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5 Biggest Spring Tree Care Mistakes: Plan Ahead This Winter

spring tree care

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

1. Improper Planting

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

A few major planting mistakes we often see are:

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

2. Neglecting Pruning

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

Pruning mistakes we often see include:

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

3. Poor Fertilization Practices

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

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

4. Improper Watering

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

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

5. Ignoring Pests and Diseases

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

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

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

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

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How to Set Newly Planted Trees Up for Success

planting new trees

You’re planting new trees, congratulations! You’ve decided to beautify your property and provide shade and shelter for many years. However, planting a tree is only the beginning – it’s essential to set your new tree up for success so it can thrive in its new home. This blog post will discuss some of the most common signs of transplant shock in newly planted trees, what you can do to help them recover, and what best sets them up for success.

Preventing Transplant Shock

You’ve seen it before: a beautiful, healthy tree that’s been recently transplanted, but within a few months or years, it starts to decline. The leaves turn yellow or brown, wilting and curling; the needles on evergreens discolor, and growth slows dramatically. This is called transplant shock, and unfortunately, it’s quite common.

You can do several things to prevent or minimize transplant shock in your newly planted trees:

  1. Be sure to choose the right tree for the planting site. This means considering the tree’s mature size, light and water requirements, and whether it’s appropriate for the climate.
  2. Prepare the planting hole properly. The planting hole should be twice as wide as the tree’s root ball and just deep enough so that the tree is at the same level it was in the nursery.
  3. Water your tree regularly and deeply. This is especially important during hot, dry weather. Newly planted trees need about an inch of water per week.
  4. Fertilize your tree correctly. Overfertilizing can do more harm than good, so be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.
  5. Protect your tree from damage. Be careful not to compact the soil around the root ball, and avoid using string or wire that could girdle the trunk.

Taking these steps gives your newly planted tree the best chance for a long and healthy life.

Planting New Trees: How to Set Them Up for Success

If you’ve recently planted a new tree on your property, you’re probably wondering how to best set it up for success. Here are our arborists’ best tips:

Plant at the Right Time

The best time to plant a tree is in the late fall when the weather is cool, and the ground is moist. This gives the tree a chance to establish itself before the stresses of hot weather and drought set in.

Watering Your New Tree

One of the most important things you can do for your newly planted tree is to water it regularly and deeply. Newly planted trees need about an inch of water per week, so check the soil around your tree weekly. If it feels dry several inches below the surface, it’s time to water. The best way to water your tree is with a soaker hose or drip irrigation system, which will help to avoid wetting the leaves and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Mulching

Mulch helps to conserve water, protect the roots from extreme temperatures, and prevent weeds from competing with your newly planted tree. Mulch should be applied in a ring around the tree, extending out to the drip line (the outer edge of the tree’s canopy). The mulch should be two to four inches deep, and keep it several inches away from the tree trunk.

Pruning

Pruning newly planted trees is generally unnecessary, but there are a few exceptions. If you see dead or damaged branches, you can remove them. Also, remove any suckers (shoots that grow from the tree’s base) that appear. Suckers compete with the tree for water and nutrients and can eventually weaken or damage the tree.

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. 

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

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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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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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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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The Best Small Trees With Non-Invasive Roots

best small trees with non-invasive roots

If you’re looking for the best small trees to plant in your yard, you’ll want to consider those with non-invasive roots. Many tree species have expansive root systems that can damage sidewalks, driveways, and foundations. But there are a number of trees with shallow roots that won’t cause any trouble. As qualified arborists, we can help you choose the best small trees with non-invasive roots for your landscape and climate. So if you’re worried about invasive roots, don’t be! We’ve got you covered.

Who Should Choose Trees With Non-Invasive Roots?

People who should consider planting trees with non-invasive roots include those who have:

  • A tight budget – these trees are generally less expensive than their invasive counterparts
  • Limited yard space – trees with invasive roots tend to need more space than those with non-invasive roots
  • Homes with underground infrastructure such as water and sewer lines – the roots of many trees can cause damage to these lines

Best Small Trees With Non-Invasive Roots

When choosing new trees for your yard, keep in mind your local climate and soil type. Most of these trees will thrive in the Bay Area with adequate water and care.

Here are ten of the best small trees with non-invasive roots:

  1. The Chinese Pistache is a medium-sized tree that can reach up to 30 feet tall. It has reddish-brown bark and clusters of red berries in the fall.
  2. The Japanese Maple is a beautiful tree that is ideal for small yards. It grows to be about 15 feet tall and has red leaves in the fall.
  3. Orange Trees are drought-tolerant and can thrive in areas with little water. They grow to be about 20 feet tall and have fragrant flowers and fruit.
  4. The Crepe Myrtle is a small tree that grows to be about 15 feet tall. It has smooth, cinnamon-colored bark and blooms white flowers in the summer.
  5. Sweet Bay Magnolias are slow-growing trees that can reach up to 30 feet tall. They bear fragrant white flowers in the spring and green leaves year-round.
  6. The Redbud is a small, deciduous tree that grows to be about 20 feet tall. It has pink flowers in the spring and heart-shaped leaves.
  7. The Chitalpa Tashkentensis is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 30 feet tall. It has lacy pink and white flowers in the summer and green leaves year-round.
  8. The Bronze Loquat is a small tree that grows to be about 15 feet tall. It has bronze leaves and edible fruit.
  9. The Arbutus ‘Marina’ is an evergreen tree that grows to be about 20 feet tall. It has red bark and white flowers in the winter, followed by a bitter red fruit that can be processed into jams or baked goods.
  10. Fruitless Olive Trees are a great option for people who don’t want to deal with fruit dropping from their trees. These beauties grow to be about 20 feet tall and have dark green leaves.

