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 […]
TL;DR Trees and shrubs too close to siding can cause damage, including scraping, mold, and pest infiltration. Regular inspections and pruning every 3-7 years are essential for preventing siding damage. Plant trees and bushes at least ten feet away from structures to avoid future issues. Dead branches or overgrowth can lead to serious damage, requiring […]
TL;DR Tree relocation is a solution for preserving trees or improving landscaping, requiring careful planning and expertise. Permits are often necessary in Portland, especially for street trees or those with a diameter over 12 inches. The cost of tree relocation depends on factors like tree size, location, and difficulty of removal, with prices often exceeding […]
TL;DR Spring is the ideal time to plant fruit trees, allowing them to establish before winter. Water fruit trees deeply, aiming for 18 inches of soil penetration, especially during dry summer months. Prune fruit trees in winter while dormant, focusing on structural development and fruit production. Fertilize fruit trees before buds break, adjusting based on […]
TL;DR Tree roots lifting sidewalks can be a costly and recurring issue for homeowners, especially in Portland. Avoid cutting roots or using tree growth inhibitors, as they can harm the tree and lead to further sidewalk damage. Preventing root damage starts with proper tree planting and the installation of root barriers or protection zones. When […]
TL;DR: Winter is the best time to prune fruit trees in Oregon. Trees are dormant, making it easier to shape them and reduce the risk of disease. Basic pruning involves: removing dead/diseased branches, crossed limbs, water sprouts, and suckers. Safety first! Use professional-grade tools (shears, loppers, saw) and a sturdy ladder. Avoid pruning too high. […]
Are you concerned that a certain tree in your yard may be a rotting hazard? This is a valid preoccupation, as infected, unhealthy trees are more likely to fall during inclement weather. To tell if a tree is dead or dying, look for signs of disease, such as discolored leaves, brittle branches, and fungal growth. […]
TL;DR: Trees near electrical power lines pose serious safety risks, and responsibility for trimming them falls on utility companies. Homeowners should never attempt to trim trees near power lines themselves, contact the electric company or a certified ISA arborist instead. Follow electrical safety precautions, such as the 10-foot rule, avoiding ladders near power lines, and […]
TL;DR Oregon is home to some of the world’s tallest pine trees, including the record-breaking Phalanx ponderosa pine. Different pine species grow throughout Oregon, mostly at higher elevations. Key pines include ponderosa, sugar, western white, lodgepole, Jeffrey, limber, and whitebark. Pines are identified by their needle groupings, cone shapes, and bark characteristics. Certified arborists can […]
TL;DR Tree cabling provides extra support to weak or damaged limbs to prevent breakage. Two main systems: static (steel) for maximum strength and dynamic (rope) for flexibility. Proper installation involves selecting strong anchor points, securing cables, and adjusting tension. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to keep the system effective. Certified arborists can ensure safe, […]
TL;DR Summer pruning removes dead, damaged, and diseased limbs to protect tree health. Helps fruit trees grow stronger and produce higher-quality fruit. Encourages healthy, vigorous growth and supports sturdy branch development. Reduces pest infestations by removing affected limbs and fruit. Best done early in summer and ideally by certified arborists for safety and effectiveness. Though […]
TL;DR Call a professional tree service immediately. Fallen trees are dangerous. Safety first. Block traffic, avoid downed power lines, and warn household members. Contact your homeowners insurance to open a claim. Coverage usually applies. Permits may be required for removal and replanting. Many services handle this for you. Work with experienced local arborists for quick, […]
While you are looking to improve the curb appeal of your home, you may be inadvertently doing harm to your trees. Here are some otherwise normal home care activities that you need to be cautious about. 1. Mowing your lawn. Most homeowners think nothing of bumping against their trees when mowing their lawns. But it […]
Holes in trees can be disconcerting. Many homeowners are unsure about what holes indicate for tree health, or what they should do when a hole appears. In this post, our leading tree experts address tree holes and talk about how a hole could be a sign of compromised structural integrity. We discuss different kinds of […]
In this blog post we continue looking at Portland tree care with an eye towards fall fertilization. We discuss how homeowners can properly fertilize trees in late fall. Read on to learn how to determine if there is a need to fertilize, what not to do, things to look for, and alternative treatments; all to […]
