americantree, Author at American Tree Experts

A Guide To Identifying And Treating Dutch Elm Disease (Part 2)

August 7, 2024 by americantree

Effective Strategies for Treating Dutch Elm Disease: A Comprehensive Approach (Part 2)

Dutch Elm Disease can pose a significant threat to Newark’s cherished elm trees. This devastating fungal disease can quickly spread and kill mature trees, alter the landscape, and reduce urban greenery. It’s essential to recognize the signs of the disease and implement effective treatments. This guide will help you identify symptoms and explore treatment options to preserve your trees.

Treating Dutch Elm Disease

Dutch Elm Disease should be treated immediately to save affected trees. While there is currently no cure for Dutch Elm Disease, effective treatments can interrupt its cycle and preserve the trees. The most effective treatments include:

Removing Affected Branches

If you have elm trees on your property in Newark, it’s crucial to monitor them for weakened, dead, or dying branches throughout the growing season. Removing these branches promptly eliminates breeding sites for elm bark beetles.

If you find affected branches while the tree is dormant, they must be removed before spring. Branches found during the growing season should be removed within 2 to 3 weeks to prevent beetles from emerging. Ensure that removed branches are destroyed by chipping, burning, or burying them to prevent further spread of the disease.

Applying Insecticide

Insecticide applications can effectively kill elm bark beetles before they spread the disease. The timing and location of these applications depend on the type of elm bark beetle prevalent in your area.

Native Elm Bark Beetle

Apply insecticides to the lower stems of elm trees in late summer to kill the beetles as they prepare to overwinter.

European Elm Bark Beetle

Apply insecticides to the crown of the trees in the spring.

For best results, it is advisable to have a professional arborist in Montclair, NJ, apply insecticides to ensure proper treatment and protection of your elm trees.

Disrupting Root Grafts

To prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease, disrupting root grafts between elm trees is essential. If an affected elm tree is close to a healthy one, sever the root grafts immediately.

This should be done before removing the infected tree because the healthy tree can quickly absorb the disease from the infected roots. Additionally, sever root grafts between two healthy elm trees as a preventative measure to protect them from potential infection.

Injecting Fungicide

When applied correctly, fungicide injections can protect elm trees from Dutch Elm Disease, though they are expensive and can pose some health risks to the tree. The treatment is most effective when administered through microinjection into the roots, allowing the fungicide to be distributed to the crown.

This process should be done every 1 to 3 seasons after the earliest leaves have fully grown. Potential negative effects include leaf scorch or loss, as well as discoloration and decay from drilling injection holes. Flushing the injection holes with water after applying the fungicide can help mitigate these issues. For best results and safety, have a professional arborist in Newark perform the fungicide injections.

Conclusion

Protecting your elm trees from Dutch Elm Disease requires vigilant monitoring and proactive treatment. By promptly identifying the signs and hiring professionals to take appropriate measures, you can save your trees.

We can treat and prevent your trees from becoming infected and help already infected trees. At American Tree Experts, Inc., we offer the best services to keep your plants out of harm’s way. Our pest management services protect your trees from pests throughout the year. Our most sought-after services are pruning, bracing, pest, and nutritional management. We offer services in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us at (973) 744-6091 for a free quote.

4 Proven Pest Management Tips from Professional Arborists

July 31, 2024 by americantree

Pest Management Tips on insecticide spray By American tree

Expert Pest Management Tips for Protecting Your Trees

Maintaining a beautiful and healthy yard in Jersey City can be challenging due to the range of pests that thrive in the area’s climate. If not managed properly, these pests can quickly damage your trees and landscaping. This article highlights valuable tips for effective pest management to protect your green spaces.

Promote Age and Species Diversity

Many property owners limit their landscaping to only a few species of trees, missing out on the benefits of a diverse ecosystem. Even those with ample space to create a small forest in their backyard may not realize the importance of species variety in pest management. Wooded areas with a wide range of tree species are significantly less susceptible to pest outbreaks than areas dominated by just one or two types of trees.

This biodiversity creates a more complex and stable ecosystem, naturally reducing the risk of pest infestations. Additionally, maintaining a diversity in tree age contributes to a healthier environment. A mix of young and mature trees supports a balanced ecosystem, where predators and parasites from older trees help protect the younger ones from pests. This natural balance effectively keeps pest populations in check, ensuring the overall health and resilience of your landscape.

