How to Care For Trees in Fall

Posted on September 25, 2018 by admin

Tree pruning is one of the most beneficial and effective methods of fall tree care. In terms of landscaping, it is a service that should be a seasonal part of every homeowner’s to-do list. Since professional tree service companies recommend pruning your trees until the first snow fall, right now is the perfect time to start!

Continue reading to learn more about fall tree care, including the importance of tree pruning.

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Advantages of Pruning Trees in Fall

There are several advantages to pruning your landscaping trees, primarily in terms of aesthetics. Not only does tree pruning render better-looking trees with beautiful foliage and healthy growth, there are several other benefits related to tree health and nourishment. Tree pruning can also reduce safety hazards and risks, encourage strong growth, improve tree structure, improve tree appearance, protect and restores damaged or weakened limbs, provide adequate clearance (i.e. power lines, fences, light poles, etc.), decrease shade, reduce wind resistance, promote flower and fruit production, save a storm-damaged tree, and support overall tree health.

Additional Fall Tree Care Tips

Although pruning is a vital part of fall tree care, there is plenty more you can do to take good care of your trees, and ensure optimal spring growth and survival. One such method is mulching. It may seem like a waste to lay mulch when winter will soon be approaching and it will no longer be visible once the snow falls. However, mulch can insulate the ground, thus protecting the soil from freezing and drying out. Depending on the type of mulch you use, many can even provide nutrients for the surrounding soil and tree roots below all winter long.

Another great tree care tip for fall is to water them until the first snow fall. Tree can experience drought in the fall as much as they can during the hottest climate of the year. Be sure to water them from time to time until the ground is frozen.

Always Hire a Professional for Tree Pruning

It is important to enlist the services of a licensed Noblesville tree service company for professional tree pruning services you can trust. Never attempt to prune your trees on your own, without the necessary experience and proper equipment. Not only is this very risky and potentially dangerous, it can be detrimental to your trees. A professional tree care company retains the proper tools, training, and experience to efficiently and effectively prune trees in the safest way possible.

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FAQS About Indiana Hardiness Zones

Posted on September 11, 2018 by admin

For those new to the world of gardening and tree care, your first lesson in planting flora will involve an understanding of plant hardiness zones. Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about the hardiness zones here in Indiana, including where to find trusted tree service near you.

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What are Hardiness Zones?

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, “USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which plants are most likely to thrive at a location.” This map is based on the average minimum temperature that occurs during the winter, per year, over the past 30 years. It is important to understand that these values are not derived from the lowest temperature that has ever occurred, but rather, the average annual radical minimum temperature during a past 30-year period.

Why are Hardiness Zones Important?

There are several factors that influence a plant or tree’s capacity to thrive in a particular climate. Such factors include ground composition, soil conditions, precipitation, and climate. All of these factors must be just right for a species to grow. Hardiness zones give us the information we need to plant and grow trees in the region in which we live, successfully.

What is My Hardiness Zone?

You can visit the USDA plant hardiness webpage to learn your area’s specific plant hardiness zone by simply entering in your zip code. You can also view a 2012 USDA Hardiness Zone Map of Indiana on their interactive map page.

Which Tree Species Grow Best in Indiana?

The USDA Hardiness Zones for Indiana are 5 and 6, specifically 5b, and 6a, and 6b. Common trees that are hardy to these zones include various species of Ash, Cedar, Pine, Hemlock, Elder, Birch, Beech, Cherry, Walnut, Chestnut, Buckeye, Hickory, Locust, Magnolia, Maple, Oak, Poplar, Sweetgum, Sycamore, Willow, and more.

Where Can I Find Reliable Noblesville Tree Service?

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Why is My Tree Growing Spikes?

Posted on August 29, 2018 by admin

Epicormic Sprouts on an Oak Tree

If you have noticed large, emergent spikes shooting out from the trunk of your tree, there is no need to be alarmed. It is likely a common occurrence known as epicormic sprouting. Although your tree looks like it is growing its own weaponry, you can rest assure that this tree phenomenon is not dangerous. However, it is an indication that your tree need a little attention.

Continue reading to learn more about epicormic shoots, and what you need to do if your tree is growing them.

