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.

Unlock the secrets of tree support systems: Cabling and bracing explained

Sometimes trees come across problems that affect their health. However, trees with poor structural integrity or weak branches do not necessarily require removal. In these instances, it is worthwhile to support the tree with the help of cabling, bracing, or other tree support systems. Keep reading to discover different types of tree support systems.

Cables

• Cabling is a common technique used by arborists to provide structural support to trees. This is done by attaching high-strength cables and hardware to other branches, the trunk, the ground, or other anchors. Simple or complex cable systems can be used depending on the type of support needed for the tree.

Cabling is primarily used to prevent tree branches from splitting and can also support long limbs or reinforce weak-wooded species. The two main categories of cabling systems: static and dynamic, differ based on various materials and attachment techniques used in the process.

Static Cabling Systems

• Static cabling systems aim to rigidly secure branches with metal hardware such as screws or bolts. These screws and bolts are attached to different limbs with galvanized steel or aircraft cable.

While the metal hardware provides secure attachments, it can also serve as an entry point for fungi and pathogens that can cause decay. These are older types of tree support systems. Although still practical, static cabling systems are replaced by dynamic systems.

Dynamic Cabling Systems

• Dynamic tree cabling systems are a type of cabling system used to provide structural support to trees. They are designed to allow movement in the tree branches and limbs, providing more natural and flexible support.

Dynamic tree cabling system puts less stress on the tree and uses synthetic materials such as ropes, flexible cables, and attachment hardware, giving the tree more room to sway. The goal is to provide support while still allowing the tree to respond to wind and other environmental factors in a natural way. Thus, reducing stress and promoting long-term stability.

Braces

• Braces, like cables, provide support by pulling a branch or stem in the desired direction. However, unlike cables, braces are rigid and are used to support the base of large, co-dominant stems in twin-trunked trees.

Arborist drills through both trunks to install braces and secures a steel rod with nuts on both sides. Multiple braces may be necessary for large trunks. Despite offering significant strength, braces can also lead to decay, so they should only be used when necessary.

Props

• Props are a primary tree support system used for centuries to support branches at risk of failure. They can be made from any strong and rigid material, such as masonry walls, metal poles, wooden posts, etc. Props are primarily used to support healthy, desirable limbs with poor structure or a weak attachment point. This is typically seen in mature trees with heavy, long lower branches. Propping them up can extend their lifespan for several decades.

Props can also support leaning tree trunks, but propping is only practical for smaller trees due to the weight of large trees. It is wise to have a professional assess your tree’s needs before opting for cabling or bracing, as they are costly solutions. The professional evaluation will benefit you in the long term and determine the appropriate type of procedure.

At American Tree Experts, Inc., we offer the best services to keep your plants out of harm’s way. Our cabling and bracing services ensure that your garden has strong and protected trees. Our most sought services are pruning, bracing, pest management, and nutritional management. We offer services in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us at 973-744-6091 for a free quote.

Maximize the benefits for your trees and learn what is mulching and how it can help

Although trees do not require daily attention, routine care is crucial to ensure their health, safety, beauty, and yield. Mulching is one of the best methods to keep your trees healthy while conserving water. Let’s explore what mulching is and how it benefits your trees.

What Is Mulching?

• Mulching is the process of covering the base of a tree with a layer of organic material known as mulch. Mulching helps to retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients to the tree.

In addition, it helps insulate the tree’s roots from temperature fluctuations and improves the tree’s overall appearance and surrounding landscape. Mulch is typically made of organic materials such as wood chips, bark, leaves, or straw but varies significantly in purpose and type.

Benefits Of Mulching

• Mulching offers an array of benefits to the trees. We have mentioned the most popular ones here:

Retains Moisture

• Mulch acts as an insulating blanket on top of the soil, helping to slow down the evaporation of water from the soil. This is especially beneficial for young trees or during periods of drought, as it gives the tree access to the water it needs to survive.

