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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.

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.

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.

Protect your leafy friends – Top techniques to keep your trees healthy and resilient

Healthy trees enhance the aesthetics of your property and also improve air quality, provide shade, and support local wildlife. However, regular maintenance and tree care are crucial to ensure they thrive all year round. This article highlights expert techniques for keeping your trees healthy and preventing nutrient deficiencies and diseases.

Prune Trees At The Right Time

• Pruning involves the careful removal of dead, diseased, or excessively grown branches from your trees, ensuring their continued health. This practice is particularly crucial in urban settings, where branches obstructing pathways or roads pose hazards to pedestrians and vehicles. Newly planted trees require more frequent trimming compared to mature ones.

It’s advisable to prune young, healthy trees every two to three years, reducing the frequency as they mature. For mature trees, trimming every three to five years is sufficient. Excessive pruning should be avoided. When in doubt, seek professional help to determine whether trimming is necessary. A tree care specialist can assess your trees on-site and provide guidance tailored to their specific needs.

Fertilize Adequately

• Similar to other plants, trees require adequate nourishment to thrive. Essential macronutrients such as potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus, along with secondary nutrients like magnesium, calcium, and sulfur, are vital for their growth. However, it’s crucial to ensure the correct dosage, as nutrient deficiencies can cause yellowing, while excessive fertilization can lead to rapid growth without sufficient root development.

Trees should be fertilized in early spring, before the onset of warm weather, and when there is enough rainfall to facilitate nutrient absorption through the root system. Avoid fertilizing during the summer months, when trees are more vulnerable to heat and drought stress.

Prevent Pests and Diseases

• While insects are a natural part of ecosystems, the type and quantity of insects can significantly impact the health of your trees. Similarly, diseases can spread among trees and affect extensive areas at a time. Common issues include:

Leaf Rust

• These reddish-orange spots, resembling rust, result from a fungus that disrupts photosynthesis. While it looks unsightly, leaf rust does not cause substantial harm to trees.

Fire Blight

• Fire blight results from bacteria spread by insects, rain, or even pruning tools and causes the branches to look burned or dried.

Bagworms

• These pests are common on evergreen shrubs and can eat large sections of plants during the pupation stage.

Cankers

• Cankers are lesions on tree bark. They vary in size and can result from various causes, potentially proving fatal to young trees.

Emerald Ash Borers

• These metallic green beetles bore into ash tree bark, causing damage that attracts woodpeckers and other pests, exacerbating the harm.

While some pests and diseases are identifiable and treatable, others are challenging to detect and eradicate. Given their potential to endanger trees, seeking professional assistance for effective treatment is essential to protecting your trees.

Mulch Around Your Trees

• Mulching is essential in maintaining tree health. By conserving soil moisture, especially during periods of high heat and low rainfall, mulch provides essential hydration to tree roots. Additionally, it acts as a filter for rainwater, minimizing impurities and slowing evaporation to aerate and fertilize the soil beneath.

During winter, mulch serves as a protective barrier, protecting roots from the harsh effects of snow and ice. Despite common misconceptions, mulch doesn’t require significant height. Just a few inches, ideally no more than four, are enough. Spreading the mulch over a broad area to cover as much of the tree’s root system as possible is crucial.

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.

Is your tree sick? 5 telltale signs of nutrient deficiency in trees

If your trees aren’t thriving as they should, it could be due to a lack of essential nutrients. Recognizing the signs of nutrient deficiency is key to addressing the issue. Some tree species are more susceptible to nutrient deficiencies than others. While symptoms can vary, there are common signs to watch out for across all types of trees. Let’s explore some of these telltale signs indicating your trees may lack essential nutrients.

Yellowing of Leaves

• When your tree’s foliage starts to turn yellow, it may signal a deficiency in essential nutrients like iron or nitrogen. If you notice a widespread yellowing across the entire canopy, it’s often a telltale sign of an iron deficiency. Conversely, if only the new leaves are yellowing, it could indicate a lack of nitrogen.

Regardless of the specific nutrient issue, it’s crucial to address it quickly to ensure your tree’s health. Treatments include foliar sprays and soil applications. It is essential to note that high soil pH can limit the availability of nutrients. Therefore, addressing soil pH is important for treating certain nutrient deficiencies.

Slow and Stunted Growth

• Nutrient-deficient plants often show stunted growth, failing to reach their expected height or development. If you notice your trees aren’t growing as they should, it might be a sign they need a nutritional boost.

Conducting a soil test is usually simple, allowing you to identify deficiencies and make necessary adjustments. Many garden centers offer nutrient supplements tailored to address specific deficiencies, providing a convenient solution to promote healthier growth for your trees.

