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.

Learn on to find out the top factors to consider when hiring an arborist for your trees

Trees take decades to reach their full potential but can be disfigured in minutes if you don’t hire the person suited for the job. However, you may wonder what factors to look for in an arborist. We have compiled a list of factors that will help you hire the right person for the upkeep of your landscape.

Hire A Certified Professional

• Hiring a professional ensures you get the best tree care, optimum growth, and high-quality output. When looking for an arborist for your trees, go for certified professionals. They have a certificate of professional training and acknowledgment. Certified arborists have gone through extensive training and worked with various trees.

Therefore, they can work with different types of tree species and issues. In addition, they are knowledgeable about plants, their requirements, and the type of soil suited for each plant. They recommend proper preventive measures for trees that seem to be infested or dying. Moreover, their invaluable expertise and skills can help recover an infested or dying tree.

Years Of Experience On Hand

• Experience is a crucial factor to consider when hiring an arborist. Experienced arborists have worked with various trees in different regions with extreme climates. This helps them develop extensive knowledge to deal with any tree condition.

In addition, the varying moisture content, temperature, and texture of the soil in different regions allow arborists to experiment and identify the ideal soil for specific trees. This way, arborists will use only the ideal soil and moisture content to grow trees. For this reason, trees planted by certified arborists live long and give more flowers and fruit.

Track Record Of Success

• Another factor to consider when hiring an arborist is the proven track record of success. Have a detailed look at their record to determine the success rate and trial and error processes. This can go a long way in providing optimal care to your trees and ensuring their longevity. In addition, their track record gives you a rough idea of their knowledge and experience with trees, soils, and diseases.

Furthermore, it helps you determine how passionate and successful an arborist is in helping trees thrive even under harsh circumstances. Their efforts of saving a tree and helping it grow back are usually mentioned on their track record. Knowing the hard work and dedication an arborist has put into saving a tree from infestation will give you peace of mind that you have chosen the right person for your garden.

Good References

• An expert arborist with professional skills and a high success rate earns the trust of his clients. As a result, clients provide good references. Therefore, it is essential to be thorough in your research to find an arborist with good references and a clientele base. A successful arborist can work with intricate, complex root systems, delicate branches, and climate-sensitive trees.

The outputs of a successful arborist make him popular among clients. Arborists with better output are more likely to be referred to potential clients. So, consult with people who have hired an arborist and get their references.

Should Not Have Any Complaints

• An arborist beautifies trees in homes, parks, and sidewalks. Therefore, an arborist is expected to work diligently to avoid complaints. The work of an arborist should contain minimum errors. Regardless of the type of service you are seeking, whether it is tree shaping, cabling, pruning, pest management, or removal, a successful arborist should be able to do it all without making mistakes.

To get the most professional and affordable tree care services, including removal, nutrient, and pest management services, get in touch with American Tree Experts Inc. We are one of the best tree pruning and removal services in Montclair, New Jersey. Contact us today at 973-774-6091 and book your consultation with our qualified arborists and specialists.

Here is the comprehensive guide to understanding the fertilization needs of different trees

Trees provide shelter from the cold winds of winter, shade in the summer, and a calming presence. Trees need sunshine and an adequate supply of water to remain healthy. But what about fertilizers? Knowing when and how to fertilize different trees is essential if you want them to stay healthy for generations. We have compiled a guide to the fertilization needs of different trees.

Fertilization Needs Of Different Trees

• Different tree species require different amounts and types of fertilizers to live a healthy life. Fertilization depends on several factors, including the type of species, soil, and the plant’s overall health. Overfertilization and under-fertilization are both terrible for your trees. Knowing the right balance is the key. Keep reading to learn how to fertilize different trees.

Hardwood Trees

• Most trees live for centuries and can outlive humans if they are provided with the ample supply of nutrients that they need. When the oak tree is between 2 to 5 years of age, it should be supplied with iron and zinc-containing granular fertilizer. As the oak tree ages, fertilizing once a year would be sufficient.

On the other hand, it is easier to determine the fertilization needs of maple trees. Maple trees that grow about 6 inches a year are good. However, the tree needs fertilizer if the growth is below 2 inches. Slow-release nitrogen fertilizers work best for maple trees.

Fruit Trees

• Fruit trees must get the right amount of fertilizers. Fruit-bearing trees require a lot of energy and nutrients supplied by fertilizers. Even a tiny imbalance in the soil can affect the nutritional content of the fruits.

Therefore, it is essential to conduct a soil test before fertilizing the fruit trees. Generally, nitrogen fertilizers and the annual application of foliar zinc spray maintain optimal health.

Ornamental trees

• Ornamental trees that show average twig growth and have healthy-looking leaves throughout the year do not need fertilizer. However, if your ornamental tree is not growing as well as the previous year, it needs nitrogen fertilizer.

Yellowish leaves indicate chlorosis, which is a condition that occurs when the soil around the tree does not contain sufficient levels of zinc and magnesium.

