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Why you should care – The hidden dangers of tree fungus and how to stop them

Your trees face various challenges throughout their lifetime, including the tree fungus. These fungi manifest in diverse forms, from seemingly benign shelf mushrooms to the more deadly Rhizosphaera Needle Cast. While you can’t completely cure a tree of fungus, you can restore your tree’s health and vitality. Read this guide to identify and mitigate the impact of tree fungus to keep your trees healthy and thriving.

What is Tree fungus?

• Fungi are diverse spore-producing organisms and thrive on organic matter, including molds, yeast, mushrooms, and toadstools. These fungal species grow across North America and worldwide. Fungal infections can occur in several ways. For instance, mushrooms on a tree trunk often indicate the presence of wood decay fungi.

These infections can impact any part of a tree, resulting in infected branches, discolored tree bark, or dead wood. However, many fungi play beneficial roles, actively participating in decomposition and nutrient cycling within diverse ecosystems. Additionally, these fungi contribute to carbon dioxide fixation in the soil, preventing climate change.

Types of Fungi

• While many fungi establish friendly relationships with trees in symbiosis, certain types of fungi can pose a threat and cause substantial damage. Two particularly hazardous types of fungus are root rot and collar rot, each capable of wreaking havoc on trees. Let’s explore these menacing varieties:

1. Root Rot

• Root rot targets the roots of trees and indoor and outdoor plants. Infected tree roots transform, becoming slimy and mushy, hindering their ability to absorb water, oxygen, and nutrients.

Various fungi contribute to root rot, including:

Armillaria (Shoestring Fungus)

• They affect various plants, including palms, succulents, and trees. Initial signs include dropping leaves, yellowing, and upper limb dieback.

Phytophthora

• They typically infect trees and plants in poorly drained areas, leading to rapidly wilting and dying leaves and branches, especially in heat.

Pythium

• Often linked to grass die-off but can also infect conifers and hardwoods, causing leaf, branch, and limb loss or stunted growth.

Fusarium

• Commonly associated with stressed or injured trees, causing wilting, yellowing leaves, and decayed roots in various tree species.

Rhizoctonia

• Primarily impacts seedlings and young trees, while rot symptoms in older trees may be attributed to another fungus.

Thielaviopsis (Black Root Rot)

• Particularly threatening to palms, this fungus consumes the plant from the inside out, ultimately leading to its collapse.

They are typically associated with areas of poor drainage or persistent moisture. Addressing the issue promptly with expert guidance can often save the tree from irreversible damage.

2. Collar Rot

• Collar rot is a fungal infection that targets the collar. The collar is the portion right above the ground that widens beneath the trunk and above the root flare. The collar requires its place above ground to receive essential light nutrients and, crucially, to remain dry. Excessive water exposure or burial in the soil creates a favorable environment for collar rot. While Phytophthora is a common cause, several other species, both host-specific and more general, can contribute to collar rot.

Fruit trees, in particular, face increased vulnerability. Recognizing collar rot involves identifying symptoms such as cankers on the trunk between the soil line and crown roots, scattered yellow leaves appearing mid-season, a reddish or purple tint in the foliage by late September, and sparse foliage coupled with reduced vigor.

If you fear that your trees and plants are suffering from fungus, then waste no time and contact American Tree Experts. We provide effective and proactive Disease Management for plants and trees. Call us at (973) 744-6091 to get a free estimate of our services. We operate in Mont Clair, New Jersey, and nearby areas.

The pros and cons of treating nutrient deficiencies in trees – Making informed decisions

Nutrient deficiencies commonly occur when plants do not receive a sufficient supply of essential nutrients necessary for their growth and development. Without these nutrients, plants will fail to grow, become susceptible to diseases, and show symptoms of nutrient deficiencies. Keep reading to explore signs that indicate your tree needs prompt nutrient supply.

Signs of Nitrogen Deficiency

• When trees lack nitrogen, a noticeable yellowing of leaves becomes apparent. This is known as chlorosis. Also, leaves may exhibit more vibrant fall colors and premature drop, and the tree might produce small fruit.

