The Green Benefits of Having Trees

We all know that trees are a calming, strong presence to have in our lives and that they are sorely missed when none are to be found. However, trees also offer amazing green benefits to their environment and the people who live near them. The benefits are numerous, but here are a few of the most impressive benefits that trees offer their surrounding areas and resident tree lovers.

Lower Energy Usage

Trees offer the surprising benefit of providing homes with lower energy usage and costs. Homes shaded by trees end up using less energy to cool their homes in the summer because their trees block and absorb the sun's rays before they can enter and heat the home. The opposite is true in the winter; because the trees have dropped their leaves in the fall, sunlight is able to enter the house and warm it, meaning homeowners waste marginally less energy trying to warm their homes in the cold.

Cleaner Air Quality

Trees are invaluable for their ability to clean our mess out of the air. Because they breathe carbon dioxide and release oxygen, trees are able to absorb the pollution we create in our every day lives and give us back the pure, clean air we need in order to breathe.

Erosion Reduction

Thanks to their extensive root networks, trees can help reduce erosion and flooding by retaining more storm water in their nearby soil. By reducing erosion and flooding, trees are able to reduce the pollution that washes into our storm drains. This creates a healthier overall ecosystem because it prevents much of the damage pollution can cause to smaller plant life and area wildlife. A healthier ecosystem is also beneficial to our personal health.

Keep Your Trees Healthy

To reap all of the eco-friendly benefits that trees offer, you need to be sure to keep the trees in your life healthy. The best way to do this is to make sure they are properly pruned and checked for damage at least annually by an arborist or professional tree service. These tree specialists have made the health and care of trees their life's work, and they will do everything possible to keep you and your trees safe throughout their life cycle. When trees do die or become a safety hazard, your professional tree service will also be able to help you remove the trees from your property and give them a new life as firewood or mulch.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6993537

Protecting Young Trees During the Winter Months

With the onset of the winter months, there are numerous factors that can cause damage to a young, newly planted tree. However, this doesn't mean that all efforts to grow a tree are in vain. In fact, there are ways to protect vulnerable trees so that they remain viable long after the cold months of winter have blown away.

Mulch is a simple and inexpensive way to protect and winter-proof a young, newly planted tree. In addition to providing a barrier of protection against wind, freezing temperatures, and frost, covering the base of the tree with mulch also helps trees retain heat from the soil. Because mulch acts as an insulator, it can also prevent damage to a young tree by upheaval. If air temperatures fluctuate too sharply, the soil may be subjected to repeated thawing and freezing patterns. This can cause damage directly to the root or can agitate the soil and cause the upheaval of a young tree. The addition of mulch to the base of the tree helps decrease the chances of this kind of damage.

Many young trees are also susceptible to sunscald during the winter. Sunscald is an injury whereby healthy bark becomes damaged and cracks or peels, causing a fissure within the tree. Sunscalding can be prevented by covering the trunk with a wrap or a plastic tree guard. These preventative measures help by reflecting the sun and insulating the young tree with a soil temperature warmer than that of the air temperature. An Austin tree removal specialist can help you determine if a tree is no longer viable due to sun scalding. Consider that the earlier the onset of the winter temperatures, the earlier one should wrap the tree. Mid to late fall is a good average. The wrap can then be removed in the spring. Additionally, consider that the chances of avoiding damage caused by sunscalding increase if the tree is wrapped during the winter months for several consecutive years.

Young trees need protection from the weight of ice and snow, too. Wrapping branches with burlap may add an extra layer of protection from cold weather conditions. Staking may also provide additional support, including preventing upheaval. 

If salting is something that's routinely done where you live, consider planting a tree away from areas that may be heavily salted, such as near roads, or at least far enough away such that salt cannot be sprayed by passing traffic. Also, avoid planting a tree in a high salt content runoff area. If landscaping options, such as where to plant, are limited and you must plant in an area that is likely to be heavily salted, consider choosing a plant that is tolerant of salt content or adding burlap as a protective barrier. An Austin arborist can help you determine which species are most salt tolerant.

Animals seeking shelter or food during the cold winter months may also pose a threat to a young, newly planted tree. An underfed deer population may resort to feeding off the branches of a tree if other food options are unavailable. They may also cause damage to the tree by rubbing their antlers against it during rut. Either repellent or perhaps even a fence may be solutions for protecting trees against deer. Mesh wraps or other guards may be necessary for smaller animals, such as mice or rabbits, which can also damage young trees in spite of their small size.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5344246

Christmas Lights Gangnam Style (Original)

Christmas Lights Gangnam Style (Original)

How Trees Respond To Damage

Trees have inhabited the earth since prehistoric times, and have adapted to survive in some of the harshest of conditions. Throughout their existence, trees have been the subject of damage brought on by inclement weather as well as birds and other animals. In modern times, trees are faced with an increased threat of damage as a result of human activities. Unlike animals, trees do not have a process of healing damaged tissue, or in other words, trees cannot replace damaged tissue with healthy tissue. Instead they have developed a way to seal off a damaged area to protect against further damage through a process called compartmentalization.