Dropping and Wilting

• When leaves begin to droop and wilt, it’s typically a sign of inadequate water supply. However, if your tree’s soil remains adequately moist and wilting persists, it could be a sign of nutrient deficiency. The lack of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium may be the culprit.

Conducting a soil test is essential to pinpoint the specific nutrient deficiency and determine the necessary remedy. By identifying and addressing the underlying nutrient issue, you can help restore your tree’s health and vitality.

Leaf Spotting

• While leaf spotting is commonly associated with disease, it can also signal a nutrient deficiency in your tree. Deficiencies in iron and magnesium, for instance, can lead to the development of yellow spots on the leaves.

If you observe any spotty discoloration on your tree’s foliage, consider hiring an arborist to identify the underlying cause. Once they determine the deficient nutrient, they can take the necessary steps to address the deficiency and restore your tree’s health.

Presence of Weak Branches

• Nutrient-deficient trees often have weaker branches that are prone to breakage. This weakness is commonly associated with a potassium deficiency, which hinders the tree’s ability to absorb essential nutrients from the soil.

Potassium plays a crucial role in moisture absorption, and its absence can result in weakened branches unable to withstand stress.

Appropriate Steps to Take

• 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 advisable 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.

Master the art of tree protection – Strategies for protecting your trees during storms

Unhealthy or weakened trees pose a significant risk of falling onto homes and properties, especially during stormy weather. However, through proper tree maintenance and proactive measures, trees can become more resistant to storm damage. This article highlights effective strategies to help you protect your trees during a storm.

Keep Your Trees Healthy

• The best way to protect your trees from storm damage is to keep them healthy. A healthy tree is stronger and more capable of withstanding harsh weather. It’s crucial to ensure proper maintenance of your trees consistently throughout the year to prevent problems before they occur. Regular maintenance, including pruning, watering, and fertilizing, will keep your trees in top condition.

Schedule Regular Tree Inspections

• It’s better to call an arborist for an inspection than for an emergency tree removal. Schedule a professional arborist to examine your trees. They can identify any issues, such as diseases, pest infestations, or structural problems. They can also determine if a tree is dead and poses a fall risk and will recommend the best course of action.

Prune Regularly

• Proper pruning strengthens a tree by enhancing its structural integrity, enabling it to withstand storms better. Effective pruning involves removing dead, dying, and weak branches, which fosters proper growth and maintains good structural form. Over time, this makes trees more resistant to storm damage and reduces the likelihood of branches breaking during storms.

However, pruning should generally be performed by a professional arborist who knows the correct techniques to benefit the tree’s health. Incorrect pruning can harm a tree, making it more susceptible to diseases and structural weaknesses, increasing the risk of it falling during severe weather.

Strengthen the Root System

• The root system is crucial for anchoring a tree securely to the ground. Trees with deep, strong roots are more likely to withstand storms compared to those with shallow, weak roots. To enhance the strength of your trees’ roots, avoid activities that could disrupt the soil around them.

Construction work, digging, and other heavy activities can harm the roots and soil structure. Keeping the area around your trees undisturbed helps maintain a stable foundation.

Protect the Tree Trunks

• Adding extra protection to your tree trunks can be beneficial, especially in extreme weather conditions. Wrapping trunks with protective materials can protect young or vulnerable trees from damage caused by strong winds.

Additionally, consider setting up a staked tent around trees to offer extra shelter during severe weather. This method is particularly useful for trees in exposed locations or when high wind speeds are expected.

Consider Anchoring Young Trees

• For younger trees that have yet to establish their root systems fully, anchoring can provide extra stability during storms. Secure stakes around the tree, connecting them with flexible materials like soft straps or ropes just before a storm is expected. This method helps prevent the tree from toppling over due to strong winds.

However, it’s important to allow some movement. Overly tight anchoring can restrict natural movement and actually increase the risk of the tree falling. After the storm, remember to remove the stakes to avoid hindering the tree’s growth and development.

Regular Monitoring

• Regularly check your trees for any signs of distress or abnormal changes, such as alterations in leaf color, damage to the bark, or changes in trunk structure. Early detection of these symptoms can allow for prompt treatment and management, preventing further deterioration. If you notice anything unusual, address it quickly to mitigate any risks and keep your trees healthy.

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.

Garden excellence – Discover 6 reasons to prune your trees regularly

Pruning is an important practice for maintaining the health and beauty of your trees. Regular pruning serves as a protective measure to mitigate potential risks posed by overgrown branches and structural weaknesses. From promoting growth to enhancing safety and aesthetics, pruning offers various benefits. Keep reading to learn why you need to prune your trees regularly.