Addressing nitrogen deficiencies involves fertilization, either through surface broadcasting or, preferably, deep-root fertilization. This treatment ensures nitrogen reaches the tree’s roots, subsequently being absorbed. It’s advisable to periodically address nitrogen deficiency in the soil for sustained tree health.

Signs of Phosphorus (P) Deficiency

Phosphorus is the second key element in fertilizers, and plants absorb it primarily in phosphate. This nutrient plays a crucial role in various processes, including:

• Promotes photosynthesis
• Facilitates protein formation
• Supporting seed germination
• Stimulates blooming
• Expedites the budding phase

Furthermore, phosphorus leads to faster plant maturity. Plants experiencing a deficiency in phosphorus show distinctive signs, such as a purple or bronze discoloration on the undersides of older leaves. This coloration results from the accumulation of the pigment Anthocyanin. Affected plants exhibit slow growth and stunted development compared to their healthy counterparts.

Signs of Iron Deficiency

• When trees and shrubs lack iron, the yellowing of leaves occurs. However, this yellowing is inconsistent across the leaf or the entire tree. The veins remain dark in iron-deficient leaves, while the surrounding tissue transitions to light green or yellow. Some trees may display symptoms on a single branch while the rest of the tree appears unaffected.

Treatment options include surface applications, deep root injection, and foliar sprays. High soil pH can exacerbate iron deficiency, rendering it unavailable for plants. This is often observed in soil around new buildings contaminated by lime in mortar from block, brick, or stucco, raising the pH and limiting iron availability. In such cases, addressing soil pH is crucial to making nutrients accessible for optimal plant health.

Signs of Manganese Deficiency

• Trees experiencing a shortage of manganese display symptoms similar to iron deficiency, with yellow leaves featuring green veins. Additionally, these leaves may appear wilted, and the fruit may be smaller than usual.

Treatment options involve foliar sprays and soil applications. Like iron, manganese becomes less available in soils with high pH, necessitating attention when pH limits manganese availability.

Signs of Potassium (K) Deficiency

• Potassium is another major component in fertilizers and is needed by plants to support sugar formation for protein synthesis, cell division, and root development. Additionally, potassium makes plants more resistant to diseases and pests.

A deficiency of potassium appears in the form of leaf edge chlorosis on newly matured leaves. If the deficiency is not promptly addressed, necrosis spreads from the leaf edge to the midrib. The chlorosis associated with potassium deficiency is irreversible even if potassium is supplied to plants.

Addressing Nutrient Deficiency

• It’s essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by factors such as pests, diseases, or environmental stress. So, it’s advisable to have a professional, such as an arborist, evaluate the tree and conduct a soil test to identify any nutrient deficiencies and develop a proper treatment plan.

To correct any nutrient deficiencies or other tree issues, contact American Tree Experts Inc. We are a professional tree pruning and nutrient management company. Our experts will develop a customized plant healthcare program and look after your trees as best as possible. Call us at (973) 774-6091 today for a free quote for all your tree-related needs.

How does fertilization enhance the health of trees? Understanding the science behind nutrient supplementation

A tree fertilizing program is crucial for maintaining the growth and health of your trees. Fertilizers provide the main macronutrients required for tree growth and metabolic functions. Additionally, well-nourished trees are more resilient to stress, diseases, and pest attacks. Keep reading to understand the significance of fertilization for your trees.

An Overview Of Tree Fertilization

• Fertilizer includes natural or chemical substances added to soil to enhance its health and nutrient content. Typically, chemical-based fertilizers contain a blend of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K). The specific quantities required for a tree depend on the existing levels of each element in the soil. It is advisable to have a tree care professional assess the soil quality around a tree to determine the appropriate balance of N-P-K needed in the complete fertilizer.

The frequency of fertilization varies based on the age of the tree. Since young saplings are sensitive in their early stages, they require small applications of quick-release fertilizer. Developing trees can handle regular fertilizers and should be fertilized twice a year, ideally during the growing season. Mature trees have complex root systems that span a wide area, allowing them to absorb nutrients and water from a broader range of soil. Therefore, mature trees don’t require as many added nutrients as younger trees, so an annual fertilization is sufficient.