If a tree is on the receiving end of a vehicle accident, for instance, its bark will likely incur some damage from the impact. With the protective boundary of bark compromised, the wood comprising the interior of the tree becomes vulnerable to harmful insects and fungi. Without the ability to create a protective barrier around the damaged area, the tree would be faced with death and decay. Instead, a damaged tree will begin to seal off the wound area in order to protect the rest of the tree. New bark forming around the wound is referred to as callous tissue, and this new protective tissue serves to protect the rest of the tree from damage as well as prevent it from drying out. If you have ever seen a tree with what appears to be an abnormal growth protruding from its trunk, you have probably seen firsthand the result of this natural defense. Being struck by a vehicle is an extreme incident through which a tree can incur damage, though other forces such as birds, squirrels, storms and pruning are more common culprits for tree damage.

Although trees are equipped with an ability to seal off wounded areas, all trees do not survive after damage leaves them susceptible to infestation and decay. It can take a tree several years to fully seal off a wounded area, and further damage may occur before the area is fully covered by the new layer of protective tissue. Many factors contribute to a tree's ability to successfully repair a wound, such as the tree's age, species, extent of damage, and weather conditions. If the wound is compartmentalized successfully without further damage or decay, the tree is likely to survive.

If a tree on your property has incurred damage, it is advised to hire a tree service professional to assess the extent of damage. While trees with minimal damage may repair themselves naturally without intervention, excessively damaged trees may need to be removed so that they do not become a hazard.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1176745

Winter Tree Care

Wondering if your trees can handle a rough and tumble winter? We check with a local certified arborist to learn about the warning signs of a dangerous tree.

Winter Tree Wrapping

Winter tree wrapping will help prevent bark splitting on exposed trees. Find out why this is important and what trees need to be winter tree wrapped.

Cutting Down 100+ foot Pine Tree over Houses - Signature Tree Service

Curtis with Signature Tree Service shows how to safely cut down a HUGE tree in a confined space amongst houses and utility lines. See more at www.signaturetreeservice.com

California Storm So Cal Storm

There's a storm going through and it's not such nice weather. Me and a buddy had to learn the hard way that you never park under trees. Luckily there is no damage to any vehicles.

Weather Conditions That Cause Tree Disasters

With every season come different weather patterns that can cause some damage to trees. Especially in a time when winds are high and there are days when the rain just downpours. Excess water around the base of the tree can cause the tree's leaves to change color and the stability of the tree can be weakened. When the soil around the base is constantly wet, the roots will loosen their grip making the likelihood of the tree uprooting increase. Another weather element that can cause problems to occur is the wind.

High winds bring trouble because they can damage virtually anything. A newly planted tree has no chance against a high wind storm because they have not yet had the chance to fully root themselves in the soil. Older or diseased trees can also be knocked over or uprooted by high winds because they are weak. When these trees have fallen over or limbs have been snapped off, a tree company should be called in to remove the tree(s) or prune it to prevent future damage. With working conditions such as these, safety should be taken seriously.

When working with trees it is very important that certain precautions be taken. Tree limbs can weigh hundreds of pounds and need to be handled with care to prevent harm coming to workers. Ensuring the safety of the work crew should be the number one priority. Strict rules should be set in place to avoid any disastrous situations from occurring. Many times, damaged trees call for those with expertise.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4345959

Storm Damage and Mature Tree Pruning

One winter evening I was working on the computer when the power went out. The freezing rain that had been forecast must have been the culprit. It was getting late so I went to bed figuring we would have power again by morning.

Thunder and lightning woke me a couple times, but then I heard something a little different. An explosive popping sound followed by what seemed to be a shower of sparks. In my minds eye I tried to picture the cause of this sound. An exploding power transformer with hot lines arcing around it? There is nothing like a puzzle to keep me awake; but I didn't want to get up and lose the warmth I had built up under the blankets. Just drifting off again I heard the sound repeated but up the hill behind my house and more distant... more crackly sounding but still accompanied by the sparkling shattering sound my ears were now more tuned in to analyze. Suddenly realizing the impact this freezing rain was having I shot out of bed and ran to the window. Large tree limbs were on the ground. Major branches were bending under the cumulative weight of the ice; then noisily busting sending thousands of 3" icicles to break with a sparkly shattering sound.

Well the power was out for days for many, and the damage to the trees and landscape is still being cleaned up. After a damaging storm you always see a migration of tree company trucks to the area. Many of the local tree care, and landscape businesses have their hands full assisting their customer base. The city workers are also busy as these crews and residents move debris to the street for collection. The effects of such a storm can be seen in the landscape for years to come. Storms can cause limbs to break and trees to fall. A large damaged tree branch can be extremely heavy and dangerous to remove or trim. Removing large branches from a mature tree safely requires special training and often specialized equipment. Also the way this damage is dealt with impacts on the health of the tree. If you value your trees (yes I know they are all valuable) or fear a tree becoming a hazard, I would suggest you find a certified arborist.

