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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

Affordable Berkeley Tree Services Will Save Your Trees This Winter

affordable Berkeley tree services

In the heart of the winter months, Bay Area residents may worry about their trees and how they will survive. With strong winter winds and heavy rain in this region throughout the season, many trees have fallen — some likely made more vulnerable, experts say, by extreme drought conditions. For those of you living in Berkeley who are wondering if your tree is going to make it through these harsh winters, take a look at our affordable Berkeley tree services!

Droughts Make Trees Vulnerable

California has struggled with droughts for two hundred years, but the 2011 – 2017 drought marked the driest period in all of California’s recorded history. 102 million trees died from that drought alone – the total numbers are even more grim.

“Since 2010, an estimated 150 million trees have died in California’s national forests due to conditions caused by climate change,” including unprecedented drought, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Going into 2022, experts are not optimistic about the drought conditions in California and what that means for our trees.  

Effects of Drought on Trees

When the soil becomes so dry that a tree’s roots can no longer absorb moisture, this is considered a drought. If these conditions persist, the tree’s smaller, hair-like roots will begin to die. Over time, the larger roots will die too. Root loss is very stressful for a tree and increases its susceptibility to a number of insects and diseases. 

When a storm occurs, a drought-weakened tree is much more likely to fall over or drop limbs. Winds can easily topple a tree that has lost its anchor in the soil, and heavy wind and rain can strain the branches that are already struggling. More effects of drought on trees include:

What Can You Do?

If you’re noticing any dead or dying branches on your trees, it’s best to get them trimmed by a certified arborist. Make sure you stake your trees down properly in the case of high winds, and water them deeply and regularly if you’re in an area that’s been experiencing drought conditions. Also, if you’re planning on cutting down any trees, it’s best to get them removed by a professional.

Affordable Berkeley Tree Services

If you’re living in Berkeley, CA and need some affordable tree services to help keep your trees healthy this winter, look no further than Sexy Trees! Our team of certified arborists are here to help with all your tree care needs.

With the recent extreme drought conditions, it is important to take good care of your trees heading into winter. If you are wondering whether or not your tree will make it this season, rest easy: there’s always our Berkeley tree removal services! Our affordable rates and expert arborists come equipped with all of the tools necessary for proper tree care.

Talk To Us Today! Call Our Office at 925-233-6877

What a Bay Area Certified Arborist Can Do That Your Gardener Can’t

Bay Area certified arborist

When it comes to tree services, you can trust us. We are Bay Area certified arborist who provide comprehensive tree care, maintenance, and removal services.

The Bay Area is a wonderful place to live. With the Bay Bridge connecting Oakland and San Francisco, a world-class airport, and our charming neighborhoods – it’s easy to see why so many people want to call this area home. Bay Area residents have one thing in common – they love their trees! That’s why Bay Area homeowners often hire certified arborists for tree pruning services or sick tree care. Although gardeners have extensive knowledge about all other aspects of garden care, such as structural planting, drainage, lawn maintenance and paving, Bay Area Certified Arborists are experts at all things related to trees. For the unique diseases, weaknesses, or pests that could affect your trees, it’s always best to turn to the experts. 

What Are a Certified Arborist’s Qualifications?

An arborist will have extensively studied the science of trees to develop a specialized knowledge about growing conditions, sick tree care and treating problems such as cankers. They must have a minimum of three years’ full-time working experience in the professional tree care industry and must pass an examination covering arboriculture.

Local arborists (like us!) are also familiar with Bay Area tree trimming regulations (which vary by city) that require proper permits when removing or pruning Bay Area street trees. Not to mention all of the Bay-Area-specific trees that populate the area in droves!

Specialized tools are also required to safely and properly trim or prune a tree. Bay Area arborists use a variety of techniques to trim trees, depending on the species, location, time of year, and age of the tree.

Trust an Arborist for These Two Tree Services 

Sexy Trees offers a variety of services, from routine tree trimming to emergency tree removal and stump grinding. Our Bay Area certified arborist team can also help homeowners comply with city regulations for street trees and provide expert consultation on the best ways to maintain your trees’ health and beauty.