Benefits Of Tree Fertilization

Here are the top benefits of tree fertilization.

Encourages Tree Growth

• Regular tree fertilization is crucial for fostering healthy growth. In the early stages, fertilization provides essential nutrients for a young tree, supporting the growth of a robust root system and facilitating rapid upward and outward growth. As the tree matures, consistent nourishment becomes necessary for sustenance and growth.

Protects Against Diseases

• Tree fertilization provides an added layer of protection against diseases. Consider fertilizer as the equivalent of food for trees. Just as a well-balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean meats supports human health and immune function, providing the right fertilizers to trees ensures they receive the necessary nutrition to stay healthy and resilient against potential diseases.

Facilitates Healing Of Injured Trees

• Another reason for prioritizing tree fertilization is its role in recovering injured or damaged trees. Trees can face various threats, including insect damage, pruning-related harm, or injury from strong winds. When a tree experiences such damage, providing the right nutrients through fertilization becomes essential for prompt and effective healing.

Fertilization Methods for Trees

• Determining the most suitable fertilization method for your trees involves consulting a tree care specialist. Here are three primary fertilization approaches:

Compost

• Compost consists of decayed plant matter and mimics the natural fertilizer found in forests. This organic material provides essential nutrients for a tree’s healthy growth. While compost takes longer to absorb as it relies on soil microorganisms for processing, it is an environmentally friendly and beneficial fertilization method. To apply compost, spread it around the base of the trunk and generously sprinkle it over the surrounding root areas.

Organic Fertilizers

• Organic fertilizers are derived from plant and animal-based materials and exclude composted substances. Although more expensive than inorganic alternatives, organic fertilizers are environmentally friendly and pose minimal harm to trees.

Inorganic Fertilizers

• Commonly chosen for its cost-effectiveness, inorganic fertilizer is absorbed quickly compared to organic options. Although less environmentally friendly, it is popular for providing trees with essential nutrients. Inorganic fertilizers offer a quick nutrient release, supporting the tree’s growth and health.

Enlist the services of a skilled arborist to ensure optimal results from tree fertilization. American Tree Experts Inc. provides the best 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.

Gardening made easy – A practical guide to common plant diseases and their treatment

Plants are vital in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining life on Earth. However, like any living organism, plants are susceptible to diseases affecting their health and growth. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or new, this guide provides valuable insights to help you identify and address common plant diseases to keep your plants healthy and disease-free.

Powdery Mildew

• Powdery mildew, with its distinctive white, dusty coating, affects various plants, including fragrant lilacs, apples, grapes, cucumbers, peas, daisies, and roses. This common plant disease can severely compromise the health of plants.

Treatment

• A proactive approach involves raking and promptly disposing of infected leaves to minimize the spread of spores. Additionally, ensure your plants enjoy optimal conditions by providing good drainage and ample air circulation. Adopt a watering routine that avoids overhead irrigation at night.

Instead, mid-morning watering sessions are a better approach as they allow the leaves to dry before the evening. Commercial fungicides tailored to powdery mildew are available for those seeking more targeted interventions. Alternatively, you can use a natural remedy recommended by gardening experts.

Downy Mildew

• Downy mildew is challenging for plants, including impatiens, pansies, columbine, grapevines, lettuce, and cole crops like broccoli and cauliflower. Unlike powdery mildew, downy mildew is triggered by fungus-like organisms.

It typically emerges in damp conditions, causing discoloration on the upper part of leaves and the development of white or gray mold on the undersides.

Treatment

• Addressing downy mildew involves simple practices. When possible, choose plant varieties that show resistance to this condition. While specific fungicides for downy mildew are unavailable, cultural approaches can be effective. If your plants are affected, promptly remove and dispose of infected leaves or even entire plants if the infestation is widespread.

Follow these practices to prevent the recurrence of downy mildew:

• Avoid overcrowding plants
• Refrain from evening watering
• Practice crop rotation for edibles yearly

With these practical measures, you can mitigate the impact of downy mildew and promote the well-being of your ornamental and edible plants.

