Kelowna Tree Masters

We specialize in all aspects of Tree work & are dedicated to giving you fast, friendly and reliable service.

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Tree Care and Maintenance

If you found yourself searching arborist Kelowna you're in the right place Keeping your trees and shrubs looking their best and keeping up your exciting new backyard appearance every month of the year is what makes Kelowna Tree Masters unique.

We are a proud tree care company offering both residential and commercial tree services careful consideration is paid to making sure that every aspect of your property is both attractive and flourishing. We treat your property as if it were our own, and take pride in looking after it with the same attention to detail that we would pay to our own.


Tree and shrub care is a long-standing skill that we have acquired over decades of experience. We always choose detail over speed when performing your tree services. We like to ensure that all customers have attractive yards that will impress them long after we've completed our job.

If you are looking for a reliable and professional tree service in Kelowna, BC you can't go wrong with KTM. For over 20 years, we have been providing residents with quality tree care services at affordable prices.


We specialize in all aspects of tree care, from tree trimming and pruning to tree removal and tree stump grinding. We also offer a variety of other services, such as crane services, land clearing, debris removal and much more. Call today for a free estimate.

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Tree Trimming Kelowna

No matter the tree species, tree trimming and pruning is an important component of tree care and a vital tree service. It helps maintain the well-being and appearance of trees by removing dead or damaged branches. This allows for better air circulation and prevents unhealthy branches from forming. Tree trimming is a necessary part of tree maintenance. By eliminating diseased or damaged branches, it keeps the trees healthy and helps to promote healthy and beautiful trees.

 Tree trimming, tree topping, and tree pruning also prevents limbs from breaking in harsh weather. Look at the trunk and arms and determine whether they're strong. If you could use a trusted tree expert to take care of your trees, give us a call or fill out this form and we will be happy to have one of our certified arborists give you a recommendation on how to take care of your trees. This should be done by a professional arborist, as improper trimming can damage or even kill a tree.

Or for those who want to trim their trees themselves, there are several options available. The most popular is the chainsaw, which cuts through the entire tree in a matter of seconds. This is usually used on small trees and saplings, and should only be used when they are rotted or diseased. It is important to remember however, to not trim too much off a young tree, as it may not be able to support itself properly in the future. The most popular method for DIY tree trimming though, is the pruning saw because of its ability to provide you with cheap tree removal. It has a long handle and sharp blades that cut through branches with ease. It is important to trim a tree at the right time of year and to use the right tools. You should do your tree trimming at a time of year when it will not be damaged by wind and cold temperatures.

kelowna tree masters emergency tree services
kelowna tree masters cutting tree
kelowna woman enjoying backyard

Tree Removal Services

The process of removing trees is a hazardous and difficult procedure that requires careful and advanced planning and consideration. There are several factors you will want to take into consideration before removing a tree, including its location, size, and type of tree. It is extremely easy for tree removal to result in significant property damage or even injury if the proper measures aren't taken. If your goal is to have the trees on your property cut down by certified experts, contact us today. 

 

Trees can either be removed for a particular reason or merely for aesthetic purposes. Safety concerns, damage to property, or a desire for more sunlight and space might all be responsible for why you searched 'tree removal near me'. Before hiring a company to remove a tree, it is important to ask the right questions. What type of equipment do they have? Is the crew experienced in removing trees? Do they have any questions about the tree removal process? The best tree removal companies will be able to answer these questions and much more. When you are looking for a company, ask for references and call them up to see how their experience with their certified arborist went. We are happy to provide any references that you require so that we can show you that we really have the best tree removal services in Kelowna

Trees cut down and reused

Mulching Service

Just like tree pruning and trimming mulching is a very important tree service consider it as a supplement for your garden. It provides nutrients for your plants and trees while keeping weeds at bay. We can transform tree waste into rich, organic mulch for your yard. It's a fantastic way to naturally enhance the health and beauty of your garden. With our mulching services, we help close the circle of life, turning waste into growth nutrients for healthy trees.


Tree Fertilization

A tree service for growth, trees need nourishment to grow strong and healthy. Our tree fertilization services enrich your trees, helping them ward off diseases and grow tall and sturdy. We use all-natural, nutrient-packed fertilizers that the local trees adore.

The outcome? Healthier trees, more vibrant colors, and a more attractive Kelowna.

trees supported by cabeling

Tree Cabling & Bracing

Like us, trees can sometimes need a little help. This tree service, usually called cabling or bracing depending on the state of the tree, can provide the necessary support to weak branches, preventing them from breaking. It safeguards your property and the tree's well-being. We use modern techniques to strengthen and safeguard your trees. By protecting your trees, we're safeguarding your property and your peace of mind. If you have cables or braces in your tree, be sure to have a certified arborist inspect it closely every year. A cabling or bracing failure can cause extensive damage but is entirely preventable. Bracing involves installing a long threaded rod through several branches or stems where they're weak and likely to split. The rod helps to limits the degree of twisting that can happen during violent weather. Our arborists use only approved materials and techniques that conform to all professional industry standards.

