Tree Pruning Infographic snippet

The Importance of Pruning Your Trees [Infographic]

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 […]

Mulching trees in spring helps them thrive all year

Tree Care Tips: Don’t Make these Mulching Mistakes

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 […]

Professional Tree Pruning

Why DIY Tree Pruning isn’t Worth the Risk

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 […]

Trees Clean Air

7 Benefits of Trees You Probably Didn’t Know According To A Leading Arborist

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 […]

Tree Planting Aftercare, fertilizing trees

Tree Planting Aftercare

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 […]

Trees and Lawn Mowers: A Bad Combination

Trees and Lawn Mowers: A Bad Combination

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 […]

Certified Arborists providing tree care services.

Tree Care Myths Debunked!

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 […]

choosing a live christmas tree in portland or

Why Planting Your Live Christmas Tree In The Yard Is A Bad Idea

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 […]

How to Plant a Tree Like a Pro in the Pacific Northwest

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 […]

hose water in front of trees

Rules for Watering Your Trees (by Season) From A Leading Tree Expert

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 […]

Certified Arborist doing tree work next to a home

The Effects Trees and Shrubs have on Siding

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 […]

Tree Roots Vs Your Sidewalks: What You Can Do to Win the War

Tree Roots Vs Your Sidewalks: What You Can Do to Win the War

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 […]

Stormy Weather

How to Protect Trees from Strong Winds and Storms in Portland, OR

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 […]

Portland trees near power lines

Trees and Power Lines in Portland, OR: What You Need to Know

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 […]

Turf and Tree Health Pros and Cons

Turf and Tree Health Pros and Cons

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 […]

 
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