One good first test of an arborist is:

Tell them you need your trees topped.

If they say "Sure, no problem." move on till you find one that knows what is good for the long term health of a tree.

There are plenty of crews in your town that can carve up your trees for you; but it may take diligence to find a crew trained in the proper pruning of mature trees. Everyone appreciates the hardworking and practical service of the local jobber cleaning up a storms mess, but if you have issues with major branches of a large tree, do generations to come a favor and search out an International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist.

A good certified arborist with integrity will only perform ISA accepted practices. Branches are not removed without good reason. They do not "top" tree's, remove excessive amounts of live wood, or use climbing spikes on a tree (unless it is being removed). A good arborist knows how to make removal of a desirable tree the last option, and will make pruning decisions that will enhance the health of the tree and reduce possible hazards.

Pruning Cuts on a Mature Tree

Regardless who is doing the pruning or why, final pruning cuts should be made just outside a growth of bark cells called the branch collar. The branch collar is a collar of growth made of parent branch (trunk) tissue where the branch meets the trunk (or parent branch) and care should be taken to not cut or remove it. This is true for dead, damaged or living branches. Do not remove the actively growing cells of the branch collar. These cells are the trees way of closing the wound. The branch collar grows a bit out and angled away from the parent, so if you make a flush cut against the trunk, the branch collar has been removed and the wound will not close. Conversely if you cut far away from the trunk the branch collar is not near the cut where they can grow over the wound.
Improper pruning cuts can hurt your trees.

Take notice of trees with dieback of the bark on branches and down the trunks. Often you can tell it was from a flush cut or an end cut. Other times it may be a storm damaged branch that wasn't removed and it died back to the trunk and on down.

If removing a large limb, first its weight should be reduced to prevent tearing the bark when the branch falls. Make a shallow cut from the bottom of the branch a foot or so out from the branches point of attachment. Then finish cut from the top, above or a little further out on the branch. This leaves a lighter and more manageable stub. The stub is then removed while taking care to not remove the branch collar. This technique reduces the possibility of tearing the bark.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/10520

What People Are Saying....

I am a Boy Scout leader in Fairfield, California... Recently our troops did a city wide Christmas tree collection. Curtis and his crew donated their equipment and time to chip over 200 trees that took over 3 hours. They did this after working a full day's work. I thought this was a very wonderful gesture of community service. And, the Boy Scout Troops of Fairfield send him out much appreciation. Posted by cakusscoutson 01/09/2012

My neighbor has a huge Acacia... My neighbor has a huge acacia tree with branches hanging over the fence into my backyard with leaves blowing onto my roof. I've had to go up to the roof on my 2 story house and remove the leaves to prevent the gutters from being blocked. Curtis did an excellent job explaining how he would thin out the foliage and prune it in such a way that the remaining growth will grow upwards instead of outward toward my roof. I was impressed with the whole process of Curtis hanging from the tree, going from branch to branch, the equipment he used, and cleanup. I highly recommend his expertise! Posted by sharonoaklandon 10/30/2011

Signature Tree Service Commercial

Curtis and his team show how Signature Tree Service are the right choice when if comes to taking care of your trees. See more at www.signaturetreeservice.com

Why Prune a Tree, Especially in the Winter?

First of all, what good does tree pruning trimming and shaping do for my trees? Secondly, why do it in the winter months? Trimming a tree or pruning is necessary for many reasons. An important reason to prune a tree is to lessen the chance of it falling during a wind or ice storm. Thinning a large tree canopy is a great way to reduce wind resistance.

Once pruned, air can now breeze with ease through the top of a tree requiring much less stabilization and pressure on the root system. Tree maintenance is also appealing to the eye like grass cutting. Cutting dead limbs helps prevent the spread of disease or bacteria, and avoids potential hazards. There are many benefits to trimming, shaping, & pruning a tree.

So why is pruning a tree in the winter so effective? There are many reasons. I will point out a few important ones.

1 - It is Cheaper! Most tree cutting service prices are low in the winter months since this is a slow period. Local tree service cost is very competitive during this season.

2 - It is cold outside. Trees go to sleep (dormant) in the winter much like our beloved Bear! Vascular cambium is slow; the tree relies on its reserves for nourishment, and does not use a lot of energy. So why does this help for cutting a limb? For some species it's very important because sap flow is not heavy and the tree will not bleed.

3 - Leaves are gone. Deciduous as opposed to Evergreen trees leaves have fallen, therefore the debris is much less when trimming your trees. Cleanup and chipping the tree debris becomes much easier.

So how do tree trimming & tree cutting services determine a dead branch versus a live branch without leaves? An experienced tree climber can tell the difference. See a picture of a Red Maple (Acer rubrum) tree limb, one dead and one alive - tree service in the winter. The dead limb is a bit discolored, cracked, and dried out. The live limb has a healthier more rich color tone, together, and flexible. You can also see that the new growth is much more abundant than the dead limb.