Eliminating Dying Branches

• Safety is among the top reasons for hiring a tree service to prune your trees. It’s not unusual for certain tree branches to die and dry over time. As a result, even strong winds can cause the weakened branches to fall off.

Depending on their location, they could cause damage to your roof, become entangled in power lines, or obstruct roads, posing various hazards. Promptly addressing these dying sections through routine pruning can enhance overall safety and minimize risks.

Thinning Out the Canopy

• While trees provide much-needed shade from the scorching sun, excessive growth density can adversely affect surrounding plants. Overly dense canopies restrict sunlight and rain from reaching the plants and grass beneath, impairing their growth.

Pruning involves thinning the canopy, allowing sunlight and rain to permeate the branches and reach the plants at ground level.

Identifying Infections and Diseases

• In addition to enhancing aesthetics, tree trimming is a diagnostic tool for assessing tree health. Regular trimming reduces branch overgrowth, providing clearer visibility to identify signs of disease or insect infestation.

Early detection allows for targeted pruning or treatment, preventing the spread of disease and potential tree damage. Regular tree trimming is thus essential for maintaining tree health and managing disease severity.

Shaping New Growth

• When left unchecked, trees can grow wild and take uneven shapes. By working with tree service experts, you can sculpt your trees to achieve the desired aesthetic, ensuring they enhance the beauty of your landscape. Tree pruning can significantly influence a tree’s growth pattern. A tree can be guided to develop a specific arrangement of limbs and branches, which is more beneficial for its overall structural integrity.

This careful maintenance reduces the risk of limb breakage and falling branches. It also ensures that the tree maintains a safe branch structure and even weight distribution. Moreover, structural pruning can enhance the tree’s visual appeal. If aesthetics are a priority, proper pruning can direct the tree to grow in the desired, aesthetically pleasing manner.

Enhancing Fruit Production

• Pruning is essential for properties with fruit-bearing trees like chokecherries, apples, or apricots. By removing weak or dying branches from your fruit trees, you promote healthier growth in the remaining areas. Since large trees with excessive branches struggle to obtain the required nutrients, trimming the unwanted branches will result in healthier fruit production.

This ensures that vital nutrients are directed toward fruit-bearing branches, optimizing the tree’s ability to produce abundant and healthy fruit. In addition, the decreased competition for nutrients and energy strengthens the fruit-bearing branches of the tree. Thus allowing the tree to produce nutrient-rich and flavorful fruits.

Increasing Energy Production

• Sunlight plays a vital role in a tree’s health as it stimulates the photosynthesis process necessary for growth. However, when branches become overgrown, they can obstruct sunlight from reaching the tree’s leaves, limiting its energy production.

By trimming excess branches, you can enhance sunlight penetration to previously shaded areas, thereby increasing the tree’s energy production. This enables the tree to thrive and grow more vigorously, reaching its full potential.

Don’t allow your trees to grow wild. Take action now to maintain their health and enhance the beauty of your landscape. 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.

Avoid disaster – Recognizing when your tree needs emergency removal

Several property owners hesitate to contact emergency tree removal services until a tree collapses and causes significant damage. This delay often results from the inability to differentiate between a harmless problem and a situation requiring urgent attention. So, how to tell if a tree needs emergency removal?

Here are common tree scenarios that necessitate immediate tree removal.

A Tilted Tree

• Many property owners overlook the dangers of tilted trees, often considering them natural. However, if left unaddressed, a tilted tree poses a risk of collapse, potentially resulting in damage.

Several factors may cause a tree to lean, including exposure to strong winds. Additionally, diseases such as fungal infections can compromise the tree’s roots and wood, leading to leaning.

Broken Limbs

• Broken branches are another clear indicator that it’s time to enlist the help of an emergency tree removal service. A skilled tree service professional can safely eliminate broken branches without harming the entire tree.

However, broken branches may also signal a more severe issue, such as a dying or dead tree. If a tree has lost more than 50% of its branches, it is unlikely to survive to the next growing season. In such cases, it is advisable to seek professional removal before the tree collapses and causes extensive damage.

Storm Damage

• Damaged trees on your property after a storm can pose significant risks. Whether it’s the result of a tornado or heavy winds, fallen trees can wreak havoc on your home, vehicles, and surrounding areas. Even minor storms with gentle gusts of wind have the potential to topple weakened or unhealthy trees.

If left unattended, these trees can cause damage to your roof, leading to leaks and extensive water damage. Additionally, they may pose a threat to your vehicles, resulting in costly repairs. Tree removal professionals have the necessary expertise and equipment to safely remove storm-damaged trees, mitigating further harm after severe weather events.

