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.

Here is a list of 8 low maintenance trees for your yard

Planting low-maintenance trees in your yard allow you to relax more than working in the front or back yard. We have put together a list of the best low-maintenance trees to transform your yard into a comfortable and relaxing space.

Jacaranda Tree

• If you live in an area with a warmer climate that receives abundant sunlight, jacaranda is one of the best choices for your large outdoor yard. Jacaranda trees have excellent drought tolerance and are resistant to pest infestations and diseases.

The trees have striking lavender and blue flowers that look marvelous in the sun. However, jacaranda trees should not be planted near water features or patios. The leaves and flowers can fall on into these areas, creating a need for cleanup. But when grown in ample space, the leaves can be mown.

Sea Grape Tree

• Grown as a small tree, sea grape is a versatile plant native to Florida. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade. Since it is tolerant to drought, salt, and wind, sea grape is an excellent choice for the coastal environment. It can be pruned to define its shape and size or left untrimmed to take a natural form.

Frangipani Tree

• Frangipani is another beautiful choice for a back or front yard tree. It produces abundant flowers in a sunny environment; It is easier to maintain and does not create any mess. Frangipani is a fast-growing tree that grows well in most soil types. However, well-drained soils are ideal for growing this tree. It can tolerate long periods of drought.

Japanese Maple

• Japanese maple can brighten up any landscape with its delicate branches and vibrant foliage. It has several varieties that provide year-round interest. Japanese maple trees can grow well across most climates except for extremely hot or cold regions.

They can adapt to various soil types and are exceptionally low-maintenance. In addition, they can quickly grow in different light conditions.

Crepe Myrtles

• Crepe myrtles are preferred as landscape plants because of their long summer blooming period. They have vibrant pink, white, and red flowers, as well as beautiful foliage. Crepe myrtles are drought-tolerant and continue to bloom through harsh conditions. They can survive in heat and humidity. They are incredibly low-maintenance and require only yearly pruning.

Redbud Tree

• Redbuds are known for their beautiful spring flowers. They are resistant to heat, drought, insects, and diseases. They are an ideal choice for low-maintenance yard trees.

Since they are medium-sized trees, they can be conveniently grown in smaller yards. Redbud trees are available in different varieties with bright yellow, deep red, or tricolored foliage. They form an umbrella pattern for a lovely shade.

Purple Leaf Plum Tree

• It is one of the most commonly used ornamental trees used in landscaping. Although it produces a small and insignificant number of seeds, it is considered a fruitless tree. It has deep purple foliage from spring through fall.

Purple leaf plum tree has white, delicate flowers that bloom in early spring. This tree is well-suited for small yards as it grows up to 15 feet in height.

Green Giant Arborvitae Tree

• Green giant arborvitae trees are popular in commercial as well as residential areas. They are large, dark green trees that grow in a cone shape. They can grow in various climates and handle strong winds, drought, and harsh weather.

American Tree Experts Inc is a professional tree pruning and nutrient management company. We look after your trees in the best way possible. Contact us at 973-774-6091 today and get a free quote for all your tree-related needs.

Here is the comprehensive guide to tree removal

Whether due to a disease or age, tree removal becomes necessary at some point. However, before removing trees, some essential things need to be considered. We have compiled a comprehensive guide to tree removal for the safest and most professional tree removal process.

Reasons For Tree Removal

• Tree removal should not be taken lightly. A tree growing for years plays an essential role in the localized environment. Removing a tree affects the local fauna and flora. Therefore, a tree should not be removed unless it becomes necessary. Here are a few situations in which tree removal becomes inevitable.

Partially Damaged Tree

• Windstorms can partially or fully damage a tree. If a damaged tree is not removed immediately, it can fall and cause damage to property or human life.

Dead Tree

• A dead tree that has stopped growing is just occupying space. It is better to replace it with a new sapling.

Decaying Tree

• An unhealthy tree with a decayed trunk or dying trunk and leafless branches should be removed.

Renovations Or Remodeling

• If the tree is present in a place you are planning to remodel or renovate, removal becomes necessary to clear up the space for the construction.

Obstruction

• The roots of an old tree expand and grow beneath the property and threaten your property and belongings. Going for tree removal is the best solution in such a case.

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.

This valuable information can help you avoid property damage and eliminate safety concerns if you plan to remove the tree on your own. Furthermore, an arborist can suggest the ideal equipment for the safest tree removal.

