How Turf Impacts Tree Health The vision of a perfect backyard often includes a sprawling, emerald-green lawn punctuated by a majestic shade tree. While this aesthetic is deeply ingrained in landscaping culture, the biological reality is that turfgrass and trees are often natural enemies. In forest environments, trees thrive with a forest floor covered in […]
TL;DR Who’s liable for tree damage? Generally, homeowners are responsible for damage caused by their trees. Healthy tree falls on your house: Your homeowner’s insurance likely covers it. Healthy tree falls on neighbor’s house: Their homeowner’s insurance likely covers it. Unhealthy tree falls: You could be liable if the damage was preventable with proper maintenance. […]
Jump to: How to Prepare Your Trees For Winter, How to Protect Trees From Winter, Should You Trim Trees in the Winter?, Preventing Property Damage in the Winter, Contact Winter tree care goes hand in hand with fall tree care in Portland, Oregon. As Portland certified arborists, we start looking for signs of spring after […]
TL;DR: Spring is the perfect time to care for your trees in Portland. Key tasks include cleaning up debris around the tree base, inspecting for damage or disease, planting new trees, mulching and watering properly, and fertilizing as needed. Fertilization is crucial in urban areas due to nutrient depletion, with options ranging from chemical fertilizers […]
TL;DR Certified arborists are tree care experts with formal training, certification, and experience in arboriculture, distinct from landscapers. Arborists specialize in tree health, pruning, removal, and safety, while landscapers focus on broader horticulture tasks like lawn care and garden design. Certification ensures arborists have proven expertise and follow best practices, whereas landscapers lack the specialized […]
TL;DR A tree protection plan helps preserve trees and beautify the environment, often required during construction. In Portland, such plans are crucial for maintaining the urban tree canopy, preventing damage to trees and property. Effective plans, created by certified arborists, account for factors like season, construction, and tree proximity to structures. Portland’s tree protection includes […]
TL;DR Tree roots are shallow and fragile: Most critical roots sit in the top 2–3 inches of soil, and patios installed over them can block water, air, and nutrients. Poor planning causes permanent damage: Cutting roots, compacting soil, or installing patios without early planning can severely stress or kill mature trees. Root Protection Zones are […]
TL;DR: This guide helps Portland homeowners understand the basics of DIY tree pruning for local hardwoods and conifers. It explains structural, ornamental, and fruit tree pruning—and what each type aims to achieve. You’ll learn to separate common pruning myths from facts so you can avoid harmful mistakes. While the infographic offers helpful insights, hiring a […]
TL;DR: Mulch supports tree health by improving water retention, moderating soil temperature, reducing stress, and preventing weeds and compaction. Apply 2–4 inches of natural mulch in a wide ring around the tree—never touching the trunk—to avoid oxygen loss and fungal issues. Avoid common mistakes like over-mulching, using poor-quality materials, or creating “volcano” mulch piles around […]
TL;DR: Portland has strict rules on tree removal, and many trees—street trees, trees on dividable lots, commercial lots, or heritage trees—require permits. Determining whether you need a permit is complicated; homeowners should rely on a tree service or call Urban Forestry for clear guidance. Permit approvals are slow, often taking 4–8 weeks, and incomplete submissions […]
TL;DR: DIY tree pruning is dangerous—tree trimming is one of the highest-risk jobs, especially without proper training and equipment. Poor pruning can weaken a tree, increase hazards, and lead to disease, rot, or structural failure. Common DIY mistakes include dull or unsanitized tools, topping/lopping, over-pruning, lion tailing, and incorrect flush cuts. Certified arborists have the […]
TL;DR: Trees clean the air we breathe and can directly reduce illness and mortality rates. They filter and store a major portion of our nation’s water supply, helping keep waterways clean. Trees boost property value significantly—sometimes by 10% or more. Exposure to trees improves mental and physical health, even speeding hospital recovery times. Trees also […]
TL;DR: Newly planted trees need close attention for the first 2 years, especially with consistent watering. Use a watering bag or ring and plan to water frequently in the first seasons, especially during hot 90°+ days. Keep a turf- and weed-free ring around the trunk and add 3–4 inches of mulch (kept away from the […]
TL;DR: Mower blight occurs when lawnmowers or trimmers repeatedly strike a tree’s trunk, damaging bark and restricting water and nutrient flow. Trees are especially vulnerable in spring and fall, but careless lawn care can cause injury year-round. Mulching around the base of a tree helps prevent damage, reduces weeds, and creates a clear buffer zone […]
TL;DR: Tree topping is harmful and increases hazard risk rather than reducing it. Pruning doesn’t automatically boost tree health—over-trimming can weaken a tree’s ability to produce energy. Concrete-filled cavities damage trees by causing internal abrasion and decay. Branches don’t regrow in the same place, making improper cuts permanently damaging. Staking and ignoring dead branches are […]
TL;DR: Planting a live Christmas tree outdoors after the holidays often fails because the tree wakes up indoors and then goes into shock in winter temperatures. Most Christmas tree varieties grow too large, too wide, or too short-lived to make good long-term yard trees. The decorative shearing used to create the “perfect” Christmas tree shape […]
TL;DR: Fall is the best season to plant a new tree thanks to cool temperatures, steady rain, and ideal soil conditions. Pick tree species suited to the Pacific Northwest, especially evergreens like Douglas Fir or Western Hemlock. Choose a healthy tree with a single strong trunk, no pest damage, and roots that aren’t circling the […]
TL;DR Planting trees in Portland can attract essential pollinators like bees, birds, and butterflies, enhancing your yard’s ecosystem. Cherry trees provide pollen for bees and shelter for birds, while crabapple trees offer edible fruit and flowers for pollinators. Maple trees attract bees and butterflies with their sugary sap, and oak trees provide safe nesting sites […]
Jump to:Why Sudden Limb Drop Occurs, Tips to Prevent Sudden Limb Drop, Contact Us, Reviews Picture this: You’re walking through the forest on a hot, still day. Suddenly, you hear a popping sound, and then a huge branch drops just beyond your reach. After thanking your lucky stars that you weren’t crushed, you wonder why […]
TL;DR Landscapers focus on lawn care, garden beds, and hardscaping, while arborists specialize in tree health, pruning, and safety. Arborists are trained to handle complex tree tasks like disease assessment, cabling, and safe tree removal using specialized tools. Arborists are required to carry liability insurance and certifications, unlike landscapers, who typically lack arboricultural insurance. Portland’s […]