Stump Removal and Stump Grinding

When your searching for an arborist Kelowna Stump removal may be on the list of things your looking for and is often necessary after a tree has been cut down. There are a few different ways to remove a stump, and the most effective option depends on the size and condition of the stump. If the stump is small and in good condition, it may be possible to remove it with a chainsaw or other hand tools. If the stump is large, or in poor condition, we might have to use an excavator to finish the job.

Stump grinding is the process of using a machine to grind the stump down into small pieces. The machine has a rotating wheel with sharp teeth that can chip away at the stump, making it smaller and smaller until it is level with the ground. This process leaves behind small wood chips that can be used for mulch or easily removed from the site.

You may need to have the stump removed for a variety of reasons. It could be causing damage to the roots of your other trees. Or it could simply be a safety hazard. It could be a fire hazard. Maybe you're just tired of it and want to go ahead and have it removed. No matter what the reason, our tree care specialists can create a customized game plan on how we can go about removing it and maybe even grinding the stump for mulch around your home.

There are also many ways to remove a stump by yourself as well. The most common is to use a chainsaw. The first step is to measure the height and width of the stump. Then, you will need to purchase a chainsaw that is powerful enough to cut through the stump. The next step is to mark the outline of the stump with spray paint. Be sure to avoid any underground cables or wires.

stump removed in kelowna

Emergency Tree Removal

Emergency tree services in Kelowna. There are times when tree removal is immediately necessary, especially after a storm branches snap off, trees split apart, roots pull out of waterlogged soil, and trees topple over onto homes and cars. When a tree has been damaged and needs emergency removal or pruning, it often requires immediate action to prevent any further damage. When this happens, quick action is essential. Our emergency tree removal services are ready to help. We move fast to assess the situation and remove any hazardous trees. We aim to prevent damage and ensure your safety. When tree emergencies occur, you can rely on us to get there and perform the tree removal ASAP.



Tree Care Consolations

Trees can fall ill. When they do, they need a specialist, like we do. Our tree care consolations are like a health clinic for your trees. We can diagnose and treat tree diseases. This helps your trees in living longer, healthier lives. Consider us as your private tree physicians. We're always ready to help your trees regain their health, to give new meaning to the term arborist Kelowna.

healthy tree in kelowna
  • Is my tree dying?

    Our professional arborists can determine the health of the trees on your property. It takes a professional to inspect the tree to be sure. Trees that appear to be dying may actually only need some TLC; trees that appear to be healthy may actually be in danger of coming down. Our arborists know what to look for.

  • What makes trees dangerous?

    Trees that have structure defects that are unstable, or that have dangling or damaged branches are among the most dangerous trees. A large tree is not dangerous in and of itself-unless it poses a potential hazard due to damage, disease, injury, or instability. Trees may exhibit structural problems at the base or in the upper canopy, so a full inspection is necessary to truly gauge the potential risks your home or yard are exposed to. Our arborists are experts in identifying trees that pose a danger.

  • What's the difference between stump removal and stump grinding?

    The best option for you will depend on what you would like to do with the area where the tree was.

    If you want to plant another tree in the area, we recommend removing the stump (rather than grinding it). This will remove more of the root system from the old tree to make room for the new tree to grow. We do not do stump removal.

    Stump grinding will allow you to plant grass and small plants in the area but does not remove as much of the old root system. As a result, we don't recommend planting a new tree in the same spot.


  • Do we spray trees with pesticides for insects?

    No, we don’t believe in the use of pesticides to control insects in most cases. We feel that if your tree is healthy it can withstand an attack from common insects. We recommend maintaining your tree with regular pruning and fertilizing to keep it strong and healthy. However, in some cases the use of pesticides are necessary, and we can recommend a reputable tree service for you to contact.

  • Do you top trees?

    Topping is no longer a recommended pruning method to cut a tree down in height, and is bad for many reasons. For one, it removes so much of the crown that it upsets an older tree’s well-developed crown-to-root ratio and temporarily cuts off its food-making ability also the large stub of a topped tree has a difficult time sealing, which makes it highly vulnerable to insect invasion and decay. Your estimator can discuss other methods of pruning to maintain a certain height, and to try to repair trees that have been damaged by topping.

  • When is the best time to prune a tree?