Additionally, mulch increases the amount of water available to the tree by breaking down and releasing water as it decomposes. Thus, ensuring the tree has a consistent water supply at all times. Furthermore, during the rainy season, mulch helps prevent the loss of water caused by erosion and run-off.

Improves Nutrient Supply

• The organic materials used in mulch, including bark, leaves, or straw, contain nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for the growth of trees. As the mulch decomposes, it releases these nutrients into the soil, which the tree roots take up.

Thus, improving the overall health and growth of the tree and reducing the need for additional fertilization. In addition, mulching improves the soil structure and fertility, which further helps provide nutrients to the tree. However, the quality and composition of the mulch used will affect the amount and type of nutrients it provides to the tree.

Prevents Weed Growth

• Another noteworthy benefit of mulching is weed suppression. Mulching prevents weed growth around the base of the tree. Weed competes for water and nutrients, thus depriving trees of the nutrients needed for optimal growth. In addition, when a thick layer of mulch is applied, it creates a barrier that prevents sunlight from reaching the soil surface, making it difficult for weed seeds to germinate and grow.

Additionally, mulch makes it hard for existing weeds to extend their roots deep enough to access the tree’s nutrients. In this way, by reducing the competition for resources, mulch helps improve the tree’s overall health and growth.

Regulates Temperature

• The temperature fluctuation of the soil can be avoided with the correct amount of mulch. Mulching helps insulate tree roots and protects the tree from extreme heat or cold. During the hot summer, mulch prevents exposure to the sun and reduces the amount of heat absorbed by the soil. In the winter, mulch insulates the roots and protects them from freezing temperatures.

Thus, reducing the stress caused by extreme temperature fluctuations. However, the type of mulch determines and affects its insulating properties. Organic mulch provides better insulation than inorganic mulch, such as gravel and stones.

If you need more information about mulching or suspect your plants and trees are experiencing a nutrient deficiency, contact American Tree Experts Inc today. We are a professional tree pruning and nutrient management company. Call us at 973-774-6091 and let our nutrient management experts help you bring your garden back to life.

Read below for a comprehensive guide to remove bagworms from trees

Bagworms are Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis that hang from limbs in brown, bag-like cases. These are made by caterpillars from dried pieces of leaves and stems and are long. Bagworms defoliate the tree, weaken, or kill it. Fortunately, there are various methods to remove bagworms from trees. We have discussed five of them here.

Manual Removal Of Bagworms

• It is possible to manually remove bagworms from smaller trees and shrubs by plucking them with a hand. These cocoon bags are then destroyed. This is purely an organic approach to stop the infestation and does not require special equipment.

However, you may have to hire professionals for tall branches as tall branches require a ladder or equipment. Late fall to spring is the best time to remove the bags. This helps ensure the removal of eggs before they get a chance to hatch.

Take Help From Natural Predators

• When a tree is lightly infested, this is not much of a problem, as birds and insect predators eat the young caterpillars. Sometimes, woodpeckers can even break the bags to eat the worms inside.

In addition, sparrows are also natural predators that prey on bagworms. This type of predation can be encouraged by making your landscape bird-friendly. Furthermore, avoiding pesticides that kill predator insects is also helpful.

Spray Your Trees With Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt)

• Spraying your trees with Bt. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a bacterium that naturally occurs in soil. It preys on the caterpillars, causes them to become sick, and ultimately kills them. In late May or early June, young worms hatch and emerge from the bags. This is the best time to spray with Bt. Consult an arborist to determine the best timing and the recommended bacterium strain to spray.

Use Chemical Spray

• Chemical control should be reserved for more severe bagworm infestations. Chemical control involves the use of synthetic chemical pesticides on valuable landscape trees. Acephate, cyfluthrin, and spinosad are recommended chemicals for spraying trees.

These chemicals are minimally toxic to humans and mammals but highly toxic to bees and insects. Therefore, they should be applied in limited amounts only on windless, dry days. This helps the spray dry quickly and prevents it from spreading with the breeze.

