Top Shade Tree Picks to Plant in Your Yard Planting a shade tree is one of the best long-term investments you can make for your Oregon property. The right tree doesn’t just cool your yard during hot summer months; it can also improve curb appeal, increase property value, and create a comfortable outdoor space for […]
Fast-Growing Trees in the Pacific Northwest The old saying goes, the best time to plant a tree is ten years ago, as trees do take time to mature and give the look and shade homeowners want. But if you want to add shade, privacy, or curb appeal quickly, there are fast-growing tree options that can […]
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 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 […]
Preparing: Parking: Reserving parking is the responsibility of the client unless otherwise stated in your estimate the crew will need about 3 regular parking spaces in front of the your property for their truck and chipper and will need any trees to be worked on to be free of cars beneath them. If work is being done […]
TL;DR Watering needs vary by season, with deep watering required during hot summer months and less frequent watering in cooler weather. Water at the tree’s drip line, focusing on deep, slow watering to 12-inch depths for best absorption. In summer, check soil moisture weekly and water more often during extreme heat or dry spells. Winter […]
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. […]
If you’re researching the average cost of tree removal in Portland, Oregon, you’ll quickly realize that prices can vary significantly. Unfortunately, there is no universal “one-size-fits-all” price for tree removal, as the overall cost depends on a variety of factors. While we’d all love a reliable formula or app to answer the question, “How much […]
TL;DR: The cheapest time of year to have a tree cut down is late winter to early spring (February–March). Tree services often offer lower rates during this dormant season because demand is lower and scheduling is more flexible. Winter is also often the best time to cut down trees because bare branches make removal easier […]
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 […]
When a storm strikes, the safety of your home often depends on the stability of the trees surrounding it. While many homeowners only think about their trees once the wind starts howling, the most effective protection happens months in advance. Proper preparation can mean the difference between a tree that weathers the storm and one […]
Portland’s weather is uniquely challenging for trees. While many homeowners worry about high winds, the real danger often lurks underground. In the Pacific Northwest, the combination of heavy winter rains and sudden wind gusts creates a “perfect storm” for tree failure. When the soil becomes fully saturated, it loses the friction necessary to hold tree […]
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 […]
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 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: 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 […]