    There are different times to prune different trees, for example, most flowering trees should be pruned after they bloom, and Maples can be pruned most times of the year. It is best to discuss pruning with the estimator because every tree is unique in its placement on your property and it’s condition.

  • How often should I fertilize my trees?

    We recommend you deep-root fertilize your trees every 2 to 3 years. However, trees that are not in good health may need to be fertilized more frequently. To get more information on tree care, please contact us.

  • What is a Certified Arborist and why should I hire one?

    An Arborist is a specially trained professional who deals with the art and science of planting, caring, maintaining, and diagnosing trees, shrubberies, and other woody plant life. As professional arborists, we have a minimum of three years experience in some aspect of tree care and have passed an exam developed by an international panel of experts. The exam extensively covers every aspect of tree care and requires that we have an acceptable level of knowledge in all areas of arboriculture to properly and effectively manage the growth and development of trees.

By Darien Klem-Froess February 6, 2025
We agree that homeowners can do some tree work themselves, instead of hiring a tree service company. With that being said, there are some limitations to the extent of DIY tree care we recommend! The key is safety – for you and your family, your neighbors, and your trees. Read on to learn the types of tree work we encourage you to try yourself (with the proper equipment, knowledge, and precautions, of course!) and when you should call us instead. What You Should NOT Do Yourself First things first. We do NOT recommend that you try to cut down a tree yourself. Sure, anyone can buy a chainsaw and start hacking away at a tree. But without extensive experience and knowledge about how a tree reacts when under stress (such as when it’s being cut down), you leave yourself open to serious injury and damage to your or your neighbor’s property. Homeowners are killed every week trying to remove a tree without the help of a tree care professional. Just don’t do it! Take Safety Seriously! The risk of injury from tree work is real, and you should be prepared with the right equipment. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a must. You’ll want safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from falling debris and branches, a hardhat if you’re pruning above your eye level, and gloves that will allow you to grip your tools securely. You should also wear sturdy shoes meant for outdoor work, and heavy clothing that will resist tearing from branches and that you don’t mind getting dirty with debris and sap. Get Some Knowledge Before You Start There are lots of ways to damage your trees if you don’t do the job properly but it’s also absolutely possible to learn how to do basic tree care tasks correctly. Your trees will (hopefully) be around for a long time so a bit of education about how to properly care for them is a wise investment. Besides, nobody wants to be known as the person who killed their tree or turned it into a coat rack! Tree Work to do Yourself Prune Your Trees Pruning is something many homeowners tackle on their own, often without proper training or an understanding of how trees respond to different types of pruning cuts. Be sure you know what you’re doing before you start. Bad tree pruning isn’t like a bad haircut that will grow out – the wrong pruning cuts can leave your trees vulnerable to disease and pests, and can ruin the branching structure and form of your tree’s crown. These translate into more money later on, as well as unnecessary stress on your trees as they try to seal off wounds. That said, pruning is one of the more satisfying tree care tasks you can do yourself and, when done correctly, can have a significant impact on the appearance and health of your trees. Note: Depending on the time of year, you should also check your trees for nesting birds. If you have birds living in your trees and those trees are not posing a danger to anyone or anything, wait to prune until babies have fledged or migratory birds have moved on. We rely on birds of all sizes to keep insect populations low, so give them a little space! Stay on the Ground When Pruning We always counsel homeowners to prune from ground level, using hand tools and telescoping pruners to prune what you can safely reach while keeping your feet on the ground. Staying on the ground means you are stable, safe from falls, and that you can easily get out of the way of falling branches, leaves, insects, and dripping sap. You also avoid the risk of injury from tool blades that may slip out from your hands. If You “Must” Prune From Above Ground Level Pruning that involves standing on a ladder or climbing into the canopy of a tree automatically increases the risk of injury, and we don’t advise homeowners to prune from ladders. But if you do climb a ladder to prune, be sure to use the safest methods. Use a pruning or orchard ladder (sometimes called an agricultural ladder or a tripod ladder) that is a maximum of 8’ high. Pruning ladders are more stable than other types of ladders because they offer wide base rungs and three points of contact with the ground. When it comes to ladders, those three points mean stability, and stability means safety! Can’t I use a regular ladder? No! Step ladders, such as those used for painting, are less stable than pruning or orchard ladders because step ladders are intended for flat, solid surfaces. When opened with their spreaders locked, step ladders require all four feet to be evenly supported. Do not risk injury by improvising with what you find in your garage – buy yourself the proper