Safely Removing Downed/Fallen Trees

When Bay Area trees fall in storms or strong winds, they can cause major damage to homes and businesses. We are experts at removing downed/fallen trees that have damaged property. It is not safe for a gardener to attempt to remove these large trees without proper training. 

Bay Area Tree Pruning

There are many reasons why homeowners might choose to have Bay Area tree pruning done – from restoring the natural shape of the tree, to removing dangerous limbs or branches. Precise tree pruning is vital not just for the health and longevity of your trees, but also for preserving the beauty and visual appeal of your outdoor areas. Improper pruning by a gardener can result in weak branches and damaged tree surfaces, which encourages the growth of suckers.

Sexy Trees performs a wide range of other tree services all over the Bay Area – visit our website to see how our arborists may be able to help you! 

We’re Bringing Sexy Back (Tree Edition)

If you are looking for a Bay Area certified arborist team that performs excellent service, look no further than 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! 

What Does Tree Removal Cost?

what does tree removal cost

Trees are such a prominent and long-lasting part of any landscape, so much so that they can start to feel like family. Sadly, there may come a time when you must say goodbye to a tree – for good – due to fallen branches or an unstable structure that makes the tree unsafe – and the cost of tree removal can be high. When you remove a tree from your landscape, here’s what to expect:

The Cost of Tree Removal Generally Varies By Region

Depending on where you live in the country, you should expect differing costs for tree removal. In the Bay Area, the price of tree removal could range from $400 to over $3,000 depending on a huge variety of factors that we will lay out in this article. 

Cost Varies by Situation

Fallen Trees

If the tree has already fallen, the cost will drop significantly compared to if you needed to hire a professional to cut down a standing tree because it requires less effort and equipment. In the past few years, fallen tree service has been booming due to severe weather events that have left thousands of people with fallen trees after a storm or natural disaster struck.

Although fallen trees may be easier and cheaper to remove, you should still expect the price from a fallen tree removal service to start at about $100 for small trees.

Trees Close to Property

For instance, if your average-sized pine tree is located near an outdoor patio or other expensive fixtures that need protection from fallen limbs, you can expect costs to rise because of additional labor needed to protect property/assets. If it’s a close call – whether the tree poses a direct threat to buildings or any power lines/piping in the area – then professional companies just might charge you extra for their time spent assessing the situation.

The Cost Depends On How Large The Tree Is And What Type It Is

Trees vary widely when it comes to size, weight, and general health. The cost of cutting and removing a fallen tree can vary depending on several factors. A fallen tree with a trunk diameter of more than 40 inches will usually cost more than $200. Larger, healthier trees are also likely to be more expensive because they require additional labor and equipment.

Type and Age of the Fallen Tree

If you have an old redwood or sequoia that has fallen, then it’s obviously going to be more expensive than fallen pine limbs, since there might be actual wood value in the fallen giant after all its years above ground! According to one price list we saw while researching this estimate, some services charge up to $1,000 for fallen trees over 100 years old. This price is often negotiable.

Contact a Professional Fallen Tree Removal Service Near Me 

If you are looking for the Bay Area’s favorite tree cutting service, look no further. 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!

How to Know When it’s Time to Take a Tree Down

local Berkeley tree service

Our Local Berkeley tree service pledges to stand by your trees in sickness and in health. We think there’s nothing more breathtaking than an ancient, magnificently robust and skyscrapingly tall tree—except being told you have to make the decision to cut it down. Even well-established trees can get sick and experience a weakened structure as a result. This puts the tree at risk of falling, and it’s not safe to leave it waiting to collapse. Now, you have to make a decision: can the tree be healed, or does it need to be cut down?  

Here’s a handy article to help you decide whether to ask your local tree service for tree care advice or a saw. 

Trees Showing These Symptoms Must Be Cut Down

A Dying Trunk.

A healthy tree trunk is essential to the structural integrity of the tree. If the trunk shows signs of vertical cracks, sounds hollow when you knock on it, or has lost large amounts of bark, these are all indicators that the tree is dying. Dead trees can suddenly drop limbs or fall. Another danger of leaving a dead tree standing is the risk of spreading disease or pests to other trees or shrubs. 

Root Rot

Root rot attacks the roots of a tree planted in wet soil. Unfortunately there is no solution to root rot except to avoid it in the first place. Your infected tree is looking at a future of poor growth, wilted leaves, early leaf drop, branch dieback, and eventual death.

