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.

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.