The texture of the dead limb is very rough while the texture of the live limb is smooth. If you try to break the dead limb, it's easy to snap apart. Whereas if you try to break the live limb, it's more difficult and will rip cut or tear by its live moist wood. Live limbs usually have vibrant terminal buds, and dead limbs terminal buds are dried up, black or dark brown, or completely non-existent depending on how long the branch has been dead. Depending on the tree species, dead limbs generally droop, and live limbs are usually more upright.

Generally, when a tree climber is up a tree it is easier to identify dead limbs than from below. The sunlight helps from above also, from below there is usually a shadow under the branches making it difficult to see subtle differences. The best way to prune or trim a tree is naturally. This means that only diseased, dying, dead, split, jagged, or improperly balanced limbs are removed.

It is necessary sometimes to remove live limbs, especially if a tree is potentially hazardous with a lean. If a large heavy limb is on the side of the lean and the tree has grown towards a structure, then by removing this large limb (leader) you can decrease the chance of tree fall. A trees canopy and weight of large limbs has a lot to do with why a tree falls in a storm. Especially a tree is not diseased or dead, although usually there is a mix of issues for a large tree to tumble over in a storm.

Tree trimming, cutting, pruning, & shaping are necessary tasks. As homeowners, it is our responsibility to maintain our trees and keep our yards and neighbors safe. Performing tree work of any kind in the winter is a smart move and saves on the annual tree maintenance budget. So put on a warm coat, get out there in that Cold weather, and get those trees pruned! Contact a local company to provide your tree cutting service.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3573444

How to Check Your Trees for Damage After a Storm

Storms of any kind can wreak havoc along their path. After assessing any damage to your home, it's important to assess the damage done to trees around the property.

When to Assess Your Trees

Of course, your family and home are the most important belongings to consider after a storm. When life threatening situations have been resolved and it is safe to be outside, only then should you walk around and survey the damage.

Numerous damages may be covered or at least partially covered by your homeowners insurance. Many times an adjuster must survey the damage before repairs are made, so don't forget to contact your insurance agent immediately after storm damage occurs.

What to Look For

Broken branches and twigs on the ground are easy to see and remove. First concern should be the areas around the home and access paths (i.e. driveway, parking area). NEVER touch branches that have come in contact or are surrounded by power lines. Because the liveliness of a power line is questionable and extremely dangerous, always call a professional to take care of the situation.

While walking around surveying the damage at eye level and on the ground, it's imperative to remember to look up into the trees to observe the damage above your head that could result in future injury or harm. Remove any limbs that have been damaged and pose a threat to the tree or structures around it, and prune branches that have broken but are still attached to the tree.

When to Save a Tree

Trees are necessary to the natural ecosystem. You want to save trees whenever possible. Time is on your side, so use it to seriously contemplate the choice to cut down a tree. A mature, sturdy tree can recuperate despite major limb damage. The roots and crown are two areas to observe; if roots are not visible (still solid in the ground) and less than 50% of the crown remains intact, preservation is likely.

When to Cut Down a Tree

Trees that have been severely damaged should be considered for removal. Split trunks and exposed roots are problems that can't be fixed and can present impending danger.

Cutting off the top part of a tree (topping) may seem a logical solution to save the tree as a whole, but this should never be done. Topping trees weakens them and exposes them in a way that can subject them to disease and insects, as well as more damage in future storms.

A professional Arborist or tree care specialist should be consulted for major tree removal and assessment. Don't take on more than your skill level permits; know your limitations.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7230147

Tree Service Company - What to Look For

You are thinking about hiring a tree service to cut down a large branch hanging from a tree in your front yard. The tree you like. Who does not like trees? The branch you hate. Not only is it a safety as hazard high winds could knock it into your living room window but it blocks the sunlight from getting into your house. What company do you go with and what do you look for?

We live in a sue happy society and I would make certain that due to the inherent risks any tree service I would hire have a general liability insurance policy and a workers compensation policy. The liability insurance policy should be at least $1,000,000. This is to protect you and them. If you need to make a claim (hopefully you will not but you never know) you know they are covered. If they mess up your neighbor's yard or cable wires you know they are covered for that as well. The work their employees are doing is dangerous as the heights they have to climb to cut branches can be tens of feet high. If a person falls the workers compensation policy kicks in. Without it, and with a good personal injury lawyer, they can come after you because the accident happened on your property.

Ask if the owner and his subsequent employees have been trained a licensed through the state apprenticeship program. The state of Washington it takes 4,000 hours and 144 hours of classroom time to get a "Power Line Clearance & Tree Trimming" apprenticeship license. You want to make certain the people cutting your branches have this. The course trains people in safety first but also teaches them about various tree types and how to cut them without damaging them. Again, considering how demanding and high risk this activity is you want people who are doing it for you to be fully trained to do it right.