Cost Of Tree Removal

Removal of a large tree is a job that requires professional equipment and expertise to ensure safety. The cost of tree removal depends on the following factors:

• Size of the tree
• Type of the species
• Access to the tree
• Disposal of the cut-up tree
• Removal of the tree stump

In addition, the closure of a public accessway or road, local council submission, and the presence of power lines near the tree also affect the cost of its removal. It is best to hire an arborist to collect onsite data to provide a realistic quote for tree removal.

Risks Involved In DIY Tree Removal

• Tree removal is a complex and risky task that experienced arborists should only attempt with appropriate equipment. A typical suburban gum tree weighs anywhere from 5 to 10 tons. If it falls unsafely, the weight could crush the home or property. Thus, creating chaos and leading to injury or even death. In addition, the branches could fall in an uncontrolled way onto people.

Therefore, managing the slow disassembly of the tree structure is crucial. Professionals start by removing the lower branches first. The trunk is then cut into manageable sections. In addition to chainsaws, the experts also use lifts and cranes to manage and lower the heavy weight of wood to the ground.

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.

Here are the top 8 tree pruning tips to help reach your trees their full potential

Removing dead, dying, or diseased tree branches is referred to as tree pruning. Trees are pruned for several reasons that benefit the tree and improve its health. Pruning allows trees to grow and reach their full potential. Continue reading to find out how and why you should trim a tree.

Need For Pruning

• Pruning helps remove the branches that rub together and allows the entire tree to thrive. It opens the canopy and lets the light and air filter throughout the tree. Thus, decreasing the risk of diseases and improving tree health. You strengthen the main tree by cutting out the extra branches, enabling it to withstand harsh weather and strong winds. In addition, specialized pruning and trimming techniques encourage fruiting and flowering.

Plants can be shaped into specific forms, and their size can be controlled by cutting them in a specific way. Pruning is also done for safety reasons. Dead branches and weak limbs become a safety concern for people and property. Trimming these branches can create a safe environment for your family.

Rule 1

• Begin by pruning the weakest tree first and the strongest one last. Do not wait for the right season to prune the diseased or dead branches. Trees that are pruned in early winter grow better than those that are pruned before or after flowering.

Rule 2

• The best time to prune trees is when the plants are dormant. This reduces the stress on trees. Additionally, it becomes easier to access the limbs and branches and make the right cuts during dormancy.

Rule 3

• Follow the 1/3 rule for fruiting trees. Tree care experts recommend this rule to ensure fruiting trees remain productive. Trim around 1/3rd of the branch only. Cutting more than that could result in damaged or stunted growth. However, pruning too little will not provide the desired results.

Rule 4

• The ideal types of tree pruning cuts recommended by qualified arborists are:

A Thinning Cut

• It helps remove the entire shoot or branch without affecting the tree’s shape, health, and growth.

A Heading Cut

• A heading cut helps promote the growth of new, vigorous shoots. In addition, it creates shade and crowding. However, too many minor headings cuts can irritate a tree and affect its health.

Rule 5

• Avoid cutting the heads until the structure of the tree has formed. The tree remains calmer if you do not interfere with the head.

Rule 6

Altogether remove the following:

• Branches that are girdling other branches.
• Branches that grow towards the center of the plant.
• Suckers are unwanted shoots that grow directly from the roots and appear near the tree’s base. Remove the suckers.
• Water sprouts grow straight, almost perpendicular to dominant branches. Remove them.
• Also, remove the branches that have narrow angles.

Rule 7

• Regular pruning is crucial for the optimal health of a tree. A well-shaped tree can be maintained by pruning the trees annually. Avoid over-pruning or neglecting some branches. Generally, no more than 30% of the plant should be removed. Over-pruning can remove significant portions of the plant’s nutrient reserves and cause permanent damage.

Rule 8

• Regular pruning and trimming is the best way to maintain an ideal tree height and ensure the proper structure. It can be hard to prune a tall tree, so it is best to start the pruning process when it is younger.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, then 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.

Here is a thorough guide to identifying tree pests and how to control them

Pests love trees, some head straight to leaves while others attack fruits. Some of these pests are worst than others. They invade through the bark and cut off the tree’s water supply. Healthy trees usually bounce back from pest attacks. However, repeated infestations can be fatal for a tree. Read this guide to promptly identify and control pest infestations.

Identifying Tree Borers

• Tree borers are often the most dangerous type of pests. They bore into the trunk, and munch on the roots or branches causing a tree to die in no time. Some tree borers lay eggs on the trees. When the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow deeply into the wood. As a result, the water flow of the tree is hindered.

Watch out for the following signs:

• Entry or exit holes in the bark
• Small heaps of sawdust at the base of the tree
• Wilting of different sections of the tree crown.

