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Master the art of pruning fruit trees: your guide to a beautiful and productive orchard

Fruit trees are a beautiful addition to any garden, providing aesthetic appeal and delicious produce. However, fruit trees require proper care and maintenance to thrive like ornamental trees. Pruning is an essential aspect of fruit tree care that promotes fruit production and prevents diseases if done correctly. We have compiled a guide to help you prune your trees like a pro.

Step 1: Removing The Dead, Damaged, And Diseases Wood

• The first step in tree pruning is removing dead, damaged, or diseased wood, commonly known as the three D’s. Deadwood is easy to spot as it is dry, brittle, and lacks leaves or buds. Damaged wood may have broken or split branches, while diseased wood may show signs of discoloration, fungus growth, or cankers. Removing the three D’s will improve the tree’s appearance and prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

In addition to the three D’s, you should also look for sprouts growing from the base of the trunk, which are called suckers. Remove suckers as close to the trunk as possible to prevent regrowth. Also, look for water sprouts and erect, perfectly vertical branches that grow from the tree’s main branches. Water sprouts may look healthy but divert the tree’s energy from producing fruit and should be removed. Finally, when making clean-up cuts, it’s essential to prune the branches back to the larger limb they’re growing from rather than leaving little stubs, which can lead to disease and insect infestation.

Step 2: Thinning Out The Tree

• After the clean-up cuts, the next step in pruning your fruit tree is thinning the interior. This involves removing limbs growing towards the tree’s interior or growing downward. These types of branches tend to shade the tree’s interior, limiting air circulation and sunlight, which can lead to disease and reduced fruit production. Additionally, remove limbs that have an angle greater than 45 degrees to the limb they are attached to. Limbs with steep angles are more prone to limb failure under the weight of fruit, especially in windy conditions.

A good rule of thumb is to look at the branch attachment point and imagine a clock face. Anything between 10 and 2 is an ideal angle for a limb to be attached to the trunk. When making cuts to thin out the tree’s interior, it’s essential to avoid removing too much foliage at once. Removing too many branches can affect a tree’s growth and fruit production in the future. A good approach is to remove no more than a third of the interior growth each year, gradually thinning out the tree over time.

Step 3: Reducing The Height Of The Tree Canopy

• The final step involves reducing the height of the tree’s canopy. It’s important to remember that fruit trees are not shade trees, and a tall and wide canopy is undesirable. A lower canopy height allows for easier and safer harvesting of the fruit. If your tree is mature and requires a ladder for pruning, be sure to take extra caution to avoid falls and injuries.

To reduce the height of the crown, you should head off 20-35% of last year’s growth, pruning back to an established limb or a bud that faces the direction you want a new limb to develop. This will encourage new growth and the development of strong and productive limbs.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, contact American Tree Experts Inc today. We are a group of tree experts working in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us today at 973-744-6091, and we will give you a fantastic quote for free.

Don’t let these 4 summer tree issues damage your property: learn how to protect your trees

Summer is a great time to relish the outdoors and enjoy your yard’s beauty and landscaping. However, this season can also bring intricate challenges for your trees. To ensure that your trees are healthy enough to provide shade during the summer, it’s crucial to understand common issues that trees encounter during summer.

Iron Chlorosis

• Iron chlorosis is a condition that occurs when trees are deprived of sufficient iron to produce chlorophyll, resulting in pale green or yellowish leaves with visible veins. It may affect the entire tree or just a section of it. If left unaddressed, chlorosis will eventually lead to the tree’s death. Many species of trees, including pines, cottonwoods, elms, and maples, can be affected by iron chlorosis.

However, it’s an easily noticeable condition. So if you observe a lightening of the leaves as your tree grows this summer, reaching out to a tree service is essential. Arborists will inject a healthy dose of iron supplement into the tree and its roots to ensure it receives an adequate mineral supply, restoring the leaves’ healthy green coloration.

Dead Branches and Limbs

• Dead limbs or branches on your trees are easily recognizable during the summer. However, some branches may remain bare as trees sprout leaves in summer. This condition can have several underlying causes, but one particular culprit is fire blight, primarily affecting common fruit trees like crabapples and pear trees.