equipment! Check Trees for Damage From ground level, you can get a good look at your trees (use binoculars to see branches higher up in the canopy). If you see broken or damaged branches in your tree’s crown, don’t climb up to remove them or prune them from within the canopy. This is dangerous for both you and your tree. You can fall and so can branches, and falling branches (and tools with sharp blades) can injure both you and the tree. Branches that are weakened from disease or storms are especially dangerous, as you can’t visually evaluate their soundness and their ability to support your weight. Let a professional take care of crown pruning to remove damaged branches. Another thing to look for is girdling roots, which can strangle your tree. Check Trees for Insects & Disease Because you see your trees every day, you’re in the best position to determine if something doesn’t look right. If you see damage from insect pests or diseases on leaves, branches, or the trunks of your trees, you’ll want to make sure you know what the cause is and how to treat it. Using the wrong spray or needlessly pruning out damaged branches and foliage wastes time and money, will be ineffective in treating the problem, and can damage the environment. In addition, you won’t be able to effectively spray a mature tree’s entire crown from the ground without a spray rig and high-pressure hose. If you’re not sure what you’re looking at or how to treat it, don’t guess. Call us for an evaluation and a bit of education too! We’ll explain what’s going on and how to treat it, and will make sure it’s done safely and efficiently. Plant a Tree You can plant a tree yourself with a little knowledge about how to do it correctly. Learn about the importance of digging a good planting hole and positioning your tree at the right level so that its trunk flare isn’t buried in soil. And please don’t smother it with a mulch volcano! Once you’re ready to plant, choose a young tree that’s balled and burlapped or in a nursery container that’s small enough that you can safely transport it, carry it (not by its trunk!) to its planting spot, and install it without damage to the rootball, branches, trunk, or your back. PRO TIP: You cannot install a 24” boxed tree yourself, even with an assistant. A 15-gallon container tree should be the largest you choose, or an equivalent balled and burlapped rootball size. A young tree that has been staked with a field in the background Stake a Tree Staking your young tree is another task you can do yourself, as long as you can drive the tree stakes firmly into the ground so they’re upright and stable. Because stakes have to be strong and long enough to properly support the tree, you may have difficulty carrying them yourself (get someone to help) and driving them into the ground. You’ll need a sledgehammer and, probably, a ladder (remember that orchard ladder?) so you can apply enough force to the top of the stakes as you hit them. You don’t want stakes to blow over in a storm, as they’ll take whatever is attached to them (your new tree) with them! You can also attach your tree’s trunk to the stakes with soft, flexible, wire-free ties that loosely encircle the tree’s trunk. Be sure it’s not too tight as you want your new tree to be supported but also move naturally in the wind. Apply Mulch Trees, as well as shrubs and planting beds, benefit from a layer of organic mulch spread three to five inches deep and covering the entire root zone. For a newly-planted tree, aim to spread mulch in a three-foot radius or the width of the tree canopy, whichever is greater. Be sure it’s not touching your tree’s trunk, specifically its trunk flare, or you’ll risk fungal and root problems that could kill your tree. Organic mulch breaks down over time so be sure to replenish it regularly. Water Your Trees Trees need water to survive, especially during hot weather or drought conditions. An easy way to water both recently-transplanted and established trees is to set a garden hose near the edge of your tree’s rootball and let it slowly trickle water into the soil until the ground is wet at least 2 feet down. Keep this up regularly, until the weather cools and rainfall becomes regular. On a newly-planted tree, the small rootball represents the extent of the tree’s root system and the extent of its reach to find water, so be sure to water regularly and for long enough that the soil around the tree’s rootball is fully wetted. Don’t let it fully dry out before you irrigate again. This will ensure that there’s consistent moisture and your new tree’s roots can safely grow out into the surrounding soil and begin to establish their anchoring root system. If you have an existing irrigation system, add a new irrigation valve or zone that waters only trees and/or shrubs. A tree’s water needs are very different from a lawn; they shouldn’t be irrigated the same way or neither will be happy. A Final Word While we make our living caring for trees, we encourage homeowners to learn more about how to care for their trees themselves. At the same time, we know full well the risks and dangers that come with tree climbing, removal, and pruning. We urge you to practice caution and use all safety measures when doing any kind of tree work yourself. You should also know that insurance for homeowners and health insurance for individuals may not cover accidents that happen, injury to yourself or others, or damage to your neighbors’ property that result from DIY tree work. It’s not just insurance and safety we emphasize when laying out the limits of what we suggest homeowners do themselves. There’s a huge difference between homeowners and our crews in the kind of training and experience our tree care professionals have, the way we work together as a team, the more powerful and efficient tools and equipment we use, and our familiarity with evaluating tree health, insect damage, disease, soil conditions, and tree vigor in order to provide the necessary tree care services. So while we encourage you to learn how to prune correctly (from ground level!) and to familiarize yourself with how to identify pests, diseases, and warning signs that your trees are struggling, leave the heavy and potentially dangerous tree work to us. You’ll get the work done quickly and safely, we’ll clean up after ourselves, and we’ll tell you what we did and why. And hopefully, we’ll start an ongoing relationship based on a shared love of trees where we trust you to do some things yourself the right way, and you trust us to help you tackle your larger tree care issues.