Black spot

• It is a fungal disease commonly affecting roses, various other flowers, and fruits. While it is not fatal to plants, its presence weakens them and makes them more susceptible to additional issues. In cooler, moist conditions, small black spots appear on the foliage, turning the affected leaves yellow and eventually detaching them from the plant.

Treatment

• It is crucial to remove and dispose of diseased canes and leaves before the onset of winter, as the fungus overwinters in these areas. Maintaining clean and dry foliage is key to preventing black spots. This can be achieved through mulching beneath plants, strategically positioning roses in the morning sun for dew evaporation, and adopting a watering method that targets the roots rather than wetting the foliage.

For those seeking additional measures, consider incorporating black spot-resistant rose varieties into your garden. Furthermore, a preventative application of fungicide can protect plants from this disease.

Mosaic Viruses

• Mosaic viruses are a challenge for gardeners. It has two types: the tomato mosaic virus and the tobacco mosaic virus. The former targets tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, apples, pears, and cherries, while the latter infects peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, beets, petunias, and tobacco.

Treatment

• Various symptoms can identify viruses, including yellowing, stunted growth, deformed fruits, and diminished yield. A proactive approach involves removing and disposing of infected plants, including roots. It is advisable to avoid planting susceptible species in the same area for two years to prevent reoccurrence.

If you fear that your trees and plants are suffering from plant diseases, then waste no time and contact American Tree Experts. We provide effective and proactive Disease Management for plants and trees. Call us at (973) 744-6091 to get a free estimate of our services. We operate in Mont Clair, New Jersey, and nearby areas.

Are you ready for winter? 5 tips to prepare your garden this winter

Plants are genetically able to detect atmospheric shifts and proactively adapt to them. However, higher winter temperatures stimulate growth and flowering, and cooler temperatures slow growth. Preparing your garden when the temperature drops below freezing is important to ensure it bounces back strong in the spring. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, these tips will help protect delicate plants and optimize soil health.

Protect Flowering Plants

• While plants usually survive the cold winter weather, the flowers on winter-flowering plants like camellias, plum, and cherry trees are in danger. A severe freeze can harm buds when they are swollen and about to bloom. The damage may not be apparent until the flowers open, revealing brown spots on the petals.

Sometimes, the entire bud might freeze and fall off the plant. Fully bloomed flowers may turn an unhealthy brown or drop to the ground. It’s advisable to cover plants with buds and open flowers using an old sheet or a commercially available frost cover to protect flowers. Avoid using plastic, as it can create an oven effect when exposed to sunlight.

Prune Your Plants

• Take advantage of the winter season to prune your plants. It’s an ideal time to focus on shaping young deciduous trees for better structure. Observing the tree’s form and addressing issues like crossing wood is easier without leaves. Additionally, once the flower buds have set, winter is the perfect time for hydrangea pruning.

Trim the old wood and prune the shrubs back to the healthy, plump flower buds for a vibrant display in the coming year. In addition, winter is the essential period for pruning roses. After pruning, apply a seaweed-based product to condition the soil. This helps in drought tolerance and enhances resistance to frost, pests, and diseases, ensuring your plants thrive.

Remove Weed

• As winter sets in, taking time to de-weed your garden is advisable. Unchecked weed growth can become a significant issue. Early winter is the perfect opportunity to address them. Remove weeds from the root, especially those growing through paving joints.

While weed killers are an option, consider eco-friendly alternatives to minimize environmental impact. Keep in mind if you are spraying chemicals too close to your garden border, it can affect neighboring plant growth.

Protect Your Garden from Water Damage

• As the risk of heavy rain increases, protecting your garden from flooding and water-logging becomes crucial. Enhance your soil through year-round cultivation to safeguard your plants from rot and decay during downpours. Consider using raised beds to elevate plants out of harm’s way, providing an additional layer of protection with stone walling for both practicality and style.

Prevent further flooding by installing permeable paving, allowing water to drain swiftly instead of pooling. For a well-maintained lawn, rake off leaves and aerate using a garden fork to create intervals in the grass, ensuring proper water drainage and a healthy, thriving garden.

