Posted on

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.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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. 

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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

Posted on

Reduce Tree Risk: How to Recognize & Prevent Tree Hazards

reduce tree risk

Trees are a lovely part of nature that we all enjoy in our yards and on tree-lined streets. But beautiful as they are, trees can be dangerous. Trees or branches can fall and cause injuries or damage to property. Recognizing these types of tree hazards before they happen is sometimes apparent – dead branches, leaning trunks, rotted wood, or fungi are easy to see with the naked eye. Other signs may not be so obvious, and a silently hazardous tree is much more dangerous than one that is clearly a hazard.

This blog post will discuss how to reduce tree risk by recognizing and preventing tree hazards.

Reducing Tree Risk: The Basics

Reducing tree risk is as easy as some basic knowledge and, sometimes, the help of a qualified arborist.

Regular inspections from an arborist will identify potential hazards and provide recommendations for remediation. In addition, basic knowledge about trees can help you prevent many dangers in the first place. For example, proper pruning techniques can help a tree stay healthy and robust, while incorrect pruning can damage a tree and make it more susceptible to disease or structural problems.

By following these tips, you can help keep your trees healthy and reduce the risk of hazards on your property.

Identifying Potential Hazards

Does your tree:

  • Have dead or hanging branches?
  • Appear to be leaning?
  • Show signs of rot, such as mushrooms growing at the base of the trunk?
  • Have cracks or splits in the trunk?
  • Display broken or damaged roots?
  • Have heavy or major branches that are growing horizontally?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your tree might be in danger of falling and causing damage or injury. These are all signs that you should have your tree inspected by a qualified arborist.

Reduce Tree Risk

Reduce Tree Risk by Preventing Hazards

  1. Dead or Hanging Branches. Dead or hanging branches are a common hazard and can be easily prevented with regular pruning. If pruning yourself, always use the proper techniques to avoid damaging the tree.
  2. Leaning. Trees naturally lean a little bit, but if your tree is leaning more than 15 degrees, it may be in danger of falling. This is often caused by an uneven root system or damage to the roots. If you suspect your tree is leaning too much, have it inspected by an arborist.
  3. Rot. Rot is caused by fungi that breaks down organic matter, and it can make your tree structurally weak. If you see mushrooms growing at the base of your tree or any other signs of rot, have an arborist inspect it as soon as possible.
  4. Cracks or Splits. Cracks and splits in the trunk are usually caused by damage to the roots or heavy branches. These can make your tree more likely to fall, so it’s vital to have them inspected and repaired by an arborist.
  5. Broken or Damaged Roots. Root damage can cause several problems, including leaning, cracking, and splits. If you suspect your tree has damaged roots, have an arborist inspect it.

Precautions for Storms and High Winds

Storms can cause trees or branches to fall, even if the tree is healthy.

To prevent storm damage, it’s essential to:

  • Prune dead or hanging branches before the storm season.
  • Remove any damaged or diseased trees before they have a chance to fall.
  • Reduce the number of branches in the canopy to reduce wind resistance.
  • Anchor large trees with guy wires to prevent them from toppling over.
  • Stake young trees or those that are prone to storm damage.

If a storm is approaching, it’s also essential to:

  • Remove any loose items from your yard that could be blown into your trees and damage them.
  • Move your car to a safe location away from trees.
  • Stay inside during the storm and avoid areas where trees could fall.

Check Out Our Related Resource: How to Properly Dispose of a Fallen Tree

Is Your Tree Hazardous? Consult with an Arborist to Find Out

An arborist is like a tree doctor – they are experts in the care and maintenance of trees. If you suspect your tree is hazardous, the best course of action is to consult with an arborist. They will be able to inspect your tree and provide recommendations for reducing the risk of hazards.  Typical consultation can cost from $100 to $250 depending on the Arborist. 

Talk to us at Sexy Trees if you suspect your Bay Area tree might be at risk of becoming a hazard.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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!

Posted on

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!

Posted on

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.