fall instead of attempting to prevent it from doing so.

If you see a tree falling, immediately move out of the way. If you can’t move out of the way in time, try to use something else to block the tree, like a piece of furniture or a large rock. Never try to catch a falling tree with your hands or body, as this can result in serious injuries.

8. Don’t leave the stump in the ground – remove it completely to avoid rot and decay. 

To avoid rot and decay, be sure to remove tree stumps completely. This will help keep your property looking neat and tidy.

If you’re planning on cutting down a tree, make sure you do it safely and avoid these eight common mistakes. With a little bit of planning and caution, you can successfully remove a tree from your property without any problems.

At Sexy Tree Service, we have the experience of removing hundreds of trees just like yours. Give us a call at 925-233-6877 to schedule a consultation.

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Best Tips For Sycamore Tree Root Removal

sycamore tree root removal

If you have a sycamore tree on your property, it’s important to be aware of the roots. They can be a nuisance, growing under and around walkways, driveways, and foundations. Many property owners are faced with the task of sycamore tree root removal at some point. While sycamore trees are beautiful and provide shade, their large roots can cause problems for foundations, sidewalks, and driveways. 

Sycamore trees are notorious for growing a deep and wide root system. Additionally, as the tree grows larger, the roots can become more difficult to remove. Removing the sycamore roots as soon as possible is always advisable to prevent further damage. Here are 8 tips for sycamore tree root removal:

Check Local Laws Before Cutting

Tree preservation ordinances are implemented in different states in the United States. The California Sycamore tree belongs to this list. Sycamore roots have the tendency to emerge above the ground surface, however, cutting the roots is limited to a specific time of the year. To be certain, coordinate with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in your area or your city council. It is important to be familiar with the local laws. In some cases, you may need a permit before you can begin work.

Schedule Your Root Cutting During Late Winter or Early Spring

The roots of a sycamore tree often emerge above the surface which can cause damage to walkways and other paved surfaces. This is the main reason why regularly cutting their roots is essential. It would be ideal to cut sycamore roots during late winter or early spring. Cutting sycamore tree roots during winter can lead to dehydration. Additionally, avoid cutting the roots after buds start to appear on the tree. This can cause stress which can lead to extensive defoliation, twig death, and shoot dieback.

Locate Roots

This is one of the challenging parts that you need to do before you can begin cutting your sycamore tree roots. Check buckling and warping on the surface areas where you think roots are starting to emerge. Dig down to be able to confirm and locate the roots.

Identify Areas to Cut

Ideally, you need to identify the parts of the sycamore roots that are beginning to grow closer to the ground that may cause damage to your property. You can use a shovel to dig around the trench area on both sides of the roots to further expose it for easier cutting. 

However, locating roots that are under a hard surface can be quite challenging. You might want to seek the help of an arborist to be able to prevent damage to your tree.

Cut the Roots

Cut the smaller roots, preferably the ones with a diameter of 2 inches or less using shears. Try to create a clean cut by cutting straight through the root. You can use a handsaw for roots with bigger diameters.

Remember that you are only limited to no more than 25% of the roots growing under the canopy of the tree when cutting. If you are certain, seek help from an arborist to have your sycamore tree roots cut by a professional.

There are several ways to remove a sycamore tree root. The most common and the least expensive is digging around the roots with a shovel or a pickax. You can also use the root’s natural inclination for climbing against gravity by cutting it off at the base of the tree, but this will take much more time and effort. Regardless of what approach you choose in addressing this root problem, it would be best to seek help from a professional landscaping company or professional.

Consult with an Arborist

Maintaining tree roots in your yard and garden can be quite challenging. The same is true when dealing with invasive sycamore tree roots. Call us at Sexy Trees to put an end to your root problems. We are just a phone call away!

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4 Sexy Shade Trees with Shallow Roots

shade trees with small root systems

Shallows, or trees with shallow root systems, are commonly featured in landscaped homes and properties. Shallow shade trees with small root systems feature roots that are only capable of growing 4 to 8 inches into the ground. 

Root systems of shallows are so superficial that you can practically see them above the ground. In fact, most of its visible and surface roots are above ground and can be a nuisance in most yards. Despite being a common tripping hazard, shallow shade trees are still considered staples in most landscaped properties.

Shade Trees With Small Root Systems

If you are looking for shade shallow trees for your yard, here are some of the top choices you might want to consider as a new addition to your stunning property.

Willow Trees

Willows are deciduous trees and shrubs of the genus Salix. They are found around the world in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, floodplains, and riparian zones.

All types of willow trees feature shallow root systems. The most preferred landscaping trees under this variety are the willow tree family: the corkscrew willow, white willow, and weeping willow. They come in varying heights with the white willow growing the tallest at 65 feet at maturity. Meanwhile, the corkscrew willow grows the smallest with only 25 feet at maturity. Willow trees grow very fast but are very susceptible to wind damage due to the brittleness of their wood.

Ash Trees

Similar to willow trees, all ash trees have shallow roots too. What makes them ideal for landscaping is the fact that they can grow in any type of soil. They too grow fast but not as fast as the willow trees. Mature ash trees can grow as high as 50 feet to 80 feet tall with average widths ranging from 50 to 70 feet wide.

This deciduous tree features leaves that turn yellow, purple, and maroon during autumn, a lovely sight that makes it a popular option for landscaping.

Sugar Maples

The Sugar Maple is another favorite landscape tree that features shallow roots. However, unlike the other shade trees with small root systems, the sugar maple roots spread far from the trunk of the tree. This feature requires extra maintenance. 

Sugar maple trees thrive in both sunny and shady locations. During summer, it features a dense shade, ideal for the weather. Its beauty can be enjoyed the most during autumn when the tree features bright colored leaves. They can grow as high as 80 feet tall. However, unlike the willow and ash trees, sugar maples take longer before they can reach their maturity.

Pin Oak Tree

The Pin Oak is a type of oak tree that features very shallow roots. They grow very fast and thrive best in places with a lot of sunlight. It has an oval-shaped canopy with a thick trunk that is covered by branches and leaves. The leaves are shaped like oaks, but they have a different texture than other types of oaks. The bark is also quite different from other types of oaks, giving it its name “pin” oak tree because it has small spikes that look like pins sticking out from the trunk.

They mature quite fast and can reach 80 feet tall with their canopy stretching as much as 50 feet wide. It is a beautiful sight to behold in parks and other large lawns and properties. Unlike the rest of the trees in this list, the pin oak retains most of its leaves throughout the winter season.

Get in Touch with Expert Arborists

Planning to add beautiful shallows to your property? Sexy Trees can help. Our expert arborists and landscape artists are experienced in caring for the trees on your property. We have an eye for beauty!

Work with us today.