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: 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 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 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 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 […]
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. […]
As colder, harsher weather approaches, are your trees ready for the coming storms? Even a seemingly harmless windy day can make a weak tree a hazard to your home and family. When it comes to protecting your trees from severe weather, preparation is key. While we can’t predict when a storm will strike, we can […]
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 […]
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 […]
Building a New Patio and Protecting Trees When building a new patio and protecting trees, it’s crucial to consider the impact on the tree’s root system. Proper planning helps in protecting trees from patio damage, since tree roots, especially the critical roots within the top 2–3 inches of soil, need access to space for water, […]
Trees vs. Turf: What You Need to Know Trees and turf can coexist, but there are important considerations to keep in mind. Grass tends to compete with trees for nutrients and water, especially in shared landscapes. Turf requires regular irrigation, and this can be a problem, particularly for water-sensitive trees like evergreens. Turfgrass can deplete […]
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 roof damage, water is the ultimate culprit. Stagnant water can seep under shingles and flashing, leading to rot and costly damage. All roof maintenance tasks maximize roof life by minimizing water ingress. Proper tree care plays its own role in your roof’s lifespan. Today we’re taking a look at the tree side of roof […]
