Winter Tree Care Reminders You Need to Know

Posted on November 21, 2018 by admin

Trees in Indiana have evolved to endure the changing seasons. But that does not mean we cannot help them maintain their strength and resilience with a little added care. Be sure your trees are protected this winter by staying on top of all your seasonal tree care duties.

Continue reading to learn the top three most important things you can do for your trees this winter.

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❶ Tree Pruning

Most deciduous trees are dormant in the winter. This is a great opportunity to trim and prune tree branches. It is a fantastic way to ensure beautiful and abundant springtime leaves and blossoms. Professionals recommend pruning trees until the first snow fall. This can vastly improve a tree’s ability to produce great quantities of flowers and blooms; as well as, grow better tasting fruits and nuts. Fall and winter tree pruning can certainly procure numerous admirable benefits come springtime.

❷ Heavy Snow Removal

Heavy snowfalls can cause stress to dormant trees. This combination of weight and moisture can weaken tree branches; causing them to crack, break, or fall. This can be a huge hazard if there are trees located near parked cars, playgrounds, and other areas frequently occupied by people. It is important to regularly shake snow off of the branches to prevent accidents and broken tree limbs.

Be sure to use something non-destructive to remove snow from tree branches. In the wintertime, they are much more vulnerable. Try using a soft bristled broom or mop to gently sweep and lift snow away from small or weak branches. You can also use a stick to lightly tap the trunk of the tree to loosen snow from the limbs.

❸ Water and Nourishment Provision

During the winter, the ground around trees can freeze. This implicated the tree root’s ability to take in nourishment or water of any kind. As a homeowner, one remedy for this situation is to take action on a warmer day. Wait for a day when the wind chill and temperature are above freezing, and water the base of your trees.

Be sure the base of your trees is clear of leaves and other dense debris. These natural obstructions can prevent the ground from absorbing the water you provide. This and more are all beneficial ways to help sustain the health and appearance of the trees on your property.

Winter Tree Service in Noblesville

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Call 317-537-9770 for Noblesville tree service at an affordable price. We provide a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at the most competitive prices in town. In fact, be sure you check out our tree service coupons and discounts too! Call 317-537-9770 to request a free estimate, today.

Fall Tree Pests to Look Out For

Posted on October 31, 2018 by admin

This fall, be sure your trees are protected against pesky insects that are known to cause tree decline. Various species of tree are susceptible to such pests, making all properties vulnerable targets. Continue reading to learn which pests are the most common this time of year, as well as, what you can do to ensure your trees are safe.

A Bagworm Nest Hanging From Tree Branches.

❶ Oak Mites

Also known as “Biting Oak Mites”, these insects exclusively attack any Oak tree species, especially Pink Oaks. They like to feed on the larvae of other wood-boring insects, but they will also gladly attach themselves to a human host if they fall off the tree! They do not bite instantly, so be sure to fully bathe after being near an infested tree. Common signs of an Oak mite infestation include browning, crunchy leaves. Oak mites should be treated by a professional arborist. To prevent such infestations, be sure to stay on top of routine tree care all year long.

❷ Webworms

Webworms are a common fall tree pest because they like to use the bark as a nesting area. They spin massive, solid webs at the ends of connecting tree branches. And from inside their webbed nest, they feed on tree leaves. Spotting these well-developed webs is a tell-tale sign of a webworm outbreak. Other signs come in late summer in the form of premature leaf loss. The most common species targeted by webworms include black walnut, mulberry, sweetgum, pecan, persimmon, and wild cherry. To resolve a webworm infestation, manual removal of all webs must be performed before winter, followed by a Spring insecticide treatment.

❸ Spruce Spider Mites

Spruce spider mites like to feed on tree sap, like most other tree pests. Although these pests have “spruce” in their name, they do not just affect spruce trees exclusively. Spruce spider mites will also infest other species of conifers, such as hemlock, Arborvitae, fir, and juniper trees. Common signs of Spruce spider mites include needle loss, premature needle loss, yellow-spots on needles. Spruce spider mite infestations should be treated in fall when trees are heading toward dormancy.

❹ Bagworms

Bagworms like to make silky webs on trees for shelter, and then they chew and eat all the leaves. This means that the most common sign of a bagworm outbreak is chewed leaves and needles. Both evergreen and deciduous tree species are prone to bagworm infestations, especially arborvitae, birch, cedar, elm, honeylocust, juniper, linden, maple, oak, poplar, and willow trees. To treat a bagworm infestation, all bags must be removed by hand and destroyed. Then you will need professional arborist counseling, as well as, routine tree service.

Noblesville Tree Service

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

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.

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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Call 317-537-9770 for Noblesville tree service you can trust. 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! Request a free estimate, today.

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

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

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.

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.

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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.

Noblesville Tree Service

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

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.

Noblesville Tree Service

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

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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Recommended Daily Maintenance for Tree Roots

Posted on April 26, 2018 by admin

Even though you can’t see them most of the time, root systems are highly active and vital components to a tree. As the nutrient-distribution systems of a tree, roots are important to tree vitality, stability, and overall tree health. Not only do they deliver food and water to all parts of a tree, they help create a steady and strong foundation that helps prevent leaning, toppling, and falling over. It is important to take good care of your property’s trees, including their root systems! You can easily achieve this with routine tree service and maintenance.

Continue reading to learn what you can do for your landscaping trees in order to protect and preserve your tree’s root systems for many more seasons to come.

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How to Care for Tree Roots Every Day

To protect and preserve your tree’s root system, there are several precautions you can take. First, it is important to protect any exposed tree roots from construction or lawn equipment. Machines like lawn mowers and dozers can damage exposed roots and contribute to the decline of a tree.

You can also water your trees every day to ensure they are receiving optimal levels of hydration and nutrition. However, do not over water your trees; too much water can be just as damaging to a tree as not enough water. Aim for 2 inches of moist soil depth. To test the soil, insert your trowel 2 inches into the ground to form a small trench, and then stick your finger inside to feel for moisture. If it is dry, the tree needs more water; if it is still moist, you can wait to re-test the next day.

Another important part of caring for your trees is to perform regular inspections. Every day, check on the condition and quality of your tree. Take into consideration changes in appearance, growth rates, pest activity, and surrounding environmental factors or influences. When you catch a problem early on, it is much easier to treat and resolve.

A fundamental part of caring for your trees and their root systems is to mulch. Mulching does a lot to protect and preserve a tree. It retains moisture, shields against overexposure to sun and heat, protects against damage and compaction, and even adds beneficial organic matter to the soil. The rule of thumb when it comes to proper mulching is to keep layers between 2 and 4 inches deep, and at least 6 inches from the base of the trunk.

Once a Year

There are some important tasks to implement once or twice a year for your landscaping trees. One important task is to hire professional Noblesville Tree Service for an annual or biannual inspections and routine service, such as trimming, fertilizing, and more.

Another task that you can accomplish on your own is to use a hand cultivator around the base of your tree to loosen up the soil. Not only does this alleviate some compaction, it improves air and water absorption. Be very careful, and loosen only the top few inches of soil.

Noblesville Tree Service You Can Trust!

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

Call 317-537-9770 for professional and affordable Noblesville tree service solutions you can trust. Our highly trained and experienced tree care technicians provide a wide range of tree services, including free estimates, consultations, coupons, discounts, and more. Whether you need stump grinding, tree removal, tree transplanting, trimming, pruning, shaping, or have problem with tree diseases, we can help! Request a free estimate, today.