Get three quotes from three different tree service companies. When you call a company like this they will send an estimator out to bid the job. Make sure you get them to put everything in writing and exactly what you are getting for the money you are spending. When this happens you can make accurate comparisons. Note this: the cheapest bids are not always the best way to go. And, extremely low bids may give you a clue that they do not have all the insurance they should. Tree service companies pay some of the highest insurance rates in the country and this businesses have to pass a lot of those costs on to their customers.

Look online for reviews about a tree service you are considering doing business with. If they have been around for several years they will have some sort of reputation. You need to find out what they reputation is. Is it good or is it bad? Have they produced substandard work? Have they overcharged or did not do what what agreed upon? Online reviews of a particular tree service will tell you this.

Follow these suggestions and you should be able to weed the bad tree cutting companies from the good ones.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3772799

How to Care For Your Trees in Cold Winter Months

If you have tender younger trees or newly planted ones, you may be concerned about heavy ice and snow and strong, cold winter winds. Clear any debris from the ground around the trunk of the tree. Spread a good mulch or hay around the tree to provide insulation in the winter. The mulch should be piled at least a foot deep the plant. This should be done in the late fall, just before the first frost. A few good mulches are: bark mulch, wheat-free straw, wood chips and peat moss. There are other mulches also, but these are a few. Mulch protects roots and helps prevent rapid fluctuations in the soil temperature.

For young or new plantings, there are some options available to protect your tree or shrub from heavy snow that may fall upon it from other trees or from a roof, as well as from snowdrifts and strong winds. Many people opt for wrapping the tree in burlap, which is just fine and works very well, if the burlap is wrapped properly.

There are also garden tents which are ideal for young trees, shrubs or plants. The wood is nailed together in a V-shape, with mesh or burlap stapled to the wood. This forms a tent shape. Then all one has to do is place the garden tent over the desired plant and viola, you have protected that tree. There are also Styrofoam covers that people use. It is the same idea as the garden tent, in that it is physically placed over the plant, but it is made from Styrofoam rather than from wood and mesh or burlap. Many people today prefer the garden tents and Styrofoam covers as opposed to the burlap wrap. All three methods are good preventative measures to take towards protecting your fragile or new plants or trees against the harsh elements of winter. It is merely a matter of preference.

Trees that are somewhat larger or too large to be covered or wrapped, may need help to fight against the storm winds. You can help a tree at its weakest point, which is always where the branch departs from the tree trunk. The weakest point of a tree is where you have two branches of equal diameter coming off the trunk of the tree. It is at that point that trees seem to inevitably split. The plant collar which supports a limb cannot wrap itself around the split, which makes the branches very susceptible to high winds and heavy ice.

The tree can be braced by wrapping rope around the weak points and securing it to a wall, or anything that will keep it secure. Properly pruning a young tree will help you to avoid this kind of problem in the future. If you have any questions, be sure to contact your favorite nursery and they will be glad to help you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3383040

How to Spot Hazardous Trees

In most cases, trees provide beauty and shade around our property. But there may come a time when one of those trees is set to fall and can cause property damage, or worse, bodily harm. That is why it is wise to be able to identify visible signs that a tree may become a hazard before it happens. Here are a few things to look for:

Dead Wood

Dead wood is one of the most serious concerns and must be attended to immediately. It is unpredictable, and can come down at any time. You can identify dead wood by its dry and brittle appearance. It also doesn't bend in the wind like healthy wood. Dead branches that are already broken, also referred to as "hangers" or "widow makers," are especially dangerous.

Cankers

A tree canker is not unlike the canker sores people get in their mouth. It is an area on the stem or branch of a tree where the bark is sunken or missing. If you see a canker, this increases the chance of the stem breaking in that area. A tree with a canker that encompasses more than half of the tree's circumference is hazardous, even if the underlying exposed wood looks healthy.

You should take action if one or more cankers affect more than half of the tree's circumference. You need to also take action if a canker is connected to a crack or other defect, weak branch union, or cavity.

Cracks

If you see cracks that may extend from the bark into the wood, this poses a danger as well. You should take action if you see multiple deep cracks in the same area of the wood, if the branch in question is big enough to cause injury, or if a crack is leading towards another defect in the tree.

Weak Branch Unions

A branch union refers to the area where two or more branches connect to the tree. The branches are usually similar in size and upright. Bark grows between the branches and inside the union. Since bark is, of course, weaker than wood, the support is weaker. Contact a tree removal company if you notice a crack in a weak branch union.

Decay

A tree usually decays from the inside out, leaving a cavity inside. And while decay can be a hazard, that alone isn't a sign of a hazardous tree. In these cases, it is usually wise to have a trained arborists examine the tree to see if it is dangerous. If advanced decay is also associated with other defective parts of a tree, take action sooner than later.

Additional Hazards

Other things that you need to be concerned with are root problems and poor tree architecture. For instance, if you notice a tree leaning with root exposure, this may foretell a tree falling.