Loss of Branches.

When large branches suddenly crack off of your tree, it is pretty clear that everything underneath and surrounding the tree is in danger. Sometimes, dropping large, dead branches is a tree’s way of trying to concentrate energy in areas that are still healthy – and you might experience serious property damage or personal harm in the meantime. Otherwise, it might be totally harmless Sudden Branch Drop Syndrome – an arborist will be able to tell the difference. 

Sudden Oak Death 

It’s not just oak trees – rhododendrons, ferns, lilacs, fir trees and dogwoods can also succumb to this fatal fungal infection. If a tree has sudden oak death, it may exhibit leaf spots, shoot dieback, and discolored, sappy cankers. Unfortunately, as the name implies, most trees infected with this fungus will die. 

Trees Showing These Symptoms Need Care 

  • Wilted leaves
  • Spotty, blotchy, or discolored leaves/needles
  • Cankers 
  • Covered with a white, dusty fungus 
  • Leaves with holes 
  • Pest infestation 
  • Girdling roots 
  • Weak branch unions
  • Winter injuries
  • Scab disease
  • Pale green leaves within the canopy

Our Local Berkeley Tree Service Has Your Back

Whether you require tree removal or a diagnosis and tree care advice for a sick tree, our Berkeley tree service can help. 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! 

What’s the Best Time of Year to Prune Trees in Alamo?

best time to prune trees

The best time to prune trees is after the winter. Trees are dormant in the winter, and it’s easier to see which limbs are dead.

In this article, our Alamo Tree Service team recommends our best pruning and trimming techniques for excellent tree health and aesthetic beauty. 

A beautiful landscape adds a personalized touch to your property, and regular maintenance is essential to keep it that way. As a part of caring for a landscape, pruning your trees is vital for a healthy, even configuration of branches with robust structural integrity. Regularly pruned trees tend to live longer, resist disease better, and grow larger and more beautiful than their left-alone counterparts. 

Wait – don’t reach for the loppers just yet! There are certain times of year when pruning might do your tree more harm than good. 

When Not To Prune

Avoid pruning in the fall prior to the dormant season. In the cooling weather, trees don’t heal as well from cuts, so pruning in autumn exposes your tree to all kinds of vulnerabilities. Also, fall weather allows fungi spores to proliferate and spread disease in otherwise healthy trees. 

Alamo tree care experts also recommend avoiding the urge to trim certain trees in spring. For many tree varieties, trimming during a growing season causes unnecessary stress to the tree, potentially putting a damper on its growth. 

The Goldilocks Zone: Late Winter or Early Spring

Most plants go dormant during the winter months of temperate regions. This “hibernation” involves the sleeping plants halting active growth, losing their stems and leaves, and otherwise appearing quite dead. (They are not dead – just dormant!) Choose a mild, warm day to prune because it will be more pleasant for both you and the trees or shrubs

B est Time To Prune Trees And Why Winter?

After winter dormancy, plants are primed for new growth. When you remove diseased limbs and dead branches during a winter pruning, the tree can focus on healthy new growth during spring. Since trimming does cause minor injury to the tree, it will need to heal. The most compelling evidence that winter provides the optimal conditions is the season’s decrease in bugs, pests, and diseases that might otherwise harm a tree. 

What to Prune in Winter? 

  • Evergreen shrubs and trees
  • Shade trees including oak, maple, and sweetgum
  • Azalea 
  • Apple 
  • Roses
  • Peach trees
  • Plum trees
  • Butterfly bush 
  • Dogwood 
  • Abelia

Basic Pruning Techniques 

First, remove dead and diseased limbs or branches. All stems, branches, and limbs that are unhealthy should be your first priority – not only are they a strain on the tree, they can actually be quite dangerous. Dead branches cause a lot of trouble when they fall. 

Next, move on to overgrown, tangled, or simply unwanted branches. You can coax branches to grow in a certain direction, but always follow the natural growth of the plant type. 

Tip: Always cut branches at the node, the intersection at which one branch or twig attaches to another. 

Let Us Prune Your Trees for You! 

Contact Alamo Tree Service

If you are looking for the top Alamo tree service, look no further. 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!