Add Organic Mulch

• Mulching is an eco-friendly gardening practice, especially effective when using the right materials. Consider covering your garden beds with thick organic substances like mulch or wood chippings.

This protective layer protects plants from freezing temperatures and helps minimize soil erosion caused by winter rainfall. Organic mulching is essential for a healthier and more sustainable garden.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, contact American Tree Experts Inc. today. We are a group of tree experts working in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us today at (973) 744-6091, and we will give you a fantastic quote for free.

Read this for 7 simple steps to planting trees for success

Planting a tree requires more than digging a hole and placing a sapling in the ground. It’s a process of nurturing life, contributing to the environment, and ensuring the tree’s healthy growth for years. Therefore, following certain measures is crucial to ensure your trees flourish and thrive. We have discussed simple steps to help you create a greener, more sustainable landscape.

Pick the Ideal Tree and Location

• Select a tree species suitable for your local climate and environment. Consider the projected height and root system before planting your tree. Ensure sufficient space for the tree to develop a mature canopy and root structure without affecting nearby trees, shrubs, paths, or buildings.

Properly Prepare the Planting Hole

• Ensure the planting hole is at least three times wider than the current root mass when preparing a hole for planting. When digging the hole, go for a square shape rather than a round one. The hole’s depth should ideally match the root ball’s height or be just an inch deeper.

Planting trees too deeply may cause them to fail. Before proceeding to the next step, re-measure the hole to ensure it meets the desired dimensions.

Prune As Necessary

• Trees, particularly those that remain in retail nurseries for extended periods, may sometimes show signs of dead roots or branches. In such instances, cautiously trim only the dead portions to enhance the chances of survival for your new tree.

Plant the Tree

• When transferring the tree to the hole, it should be held by its root ball or container rather than its trunk. Once positioned in the hole, carefully eliminate any burlap or other extraneous materials.

Ensure that the top of the root ball aligns with the ground’s level surrounding the hole. Avoid packing the soil when gently backfilling the hole to prevent damage to the delicate roots. Only add the same soil into the hole without adding any fertilizers.

Consider Staking

• Staking may be necessary for about six months to provide additional stability during the tree’s early growth stages. However, do not stake for longer than a year. By this time, the tree’s root system should develop enough strength to stand on its own and endure environmental factors.

Improper staking can potentially harm the root ball, so it’s advisable to have an arborist secure the stake. If you do it yourself, ensure the stake penetrates well below the root ball and passes through it between the roots. When attaching, use zip ties or gardener’s tape, allowing the tree some room to sway in the wind.

Apply Mulch

• Mulching is critical to retaining moisture for your newly planted tree when watering. However, excessive mulching or covering the trunk and root flare can be more damaging than not mulching at all.

Avoid trapping moisture around the root ball or trunk, as it may lead to disease and decay. Mulching maintains moisture and makes it accessible for the roots while safeguarding against potential issues. If you reside where rodents or deer pose a threat, consider constructing a protective barrier around the tree until it becomes well-established.

Add Water

• Water your newly planted tree for the first time to let the soil settle without packing. Trees generally benefit from thorough soaking rather than frequent, light sprinklings. During the initial couple of years, you should give your tree weekly watering to 6-8 gallons per inch of trunk diameter. Unless you are experiencing drought conditions, you can gradually reduce or discontinue watering after the first few years.

Make the right choice for your trees. Contact American Tree Experts, Inc., for comprehensive tree care services in Montclair, New Jersey. Contact us today at (973) 744-6091 to ensure your trees receive the expert care they deserve.

The ultimate tree lover’s guide – 5 strategies for optimal soil care!

The soil is the foundation of a healthy landscape, providing vital nutrients to your trees and plants. It is crucial to offer them optimal soil and nutrients to ensure their proper growth and well-being. Keep reading to learn the strategies to provide the best possible care for your soil and learn how to create an environment where your trees can thrive.

Soil Care and Tree Nutrition

• Soil care and tree nutrition ensure that your trees and plants receive the necessary nutrients for growth and vitality. This involves maintaining the soil’s health and providing tailored nutrients for your specific plants.