Evergreen Trees

• Evergreen trees do not grow quickly. This is especially true for the evergreens that have been recently transplanted. If the tree lacks flowers or its needles aren’t as vibrant, it needs a dose of fertilizer. A fertilizer containing phosphorous, nitrogen, and potassium works best for evergreen trees.

How To Fertilize Your Trees

• Evenly spread fertilizer with a nitrogen content of 12 to 30% and phosphorus and potassium content of up to 12%. The fertilizer should be spread over the soil’s surface for a distance of 1-1/2 times the diameter of the branch spread. Ensure that the fertilizer is free from pesticides. After fertilizing, water the tree thoroughly and allow the fertilizer to reach the roots.

When Should You Fertilize Your Trees?

• The best time to fertilize trees is before their active growth begins in early spring. However, some experts suggest that late fall is a better time to fertilize trees. On the other hand, some people take the middle road by fertilizing their trees in early spring and late fall. This may be optional for most trees. Therefore, the best thing to do is to consult an arborist to determine the right time to fertilize your trees.

We at American Tree Experts Inc. are one of the best tree pruning and tree nutrient management services, employing highly qualified arborists and experts. Call us today at 973-774-6091 and let our experts handle all your tree pruning and nutrient management needs.

Here is the list of 5 warning signs of a dying tree

The health of the trees that surround your home is essential. The weak limbs of a dying tree can cause a fall hazard, sabotage your family’s health, and damage your property. Watch for these warning signs of dying trees to prevent property damage and costly repairs.

Cracks In The Bark

• The bark of a dying tree becomes brittle. As the tree dies, the bark becomes loose and starts to fall off. Vertical cracks may be seen on the tree, or the bark may be missing altogether. Watch out for the deep splits that extend from the bark into the tree’s wood. They are an indicator of a dead or dying tree. In addition, cracks are a sign of weakness. A weak tree is a fall hazard and should be removed immediately.

Leafless Tree Branches

• Another sign of a dying tree is a lack of foliage or leafless branches. A dying tree shows only brown and brittle leaves during the growing season. Instead of dropping onto the ground, the dead leaves cling to the branches till winter. A stressed or dying evergreen tree will have red, yellow, or brown leaves or needles.

However, leafless branches on one side of the tree could hint towards root damage or the presence of the pest. Dead leaves indicate an obstructed supply of nutrients from within the tree. Sometimes, the damage is irreversible and requires tree removal.

Root Damage

• Trauma or damage to the root can result in a tree’s death. Tree roots are usually injured during landscaping or construction projects. If roots and branches get in the way of the construction of sidewalks, driveways, etc., they must be removed.

However, they should be cut back carefully; severe cuts can disrupt the feeding and nutrient supply. If the tree near the newly constructed property or landscaping shows signs of root damage, call an arborist and have it inspected. Arborists will determine if the tree can be saved or needs removal.

Presence Of Dead Wood

• A few dead branches do not necessarily mean your tree is dying. However, an abundance of dead wood or branches can signal that your tree is in danger. Dead branches or trunks can fall anytime and cause potential injuries or property damage.

Therefore, they should be removed as soon as possible. In addition, a regular pruning schedule during the dormant season can go a long way in keeping your tree sturdy and healthy.

Pests and fungus

• Trees that are in the process of dying or under stress are a host to pests, including carpenter ants and beetles. Dead or dying branches are the preferred habitat for insects and pests. The depressed or discolored areas usually indicate fungus growth or bacterial infections.

Cankers or mushrooms growing at the base of a tree are signs of trouble. They indicate tree rot in the trunk or roots. Over time, the decay and rot will spread further within the tree, leading to a structural problem.

Professional Tree Removal Services

• It is crucial to consult with an arborist and opt for professional services if you are considering tree removal. An arborist will provide information about the tree’s health and the best way to remove it. In addition, an arborist will provide insight into the potential impacts of tree removal on the adjoining properties.

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

Discover 4 effective methods of tree pruning to control the growth of your trees

Pruning the dead, dying, or diseased branches and the branches that rub together helps maintain healthier plants and safer spaces. In addition, different methods of tree pruning also encourage fruiting and flowering and allow you to shape plants in specific forms. Here’s a list of effective tree-pruning methods to help you control your tree’s growth.

Tree Pruning Methods

• Different tree pruning methods can be used to improve the health and shape of a tree. Air circulation, good light, and strength are the main goals of tree pruning. There are four popularly used methods for effective tree pruning.

Each method involves the crown of the tree. This is because the tree crown is an essential part of the tree that produces leaves for photosynthesis. A strong crown leads to a healthy tree. Let’s discuss each of these methods in detail.

Crown Thinning

• This method involves removing specific healthy branches to reduce the density of a tree. Crown thinning is commonly performed on mature trees to help increase air circulation and sunlight penetration. The stress on the limbs caused by wind, snow, or gravity can also be reduced by crown thinning.