Maintain a Healthy Ecosystem for Pest Prevention

A healthy landscape helps in preventing pest problems. There are two key benefits to maintaining a proper ecosystem.

Healthy trees and plants are less likely to fall victim to pests.
If an outbreak occurs, these plants are better equipped to survive and recover from infestations.

However, it’s crucial to prevent overcrowding to ensure your trees remain healthy and unstressed. Just like in any natural environment, overcrowded plants compete for essential nutrients and sunlight, leading to stress.

This stress makes them more susceptible to pest infestations. By managing the spacing of your trees and plants, you create a balanced environment where each tree can thrive, reducing the risk of pests and promoting overall ecosystem health.

Recognize Warning Signs of Tree Pest

Monitoring your trees for warning signs is essential to maintaining their health. Look for symptoms such as discolored needles and leaves, dieback on the crown or upper limbs, and thinning foliage. Additionally, rot or crumbling bark around the trunk and roots can indicate serious health issues. Diseases and insects often cause these symptoms. It’s also important to consider other factors that might affect your trees.

Soil deficiencies, drought, and damage from construction or herbicide applications can also harm your trees, leading to symptoms similar to those caused by pests. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effectively managing tree pest infestations. If you notice any of these warning signs, contact a tree care specialist or arborist. They can accurately identify the problem and its impact on the surrounding area. Once you have a clear diagnosis, you can implement the appropriate pest management treatment to resolve the issue and protect your trees.

Hire Tree Health Services

Tree pest outbreaks are a natural part of the ecosystem, and occasional infestations are to be expected. However, ignoring the signs of an outbreak can exacerbate the problem, leading to more severe issues. With the right guidance, you can mitigate the damage caused by these outbreaks.

A guided pest management plan helps you maintain a healthy landscape in Jersey City, prevent the emergence of destructive pests, reduce the likelihood of infestations, and ensure that your property remains diverse and resilient. If you suspect your trees might be infested, it’s crucial to contact an arborist. A tree health specialist can ensure your trees and landscape remain safe and protected.

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 in Montclair, North Jersey.

A Guide To Identifying And Treating Dutch Elm Disease (Part 1)

July 23, 2024 by americantree

Understanding the Symptoms and Early Detection of Dutch Elm Disease

Dutch Elm Disease is a serious threat to the beautiful elm trees that line the streets and yards of Newark, North Jersey. While the disease cannot be cured, understanding the signs can help you address it early. This guide to identifying and treating Dutch elm disease will help you protect your elm trees.

Understanding Dutch Elm Disease

Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is a deadly disease caused by the fungus Ophiostoma ulmi. It poses a significant threat to American elm trees.

The disease can spread in two primary ways:

Through elm bark beetles
Root grafts between trees

Once the fungus enters an elm tree, it targets the xylem, the cells responsible for water conduction. The tree responds by producing chemicals that further block these cells, restricting the flow of water and nutrients. This blockage leads to wilting and ultimately causes the tree’s death.

Elm Tree Vulnerability

Elm trees in Newark are most vulnerable to Dutch elm disease from spring through mid-summer. During this period, the tree’s water-conducting elements are actively produced, making them more susceptible to the disease.

Conversely, elm trees are less prone to this disease during drought conditions and periods of vigorous growth.

Transmission of Dutch Elm Disease

DED primarily spreads from one tree to another in the following ways:

Elm Bark Beetles

Dutch Elm Disease is commonly spread by elm bark beetles, which include both native and European species. These beetles are typically brown or black and have oval-shaped bodies. They lay their eggs in weakened or dying elm trees.

When the larvae develop into adults, they migrate to healthy trees, feeding on them and transmitting the fungus responsible for Dutch Elm Disease.

Grafted Roots

Another method of transmission occurs through root grafts. When the roots of two closely planted elm trees intertwine in the soil, the fungus can travel from an infected tree to a healthy one via these grafted roots.

This movement of the fungus through the roots allows the disease to spread upward through the healthy tree. It’s important to plant elm trees at sufficient distances to avoid root grafting.

Signs of Dutch Elm Disease

While the internal damage is not visible, the disease appears through noticeable symptoms on the tree’s exterior.

The main signs of Dutch elm disease include:

Wilting Leaves

Due to the lack of water and nutrients, the leaves on affected branches will start to wilt and discolor. They will turn yellow, then brown, becoming wilted and curled. Eventually, the leaves will fall off.