Here are some crucial aspects to remember when considering soil care and trees:

• The strength of your trees relies on the health of the soil. Therefore, it’s important to take all necessary measures to preserve it.
• The correct nutrients play a pivotal role in nurturing tree health, and consulting a certified arborist is key to identifying your trees’ specific requirements.
• Effective soil care can be a preventive measure against issues like root rot, pests, and diseases.

Add Organic Matter

• Enrich your soil with organic matter. Healthy soil contains organic materials such as leaves, twigs, and other plant remnants. These materials enhance the soil’s structure, enabling the tree roots to obtain the vital oxygen and water they require. Moreover, it supplies essential nutrients for healthy tree growth.

Additionally, consider mulching, which protects tree roots against extreme temperatures and gradually releases nutrients as they decompose. Opt for an organic mulch, like wood chips, leaves, or straw, and spread it around the tree’s base.

Balanced Nutrients

• It’s essential to maintain a well-balanced nutritional profile in your soil. Trees require a consistent blend of various nutrients to flourish. Key elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium play crucial roles in supporting tree growth.

Leveraging soil test results can identify any deficiencies and guide you in restoring the balance. Enhance your soil’s nutritional balance by adding organic matter and choosing the appropriate fertilizers tailored to your trees’ needs.

Essential Tree Nutrients and Soil Health

Inadequate levels of these nutrients can result in tree stress and symptoms like leaf yellowing, diminished growth, and increased susceptibility to diseases. The most reliable approach is to seek guidance from a certified arborist to identify your tree’s nutrient needs. They can conduct soil tests and offer tailored recommendations for nutrient supplementation.

• Trees primarily require three essential nutrients for their optimal health: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
• Nitrogen is crucial for leaf development, vibrant green color, and overall tree well-being.
• Phosphorus plays an essential role in root growth and flower production.
• Potassium aids in photosynthesis, water absorption, and cold tolerance.
• Enhancing your soil with organic matter helps increase its fertility and structure.
• Compost, manure, and other organic substances deliver essential nutrients while enhancing drainage and aeration.
• If fertilizer is necessary, selecting one suitable for your tree species is imperative.

Allowing Space to Grow

• Don’t overlook the importance of providing adequate space for your trees to flourish. Excessive compacted soil can hinder tree roots from accessing essential oxygen and water. When introducing new trees to your landscape, it is essential to prepare the soil by loosening it and incorporating organic matter before planting.

After planting, allow your trees the space they require to expand their roots by applying mulch around the tree’s base. Exercise caution to prevent damage to tree roots when conducting yard work. Avoid using power equipment that might compact the soil, and refrain from digging close to tree roots.

Make the right choice for your trees. Contact American Tree Experts, Inc., for comprehensive tree care services in Montclair, New Jersey. Contact us today at (973) 744-6091 to ensure your trees receive the expert care they deserve.

Avoid DIY tree pruning disasters – 6 reasons to hire a professional

If you have a chainsaw, a set of trimming shears, and a bit of determination, you might have tried DIY tree pruning. However, achieving precision in this task demands professional expertise. Without the essential knowledge, you could unintentionally expose your trees to risks and potential diseases. Let’s discover the common issues associated with DIY tree pruning and learn why you should avoid it.

It Can Lead to Future Risks

• Maintaining the well-being of trees requires consistent, skillful pruning. Trees left unattended often become weakened, posing potential dangers. Sometimes, strong winds can topple a poorly pruned branch or an entire tree. For instance, while ‘topping,’ the practice of severely trimming a significant portion of a tree’s crown, is believed to enhance foliage, it results in a deformed, unattractive, and severely weakened tree.

Topped trees are more susceptible to diseases and decay, resulting in potential damage or death. Entrusting the task to a certified arborist is the best way to protect yourself, your home, your family, and the tree.