By Darien Klem-Froess February 6, 2025
Although there’s no such thing as completely preventing damage from the most powerful storms, there is a way to minimize storm damage caused to and by trees. By taking some preventive measures, you can avoid the worst of the potential storm damage. How Trees Are Damaged by Storms Most of us have seen what kind of chaos can ensue from a powerful storm. Downed power lines, branches through windows, uprooted trees, and worse. Strong winds are to blame for most of the damage, but rain can be an added stressor, causing flooding and loosening the soil, especially around tree roots. The end result is trees being toppled by winds as the roots are pulled out of the ground. This is even more applicable for recently planted trees that haven’t yet developed a large root system to stabilize them during unpredictable wind gusts. Storms also cause broken branches and even snapped tree trunks, making the trees dangerous to be around after the storm has passed. Broken branches, in particular, can fall without warning, severely injuring a person or damaging a structure below. And don’t forget the damage done to nearby buildings, wires/cables, and satellite dishes from branches that fly about. A fallen tree blocks a road near a house, and caution tape blocks access REMOVING ALL TREES IS NOT THE ANSWER You might be tempted to remove trees to minimize damage caused by high winds, rain, snow, and ice. But, as various storms have hit, we’ve seen that neighborhoods with the most tree cover actually have the least amount of damage and debris. What You Can Do To Reduce The Risk of Storm Damage The best way to minimize the risk of storm damage caused by trees, and protect yourself and your property, is to perform a regular tree inspection. Take some time to examine your trees (from the ground – don’t try to climb them!). See if you spot any of the following issues, all of which increase the risk of damage from storms. Potential Risk Factors Dead or damaged branches and/or trees. Look for deadwood, cracks or splits, hanging branches or any other sort of damage. These are more likely to snap when under pressure from high winds. Diseased or decayed wood. Trees and branches that aren’t healthy are generally weaker and more vulnerable to breakage. Structural problems While a tree care professional is best able to identify structural problems that compromise the stability of a tree, there are some things you can see yourself. Look for V-shaped crotches, crossing branches that are rubbing against each other, and top-heavy trees (where the canopy has been excessively “lifted” to provide more clearance underneath). Severely leaning trees Just because a tree is leaning doesn’t mean that it will fall over. But the more it leans, the greater the risk of failure, especially when rains have saturated the ground. Poor root structure. A tree that’s not firmly anchored is more susceptible to failure during a storm. Things to look out for include girdling roots, cut or damaged roots (such as from nearby construction) and newly planted trees with little root growth. Topped trees We do not top trees because new growth is poorly attached and susceptible to breakage (among other problems). If a tree has previously been topped, it should be inspected for potential safety issues. Lion-tailed trees. This is another pruning method we don’t employ because of health and safety implications for the tree. During a storm, the heavy foliage growth at the end of long, bare branch gets whipped around, breaking the branches. Overly dense canopy A tree with a thick canopy of leaves acts as a sail, rather than letting the wind pass through. Improperly pruned trees. Some trees are mistakenly “thinned” by removing a lot of branches from the interior of the tree, while leaving plenty of foliage around the outside. Unfortunately, this misguided technique makes storm damage more likely. If you notice anything that concerns you, give us a call. Our tree care professionals are trained to look for potential hazards posed by your trees. We’ll be able to address these risks and take proper action – such as pruning or improving the health of your trees – before any major storms come through. If you don’t have the time or the inclination to check for these issues with your trees, you can always contact us for a tree inspection. A fallen tree blocks a road after a violent storm Properly pruning mature trees ensures that wind can blow through the tree’s canopy without causing damage. When a tree has not been maintained or pruned properly, the wind blows against the tree instead of through it, causing it to bend or snap. Along with the heavy rains, large branches are prone to break during storms and the whole tree can be toppled. If you notice crossing branches, dead, damaged or diseased wood, or overhanging branches, we can also use corrective pruning methods to fix those issues and make your tree safer. If you have a tree that has been transplanted or newly planted recently, properly staking it will give it extra support. Some trees, however, may be beyond repair, in which case we recommend tree removal. If a tree is already dead, it’s best to remove it as quickly as possible, as it is almost guaranteed to fall during the next big storm. We also provide storm clean up services for any downed or damaged trees or branches. In Summary Trees are part of our history and should be part of our future. They have the capability to withstand powerful winds and rains, but only if they’ve been given proper care. Consider the benefits of preventive pruning. Regular tree maintenance and pruning by a qualified tree service professional is the best way to keep your trees healthy and minimize the risk of storm damage. Investing in these services now can save you a lot of time, energy, and money in the future.