Branch Dieback

As the leaves begin to discolor and wilt, the branches themselves are also affected. As the leaves die off, the branch will eventually die, too.

Dark Streaks in the Branches

While defoliation and dead branches can be symptoms of various diseases, dark streaks within the branches and stems are a telltale sign of Dutch elm disease. These dark streaks appear in the sapwood beneath the bark.

To check for these streaks, you need to remove the bark. A professional arborists test the brown streaks to confirm Dutch elm disease.

Feeding Galleries

Both larvae and adult beetles create feeding galleries in the sapwood, visible beneath the bark. These galleries manifest as lines radiating outward from a central deep line.

Tips For Choosing the Right Location For Tree Planting

July 19, 2024 by americantree

Expert advice on choosing the right location for tree planting success

While homeowners invest significant time and effort in selecting the perfect tree and digging the right-sized hole, they often neglect the planting site. Trees have specific site requirements that need careful consideration before planting. If you don’t choose the right location for tree planting, it won’t thrive. Here are some tips to help you ensure successful tree planting.

Selecting the Right Tree Species for Your Yard

While it’s easy to be drawn to the most attractive tree at the nursery, appearance isn’t everything. It’s essential to choose a tree that will thrive in your specific climate, soil, and growing conditions.

Consider the following aspects:

Sunlight Requirements

Trees needing full sun must have at least six hours of sunlight daily. Assess your yard to see how much shade it receives from buildings and other trees.

Hardiness Zone

Consider your region’s hardiness zone, which indicates which plants are most likely to flourish in your area. Use the Plant Hardiness Zone Map to identify your zone.

Drainage

Evaluate the drainage in your yard. Trees planted in lower areas of a sloped yard may retain more water and encounter drainage problems. This should be considered when selecting a tree based on its water needs.

Soil Chemistry

The soil on your property may differ significantly from the tree’s natural growing environment. A soil test can reveal what amendments are necessary for your tree to thrive.

Assess Existing Structures

Planning is crucial when planting a tree on your property. Some trees grow rapidly, and what starts as a charming shade tree can become a hazard over time. One of the most overlooked factors in tree planting is the required growing space. Improper placement can lead to roots or branches encroaching on structures, driveways, or sidewalks. There may also be issues with underground plumbing or power lines.

In addition, know the tree’s mature height, crown spread, and root space requirements. Trees often need more room than you might expect. This sizing guide can help you determine the minimum spacing needed based on the tree’s mature size. When in doubt, ask an arborist for guidance on the necessary vertical and horizontal space to keep your tree healthy and protect your structures.

Look Above and Below

Before planting, be aware of both overhead and underground obstacles.
Avoid planting tall trees under power lines to prevent constant pruning and potential hazards.
Always call your utility company to mark underground lines before you dig. Accidental damage can cause serious injury and service interruptions.

By considering these factors, you can ensure your tree has the best chance to grow and flourish, creating a beautiful addition to your landscape.

Consider the Seasonal Changes

The conditions in your yard can change dramatically from season to season, so it’s important to think about your tree’s needs throughout the year.

Deciduous vs. Evergreen

Decide if you want a tree that sheds its leaves (deciduous) or one that remains green all year (evergreen). Consider the maintenance involved with falling leaves or needles. For instance, a deciduous tree on the south side of your house can provide shade in summer and allow sunlight through in winter.

Messy Droppings

Be mindful of the potential mess from fruit, sap, or needles. A fruit tree near a sidewalk will require regular cleanup, and a pine tree near a driveway can cover your car in sap at certain times of the year.

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.

A Guide To Understanding Tree Risk Assessment And Its Benefits

July 3, 2024 by americantree

Exploring the benefits of tree risk assessment – A complete guide

Regularly assessing the health and stability of trees, especially larger ones, is important to ensure their safety. Tree assessment gives you an idea of whether your trees are diseased or healthy, strong or weak. Keep reading to understand what is tree risk assessment and its benefits.

Tree Risk Assessments

Tree risk assessment involves a thorough examination of a tree and an evaluation of several critical factors. These factors include the condition of the soil, risks to nearby structures if the tree falls, the tree’s overall health, wind exposure, and more. Arborists specializing in tree risk assessment have the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification and training in tree evaluation. The assessment consists of visual inspections and various other tests, including static load tests, the use of strain-sensing technology, digital surveys, and similar techniques.