DIY Tree Pruning Involves Significant Risks

• DIY tree pruning involves using chainsaws, ladders, handsaws, and physically demanding labor. In addition, tree pruning becomes a high-risk activity when you consider working at heights. The U.S. Census Bureau identifies tree trimming as one of the most dangerous occupations in the country. It becomes much riskier when undertaken by an amateur. An industry reported 47 accidents involving property owners attempting tree care in 2012 alone. Tragically, 25 of these incidents resulted in fatalities.

One of the dangers arises from the challenge of differentiating between a decayed branch and a healthy one. Shifting your weight onto a decaying branch can cause it to break, potentially causing significant harm to you and your property. Furthermore, tree pruning involves the use of sharp tools at elevated heights. For instance, a homeowner might try DIY tree trimming using a chainsaw while standing on a ladder. This kind of coordination necessitates special safety precautions unavailable to the average homeowner. Arborists have the tools and safety gear to carry out tree pruning effectively and securely, including safety harnesses, bucket trucks, professional ladders, and more.

Bark Damage Can Lead to Diseases

• While DIY pruning trees, it’s possible to damage their protective bark accidentally. Tree bark acts as a shield against the elements and disease. Any tears or injuries can open a pathway for the threats. Once the barrier is damaged, diseases can infiltrate the tree. This can be prevented by entrusting the task to professionals.

Excessive Foliage Removal

• Foliage is a vital element of your tree’s well-being. If too much foliage is removed due to improper tree pruning, the tree may struggle to perform photosynthesis, hindering its ability to obtain essential nutrients for survival. Removing only about 5 to 10% of the foliage is recommended to prevent the tree from the risk of malnutrition or even death.

Harm to Branch Collars

• The juncture where a tree’s branches meet its trunk is called the collar. Incorrect pruning techniques can make the tree vulnerable to disease and infestations through these collars. Tree branch collars contain specialized cells that aid in the healing process of any tree wounds. If these collars become damaged, it could lead to various issues.

Use Of Blunt Tools

• While using blunt tools for tree pruning may seem common, it can lead to substantial damage. Pruning activities with unsharpened tools can result in crude or improper cuts. This may tear or shred the bark, consequently causing larger wounds.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, contact American Tree Experts Inc. today. We are a group of tree experts working in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us today at (973) 744-6091, and we will give you a fantastic quote for free.

Learn the secrets only certified arborists know about tree risk assessment

Several trees have extended lifespans. While the signs of disease and risk of falls are often readily noticeable, there are instances where the signs may not be so evident. In addition, the homeowners are unaware of the potential consequences of a tree falling. However, an arborist with a Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) has the expertise to assess the likelihood of a complete or partial tree failure and determine the damage’s extent. Read to learn why you should hire certified arborists for tree risk assessment.

Understanding Tree Risk Assessments

• A certified arborist conducts a tree risk assessment and involves an evaluation of several critical factors. These factors include the condition of the soil, risks to nearby structures if the tree falls, the tree’s overall health, wind exposure, and more. Arborists specializing in tree risk assessment have the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification and training in tree evaluation. The assessment consists of visual inspections and various other tests, including static load tests, the use of strain-sensing technology, digital surveys, and similar techniques.

The arborist determines the risk associated with the tree by using a matrix that considers the likelihood of the tree falling and causing damage to important objects and the extent of potential damage. For instance, the consequences of a small branch falling differ significantly from those of the tree collapsing. After this evaluation, the tree is categorized as an at-risk tree and may need to be mitigated or removed.

At Risk Tree

• An at-risk tree has a high probability of falling. Arborists categorize trees into four levels based on the likelihood of failure:

Improbable

• These trees are highly unlikely to fail, even during severe weather conditions.

Possible

• While these trees could potentially fail, the risk of it occurring is still low and typically limited to abnormal or extreme circumstances.

Probable

• Trees in this category are expected to fail, even under normal conditions, suggesting a significant risk.

Imminent

• These trees are on the brink of failure with a high likelihood of collapsing, even without additional external factors or events.

Benefits of Hiring a Certified Arborist

Here is how an arborist can save money, stress, and legal troubles.

Accurate Evaluation

• Arborists provide a precise and confident evaluation. In addition, the standard assessment process reduces the likelihood of errors in evaluation and treatment, protecting against financial losses and potential injuries.