Identifying Tree Suckers

• Tree suckers are another harmful type of pest. They draw the liquid from the leaves and twigs and excrete a sticky, sweet substance. This substance is known as honeydew. Honeydew promotes the growth of sooty mold on leaves, damaging your tree even further.

The following signs indicate suckers inhabit a tree:

• Formation of scales on branches
• Dead leaves
• Presence of sticky honeydew

Identifying Emerald Ash Borer

• An emerald ash borer is a small metallic green-colored beetle. This tiny beetle is responsible for destroying millions of ash trees in different states. The emerald ash borer is native to Asia. It reached the United States, hidden in wood packing materials.

It is harmful to all species of ash trees. Since the larvae of the ash borer feed on the inner bark of ash trees, it cuts off the water and nutrient supply of the tree. It takes only a few years for an infested tree to die completely. However, if you catch the pests early, there is hope.

Here are a few ways to identify emerald ash borer:

• The beetle is about half an inch in length and an eighth of an inch wide.
• Foliage is thin, yellow, or wilted.
• Since woodpeckers eat emerald ash borer larvae hidden under the bark, you will find more woodpeckers than usual.
• Pecking holes in the tree.
• D-shaped exit holes.
• Shoots growing from tree trunks or roots.

Controlling Tree Pests

• Healthy trees can withstand occasional pest attacks without being damaged. Water and fertilize your trees regularly. Add mulch and prune throughout the year.
• Pruning should be done in late fall or winter; this would prevent open wounds that attract pests.
• Remove the dead and fallen branches right away.
• The emerald ash borer larvae can survive for several days in the bark of firewood. It is better to purchase local firewood.
• Ask the supplier to know where the firewood came from.
• Regularly inspect your trees to observe any signs of pest infestation and act fast to control them.

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

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

Read on to learn the essential plant nutrients for development, seed, and fruit by reading on

Growing plants is not as easy as it seems. Just like humans, plants need different nutrients for their growth and development. Few of these nutrients are needed in large amounts and are referred to as essential nutrients. While others that are needed in trace amounts are known as micronutrients.

Essential Nutrients

Essential nutrients are also known as macronutrients. These nutrients are crucial for a tree’s growth and should be provided to trees in large quantities.

Nitrogen

• Nitrogen is a part of chlorophyll and helps a plant or tree synthesize food using water and sunlight. Nitrogen is essential for stimulating the growth of stalks and leaves. Chlorophyll is the primary pigment responsible for the vibrant green color of plants. However, excess nitrogen decreases immunity and affects a tree’s ability to produce fruit.

Phosphorus

• Phosphorous strengthens the root system and increases a plant’s ability to withstand environmental stress and weather changes. It assists flower growth and increases the plant’s capacity for seed creation. Phosphorus is also essential for strengthening tissue growth in fruits and vegetables.

Potassium

• Potassium is another essential nutrient crucial for root growth and seed production. It enhances a tree’s ability to withstand extreme temperatures. A plant with sufficient potassium levels yields healthy fruits.

It works in synergy with phosphorous to protect a plant from diseases and increases its ability to heal. However, excess potassium inhibits the absorption of other minerals, such as magnesium and calcium.

Calcium

• Calcium is essential for the growth and development of plant cell walls. Well-developed cell walls increase a plant’s ability to resist diseases. It strengthens and supplements the overall tissue growth of plants.

In addition, calcium also neutralizes the acidity within the plant and surrounding environment. It also plays a vital role in nitrogen uptake by plants and is necessary for plant metabolism.

Magnesium

• Just like nitrogen, magnesium contributes to the green color of plants by boosting the production of chlorophyll. It gives a healthy green color to plants and encourages the absorption of CO2. It is also essential for the absorption of phosphorous. Plants that lack magnesium have poor color and a frail appearance.

Sulfur

• When it comes to a plant’s health, sulfur has several functions. It contributes to plant growth and the formation of seeds and increases resistance to diseases. Sulfur is also required by the plant for the production of proteins, amino acids, enzymes, and other vitamins.

Micronutrients

• Although micronutrients are needed in small amounts, they are essential for the overall well-being of your trees and plants. These are naturally present in the soil and usually not required from external sources. Therefore, they should not be added to the soil without the recommendation of an arborist.

Boron

• Born helps a tree to form seeds and fruits and controls the balance of other nutrients in the plant.

Copper

• It plays a crucial role in reproduction and assists in the absorption and digestion of other nutrients through plant roots.

Chloride

• Its function is quite similar to copper. It helps enhance a tree’s metabolic processes.

Iron

• Iron plays an essential part in chlorophyll synthesis.