If you suspect your trees have dead limbs or branches, hire a tree service to conduct a thorough inspection and determine the exact cause. The professionals may scrape away the bark to examine the branch’s interior. A green or white color indicates that the branch is still alive, despite its outward appearance, while brown may indicate fire blight. Fire blight treatment is complex and is best left to professionals.

Damage Caused By Storms

• Severe thunderstorms during the summer can cause significant damage to your trees. High winds, heavy rain, and hail can destroy leaf growth, remove branches, and even upend trees. However, some of this damage can be treated, as many trees are resilient and can recover from even the most severe damage.

But the loss of larger limbs could be fatal to the tree. A tree service can help you determine which trees need removal and which can be saved. Additionally, many tree professionals offer removal services, which can help clean up the aftermath of a storm.

Pest Attacks

• Pest problems can occur year-round, but each season brings different pests. For example, during the summer, you might notice an increased presence of small animals in your trees, such as squirrels or bird nests. Also, hornet nests can be problematic, especially in early to mid-summer. The summer months can also bring out other pests like the poplar borer, which can cause significant damage to your trees.

Poplar borers are a pest that bore through trees during their life cycle, affecting trees such as poplars, aspens, and willows. While this damage may not immediately kill the trees, it can weaken branches, increasing the risk of breakage that could be fatal. To combat this issue, a tree service company examines your trees for poplar borers and suggests a treatment plan to mitigate their effects.

Sometimes a pest infestation can be controlled and eliminated by pruning the affected branches of the tree. However, if you are unsure whether your tree has been infested with a pest, contact American Tree Experts Inc today. Call us at 973-774-6091 today, and let us help you with all your tree and plant pest management needs.

Get the lowdown on safe tree removal: 5 tips you can’t afford to miss

Although tree removal is considered the last resort, sometimes it becomes inevitable to maintain the trees’ well-being. Therefore, hiring trained professionals to conduct tree removal services is crucial. However, there are a few safety considerations that must be addressed. Keep reading to learn about essential tips for safe tree removal.

Thorough Tree Inspection

• Before deciding to cut down a tree, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive inspection. A tree should only be removed when it is necessary. During the inspection, considering the purpose of tree removal is essential.

For example, trees are usually removed to create more space, prevent a disease from spreading or eliminate dead parts. By remembering the purpose of tree removal, one can prevent the accidental removal of a healthy tree.

Check Power Lines

• When dealing with a tree near power lines, it is essential to be cautious. Assume that the power lines are energized, which can make them very hazardous. Before planning to remove the tree, contact the local utility company to determine the best course of action for safely removing the tree near the power lines.

According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, any tree within a 10-foot range of power lines must be removed by a trained line-clearance tree remover, accompanied by a second trained remover within voice range to ensure effective communication. This will help ensure the safety of all involved and prevent any potential accidents.

Plan Ahead

• Planning is essential to ensure a safe tree removal, even if the tree is not located near power lines. Before initiating the removal process, the tree removal service should thoroughly examine the site for potential hazards, such as weak limbs or broken branches, especially if workers need to climb the tree.

If the tree is large, determine the best approach for dismantling it into smaller pieces for easier removal. In addition, weather conditions should also be considered, as carrying out the removal process on a windy, rainy, or snowy day could increase the risk of danger.

Prioritize Safety

• While removing a tree, prioritize safety using appropriate safety gear and equipment. Workers in tree removal should wear heavy-duty work gloves to protect their hands from cuts, splinters, and other potential injuries. Safety goggles or glasses should also be worn to prevent debris from flying into the eyes, and a hard hat should be used to protect the head from falling branches or debris.

When workers climb the tree to dismantle it, using a safety harness with lines attached is crucial to prevent falls. Additionally, all other equipment and tools, such as chainsaws, should be adequately maintained and tested before removal to ensure their safety and reliability.

Stay Vigilant Throughout the Process

• Staying vigilant throughout the tree removal process is crucial to ensure safety. Having multiple people present during the process can provide multiple sets of eyes and ears to identify potential dangers. In addition, maintaining communication among them is necessary to ensure the safe removal of the tree.

Workers should remain cautious and never turn their back on it, even after the tree has been cut down. There is always a risk of branches, twigs, and other debris falling from the tree during the process. Moreover, workers should be prepared to move out of the way quickly in case of unexpected occurrences. One can ensure a safe and successful tree removal by remaining alert and prepared.