By Darien Klem-Froess February 6, 2025
WHY LIGHTNING STRIKES TREES Because lightning tends to hit tall objects, trees are likely targets. They’re especially prone to lightning strikes because electricity seeks the path of least resistance, and the sap and moisture inside a tree make it a better conductor than the surrounding air. Trees in some locations are also more vulnerable to lightning strikes, including trees; in an open area near a body of water on the edge of a forest or stand of trees on a mountainside or hilltop growing close to a building with electrical lights strung from the branches WHAT HAPPENS WHEN LIGHTNING HITS A TREE Lightning lights up the sky with trees in the foreground. When lightning hits a tree, damage can range along a scale from minimally invasive to explosive. As soon as lightning strikes the tree, water in its cells can start to boil causing steam to form. The expanding steam can explode, cracking bark or even stripping it off the tree. If the lightning strikes deep within the tree, the whole tree can blow up. It all depends on the amount of water in the tree and where it’s located – moisture deep in the sapwood often results in more catastrophic effects than does moisture on or just below the bark. HOW TO TELL IF A TREE HAS BEEN HIT BY LIGHTNING Burnt tree trunk shows evidence of a lightning strike. Evidence of a lightning strike may be obvious from shattered pieces of bark to charred areas of the trunk. And if the tree has gone up in flames, it’s pretty obvious! But some symptoms may be hidden deep inside the tree or even in its root system. This wide range of indicators has to do with the type, structure and health of the tree; the strength of the strike; and the amount of moisture in the tree’s cells. WHAT TO DO IF YOUR TREE IS STRUCK BY LIGHTNING If your tree is struck by lightning, it may survive the hit, especially if just one side shows damage. Prune out any obviously damaged branches and remove hanging pieces of bark that can’t be put back into place. Providing supplemental fertilization and ensuring that the tree has sufficient water helps with the uptake of nutrients to keep the tree growing strongly. A healthy tree can often heal itself after a lightning strike if the damage isn’t too severe. Then start your watchful waiting for signs of tree stress. We recommend waiting 2 to 6 months before major corrective pruning or removing the tree. Most times it’s not the strike that kills the tree, but the resulting injury that exposes the tree to the environment, diseases, and insects. HOW TO PREVENT LIGHTNING DAMAGE TO TREES It’s better to protect trees from a potential lightning strike than it is to repair the damage afterward. Lightning protection systems can be installed to protect especially valuable or vulnerable trees. These systems protect trees by slowly releasing the electrical charge and letting it dissipate before it becomes dangerous. Although these systems can be expensive to install for tree protection, they can also help protect nearby property. A system consists of an air terminal placed in the top of the tree, a copper cable conductor that runs down the tree trunk to the ground, and a ground-rod system placed a safe distance away from the tree. If lightning should strike, the system directs the electrical current along the cable and away from the tree where it can safely dissipate into the ground. KEEP YOURSELF SAFE TOO Lightning lights up a night sky Lightning can strike whenever there’s a thunderstorm, and the temperature of a lightning flash can be five times hotter than the sun. While it’s important to protect your trees from a lightning strike, it’s crucial to protect yourself first. There are hundreds of lightning fatalities every year don’t be a statistic. If you have any trees that you think may be vulnerable to lightning strikes, consult with our certified arborists about the pros and cons of installing a lightning protection system on your trees. This is definitely not a DIY job!
By Darien Klem-Froess February 6, 2025
Tree roots are often blamed for ruining a lot of things around them. They have been known to lift sidewalks, infiltrate sewage systems, and cause tripping hazards. But are tree roots the true culprit, or are they taking the fall for the real issue? We investigate. Join us as we get to the root of these issues… The Suspect: Tree Roots – The roots of a tree have been found in an unlikely location. We know that roots are how plants, including trees, receive nutrients, water, and oxygen. They also help to steady a tree, providing stability in high winds and storms. Location: Your Yard – Most tree roots remain in the top 8 to 12 inches of soil. Though you may have heard that roots take up about as much space as the tree itself, the truth is that a tree’s root system can be about three times wider than the tree is tall. VICTIM #1 – UNDERGROUND PIPES/SEWER SYSTEMS Issue: Tree roots are accused of breaking and entering the underground pipes