Manganese

• Manganese and zinc support the enzymatic system of a tree. In addition, it digests carbohydrates and converts nitrogen to a usable form.

Molybdenum

• It works in combination with manganese to convert nitrogen.

Only a certified arborist knows when and how much nutrients to provide. If your tree is not growing correctly, consult an arborist to help you find the right solution.

If you suspect that your plants and trees are experiencing a nutrient deficiency, then 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.

Here are four tree cabling facts that will help you protect yourself and your home

Trees are not only beautiful to look at but also enhance the aesthetics of any landscape. However, mature trees with multiple trunks or low-hanging limbs can be a threat. Tree cabling is an effective method to reduce the hazards of certain trees. Here are a few things you need to know about tree cabling.

Cabling Is A Common Gardening Practice

• Tree cabling is a simple practice that helps support weak branches. It involves using high-strength cables and bolts to guide a tree’s growth. It holds the tree branches and limbs in place, thus preventing them from growing awkwardly, breaking, or bending. This bracing technique gives the tree the support it needs to continue growing.

The cable is flexible, restricts the weak branches’ movement and allows them to grow more controlled manner. In severe cases where a cable cannot offer the required support, rigid bracing rods are installed along with cables to redistribute structural stress. This technique helps support the physical structure of trees whilst keeping them in their natural environment.

Cabling Protects, Preserves, and Prevents Trees

• Trees form weak unions as they grow and branch out. Some branches overextend in search of sunlight and nutrients. A compromised limb endangers the whole structure of the tree by causing it to split and form weak spots.

Tree cabling improves the structural integrity of weak trees in three ways:

Prevention

• Tree cabling helps to reduce the risk of limb failure in areas with weak spots or multiple crotches. Crotches are the areas where the tree limbs are separated. Cabling helps to support the tree by distributing the weight of the branches more evenly.

Even if the tree is healthy, adding a few cables can prevent these problems. In addition, cabling helps improve the tree’s appearance by training the limbs to grow in a more aesthetically pleasing way.

Preservation

• Tree cabling preserves a tree’s structural strength. Even if your tree is already compromised, cabling prevents further damage by stabilizing the limbs and trunk so they can’t rub against each other and cause more splits.

Protection

• Some low-hanging or weak branches are obvious hazards. These potentially dangerous trees on your property can be protected with tree cabling and bracing. An arborist may even recommend removing the tree depending on the damage and the distance of the tree from your home. Protective methods are crucial especially when the trees are located in populated areas.

Tree Cabling Requires Professional Services

• Tree cabling is a technical and dangerous process that should not be attempted as a DIY task. Hire qualified professionals to perform the service for you. Arborists begin by drilling holes in the compromised and the stronger limb. The cable of the correct length is threaded through these holes. A pully system is then used to pull the two cabled stems together until they are in the correct position for optimal stability.

The cable should be taught but not too tight. If the cable is too tight, it will put more strain on the weak limb. On the other hand, the loose cable will fail to provide the right amount of support. Once the cable is in perfect position, the arborist will fix it and add a finishing cap for a finished appearance.

Tree Species That Benefit Most From Cabling

• Trees that grow wide have open canopies, and multiple trunks benefit the most from tree cabling. These include the Live Oak, River Birch, Arizona Ash, Pecan, Cedar Elm, etc.

To get the best tree cabling and bracing services, contact America Tree Inc. We offer multiple tree care and maintenance services in Montclair, New Jersey, and nearby areas. To get a free estimate of our services, call us at 973-744-6091.

Read on to find out why winter is the best season to prune trees

Winter is the dormant season for trees and plants. Pruning trees at this time, before the active spring growth occurs, is best for your tree’s health and all-around safety. In addition, dormant tree pruning helps avoid infections, parasitic attacks, and other inconveniences. Here are five reasons that make winter the best season to prune your trees.

What Is Dormant Pruning?

• The trees surrounding a house are not actively growing during the late fall and winter. The process of conducting pruning when the trees are resting is called dormant tree pruning. The dormancy cycle of a tree depends on its type, size, age, and overall health. Trees are cold and hardy during this phase.

Reasons To Prune Your Trees In Winter

• Establishing a schedule to prune your trees when they are dormant has several benefits, including:

Steady Growth Cycles

• Trees become dormant in the winter and do most of their growing and healing during the warmer months. Warmer seasons, like late spring and early summer, play a crucial role in the tree’s life cycle.

By pruning trees in winter, you avoid disrupting the vital growth phase of the trees and allow them to grow freely. However, when you prune your trees in the warmer season, they have to divert their resources to closing wounds and will not be able to grow correctly.