For the most professional, safe, and affordable tree removal services, contact American Tree Experts Inc. We are one of the best tree pruning and removal services in Montclair, New Jersey. Contact us today at 973-774-6091 and book your consultation with our qualified arborists and specialists.

How to keep your tree safe and secure – Determining if your tree needs cabling

Deep-rooted and fully-grown trees have significant strength and resilience and do not budge easily. Nevertheless, certain trees may experience structural weakness due to diseases or extended exposure to severe weather conditions. Additional support in the form of cabling and bracing is necessary to ensure trees maintain their structural integrity and do not pose risks to surrounding properties or individuals.

But how to determine your tree needs cabling and bracing? Continue reading to find out the answer.

A V-Crotch Stem

• One surefire sign that your tree needs cabling and bracing is the presence of a v-crotch stem. When a tree has two large stems or leaders that emerge from the same trunk, it can create what is known as a v-crotch stem. Unfortunately, since insufficient tissue supports both stems, one or both stems are susceptible to failing, especially during harsh weather.

While removing one of the stems is possible without causing harm to a young tree, this is not possible for mature trees. Removing a large stem from a mature tree can lead to stem failure and affect the tree’s aesthetic appeal. However, stem failure can be prevented by using cabling and bracing to support the v-crotch stem, thereby reducing the risk of stem breaking in the future.

Presence Of A Lean Structure

• Over time, trees may naturally develop a lean structure as they adapt to their environment in search of optimal sunlight. However, if your tree has an extreme lean that poses a risk to your home or another structure, consider using cabling and bracing to support the lean structure.

Similarly, soil erosion or storms weaken the tree’s anchorage into the soil, causing the tree to lean on one side. This can become dangerous if the tree falls on a nearby structure with little force. Again, cabling and bracing can help secure the tree in the opposite direction and stabilize it.

Overextended Limbs

• Overextended limbs are branches that have grown longer and are more significant than the trunk of a tree can easily support. These limbs often extend horizontally and are weighed down by their foliage. When a tree is older, it struggles significantly if disease, pests, drought, or extreme weather conditions have weakened it.

To prevent these overextended branches from breaking off, cabling can be used to limit the amount of movement in the branch. Cabling involves use of strong cables and bolts to secure the branch to the tree trunk. In some cases, an arborist may also use bracing to provide additional support for large, overextended branches.

Presence of Weak Sections

• Mature trees may have weakened sections that could fail, causing harm or damage. For example, a large hollow in the trunk can significantly compromise the tree’s ability to withstand strong winds. Cracks or splits at the junction of branches or stems can also indicate potential failure.

A falling branch could pose a severe risk if the tree is located near a building or a public area. To address these issues, brace rods can be used to repair splits or prevent weakened sections from splitting in the future.

If you spot these warning signs in your trees and plants, contact American Tree Experts for cabling and bracing services. We offer the best services to keep your plants out of harm’s way. Our experts will thoroughly survey the trees and propose suitable methodologies for bracing plants. Call us at 973-744-6091 to get a free estimate of the services. We operate in Montclair, New Jersey, and nearby areas.

A step-by-step guide to tree planting – learn how to transform your backyard into a lush paradise

Planting a tree is more complex than digging a hole and placing the sapling in the ground. It requires careful consideration of several factors, such as site evaluation, plant selection, site preparation, and setting the plant. This article is a step-by-step guide to successful tree planting.

Step 1: Thoroughly Evaluate The Site

It is essential to evaluate the site to ensure successful tree growth. The following factors must be taken into account during the assessment:

• The slope of the land
• Soil Type
• Exposure to sunlight
• Level of soil compaction
• Drainage conditions
• Available space or size
• Soil pH and nutrient availability

Step 2: Selection of the Plant

• Once the site has been evaluated, choosing plant materials that can thrive in that specific location is crucial. It is essential to consider the plant’s nutrient requirements, growth habits, maintenance needs, pest resistance, and potential invasiveness. The most suitable plant for a given location should be chosen regardless of its origin. In some cases, non-native plants may perform better than native ones, particularly in urban or suburban landscapes where the microclimate has been altered due to various factors, such as building placement, pavement, soil compaction, and traffic.