The primary goal is to determine the likelihood of a branch or the entire tree falling and to evaluate the potential consequences of such an event. For instance, the consequences of a small branch falling differ significantly from those of the tree collapsing. After this evaluation, the tree is categorized as an at-risk tree and may need to be mitigated or removed.

Tree Risk Assessment Process

Tree risk assessment involves a systematic evaluation of factors influencing tree health and safety. Certified arborists follow established protocols and methods to evaluate trees and assess potential risks.

Here’s an outline of the typical steps in a tree risk assessment:

Visual Inspection

Arborists visually examine the tree’s structure, inspecting for decay, disease, insect infestations, and structural weaknesses. They assess the canopy, branches, trunk, and root system for signs of potential hazards.

Health and Structural Assessment

Assessing the health and structural integrity of trees is critical for determining their risk level. Arborists thoroughly examine the tree’s foliage, bark, and overall health to assess its health and ability to withstand external pressures.

Structural Analysis

Arborists analyze a tree’s structure, including its branching pattern and attachment angles, in detail. This evaluation helps determine the tree’s capacity to endure wind, rain, and other environmental stresses.

Site and Environmental Considerations

The surrounding environment plays a crucial role in tree risk assessment. Arborists evaluate factors such as soil quality, drainage, proximity to structures, and potential targets like roads, power lines, and buildings.

Identifying Potential Risks

Arborists identify and evaluate potential risks associated with the tree based on gathered information. Factors such as tree location, health, structural stability, and the likelihood of failure are carefully considered.

Risk Level Assessment

Arborists assign trees a risk level, categorizing them as low, moderate, high, or extreme risk based on identified hazards and the probability of failure.

In addition, arborists provide property owners with detailed recommendations for managing and mitigating identified risks. These may include pruning, cabling, bracing, or, in severe cases, tree removal.

Ongoing Monitoring

Arborists may recommend regular follow-up assessments to monitor changes in health and safety conditions over time. Regular monitoring helps ensure the continued safety and health of the trees and surrounding environment.

Benefits of Tree Risk Assessment

Tree risk assessment provides several key benefits:

Ensures the safety of people and structures by identifying and mitigating risks associated with failing trees.
Identifies potential risks early, allowing implementation of preventive measures that reduce the likelihood of tree failure.
Enables informed decisions about managing tree-related risks based on assessment results.
Helps you comply with legal obligations regarding tree safety and maintenance in your area, ensuring adherence to relevant regulations.
Provides documented evidence of tree assessment for insurance purposes and potential liability cases.

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 free quote.

Essential Tools Arborists Use For Maintaining Healthy Trees

April 24, 2025June 28, 2024 by americantree

Keep Your Trees Healthy with the Right Arborist Tools

If you’re a tree owner in New Jersey or just curious about how professional arborists do their job, you might be wondering: what tools are actually used to keep trees healthy, safe, and thriving?

From tree inspection tools to arborist watering supplies and safety glasses, having the right equipment is crucial to maintaining healthy trees. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have arboriculture tools, breaking them down by function, and explain how professionals use them for expert tree care.

Tree Inspection Tools Professionals Trust

Before pruning or treating a tree, an arborist will begin with a thorough inspection. This helps them detect signs of disease, decay, or instability early.

Common Tree Inspection Tools:

️ Resistograph – Tests internal decay in tree trunks
Diameter tape – Measures tree DBH (diameter at breast height)
Inspection mirrors – Help arborists view hard-to-see spots in the canopy
Digital camera or drone – Used to document conditions or get an aerial view

These tools allow arborists to make informed decisions about trimming, cabling, or even removal.

Best Arborist Watering Supplies for Tree Health

Tree hydration is one of the most overlooked aspects of proper tree care. During periods of drought or heat, arborists use professional tools to ensure optimal watering.

Top Watering Tools Include:

Deep root watering probes – Deliver water directly to a tree’s root zone
Soaker hoses & drip irrigation – Ensure slow, steady moisture release
️ Moisture meters – Measure soil water levels to avoid over/underwatering

These tools are especially helpful when maintaining newly planted or stressed trees.

Arborist Safety Glasses & Protective Gear

Safety is paramount when working with chainsaws, climbing equipment, or chemicals. That’s why professional arborists are always equipped with:

Safety glasses and face shields – Protect eyes from flying debris
Cut-resistant gloves – Essential when handling branches and blades
Hard hats – Prevent head injuries from falling limbs
Harnesses and climbing gear – Secure arborists during elevated work

These items are required under OSHA and ANSI Z133 standards for safe tree care.