and completely blocking the entire system, causing widespread blockages and clogged pipes. Defense: In roots’ defense, they will not go anywhere that they do not see an opening. So they may have entered the pipes, but that means the pipes were probably already warped and broken, either from age or from soil movement. The joints of pipes, especially, are vulnerable to failures and breaks. Solution: The roots, which may have taken up the entire pipe system, obviously need to be removed. Blocked sewers must be cleared mechanically (with additional maintenance required at least yearly). There are also chemical foam treatments available, or, if nothing else works, the ruptured pipes may need to be replaced. VICTIM #2 – SIDEWALKS, DRIVEWAYS, AND ROADWAYS An urban tree planted by a road and a sidewalk. The roots are moving the sidewalk that is over the tree roots Issue: The roots of a nearby tree are causing sidewalks to buckle, roadways to crack, and/or driveways to lift up. Defense: Most often this is an issue of the wrong tree being planted in the wrong place. We love our beautiful, stately Live Oaks, but they need a lot of room to grow. If they are planted in the small area between a sidewalk and a street curb, for instance, the roots will not have enough room to properly grow. Solution: This can be easily prevented by planting trees or shrubs with a smaller root zone in the area, ensuring that there are at least 4 feet (15 feet for live oaks) between the tree and pavement, or using some kind of barrier to prevent roots growing under sidewalks or roadways. If it is a mature tree, suggested solutions include moving the sidewalk away from the tree (you’ve probably seen those meandering sidewalks before) to give the roots more room to grow, or creating a bridge over the roots. You’ll see the bridge option a lot in state parks. Other options include using an air spade to remove some of the soil below the roots to create more room. The sidewalk will need to be replaced in this instance, and a meandering version still might make the most sense. Some choose to prune away offending roots, but this should be attempted with caution, as roots help a tree remain stable. If the roots are pruned back, the tree may fall, especially in high wind situations. Cutting too many roots or the wrong ones can kill the tree, so root pruning should only be attempted by a Certified Arborist. You should never pave over the roots of a tree unless permeable material or an aeration system is installed, as doing so will almost certainly kill the tree and lead to many problems in the future. A tree needs water and oxygen to survive, and paving over the roots is like suffocating the tree. If you have to insert a driveway, consider bending it away from the tree (similar to the meandering sidewalks), or using pavers. The pavers are less likely to crack as water and oxygen can still reach the tree roots. VICTIM #3 – BUILDING FOUNDATIONS Tree roots in a building foundation Issue: The suspects, tree roots, were found at the scene of the crime, invading the foundation of a home through cracks. The roots are being charged with ruining the foundation. Defense: Roots are almost never the cause of this problem, but they do help highlight it, and can add to the issue. As with plumbing, roots will go where they see an opening. Like most things, they take the path of least resistance. If roots are found in a foundation, it may point to a recent drought in the area, as foundations tend to shift when significant amounts of moisture are removed from the surrounding soil. Tree roots can add to this issue as they also remove moisture from the ground (since they need it to survive). Remember that in most instances, however, tree roots remain closer to the surface. For concrete slab foundations, what generally happens is that the tree roots are seeking water, and find it below the concrete slab. The soil under the slab slumps, and the foundation can crack without the needed soil pressure underneath. Solution: Again, prevention can go a long way. Don’t plant large trees close to a building – ideally, you shouldn’t plant it within at least 20 feet of your house. If you have a mature tree close to your house, be sure that it is well-watered so that it doesn’t have to go seek moisture elsewhere. Other things that can remove moisture from your soil include gardens, poorly insulated basements, and drainage pipes, so oftentimes the dry soil was caused by other things, and the tree took the blame. Check how those other things are working and if they might be causing the soil around your foundation to dry out. Keep in mind: just because a tree is near to a foundation that is failing does not mean that the tree needs to be removed. A root barrier may be a solution in this case. VICTIM #4 – ANYONE WHO HAS TRIPPED OVER EXPOSED TREE ROOTS Exposed roots above ground Issue: Tree roots are accused of willfully getting in the way of pedestrians, and occasionally tripping them with their exposed roots. Defense: Exposed roots usually happen from soil erosion or from frost heaving, where roots freeze and then thaw. Roots grow in the top few inches of the soil, so this is apt to happen frequently. Solution: Exposed roots should NOT be cut or covered with soil of more than 3”. Cutting the roots can stress or kill the tree, and covering them with excessive soil can cut off the oxygen supply. With exposed roots, mulch is usually the best option. Cover the roots with compost or wood chips, but be sure to only use about 3” of mulch and make sure that the mulch doesn’t touch the tree’s trunk. (Avoid “mulch volcanoes” at all costs). The mulch helps retain moisture, keeps the ground from eroding further, and acts as an insulator, protecting against further frost damage. WHAT DO YOU THINK? Now, having been presented with the evidence, do you think that trees are entirely to blame for these crimes for which they have been accused? Do they deserve to die/be removed for these issues? It’s up to you, but we hope that these facts have cleared up a few things about tree roots, and helped you to root out the real culprits.