Poor architecture refers to a tree's growth pattern that may indicate a structural imbalance. While a leaning tree may pose a danger, that is not always going to be the case. Again, it is best to consult a professional arborist if you have any doubts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5267004

Bring in a Tree Trimming Service for Tree Care and Upkeep on Your Property

Even thriving trees can use a little professional TLC from time to time. Hire a tree trimming service to keep your trees looking their best.

The trees in your yard add beauty and character to your landscape. Whether you have a few mighty oaks, a long row of pines, or an array of ornamental cherry trees, you want to ensure that your trees look their best and reflect well on both your property and you as the property owner. Well-maintained trees can add value to the land and make your yard a truly pleasant place to be.

But aesthetics are only one reason to consider hiring a tree trimming service for tree maintenance. Regular trimming and pruning can boost your trees' health, helping them grow taller and stronger. Tree care can also ensure the safety of everyone who uses the yard, as well as protecting your property from tree-related damage due to falling limbs. Look for a tree services professional in your area with the knowledge, skill, and training to take all of these considerations into account.

Tree Appearance

If you put effort into maintaining your home's exterior, from regular paint jobs and clean windows to a mowed lawn, why wouldn't you also take steps to maintain your landscape elements? Well-groomed trees show that you care about your property. Of course, tree trimming doesn't have to mean pruning each tree into an identical shape, unless you're going for a topiary effect. It's often enough to remove limbs that are dead or unsightly, and to trim back any branches that are in the way of your windows, vehicles, utility lines, or other landscape features. Whether you want an extremely groomed look or desire a wilder aesthetic, tree trimming will help you achieve that effect.

Tree Health

Tree trimming service isn't just good for your property's appearance; it's also good for the trees. Removing diseased and insect-infested branches and limbs can keep problems from spreading to the entire tree. Additionally, dying and diseased limbs can sap nutrients from the healthy part of the plant, and thus removing limbs that can't be saved can make the entire tree stronger. Thinning out crowded branches and getting rid of limbs that are rubbing together can also strengthen the tree, making it better able to withstand storms and other natural events. However, it's best to hire a professional tree contractor to conduct pruning and trimming, because improper tree cutting-even with good intentions-can harm the tree and stunt its growth.

Tree Safety

Heavy limbs, improperly balanced limbs, and limbs that are about to snap pose a hazard to your family and your belongings. The last thing you want is to ignore that dangling branch only to have it fall and land on your car, your home, or your child. Even if there's nothing directly beneath the problem area, a strong storm could blow a broken branch or limb into a building or vehicle. Hiring a tree services professional to take a look at potentially dangerous limbs can help you avoid injury and property loss.

Trees are a major element of any landscaping plan, whether you choose to plant them yourself or you design your yard and home around existing trees. As such, they're an investment in your property, and as with any investment, they require upkeep. Professional pruning and trimming will make your trees healthier and your property safer and more attractive. You'll also potentially save money by preventing major issues rather than dealing with them after disaster strikes. To learn more about what's best for your trees, contact a tree contractor or landscape specialist in your area.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7280591

Eucalyptus Removal over house in Benicia, California

Signature Tree Service removes two large and hazardous Eucalyptus over house in Benicia, California

Removal of large hazardous dead Valley Oak over house!

Signature Tree Service flawlessly removes a hazardous dead Valley Oak over a house, valuable landscape and street with out any damage or incidents. This project was executed on a 102 degree summer day in Vacaville, California!

2012 Halloween Light Show - Gangnam Style

Halloween Gangnam Style
Over 8,500 lights and roughly 250 channels of computer animation.

Special thanks to Kevin Judd for the inspiration. This is a hobby and the display has been in the making for about year. The Gangnam Style video was a last minute addition made possible by a LightOrama forum member, Torqumada286, who graciously shared the lead singer's mouth/vocal programming sequence with me. I tweaked it some,added the back up singers, and sequenced the rest of the house and yard props myself.

Blowing The Top Off Pine Tree Over A Phone Line

Curtis Fosnaugh, owner of Signature Tree Service takes a high perch to fell the top of this tall pine tree and make sure and miss the valued phone line in the process.

Felling A Live Oak That Stood Right Next To House In Vallejo, CA

Signature Tree Service carefully felling a oak tree too close to the house in Vallejo CA. www.signaturetreeservice.com.

Have You Ever Thought How Important Tree Trimming Is?

Tree trimming is an important task that needs to be carried out regularly, without fail. Tree trimming is not only good for the tree's growth, it is also important to trim trees at regular intervals so that they do not damage property and overhead wires. Huge trees often fall due to heavy rain and make the situation complex with the damages created on the adjacent properties. So such huge trees close to any residential buildings or industrial properties should be trimmed regularly.