Targeted Treatments

• Certified arborists have the expertise to recommend treatments that can reduce risk to an acceptable level without removing the tree completely. These measures include targeted pruning or specialized treatments like fungicides, saving you money and preventing the distress of losing a tree unnecessarily. Such interventions can also enhance a tree’s resilience against storm and fire damage.

Legal Protection

• The arborists use consistent language in the written report, aligning with legal and insurance terminology. This can prove advantageous in legal cases or insurance disputes resulting from tree-related damage.

If the arborist assessment determines a very low risk, you are less likely to be held responsible. Conversely, a non-standardized risk assessment might not be regarded as reliable evidence in a court.

Clear Communication

• Professionals communicate the risk effectively in simple language, ensuring you understand the assessment and treatment. This gives you confidence in the arborist’s expertise, eliminating confusion caused by technical jargon or unclear descriptions.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, contact American Tree Experts Inc. today. We are a group of tree experts working in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us today at (973) 744-6091, and we will give you a quote for free.

The art of planting trees in fall – Pros and cons you shouldn’t ignore!

While spring is often considered the default season for planting a new tree, autumn is the best time to plant trees in many regions. The optimal air and soil temperatures, reduced stress on the tree, and diminished maintenance efforts make fall an ideal season to plant new fruit and ornamental trees. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of planting trees in the fall.

Pros of Planting Trees in the Fall

• Fall planting is advantageous for your trees for several reasons, including:

Reduced Pressure on the Tree

• Spring-planted trees face significant pressure as they have to sprout new leaves and develop fresh roots simultaneously. This dual demand for photosynthesis and root growth requires sugar reserves, typically stored in the roots. This means trees planted in spring undergo these challenges right from the start.

Additionally, the onset of summer heat can strain young trees with underdeveloped root systems, making them more vulnerable to pests and diseases. On the other hand, trees planted during the fall experience milder weather conditions without the need to grow too quickly. This allows them to direct their energy towards developing a strong root system instead of generating new foliage.

Optimal Soil Temperature

• Contrary to a common misconception, fall planting offers an advantage regarding soil temperature. In spring, you must wait for the ground to thaw and become workable for planting in the garden. However, the soil temperature is warmer during the fall as it has consistently warmed throughout the summer and maintains its warmth for an extended period.

This allows newly planted trees to establish roots and absorb essential nutrients before dormancy. Root growth initiates upon contact with moist soil and continues as long as the soil temperature remains above 45°F. When spring arrives and stimulates the growth of new shoots, a tree planted in the fall already has a well-established and actively growing root system.

Require Less Maintenance

• Watering newly planted trees is crucial for their growth, even for drought-tolerant varieties. However, the fall reduces the stress of this task due to several factors. In the fall, there’s typically more wet weather, accompanied by cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, which help retain soil moisture for longer periods. This means consistent watering is still necessary, but it becomes a less demanding chore than spring planting.

Cons of Planting Trees in the Fall

• Here are some of the downsides associated with fall tree planting:

Risk of Pest Damage

• It is assumed that pests are no longer a concern in the fall, as many insects are dying off or becoming less active. However, it’s essential to be aware that your yard may still host other pests actively searching for new trees to feast upon, especially as their usual food sources become scarcer. Therefore, it’s advisable to safeguard your trees with protective measures such as tree guards or trunk protectors to reduce the risk of pest damage.

Threat to Newly Planted Trees

• The winter weather can be surprising, and you might have a sudden cold spell or even a big snowstorm just a week after you put your tree in the ground. However, taking crucial steps to protect young saplings from the potential hazards of winter is necessary.

These include mulching your trees immediately upon planting and maintaining a weekly watering schedule. Consider using watering bags for multiple trees to allow gradual water seepage. Watering bags prevent pooling or runoff, keeping your newly planted trees hydrated throughout the winter.

Make the right choice for your trees. Contact American Tree Experts, Inc., for comprehensive tree care services in Montclair, New Jersey. Reach out to us today at (973) 744-6091 to ensure your trees receive the expert care they deserve.