️ Must-Have Arboriculture Tools for Tree Service Work

Arborists rely on a wide range of manual and powered tools to do everything from pruning to disease treatment.

Top Tree Service Tools:

✂️ Bypass pruners and loppers – For clean, precise cuts
Hand saws and pole pruners – Reach and cut larger branches
Battery-powered chainsaws – Quiet, clean, and ideal for urban settings
Injection systems – For delivering nutrients and treatments (see Tree Injections)

These are the same tools we use at American Tree Experts for tree maintenance in Montclair and surrounding areas.

Bonus Tools for Specialized Tree Care

Tree cabling kits – For structural support of weak limbs
pH soil testers – Help determine nutrient needs
Traffic cones & barriers – Keep work areas safe in public spaces

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools do arborists use to inspect trees?

Arborists use resistographs, drones, and visual inspection gear to assess a tree’s health and structure.

What safety gear should arborists wear?

Safety glasses, gloves, helmets, and harnesses are essential for preventing injury during tree work.

Are deep root watering tools necessary?

Yes! They help deliver water where it matters—deep into the root zone for better absorption.

Need Professional Tree Care in New Jersey?

At American Tree Experts, we don’t just use the best tools—we bring years of expertise to every tree we care for. Whether you need tree inspections, pruning, injections, or storm prep, we’ve got the equipment and experience to get the job done right.

Serving Montclair, NJ, and nearby areas Call us at (973) 744-6091 or visit americantree.com to request a consultation.

Effective Methods To Protect Your Garden Trees From Pests

June 26, 2024 by americantree

The best strategies to protect your garden trees from pests year-round

Trees in your garden can attract damaging pests. When left unchecked, these pests can spread, endangering your landscaping, potentially causing trees to deteriorate, and posing risks to your property. Regular inspection of your garden is essential to identify common tree pests and prevent damage. This article provides effective tips on protecting your trees from insect infestations.

Maintain a Clean Yard

After pruning or a heavy storm, promptly clear your yard of fallen branches and debris. Beetles, aphids, and other tree pests thrive on moist wood, making cluttered areas inviting for infestations. This cleanup is especially crucial before spring when beetles are active.

A tidy yard not only discourages pests but also enhances visibility, making it easier to detect signs of infestation early. Regular cleaning supports a healthier yard environment and reduces the risk of pest damage to your property.

Effective Watering Practices

Ensuring proper hydration is essential to prevent branches from drying out and breaking. Broken branches not only affect your yard’s appearance and safety but also increase the risk of insect infestations and disease.

Enhance your watering routine with an anti-desiccant spray. This spray aids trees and shrubs in retaining moisture, which is particularly crucial during dry periods when soil absorption may be inadequate.

Regular Tree Pruning

Pruning ensures proper light penetration and encourages healthy airflow. Use rubbing alcohol or a solution of equal parts water and bleach to disinfect pruning shears and prevent disease transmission.

Apply oil to prevent corrosion after cleaning. Remove last year’s dried fruits, known as “mummies,” from trees and the ground, as they may harbor disease. Burn fallen leaves before winter to prevent the spread of disease through spores.

Protective Tree Wraps

Protect your trees from harsh weather conditions with tree wraps, designed to regulate heat and promote airflow while safeguarding against sunscald. Sunscald occurs when sunlight reflects off snow, potentially causing trunk splitting.

Tree wraps offer a natural barrier against pests, reducing the need for additional insect repellents. Additionally, applying dormant oils to fruit trees before buds appear eliminates insects and their eggs, effectively protecting new growth.

Effective Tree Injections

Tree injections offer a powerful solution to combat pests without the need for sprays. Similar to administering shots to humans, tree injections deliver targeted treatment directly into the tree trunk to address diseases and insect infestations efficiently. Once injected, the solution quickly enters the tree’s vascular system, ensuring quick distribution throughout.

This professional approach to tree care yields faster and more effective results compared to traditional spray treatments, which may take weeks to take effect. Tree injections effectively treat infestations of borers, aphids, spider mites, and scale insects, providing lasting protection with just one treatment that lasts an entire year.