Perfect Time For Tree Trimming

It is commonly said that tree trimming can be done whenever the saw is sharp. This is very true, as you do not need a specific time to trim trees. Dead branches and leaves need to be trimmed at all times to ensure the rest of the tree grows smoothly. Also, if a part of the tree is infected, it needs to be trimmed without delay. The infected part of the tree may spread the damage to other parts of the tree and sometimes to the adjacent trees as well. So the trees should be monitored regularly to find out any dead parts or insects affecting them. When such damaging insects are seen, it is recommended you remove the damaged part of the tree completely for the safety of the tree.

You also need to know what kind the trees are - whether they are flowering frees, shrubs, or plants. If it is a flowering tree, you have to be very careful with the tree trimming procedure. The majority of flowering trees deposit their blossoms on the previous year. Thus, they will not blossom if the flower buds are trimmed from the tree. The finest process is to always clip flowering trees within three weeks after they cease blossoming. That should stop you from unintentionally eliminating buds holding the blossoms for the following year. Season wise trimming of the trees can make the trees get healthy and yield more on the next blossoming season. Tree trimming will keep the trees healthy and can make them grow healthier.

There are some trees that cannot be pruned at every time of the year as well. They are:

• Maples - If trimmed at particular times of the year, a maple tree might "bleed" or drip as a result of the trimming. Bleeding is almost certain to take place when maples are trimmed in the seasons just prior to and subsequent to winter. Research has shown that "bleeding" does not wound the tree; therefore it turns out to be more of a surface concern. If you want to trim maple trees with no bleeding, it should be carried out whilst it is completely inactive in peak winter, or in spring or at summer time while it is in covered in leaf.

• Dogwoods - If you prune dogwoods during April or May, it might cause them to be further inclined to the dogwood borer. This insect ruthlessly spoils the vascular system of the tree once it finishes boring into the trunk of the dogwood tree.

• Oaks - Oaks must not be pruned from April to October, owing to the commonness of Oak Wilt disease pathogens through the time.

The Places At Which Trees Should Be Trimmed

Tree trimming may seem like an easy procedure on the surface, but you need to know exactly where to trim or else you may end up damaging the tree beyond repair. A novice engaged in tree trimming can cut off the branches in such a way that open stubs will remain and those will merrily turn into entry points for insects.

Dissimilar to human beings, trees do not redevelop tissues. As human skin restores itself, trees produce fresh tissue in the region of cut and group them. Once a tree groups a previous cut, it has an improved possibility of endurance. Care should also be taken not to hurt tree trunks with equipments such as lawnmowers, tractors and added machinery. Such injured trunks craft openings for vicious fungi. Trees can be trimmed with safer equipments like sharp saw and should be trimmed at the right places where the damages are seen or the growth has become excessive. Some of the trees blossom at very early age and so take off lot of water and energy supplied for their growth to make the blossom faster. In such cases, early blossom may block the growth of the tree and the complete growth of the tree will be impacted. In such cases, the early blossom can be trimmed and so the water and energy will be absorbed for the healthy growth of the tree.

A biological resistance method is developed into trees, in the inflamed part at the bottom of branches, called the "collar" - just where the trunk crisscrosses the branch. Even trims are vital to carry out, given you do not take away the collar. Proper tree trimming should be completed immediately ahead of the collar, exclusive of a stub, yet still leave the inflamed part.

Safety Measures

While carrying out a tree trimming expedition, you should be very careful so as to not hurt yourself or anyone around you. Tree branches are often extremely heavy and if they fall on you, can cause a lot of damage and the accidents can be fatal as well.

First and foremost, before you embark upon a tree trimming mission, judge the extent of work required to be put in. If the work is too much for you to handle, do not hesitate to call an expert. There are a number of firms that specialize in tree trimming. If you need the services of any one of these tree trimming firms, you can look on the Internet. Alternatively, you can also ask your friends and neighbors who have engaged professional tree trimmers in the past.

If, however, you see that you can handle the tree trimming task yourself, keep the following tips in mind:

• Never use a ladder. That is just inviting trouble.
• Definitely use a saddle, the special types of saddles designed for tree trimming.
• Protect your eyes without fail.
• Ask everyone standing around the tree to move away. If a branch falls on someone's head, it can even be fatal.

Tree Trimming Near Power Lines

This is a problem that has existed for years. Trees that are planted too near a power line grow tall and hit the wires overhead, causing serous damage. These damages can lead to troubles like the wires getting snapped (and consequently loss of power), fires and even trigger off a forest fire. As a result you need to be extremely cautious and get the trees trimmed regularly. In the outskirts of big cities or the forest areas having power lines, problem of free fall over the power lines are very common during heavy wind and rainy season. The tall trees often break at heavy wind, damage the power lines and create severe damages to the nearby properties. The damages created are so very huge when the power supply cause fire or electrical shocks on the stagnant water resources if available nearby. In such sensitive areas, either the power lining should be done with proper care taken or the tall trees trimmed regularly. Since the care of power lining may not be practically feasible, the tall trees can be monitored and trimmed regularly by the authorities responsible for the natural resource.