Preventing Bagworms

• Bagworms thrive in hot and humid conditions. Although they exist in the entire U.S., they are common in the Southeast and eastern areas of the U.S. Since bagworms commonly attach to weaker trees, keeping your trees and plants healthy is the best preventive measure against them.

In agricultural areas where the use of pesticides is high and frequent, bagworms are a severe problem. This is because the pesticides destroy the predatory insects leaving the spread of bagworms unchecked.

Inspect Regularly

• Regularly inspect your trees and branches to spot small bagworms. Small bagworms indicate a building infestation. They are easily removed by hand to prevent the risk of a severe infestation. In addition, when buying new trees and shrubs, carefully inspect the branches to ensure they are not infested.

This will prevent you from bringing the infested plants into your landscape. Moreover, limiting pesticides around your trees will encourage natural predators to keep bagworms at bay and prevent serious problems.

At American Tree Experts, Inc., we offer the best services to keep your plants out of harm’s way. Our pest management services ensure that your trees are protected from pests throughout the year. Our most sought services are pruning, bracing, pest management, and nutritional management. We offer services in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us at 973-744-6091 for a free quote.

Discover the benefits of regular tree trimming – A guide to keeping your trees healthy and safe

Large overgrown branches block the sunlight from reaching the plants below and give your property an untidy appearance. Regular tree trimming improves the property’s curb appeal and allows you to detect potential tree problems. Continue reading to find out other benefits of regular tree trimming.

Maintains Optimal Health Of The Tree

• When branches are trimmed or pruned regularly, trees remain healthy and survive for a longer duration. It becomes particularly challenging for more giant trees to obtain optimal nutrients from the soil. However, once the branches are trimmed, the tree needs fewer nutrients.

This is because the tree’s energy needs are reduced, and it becomes easy to obtain the required nutrients from the soil. But if the tree is diseased or its branches are infected, it is wiser to remove the affected branches.

Quicker Detection Of Infections And Diseases

• Besides the aesthetic benefits, tree trimming gives you an idea of tree health. Regular trimming reduces the number of overgrown branches. Thus, you can better look at the tree’s physical health. In addition, you can quickly detect a disease or insect infestation and tell if something is wrong with the tree.

Early detection enables you to prune the affected branch or treat the disease before it spreads to the entire tree. However, if left unchecked, infestation or diseases can cause severe damage to your tree, possibly resulting in tree removal. Therefore, regular tree trimming is one of the best approaches to determining the tree’s health and disease severity.

Promotes Energy Production And Growth

• Sunlight is crucial for a tree’s growth. The photosynthesis process can only occur in the presence of sufficient sunlight. The energy a tree produces through photosynthesis is determined by the sunlight reaching its leaves. In addition, the number of leaves also affects photosynthesis.

However, the tree cannot produce enough energy if overgrown branches block the sunlight. The amount of sunlight that reaches the leaves can be improved by trimming the unwanted branches. This way, sunlight will reach the leaves previously shaded by overgrown branches. And the tree’s energy production capacity will increase, enabling it to grow to its full potential.

Healthy And Flavorful Fruits

• Since the large trees with excessive branches struggle to obtain the required nutrients, trimming the unwanted branches will result in healthier fruit production. 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 food.

Saves The Root System

• When roots fail to obtain sufficient water or oxygen, they deteriorate. If the root loss reaches 40%, the tree fails to receive the energy it needs to survive. As a result, the tree begins to die. However, the root system can be saved by regularly trimming the tree. It ensures that the tree gets enough energy it needs to survive.

Increase Your Property’s Value And Curb Appeal

• Untrimmed and overgrown branches can make your property look shabby and unmaintained. However, regular trimming can shape your trees while providing optimal nutrients and creating a tidy appearance. This makes your landscape look naturally beautiful and enhances the property’s curb appeal. In addition, well-kept, aesthetically pleasing trees increase the property’s sale value.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, get in touch with 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.