Epicormic Sprouting

Epicormic sprouting, or shooting, starts with epicormic buds that are embedded underneath a tree’s outer bark. These buds, also known as “suckers” or “water sprouts”, develop when a tree experiences some sort of bark damage. Damaged tree bark that suddenly gets a lot of sun exposure may be more susceptible to epicormic bud growth.

What It Means

Epicormic bud growth is a sign of a distressed tree. Trees can become distressed for several reasons. Often times, trees that have been damaged in storms or land development fall victim to epicormic sprouting. Improper pruning and risky aesthetic tree care practices (i.e. lion-tailing) can also cause epicormic bud development because trees can naturally attempt to make up for the lost foliage.

Management

The problem with epicormic shooting is that cutting it off will only make more grow in its place. To treat a tree with an epicormic bud problem, you will need to hire a licensed Noblesville tree service company for professional advice and service. They are familiar with the proper pruning practices that prevent epicormic regrowth. To prevent epicormic sprouting in unaffected trees, be sure to provide the proper tree care they need to thrive, including watering, pruning, fertilizing, mulching, and more.

Who to Call For Noblesville Tree Service

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Call 317-537-9770 when you need professional tree service in Noblesville, Indiana. We are highly trained and experienced tree care technicians that offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need routine tree service or major tree work, we are the professionals to trust for outstanding results in a convenient time frame.

Can Heavy Wind Uproot a Large Tree?

Posted on August 17, 2018 by admin

Trees are very important assets that provide a long list of advantages for homeowners. So when you wake up after a heavy storm to find your favorite old tree laying on its side, it can be quite devastating. When this happens, the root damage is usually too extensive to save the tree. You may be asking yourself how wind alone can yank a tree right out from the ground. The answer is windthrow.

Continue reading to learn how strong wind must be in order to uproot a large tree, and what you should do if it ever happens on your property.

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Tree Uprooting

When a tree is pulled out from the ground by heavy gusts of wind, it is referred to as windthrow. And it happens to be the number one cause of uprooted trees. To gauge an idea of just how strong wind must be in order to accomplish such a feat, take note that tornadoes and hurricanes often produce winds reaching 75 mph or more.

For wind to actually pull a tree out from the ground, wind speeds must meet or exceed these speeds. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), softwood trees will uproot in winds between 73 and 112 mph. On the Enhanced F Scale, this is equivalent to an F-0 or F-1 storm. F-3 category storms and higher are more likely to snap a tree in half, rather than pull it out of the ground from its roots.

Factors That Influence Windthrow

Although these are the speeds at which wind can uproot a tree, there are other factors that can influence windthrow. Soil conditions can make a tree more susceptible to windthrow, allowing it to be pulled out of the ground at much lower wind speeds. Sandy soils, soft soils, and waterlogged soils fit this description. Winds as little as 7 to 30 mph can potentially uproot a tree in sandy or waterlogged soil.

Similarly, distressed or poor quality root systems can also render a tree more susceptible to windthrow. Tree species can also have an effect. Tree with heavier crowns, such as conifers, are easier uprooted than “windfirm” (wind-resistant) trees like California Black Oaks. Another factor at play is topography. Certain locations will make a tree more vulnerable to being uprooted, like cliffs, peaks, flatlands, or summits.

Got an Uprooted Tree?

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What is Tree Hardiness Zone?

Posted on July 31, 2018 by admin

If you are looking for new trees and plants to add to your landscaping, it is important to understand your city’s hardiness zone in order to choose the right additions. Hardiness zones are important to tree and shrubbery survival; after all, you wouldn’t do well to plant a palm tree in your front yard here in Indiana.

Continue reading to learn more about hardiness zones, including who creates them and which one you live in.

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The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

The hardiness zone for your city and state can be found on the 2012 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which is the standard used by gardeners for planting perennials, shrubs, and trees. The map tells you which plants and trees are more likely to grow and survive in each region of the country. It is divided into 10 degree Fahrenheit zones, all of which are founded on the average annual minimum winter temperature.