Tree Inspection

Regularly inspect your trees for signs of tree-damaging pests, which can hide among leaves, branches, and the trunk. Check for discolored leaves and examine tree trunks for holes or frass. Promptly addressing issues can prevent infestations from spreading. If you notice a branch infested with beetles or other pests, remove it promptly to mitigate further damage. Familiarizing yourself with these signs can reduce future maintenance.

Consult with your arborist to set up a proper tree care plan that includes preventive measures to control insects before they can attack. Experts can also detect signs of pests and treat infestations with specialized insecticide applications.

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.

The Ultimate Summer Tree Care Checklist For Healthy Trees

June 14, 2024 by americantree

The complete guide to summer tree care -Ensure healthy trees all season long

Hot and dry conditions can be particularly challenging for young and growing trees. Just like humans need extra care during the summer, trees also require regular maintenance to stay healthy. This checklist highlights everything you need to know to protect your trees during the hot summer months.

Inspecting Your Trees and Shrubs

As summer approaches, it’s essential to examine your trees and shrubs for potential issues. This involves assessing tree leaves and stems for signs of damage that may indicate an insect infestation. Look out for indicators such as bleeding sap, borer holes, sawdust, abnormal chewed leaves, or leaf dieback. Consulting with a certified arborist can help identify and address insect problems early, preventing extensive damage.

Additionally, branch dieback and leaf spots could signify stress or disease, necessitating professional evaluation. Yellowing leaves during summer suggest heat stress. However, it’s essential to assess soil moisture levels thoroughly before concluding. Overwatering can also manifest as leaf yellowing, emphasizing the importance of checking soil moisture deep within the soil. If soil saturation occurs frequently without adequate drainage time, adjusting irrigation frequency may be necessary.

Apply Proper Mulch

One of the best things to preserve your trees from the effects of hot weather is mulching. Applying mulch around the root area helps safeguard the roots from extreme heat and allows moisture retention. This is crucial for supporting the growth of a strong root system. In addition, proper mulching aids water absorption for young trees.

However, the key to effective mulching is using an appropriate amount of mulch. Typically, one layer of 5 to 10-cm thick mulch is sufficient. Furthermore, leaving some space between the tree’s base and the mulch is essential. Finally, add mulch around the tree in a circular shape to discourage pests and diseases.

Watch Out For The Signs Of Heat Stress

Proper temperature and shade maintenance is critical for optimal tree care in summer. This is particularly important for young trees as plenty of shade protects them from excessive heat and prevents heat stress. During extremely hot days, watch for the signs of heat stress.

Dropping, wilting, and yellowing leaves are surefire signs of heat stress. If you spot these signs, watering sufficiently will help your trees recover from heat stress. Stay mindful of the signs of heat stress to monitor and care for your trees during extreme weather proactively.

Maintaining Healthy Soil

If you notice your soil consistently drying out during the summer months, consider implementing a slow, deep watering technique using a drip or soaker hose for your larger trees requiring hydration. Different trees have varying water needs, so it’s essential to avoid guesswork. A general guideline is to apply 5 gallons of water for every 1 inch of trunk diameter, repeating this process weekly in the absence of significant rainfall.

Consulting with a certified arborist can provide valuable insight and ensure your tree roots receive adequate hydration. Refrain from using overhead irrigation methods, as they can contribute to the spread of diseases. Continue fertilizing your trees while addressing any nutritional deficiencies that may arise in shrub and lawn areas. Additionally, maintaining control over weeds in your landscape beds is crucial to prevent them from competing with your plants for essential nutrients and water.

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.

When To Consider Cabling And Bracing For Trees?

June 6, 2024 by americantree

When should you opt for cabling and bracing for trees? Expert insights

Trees can sometimes develop structural weaknesses or undergo stress from environmental factors, posing risks of limb failure or collapse. Knowing when to consider cabling and bracing for trees is essential for ensuring their structural integrity and safety. This article explores the key signs that indicate your tree needs cabling and bracing.

Storm Damage

When a tree suffers damage from a storm, it becomes more vulnerable to limb failure or collapse. For example, a large limb may crack but not fully break. A tree cabling system can help prevent complete failure of the limb and facilitate its healing process. The extent of storm damage must be evaluated carefully.

In some cases, a tree may be irreparable. For instance, if a limb is hanging, it is safer to remove it rather than attempt bracing. Additionally, a hanging limb will not heal naturally over time. Frequently cabling and bracing trees can enhance their resilience against future storm damage by reducing limb movement during storms.

Presence of 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 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 harming 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.