It is essential not to choose plant material solely based on their native status. Instead, select plants that are not invasive, have no significant pest problems, are drought-tolerant, have extended seasonal appeal, and can thrive in the chosen site. It is essential to match the plant’s needs to the site and choose the right plant for the right location while considering existing plant communities.

Step 3: Preparation of the Site

• One of the most common mistakes in tree planting is incorrect planting depth, which can be either too deep or too high, and both can cause significant problems. Planting holes that are dug too deep can result in the trunk flare and structural roots being buried too deeply, causing the plant to settle and decline over time. To ensure that trees and shrubs are planted at the correct depth, the depth of the root ball should be no more profound than the root ball’s height as measured from the trunk flare to the bottom of the root ball. To determine the correct planting depth, locate where the trunk flare begins.

Measuring the height from the trunk flare to the bottom of the root ball will provide the correct planting hole depth. If the trunk flare is not well-developed, the root ball can be probed for structural roots using a surveyor’s chaining pin or a similar tool. Research has shown that most woody ornamentals’ fibrous or absorbing roots are typically found within the top 6 to 12 inches of soil, and root development can extend beyond the canopy or dripline.

Step 4: Tree Plantation

• When placing the plant in the hole, keep the rootball intact and prevent the roots from drying out. Carefully place the rootball in the hole so that the trunk flare is above the existing grade by 1-2 inches. After placing the plant in the hole, remove all non-biodegradable materials, such as rope, twine, burlap, and plastic. Ensure that no protruding points of wire are left, as they could cause injury to people or pets.

If you need more information about tree planting or require professional services, contact American Tree Experts Inc today. We are a professional tree pruning and nutrient management company. Call us at 973-774-6091 and get all the help you need to ensure the success of your tree planting project.

Unlocking the secrets of tree health: how to spot the signs of nutrient deficiencies in trees and learn why prevention is critical to ensuring their longevity

Nutrient deficiencies occur in landscapes where soil’s structure is altered by removing topsoil, compaction, irrigation, or grade changes. When the deficiencies are extreme, visible changes begin to appear. This article highlights the signs of nutrient deficiencies of the most commonly deficient nutrients, including iron, manganese, nitrogen, and phosphorous.

Small Fruits: Nitrogen Deficiency

• When trees and shrubs lack nitrogen, their leaves turn yellow and may fall prematurely. In addition, they produce small fruits. Fertilization is the most common treatment, which can be done through deep-root fertilization. This method supplies nitrogen to the roots and makes it available for uptake by the plant. To avoid nitrogen deficiencies, it is recommended to treat nitrogen-deficient soil periodically.

Chlorosis: Iron Deficiency

• Yellow leaves with green veins are a result of chlorosis. It is often caused by iron deficiency resulting from high soil pH. Soil tests can determine if the pH is too high. Foliar sprays of iron sulfate or chelated iron can also reduce chlorosis symptoms.

Other causes of chlorosis include poor root growth, root rot, root damage, poor drainage, and over-fertilization. Again, young leaves are affected first, with symptoms worsening during cool, wet spring weather.

Yellowing Of Leaves: Manganese Deficiency

• Manganese deficiency in trees presents similar symptoms to iron deficiency, with yellow leaves and green veins that may appear limp and smaller fruit. Treatments include foliar sprays and soil applications. It is essential to note that high soil pH can limit the availability of manganese, just like iron. Therefore, addressing soil pH is crucial in treating manganese deficiencies.

Slow Growth: Phosphorous Deficiency

• Phosphorus (P) is one of the essential nutrients for tree growth and development. Phosphorus is needed for various tree metabolic processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and energy transfer. It is also essential for the development of root systems. However, the deficiency can impact water and nutrient uptake. A tree deficient in phosphorus shows a range of symptoms.

Slow Growth

• One of the earliest symptoms of a phosphorus deficiency is slow growth. Dark green leaves and a decreased leaf size accompany it. Older leaves may turn reddish-purple or yellow, while the veins remain green. Leaves may also be thin and brittle and may fall prematurely. Sometimes, the tree may produce fewer or smaller flowers and fruit.