Improves Visibility

• Another reason to prune your trees in winter is the visibility and access to the branches. Since the foliage is not in the way during winter, you can see the structure of the trees. This allows you to choose where to prune. In addition, it helps detect deadwood, rotten, and diseased spots more clearly. It is significantly easier to prune large trees in the winter. It allows you to securely tie off the limbs, climb easily, and have maximum visibility.

Thus, enabling you to do a good job. Moreover, potential hazards are eliminated by removing densely crossed branches and weak limbs during the winter. This allows the sunlight to reach the lower vegetation without impedance, thereby ensuring the health of your entire landscape.

Reduced Risk Of Infestations

• There are fewer bugs, insects, fungi, and bacteria during winter. The spread of pest diseases is significantly reduced during colder months. This makes winter a perfect time to prune large trees since these parasites cannot take advantage of the wounds.

On the other hand, insects and other predators are highly active during the warmer months. The fresh pruning wounds give them an ideal environment to thrive and damage trees. These invasive species are dormant during the winter, thus alleviating your tree’s vulnerability to a possible infestation.

Promotes Faster Healing

• Winter is the resting period for your trees. Tree pruning during this time will result in minimal sap loss, which puts less stress on the trees. In addition, this downtime provides your trees more time to heal from wounds. Moreover, the damaged or dead trees are dangerous in winter, particularly during windstorms, as they increase safety concerns.

However, DIY pruning is not advisable since you have to climb trees up to a certain height to do it successfully. This increases the risk of injury. Hiring a qualified arborist eliminates risks and prepares your yard to receive all the sunshine.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, then 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 with your pruning and other queries, and we will give you a fantastic quote for free.

Here are DIY tips to protect your trees from insects and pets

Trees provide several benefits, from beauty and shade to privacy, but only if they are healthy and free from insects and diseases. Danger lurks in every corner when it comes to trees in your yard. So the key is to protect your trees from pests and insects all year round. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Regular Pruning And Trimming

• Pest infestations and diseases can be prevented through the proper maintenance of trees. Therefore, it is essential to keep your trees trimmed. Regular pruning and trimming allow better exposure to sunlight and promote airflow, which helps protect trees from pests. To prevent the spread of disease, pruning shears should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, a solution of one part bleach and one part water can also be used.

After you are done pruning your trees, oil shears to prevent corrosion. The dried-up fruits from the last year may be diseased, so pick them up from the trees or yard. Dead leaves can harbor insect colonies that spread diseases through their spores. So burn the fallen leaves before winter.

Provide Optimal Hydration

• Optimal hydration is crucial to prevent branches from drying and breaking. Therefore it should not be overlooked. Broken branches pose threats to pest infestations and disease. In addition, they look unattractive and unsafe.

So, water your trees as necessary and add an anti-desiccant spray to supplement your watering routine. During dry weather, when trees cannot absorb enough water from the ground, the anti-desiccant spray helps trees and shrubs retain water.

Tree Wraps And Dormant Oils

• Harsh weather can damage your trees in several ways. Tree wraps are a great way to protect trees against potential weather and insect damage. Tree wraps eliminate the effects of excess heat while at the same time allowing water and air to flow. The sun’s rays reflect off the snow and cause the tree trunks to crack, a phenomenon known as sunscald. Tree wraps also help protect trees from sunscald.

Protecting your trees from splitting and scalding is essential to help prevent pest infestations. Tree wraps act as a natural barrier against pests. Another weapon in the fight against insects and pests is oil. Spray fruit trees with dormant oils before buds appear. This helps kill insects, their larvae, and eggs. Moreover, these oils also protect delicate shoots and leaves.

Well-Timed Monitoring And Action

• Another essential tip to prevent pest infestations is regularly monitoring plants and trees. This allows for early detection of insects and pests when their population is low. When the insects have not yet spread to the entire tree, they are easier to eradicate.

Winter is the best time to check for these pests. Observe pitch tubes on the tree trunks. If you find any, remove a piece of bark and see if the area is discolored. If so, the tree may need to be removed. But regularly

Follow Proper Tree Care Practices

• Just by following good tree care practices, you can keep insects and pests away.
• Remove dead leaves and fruits from the base of the trees.
• Drought-stressed plants are susceptible to damage, so water them throughout the year.
• A thick layer of mulch can help prevent weeds and retain moisture.
• Apply organic matter regularly.
• Provide extra care to damaged trees.

If you are unsure whether your tree has been infested with a pest, then contact American Tree Experts Inc today.  Our pest control services can help rid your trees of winter pests before their eggs have the chance to hatch in spring. Call us at 973-774-6091 today and let us help you with our wide range of services.