A Leaning Tree

Whenever a tree shows a noticeable lean, seeking professional evaluation is crucial. While some trees naturally grow with a slight lean, others may lean significantly due to factors like reaching toward sunlight. Similarly, soil erosion or storms weaken the tree’s anchorage into the soil, causing the tree to lean on one side.

However, if the lean becomes pronounced, it increases the risk of the tree falling, especially during storms. In certain cases, bracing and cabling can rectify a leaning tree, depending upon the severity of the lean and the stability of its root system. However, determining the appropriate course of action depends on a thorough assessment by a qualified professional.

Branches at Risk of Overextension

Overextended limbs refer to branches that have grown longer and larger than the tree trunk can adequately support. Typically, these branches extend horizontally and bear the weight of foliage. As a tree ages, it becomes increasingly vulnerable to strain, especially if afflicted by disease, pests, drought, or harsh weather conditions.

Cabling can restrict the movement of these overextended branches to mitigate the risk of them breaking off. Cabling involves using strong cables and bolts to secure the branch to the tree trunk. In certain instances, an arborist may also utilize bracing to provide additional support for large, overextended branches.

Conclusion

Recognizing when to consider cabling and bracing for trees is essential for maintaining their structural stability and longevity. By identifying warning signs, proactive measures can be taken to reduce risks and preserve tree health.

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

5 Common Pruning Errors That Can Damage Your Tree

May 28, 2024 by americantree

Are you making these 5 devastating pruning errors? Your tree could be at risk

Pruning is done for various purposes, including shaping the tree, eliminating damaged branches, and controlling plant size. Regardless of the reason, it’s crucial to prune trees correctly to support their health and ongoing development. Pruning mistakes can severely damage your trees rather than enhance their health and appearance. Read to learn about the common pruning errors that can kill your trees.

Tree Topping

Topping is a tree pruning method that involves cutting off its uppermost portion, a practice that causes significant stress on the tree. This method can disrupt the tree’s natural balance and structure, increasing the risk of it toppling over.

Tree Lopping

Tree lopping, like topping, involves improperly cutting or trimming branches to give a tree a slimmer or smaller appearance, often without considering the long-term effects on its health, strength, and structure. While a lopped tree may initially seem aesthetically pleasing or less demanding in terms of maintenance, this practice causes trauma and stress to the tree, potentially leading to fatal consequences in the future.

After lopping, the tree often sprouts new, unsightly growth known as epicormic growth. This growth tends to attach weakly to the tree’s outer layer, making it highly susceptible to failure. Additionally, the wounds left by lopping provide entry points for pests, diseases, and decay, significantly compromising the tree’s overall health. A weakened tree is more prone to falling over during severe weather or losing heavy limbs, posing risks to property and safety.

Excessive Pruning in the Growing Season

Heavy pruning during the growing season, typically from spring to late summer, can pose risks to the tree’s health. Removing numerous leaves during this time can deprive the tree of its food source, as leaves facilitate photosynthesis.

Moreover, summer often brings drought conditions, further stressing an already over-pruned tree. Additionally, excessive pruning exposes previously shaded bark to intense sunlight, leading to sunscald, which can damage the plant.

Heavy Pruning Throughout the Year

While excessive pruning during the active growth season can be harmful, it should be noted that over-pruning at any time of the year can induce stress in a tree, rendering it more vulnerable to diseases. Therefore, it is essential to remember that each pruning cut should be carefully made because every cut is a wound to the tree.

By removing branches, food resources are depleted, future growth is impacted, and the tree’s capacity for photosynthesis is diminished. Moreover, pruning creates entry points through which wood-decay fungi can enter the tree and cause internal decay. Several improper pruning cuts can ultimately lead to tree death.

Incorrect Pruning Cuts

Making the right pruning cuts is essential for the tree’s health and safety. Improper cuts, such as flush cuts (too close to the trunk) or stub cuts (too far from the trunk), can cause irreversible damage.

A flush cut removes the branch collar, leaving a large wound prone to improper healing. Conversely, a stub cut leaves excessive dead branch material, which can decay inward, affecting the tree’s core. Both types of cuts can lead to decay and potential tree death.

Hire Professional Tree Pruning Services

Pruning a tree isn’t just about cutting off branches; it requires precision and expertise to ensure the tree’s health and vitality. Hire professional arborists with the knowledge, training, and experience to prune your trees correctly, taking into account the impact of each cut.