Phosphorus deficiencies are often caused by low soil pH or the presence of soil organisms that affect phosphorus uptake. In some cases, phosphorus may be present in the soil but in a form that is unavailable to the tree. Soil tests can determine the availability of phosphorus in the soil and identify other nutrients that may limit growth. On the other hand, an over-reliance on phosphorus fertilizers can lead to imbalances in other nutrients. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the tree receives adequate water and balanced nutrients.

What To Do?

• It’s essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other factors such as pests, diseases, or environmental stress. So, it’s recommended to have a professional, such as an arborist, evaluate the tree and conduct a soil test to identify any nutrient deficiencies and develop a proper treatment plan. Soil tests can identify the deficient nutrient and the number of nutrients needed to correct the issue. However, only a knowledgeable arborist should do an interpretation of soil test results.

To correct any nutrient deficiencies or other tree issues, contact American Tree Experts Inc. We are a professional tree pruning and nutrient management company. Our experts will develop a customized plant healthcare program and look after your trees in the best way possible. Call us at 973-774-6091 today and get a free quote for all your tree-related needs.

Learn on 5 best practices for protecting your trees from pests

Pest buzzing is irritating, causes property damage and food contamination, and threatens human health. Tree pests are even more devastating as they can invade the tree and cause significant damage. Therefore, it is crucial to know how to safeguard your trees from pests to maintain their health. Continue reading to discover the best practices to protect your trees from pests.

Regularly Inspect Trees

• Early detection of pests is critical to protecting your trees. Start inspecting your trees regularly once bug season starts.

Signs of pest infestation include:

• Anormal growth patterns
• Boreholes in the bark
• Discolored leaves
• Unusual leaf size
• Thinning foliage

If you observe any of these symptoms, seek the assistance of a professional arborist for proper assessment and treatment.

Effective Watering Practices

• A well-hydrated tree is better equipped to withstand pest attacks. To promote tree health, avoid exposing them to undue stress, such as prolonged dehydration. Adequate watering and mulching during drought will increase the tree’s chances of survival. However, excessive moisture can also harm the tree, so ensure the soil has proper drainage.

Regular Tree Pruning

• Regular pruning is essential for maintaining optimal tree health. It improves air circulation and ensures that sunlight reaches all parts of the tree to promote growth. However, trees can be more susceptible to pests immediately after pruning, so pruning at the right time in the right place is crucial. Prune trees at the appropriate time of year to help minimize pest risks.

Maintain a Clean Yard

• Clearing your yard of fallen branches after pruning or after a storm can help prevent pests from feeding on moist wood. This is especially important during the flight period of beetles in spring. In addition, keeping your yard tidy and free of debris makes it easier to spot pest infestations.

Protect Trees by Wrapping

• Harsh weather can pose threats to trees in multiple ways. Wrapping your trees in the winter can prevent the wood from cracking or splitting. Cracked or split wood attracts pests. Cover trees with missing bark to prevent pests from infesting the exposed wood. Tree wraps provide a protective layer against harsh weather and insect damage. They regulate the temperature by allowing air and water to circulate while shielding against sunscald.

Sunscald is caused when the sun’s rays reflect off the snow and cause the tree trunks to crack. Tree wraps also act as a barrier against pests. The wrapping should be done between November and April to provide warmth during winter. You can use burlap, corrugated cardboard, polypropylene fabric, or craft paper to wrap the tree. In addition to wrapping, using dormant oils can effectively keep insects and pests at bay. Spray fruit trees with dormant oils before buds appear to kill insects, their larvae, and eggs and to protect delicate shoots and leaves.

Seek Professional Help

• Don’t let pests destroy your beautiful trees. Take action today by following the best practices for protecting your trees from pests. Contact an arborist for personalized advice and establish an effective tree care plan that incorporates preventive measures against pests. Arborists are trained to identify early signs of infestations and use specialized insecticides to control pests. Seeking professional help can ensure that your trees remain healthy and protected against insect attacks.

Sometimes a pest infestation can be controlled and eliminated by pruning the affected branches of the tree. If you are unsure whether your tree has been infested with a pest, contact American Tree Experts Inc today. Call us at 973-774-6091 today, and let us help you with all your tree and plant pest management needs.