Dealing with Sick Trees

• Beyond their visual impact, diseased trees can be a hazard. Pests, fungi, and viruses can infiltrate a tree, slowly weakening it from the inside out. Therefore, it’s imperative to address sick trees promptly.

To identify whether your tree is sick, look for common signs, such as a hollow trunk, dead branches, and decaying roots.

Safety Concerns Around Power Lines

• Trees and shrubs growing in proximity to power lines pose serious safety risks, potentially leading to fires, power surges, and blackouts. It is essential to ensure that branches and foliage remain clear of power lines and electrical infrastructure.

If you notice trees near power lines, contact your electricity distribution company or hire a tree removal professional to address the issue. Regular trimming or removal of dead, dying, or diseased trees in close proximity to power lines is essential to prevent hazardous situations.

Cracks or Hollows in the Tree Trunk

• When cracks or hollows are present in a tree’s trunk, it may signal an urgent need for emergency services, particularly if the damage extends extensively throughout the trunk. Visible damage on the trunk often indicates internal decay, which compromises the tree’s structural integrity.

Such damage can result from severe weather conditions, diseases, pests, or physical trauma. Immediate attention from tree care professionals is necessary to assess the extent of the damage and devise an appropriate course of action. Certified arborists can provide emergency tree removal services or implement corrective safety measures as needed.

We can treat and prevent your trees from dying and remove dead trees to keep you and your property safe. At American Tree Experts, Inc., we offer the best tree care and tree removal services. 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.

The essential guide to trees that need a constant supply of water – 5 species unveiled

While many trees benefit from occasional access to water through their roots, some thrive in consistently wet conditions. If you live in an area with frequent rainfall, it’s essential to choose trees that survive in moist environments. This article lists tree varieties that need a lot of water. Keep reading to make informed choices.

The Black Gum Tree

• Black gum trees are native to the USA and Mexico. They are known for their striking autumn foliage, making them a popular ornamental choice. This slow-growing tree can reach heights of around 50 meters when fully matured and thrives in slightly acidic, highly moist soil conditions.

Often grown in clusters by homeowners, when properly maintained by professional tree pruning services, Black gum trees present a stunning sight. During spring and summer, its foliage is dark green, transitioning to a vibrant mix of red, yellow, purple, and orange hues in the autumn season.

The Weeping Willow

• It is known for its graceful, drooping branches and vibrant yellow-green foliage. The weeping willow adds a charming touch to moist gardens when given enough space to grow. These majestic trees require significant garden space and should be kept away from septic fields.

With rapid growth rates of up to 2 feet (0.30 meters) per year, they are best suited for spacious environments. If you are looking for a smaller option, the tricolor dappled willow presents a favorable alternative. It is ideal for planting near ponds or in damp locations.

The Bald Cypress

• It is a deciduous conifer that sheds its needles annually and has the longest lifespan among U.S. trees. While its bare branches may discourage some gardeners, the tree’s magnificent red fall foliage makes up for its seasonal nature.

Native to the United States, the bald cypress is a superior choice over the non-native dawn redwood, particularly for Northern growers.

Growing Tips for Bald Cypress

• Opt for acidic, moist soil; a pH over 7.5 can be detrimental.
• Begin with a soil mix containing some sand to promote optimal growth.
• Ensure ample space, as the tree can reach heights of up to 120 feet!
• When planted in waterlogged areas, bald cypresses develop intriguing “knees” that protrude from the water, enhancing landscape aesthetics.

The River Birch

• It is indigenous to the eastern USA and is distinguished by its distinctive peeling bark, transitioning from smooth in young trees to flaky and shedding as it matures. At full maturity, it blooms with catkins, though it’s not ideal for those with pollen allergies.

This fast-growing tree can reach 80 meters in height and has a lifespan of approximately 70 years. Its name stems from its adaptation to stream banks. It thrives in areas with poor soil drainage, making it an excellent choice for gardens with such conditions.

The Sweetgum Tree

• The Sweetgum tree’s star-shaped leaves transform into vibrant hues of orange and red during autumn. It is a splendid addition to northern landscapes. This native tree thrives even in areas with poor drainage. However, it’s worth noting that the tree produces spiky “gum balls” that litter the ground during winter and early spring, which may not appeal to those seeking a low-maintenance option.

For a cleaner alternative, consider the black tupelo. In addition, optimal growth occurs in full sun to part shade. Avoid areas with consistent standing water or dries-out soil. Plant in slightly acidic soil with a pH ranging from 5.0 to 7.4.

If you are worried about pruning a tree without damaging it permanently, then contact American Tree Experts Inc. today. We are a highly qualified team of tree-cutting and pruning professionals based in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us today at 973-774-6091 for a free quote.