View the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

The map includes all of the United States of America and Canada. The U.S. covers nine hardiness zones, 2 through 10. Zone 2 is in the negative 50 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit range, while zone 10 fits into the 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit range. It is important to trust and adhere to the hardiness zones in order to have the best results with your gardens and trees. These zones are just as influential to plant growth and longevity as factors like soil conditions, moisture levels, water, winds, inclement weather, precipitation, and more.

Hardiness Zone for Indiana is 5b, 6a, and 6b

If you are looking for new trees to plant on your property, it is important to choose species that are compatible in your hardiness zone. Here in Indiana, we fall within more than one zone, so be sure you know exactly where you live. If you choose a tree that is not well-suited for your hardiness zone, you can expect it to have problems with growth and sustainability.

Routine tree care, like tree trimming, pruning, fertilization, mulching, watering, and pest integration, are important to the overall health of your landscape. Be sure to inspect your trees and gardens regularly to ensure they are acclimating well to their surroundings. Also, incorporate professional Noblesville tree service at least once per year to confirm that your landscaping trees are save and thriving.

Noblesville Tree Service

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Call 317-537-9770 for professional tree service in Noblesville, Indiana. We offer a wide range of professional tree services for residential and commercial properties. We offer free estimates, free advice, senior discounts, tree service coupons, and much more. Call 317-537-9770 to request a free estimate, today.

Facts About Sweetgum Trees

Posted on July 17, 2018 by admin

Sweetgum trees are also known as American Storax, Hazel Pine, Bilsted, Redgum, Satin-Walnut, Star-Leaved, Alligatorwood, but scientifically called Liquidambar styraciflua. Continue reading to learn some basic facts about these highly admired neighborhood trees.

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Sweetgum trees are widely popular for their beautiful displays of bountiful foliage. Leaves the colors of purples, yellows, oranges, and reds are amazing to witness come summer and fall, every year. They also commonly attract the local neighborhood wildlife, like squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. For those who enjoy nature, both interactively and aesthetically, will not regret a Sweetgum tree addition to their landscaping! Continue reading to learn more about Sweetgum trees, including how to care for them.

What They Look Like

Sweetgum trees are normally very tall. They have straight, single standing trunks that can grow as tall as 75 feet or more on average. In its early years, a Sweetgum tree has a canopy that is almost pyramidal in shape, but eventually, it rounds out to a fuller canopy as it matures, making them the prefect shade and privacy trees for any landscape.

In fact, they are easy to recognize just by observing their leaves. Their leaves are lobed, with anywhere from 5 to 7 lobes. Many people think their leaves resemble stars. Once mature, leaves usually measure between 4 and 7 inches wide. In the fall, Sweetgum trees retain their leaves and foliage colors longer than most other deciduous tree species. Sweetgum trees also have seed pods. These seed pods are often referred to as “stickerballs”, and viewed mostly as a nuisance due to their spiky appearance and nasty prick.

How to Plant Them

Sweetgum trees have shallow roots, so planting them near sidewalks and curbs can be problematic once the tree fully matures. Their roots can lift concrete slabs and damage surfaces. This is why they are not recommended to be used as street trees. It is wise to plant Sweetgum trees at least 10 feet from any pavement, including driveways, pool decks, and paved patios. Not only can their roots be invasive and cause damage, their seed pods are a hazard because they can prick and cause slip and fall accidents.

The best location to plant a Sweetgum tree is in an open area of landscape that gets full to partial sun at least 6 hours every day. Soil conditions are not too much of an influence since they tend to grow well in almost all soils, so long as they are in U.S. Hardiness zones 5 through 9. They take well and grow quickly so long as you water them regularly in their early years. Once established, they basically take care of themselves and very little maintenance is required.

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4 Common Trees With White Bark

Posted on June 22, 2018 by admin

Whether planning a major landscaping renovation, or looking to plant a new tree in your yard, there is no better way to make a striking contrast than with a white bark tree species. White bark trees are simply stunning, and offer a wide range of benefits like most trees do. Not only do they add beauty to your landscaping with their brilliant white trunks, they provide ample shade, noise reduction, snow fencing, and energy efficiency benefits for both homes and buildings.

There are several white bark tree species to choose from, many of which are well-suited for the U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones in Indiana (5a, 6a, & 6b). Some of the most common trees with white bark that property owners admire include the Ghost Gum, Sycamore, White Poplar, and Quaking Aspen.