tree work performed in winter
By Darien Klem-Froess January 30, 2025
Most people only think about tree pruning, removal, inspections, and other arboricultural work during the growing season. (Unless a winter storm damages their trees!) Why is that? When the snow melts and temperatures finally rise in spring, people are naturally drawn outdoors. They prepare their garden for seeds or planting. They see plants for sale in the garden centers. As homeowners look around their yard, they start to see issues in their trees. Maybe a branch isn’t growing any new leaves, or it’s clear that a tree that appeared dormant is actually dead. Summer is typically filled with more outdoor activity when the weather is generally pleasant and everything is in bloom. During the extended time spent outdoors, you’re more likely to notice any issues with your trees or shrubs. That’s why we get more calls for tree service in spring and summer. And it’s a good time to do tree work. For example, during the growing season we’re better able to: See where leaves are blocking views, impeding walkways, or hitting roofs Prune for more sunlight or air circulation Spot dead or dying sections of a tree See When to Prune Trees But spring and summer aren’t the only time of year to have tree work done. In fact, there are many benefits to having tree work completed during the winter months. Benefits of Winter Tree Work The lack of leaves on deciduous trees during the winter months makes any issues easier to spot. While there’s nothing wrong with hiring tree service professionals in the spring or summer (or even fall), there are some jobs that are best left until winter. For example, it’s best to prune fruit trees in late winter if you want more fruit next year. Beyond that, doing tree work in winter has a number of benefits – for you and for your trees. It’s Easier to See the Tree’s Structure While most people only notice dead branches during the growing season (relying on the lack of leaves as a tell-tale sign), tree care professionals are trained to spot a dead branch or limb even in the middle of winter. In fact, the lack of leaves on deciduous trees can actually help us, as we can see the branches and limbs without the cover of foliage. This allows us to not only spot any dead or dying branches, but also any crossing branches or structural issues that can be resolved by professional pruning. It’s also helpful with tree removals. The lack of leaves means less cleanup and can allow our climbers and equipment to more easily access the tree. Frozen Ground Minimizes Damage It’s impossible to avoid all damage to the ground during a large tree pruning or removal job (although we always do our best!). But when the ground is frozen, our equipment and any branches or logs that hit the ground won’t make nearly as much of an impact. Plus, heavy equipment can often be used to access areas where the soft ground wouldn’t let us go during spring or summer. Pests and Diseases are Dormant Most tree pests and diseases are dormant during the winter months, so they won’t have an opportunity to harm the tree by entering through any pruning cuts. Some trees, such as elms, should not be pruned during warmer weather (unless absolutely necessary) because of the threat of spreading Dutch elm disease. Winter Pruning Gives Trees Time to “Heal” Just as our bodies create a scab over a wound to help it heal, trees need time to seal off pruning cuts. Pruning in winter gives the tree a longer time to heal before warmer temperatures arrive and new growth appears. Allowing the pruning cut time to heal also prevents pests or disease from entering the open wounds. Removing damaged limbs or trees prevents winter storm damage Weak, broken, or dead branches are much more likely to fall when covered with a heavy layer of snow or ice. Similarly, a dead tree may cause more issues with falling branches (or the entire tree falling) during winter storms. Removing the dead, dying, or dangerous branches in winter can prevent some winter damage. Plus, a winter tree removal can bring peace of mind the next time a winter storm blows through our area. Not All Trees Should be Pruned in Winter While winter is generally a good time to prune, there are some trees that do better if they are NOT pruned in winter. Spring-flowering trees, for instance, should not be pruned except to remove dangerous or broken sections. Winter pruning will remove all the flower buds that developed in fall, meaning there’ll be no flowers in spring. Instead, prune early spring flowering trees and shrubs right after they finish flowering. Winter Tree Work Depends on Weather Conditions Intense cold, high winds, blowing snow, and ice-covered trees mean that we hit “pause” on winter tree work. Not only is it dangerous for our crews, but pruning trees in extremely cold weather can damage tree tissue and cause lasting damage. We won’t work on trees during dangerous weather conditions, so you don’t have to worry that we will be putting your safety or your property at risk. Need a Hand With Winter Tree Work? If you know that your trees need to be pruned or removed, don’t wait to contact us today for your personalized estimate. If you’re not sure if pruning would benefit your trees, we can come to your property and advise you. Either way, know that you don’t have to wait for the weather to warm to check “professional tree care” off your yard care to-do list!
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