Ensure that thinning is consistent throughout the tree because the goal is not to change the shape or size of the tree. Therefore, only up to 20% of the branches from the edge of the canopy should be removed. Ornamental and fruit trees can be thinned by pruning smaller limbs and ¼ to ½ inch thick.

Crown Raising

• The purpose of crown raising is to lift the hanging or bottom edge of the tree limbs. This can be done to clear up the space for traffic and buildings or to optimize the view. This method is performed gradually over a long period. However, too many branches should not be removed all at once as this could weaken the tree.

Prune every year to remove only a few limbs. While you prune, it is essential to take a few steps back and check the overall balance of the tree. Ensure that the live crown makes up 60% of the tree. The tree can become weaker if the trunk begins to go over 40%. Most solid and healthy conifers are balanced at a 50% trunk and 50% crown ratio.

Crown Reduction

• Crown reduction is another effective tree pruning method typically used on more mature or older trees. It encourages new growth while strengthening the tree. This method removes the tree branch back to a growing lateral branch. In the growing season, the lateral branch becomes part of the new tree crown.

Crow reduction is a comparatively gentle alternative to tree topping. The lesser part of the crown is removed, and old growth is left for structure. Crown reduction helps remove old growth and encourage new growth.

Crown Cleaning

• Cleaning dead, broken, and diseased branches of trees during trimming is called crown cleaning. It can be done as a part of crown raising, thinning, or reduction. Another plus about crown cleaning is that it can be performed any time. Crown cleaning helps strengthen the overall tree. Furthermore, it prevents potential damage to the tree and surrounding property and increases the safety of the landscaping.

Get More Info On Methods of Tree Pruning From Experts

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.

Read and discover 5 lesser-known winter tree dangers

Like humans, trees also need protection and special care during colder seasons. Trees that are exposed to harsh weather conditions sustain substantial damage. Maintenance during winter can help protect trees from winter damage. We have put together a list of winter tree dangers that can help you prepare in advance.

Sun Scald

• Trees do not suffer damage from the cold as long as their dormant tissues remain dormant. However, the problem begins when the bark of a young tree is exposed to sunlight. The strong sun rays warm the young tree tissue and trigger localized activity. As the night falls, the temperature drops, causing non-dormant tissue to freeze.

Active cells are killed during this process, thus damaging the tree. This is known as sun scald and appears in patches of dead bark. Young trees are particularly vulnerable because they have a thin bark less resistant to extreme temperature changes. Sunscald is not only unsightly, but it can also make the tree prone to insects and diseases.

Foliage Damage

• The phenomenon that leads to sun scald is also responsible for damaging the evergreen tree leaves. Exposure to cold winter winds can cause desiccation damage to evergreen foliage. Newly planted evergreens are more susceptible to damage. Wrap your evergreens with burlap or shrub wrap to keep them nicely green.

Wind barriers and temporary screens are also helpful in preventing damage. Moreover, applying anti-desiccant to evergreen foliage can prevent moisture loss from the leaves during the winter. Help needle tissue and leaves stay optimally hydrated in the winter by watering the roots of evergreens in the fall.

Root Damage To Roots

• Extreme cold temperatures can be harmful to tree roots. As the soil temperature drops fairly low, the roots damage and eventually die. Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil. Therefore, it is better to water your trees properly in the fall. Mulch your trees before winter, and pay particular attention to young and shallow-rooted trees.

Frost heaving can expose the tree roots to cold air. Therefore, it is a good idea to lay a 2-4 inch layer of mulch under trees. Mulch will act as an insulator to protect the tree from cold. However, it is better to avoid mulching around the trunk. Otherwise, the mice may use it as shelter.

Damage From Snow

• The tree branches can easily bend or break under the weight of wet snow and ice. Knock excess snow from your trees by gently shaking the branches after heavy snow. Otherwise, it will freeze in hard clumps and cause the tree branches to break. The snow damage can be prevented by loosely tying up the branches during the winter.

Animal Damage

• Wild animals such as deer and Bambi can feed on the twigs and bark of the young trees. Deer are particularly bold and cause significant damage in less time. Keeping wild animals away from your landscape can be challenging. Anti-deer fencing, motion-activated lights, or repellents help keep the animals away from your trees.

Holly, viburnum, spruce, and other deer-resistant tree species are helpful in areas where deer are plentiful. Furthermore, rabbits and rodents are a particular threat. They can quickly wrap a tree in one night because they love to gnaw on tender tree barks. Purchase tree guards or wraps to protect the trunks of young trees from rodents. The trunk wrappings should be removed in the spring.

Get Professional Help With Winter Tree Dangers

At American Tree Experts Inc., we offer the best services to keep your plants out of harm’s way. Our pest control services can help rid your trees of winter pests before their eggs can hatch in spring. Our other most sought services are pruning, bracing, pest management, and nutritional management. We offer services in Mont Clair, New Jersey. Call us at 973-744-6091 for a free quote.