Continue reading to learn some interesting and relevant facts about these four stunning tree species.

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Ghost Gum

The Ghost Gum tree may sound like it has an eerie name, but don’t let that scare you off. Native tree of Australia, these trees are beautiful in the spring, summer, and fall seasons. In addition to its unique white bark, the Ghost Gum grows to amazing heights. Typically, it can reach between 40 and 60 feet in height with a canopy that is 20 to 25 feet in width. These trees grow best in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 to 11, so they are not a good choice for Indiana climate.

Sycamore

Sycamore trees are classic additions to any landscaping since they are beautiful and unique, as well as, tall, strong, and sturdy. Although they have stunning white bark, it does peel off in patches during certain times of the year. They grow best in Hardiness zones 4b through 9a, so long as they are planted in well-drained soil and full sun. Sycamores can grow tall, between 50 to 70 feet in width and 75 to 90 feet in height.

White Poplar

White Poplar trees are “popular” choices for landscaping because they are beautiful and they grow fast. They have a single, upright trunk that is white in color. Toward the end of the tree’s lifespan, the bark begins to darken and develop ridges, rendering it a new kind of beauty. White Poplars can grow tall and wide too, reaching 60 to 100 feet in height and 40 to 50 feet wide. They are recommended for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, making Indiana a perfect home.

Quaking Aspen

Quaking Aspens are unique because they have magnificent white trunks, but also because they can grow in most soil types and even tolerate minor flooding conditions. These trees are medium in size, and generally grows to an average of 50 feet in height, with a 25 foot canopy. Just like the White Poplars, their trunks get darker in color as they age, and begin to develop small, thick ridges. Quaking Aspens are recommended for USDA Hardiness Zones 1 through 10.

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Call 317-537-9770 for Noblesville tree service and tree removal advice you can trust. We are highly trained and experienced tree care technicians that offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at the most competitive prices in town. We offer everything from routine tree services to major tree work, and more. And don’t forget about our tree service coupons! Call 317-537-9770 to request a free estimate, today.

What You Need to Know about Planting Trees Near Utility Lines

Posted on June 12, 2018 by admin

When it comes to planting a tree, there are endless factors to consider, including natural light, water drainage, soil conditions, and more. However, location is often overlooked. In fact, there are two major concerns that are commonly disregarded when planting trees: overhead and underground utility lines.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about planting trees near utility lines, and who to trust for professional tree care advice and service near you.

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Above-Ground Utility Lines

Also referred to as “overhead” utility lines, these are what you see when you look up. Power lines, telephone lines, and similar utility connections are major influences when it comes to planting trees. It is vital that tree growth potential is examined before making a final decision to plant a tree directly under overhead utility lines. Even if you think a tree will not ever reach such heights, you really can’t be sure.

Furthermore, if you do have a tree planted below overhead utility lines, it is vital that you stay on top of regular pruning and trimming. Overgrown canopies can obstruct overhead utility lines, and pose several risks and inconveniences, including fires, electrocutions (kids climbing trees), service interruptions, utility expenses, repairs, and more. There must always be a safe clearance between power lines and treetops or foliage. In fact, power companies will ask homeowners to trim or prune trees that are touching or growing too close to utility lines.

Underground Utility Lines

Trees have expansive root systems that can spread just a wide as their canopies. Not only are tree roots spread-out, they are also incredibly strong and invasive. This can pose several problems for underground utility lines, like gas lines, water lines, plumbing pipes, septic systems, and more. It is important to contact your local utility company for information on where your underground lines are located before you decide to plant a new tree. In fact, most states require this step under law.

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Call 317-537-9770 for professional tree service in Noblesville, Indiana. We offer a wide range of professional tree services for residential and commercial properties. Ask us about our competitive pricing and our tree service coupons! And please feel free to contact us anytime for free estimates, advice, general tree removal information, and more. Call 317-537-9770 to request a free estimate, today.

Is My Tree Susceptible to Lightening?