If you are having trouble selecting the ideal tree for your yard space, our arborists are here to help. We can recommend the best trees for your climate and soil type, so you can rest assured that your new tree will thrive.

Get in Touch With an 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 a schedule an estimate, or email us at [email protected] anytime with questions!

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How to Remove a Tree Without Killing It

how to remove a tree without killing it

Removing a tree can seem like a daunting task, but sometimes it’s necessary. If a tree grows too large for a given space or is planted too close to house foundations, it should be moved to allow for adequate room to grow. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the things to consider before removing the tree, plus a few expert tips for removal if you decide to do it yourself. So whether you’re removing a tree for health reasons or because it’s in the way, follow these tips and you’ll be able to get the job done without any trouble!

Can I Safely Remove the Tree?

First, you will need to assess whether or not removing the tree without killing it is going to be possible without a professional. Consider these questions:

  • How large is the tree’s trunk and what are its root ball dimensions? If the tree is larger than 12″ in diameter, it would be best to hire an arborist to remove it. The roots may be too deep and established to safely remove the tree without doing some damage.
  • Is the tree leaning? If so, it’s likely too top-heavy and could fall during removal, potentially causing damage to your property or injuring someone.
  • What is the condition of the soil? Is it compacted and infertile? If so, the roots may have a hard time growing after removal from the soil.
  • Are there any utility lines near where you plan on taking down this tree, especially if it’s leaning or has significant girth at its base? If so, contact your local utility company for advice before proceeding with any work related to removing trees from your property.
  • How close to your home or other buildings does this tree grow? If it’s within 20 feet (six meters), then a professional arborist is recommended because you won’t be able to move the tree without disturbing its foundation or roofing structure.

If you read through these questions and know that you have the equipment and means to remove a tree on your own, we have a few tips for you in the next section! If not, call a professional arborist or landscaper who has experience in safely removing trees.

Tips for How To Remove a Tree Without Killing It

If you feel like removing the tree yourself is doable, here are some tips on how to remove a tree without killing it:

  • To prevent shock, prune the tree’s roots before removing it from the ground. Cut straight down into the soil around the root ball with a sharp shovel or spade, making sure not to cut any of the actual roots themselves. This will help them retract and reduce stress on the plant when you remove it from the ground.
  • Add compost to the soil around the newly-pruned roots to help them recover. Also take the time to loosen any compacted soil.
  • Take care to dispose of diseased or infested trees properly. They can spread diseases and pests to other plants in your yard.
  • Choose the right time. It’s much easier to remove a tree if you do so during its dormant period. This is when the tree is not actively growing and producing leaves, which makes it less likely to suffer from shock due to being disturbed or relocated elsewhere on your property. The best months for transplanting trees are generally between November and March.

Get in Touch With an 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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When is the Best Time of Year to Trim Trees?

best time to trim trees

When is the best time to trim trees? Whether you’re an arborist, a homeowner, or just curious about when best to prune your trees, the answer often depends on the type of tree and other factors. For example, some types of tree (like fruit trees) only need pruning in late winter while others (such as oaks) can be trimmed at any time throughout the year. In this easy guide, we’ll go over the best time to trim trees along with some other considerations, such as the effects of insects, disease, and cold weather.

Prune in Winter for Most Tree Varieties

Generally speaking, the best time to trim trees is from November through March when they’re dormant. This is because most trees are less susceptible to insect damage and disease during this time. It’s also a good idea to wait until late winter/early spring so you don’t accidentally prune away any flowers or buds that are about to bloom.

If you’re trimming a fruit tree, however, it’s best to do so in late winter when the tree is still dormant but before new growth begins. This will allow for the best shape and size of the fruit tree. Similarly, if you have a tree that blooms in the spring, it’s best not to trim it until after it flowers.

Trees best pruned in late winter:

– Apple

– Apricot

– Cherry

– Peach

– Pear

Trees best pruned in early spring:

– Crabapple

– Dogwood

– Hollies (English and American)

Keep in Mind the Effects of Insects and Disease on Trees

Insects and disease can impact a tree’s best time to trim as well. For example, if you notice that your trees are infested with bark beetles or other insects in January or February, it may be best to wait until the end of March before pruning them so that any new eggs laid will hatch out after you’ve trimmed the tree.

Similarly, if your tree is diseased, it’s best to wait until after you’ve treated the disease before pruning it. Otherwise, you may spread the infection to other parts of the tree.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

When trimming trees, always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid damaging any nearby structures or plants. If you’re trimming a tree that overhangs the house, for example, be sure to leave at least six inches of clearance between branches and any part of your home. Similarly, if you’re trimming trees near power lines (or on steep land), it’s best to call an arborist to do the work for you.

Give Us a Call

If you are looking for the Bay Area’s favorite tree cutting service, look no further than our team of experienced arborists. 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 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!