Posted on May 31, 2018 by admin

After the performance of last night’s lightning storm, it is expected to have some concerns about your landscaping trees. Trees can be struck by lightning and extensively damaged; they can split in half, catch fire, or even explode! If you are concerned about your tree’s vulnerability to storm damage such as lightning strikes, continue reading to learn what you need to know to protect your trees and your property.

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Why Trees Get Struck

When a storm occurs, lightning strikes in the path of least resistance in order to reach the ground. Water is a better conductor of electricity than air, so it makes sense that lightning would be attracted to trees since they are full of water and sap. The moisture inside trees makes them a direct target for lightning, and the worst possible place to take cover in a storm.

Most often, lightning-struck trees are damaged to the point of decline since their root systems are fried from the electrical current; so they eventually die. Other trees experience lighter amounts of damage, but never fully recover, and some avoid damage altogether after a direct strike. Trees that manage to escape lightning damage are usually those soaked from heavy amounts of rain, causing the lightning to quickly flash over the bark without leaving behind any scarring or structural injury.

Protecting Trees From Lightning

Choosing tree species that are less prone to lightning strikes is an effective preventive method that works well. Tree species like oak, elm, pine, tulip, cottonwood, ash, maple, sycamore, hemlock and spruce, are more susceptible to lightning strikes since they retain more moisture and sap in their wood. If a tree on your property is damaged by lightning, it likely will need some corrective pruning; if it is dead as a result of the strike, it will likely need to be removed. Common treatments for lightning-damaged trees include water management, bark repair, pruning, fertilization, pest control, and monitoring.

Lightning Protection Systems

For areas that are highly susceptible to lightning strikes, such as trees located within 25 feet of buildings and housing, homeowners can install a lightning protection system to help prevent landscape damages. These systems are designed to not attract lightning by dissipating the electrical charge before it can build to high levels. Although they are generally expensive and require a lot of labor and materials, their performance values are widely supported by many who have had them installed. Talk to a local arborist or Noblesville tree service for help with tree care protection plans. They can give you the best advice for your particular landscaping and tree species.

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How to Protect Fruit Trees From Rodents

Posted on May 24, 2018 by admin

With summer just around the corner, and warm weather here, you can expect your fruit trees to bloom their delicious yields any day now; that is, if they already haven’t! Unfortunately, you are not the only one waiting for those sweet, juicy fruits; rodents, especially rats, also love to pillage fruit trees, leaving you with “slim pickins’.” If you have noticed in recent years that your fruit trees seem damaged and bare come early-to-mid summer, it could be a pest problem. This season, try some protecting your fruit trees from pesky rats before they can destroy them.

Continue reading to learn some tips that can help stop rats from damaging fruit trees.

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Environmental Modifications

The first step is to make certain changes to your exterior property so that there is nothing left to attract rodents. Rodents are attracted to two primary things: food and shelter. If you eliminate all food sources, such as pet bowls, garbage cans, squirrel feeders, bird baths, and more, you can help thwart rodent activity. Similarly, eliminating nesting areas, such as log piles, compost boxes, and openings to patios and garages, can also help stop rodent activity. Furthermore, you need to remove anything that allows rats to climb to the tree tops, including large, overhanging branches, and vines.

Tree Pruning

Pruning your trees is an effective way to keep them protected from rodent interference. When branch and canopy growth are controlled, they do not reach other areas that could allow rats access. This includes rooftops to sheds and houses, garages, power lines, telephone poles, and more. If branches and canopies are not touching anything else, it is more difficult for rats to access the fruit.

Tree Positioning

If you are planning to plant new fruit trees in your yard, be sure to space them apart properly. Sufficient tree spacing is vital to prevent rats from running tree to tree and eating all the fruit. If you have already planted the trees, consider transplanting them, or applying another preventative technique.

Trunk Guards

You can install rat guards on the trunks of your fruit trees, which help reduce the traction underneath rodents’ feet. These guards are generally made from a sleek material, like tin or aluminum, which makes it virtually impossible for rats to climb. They should be installed around the trunk at the base of the tree after the tree has been trimmed.

Pest Control

If you have a consistent rodent problem on your property that is too out of control, you need professional pest control services. They will suggest and implement a wide range of solutions for your particular situation. Avoid using poisons or repellents near your fruit trees since these can contaminate your trees and possibly harm your health.

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