However, many argue that trees should not be planted near power lines in the first place. It is unwise to plant saplings near power lines as they will but obviously grow tall and reach for the wires. Similarly, while planting a tree, be careful not to plant them too close to property. This may lead to both the damage of the property and the tree in the days to come. Leave enough place for the tree and its branches to spread out and then only plant a sapling. After all, it is always wise to judge a problem at the root level, and in the case of tree trimming, this literally holds true! So be careful and cautious early on to help prevent any problems later on.

Tree Trimming Near Residential Properties

It is good to have a green neighborhood. But the dense trees grown taller may create trouble when fallen on the nearby properties. The tree fall may also cause damages to people staying in the smaller buildings in case of heavy wind and storms. To avoid such complications, it should be noted not to have trees planted densely in the residential locations. If planted, proper care should be taken to trim the trees regularly.

Having a woods-like neighborhood may be lovely to live in, but the serious problems caused by the tall trees should be taken care of properly, to make the living really lovely and interesting. Properly trimmed trees can make the living area look beautiful and make the location safe to live.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4151766

Signature Tree Service Commercial

Curtis and his team show how Signature Tree Service are the right choice when if comes to taking care of your trees. See more at www.signaturetreeservice.com

Let a Tree Service Save Your Beloved Old Tree

Trees are a very important addition to many landscapes including businesses, residential neighborhoods, homes, and of course in their natural habitats. However, trees eventually get old and can also suffer from pest and insect infestation, rot, or disease. During a bad downpour weakened trees and their limbs can lean on power lines or your house. These trees tend to become hollow and during a thunderstorm with high winds and lightning, and can drop huge limbs or even split in half and fall, resulting in devastation to your residence and neighborhood.

Being proactive in the care of trees can save one from heartache and unnecessary damage. However, tree care is overlooked by many of us as we tend to assume that the trees that grow in our backyard are healthy and safe. This is often not the case and we may find ourselves having to call a licensed tree service to respond to a situation after it is too late to save the tree. Sometimes a crashing tree branch can cause extensive home repair or car damage.

Through photosynthesis trees convert carbon dioxide into oxygen which our planet needs to contain life. Their healthy, lush foliage bring beauty and shade to everyday surroundings. Trees can provide a natural sound buffer for those who live or work in areas of high traffic or industrial noise. Maintaining healthy trees can not only provide beauty to your property but also increase its value.

Yet consistent care is required to maintain the structural integrity and longevity of trees, especially cultivated ones that mark property lines between homes or businesses. Good foliage care is important during the life of a tree and planning is essential before planting one. Tree care tends to be either proactive or reactive in nature. If you are a new home or business owner you first need to do a little research in the area of horticulture and landscaping.

You will need to decide what variety of trees and consider and where to plant them. You certainly don't want the root systems interfering with underground utility pipes, electrical power and cable lines, sidewalks, or driveways. Consulting a certified arborist can be a big help and extremely cost effective. Tree trimming can assist in keeping your existing trees healthy and vibrant, thus preserving their natural beauty.

Trimming and pruning also prevents excess foliage from blocking your view or keeping sunlight from getting to your flowers or vegetable garden, and branches from growing over your neighbor's fence or sidewalk on the street. Pruning can be completed on fruit bearing trees and hardwoods. Some of the most common techniques are crown reduction, crown raising and crown thinning to grow healthy and symmetrical branches and leaves. Crown and brush thinning helps to expose dead leaves and branches, which when cleared out or cut off, can help prevent wildfires from erupting.

Certified arborists stay abreast of the most current techniques and information in foliage and tree care. Arborists are fully licensed and insured, have a minimum of three years experience and all of their work is guaranteed. Keep your neighborhood beautiful and your home and trees safe. Your local tree service can help.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4246193

Fall is the Time to Get Your Garden Trees and Shrubs Ready for Winter: Here's What to Do

Tips for winter care of trees and shrubs

With the garden season drawing to a close, it's awfully tempting to forget about your plants. But you should continue to water all woody plants - especially newly planted trees and shrubs and all evergreens. Helping your valuable garden trees and shrubs sail through winter starts with thorough watering in the fall.

Water your plants well until the ground freezes, and make sure you water enough through a dry fall. Your plants will need the equivalent of one inch of rain per week. (In a wet fall, you can relax.)

Evergreens and broadleaf evergreens (shrubs such as rhododendron and boxwood) don't lose their leaves, so they need a good store of moisture going into winter because they continue to transpire (give off water vapor) through the cold months.

Most winter damage to evergreens doesn't actually come from cold, but from the drying effects of late winter sun and wind. With the soil frozen hard, plant roots can't take up water to make up for moisture losses from transpiration and, as a result, dehydration can cause browning or burning of foliage.

Winterizing trees and shrubs: To wrap or not to wrap?

When considering winter care of trees and shrubs, don't go crazy with burlap wrap. It's extra work and doesn't look great.

After all, the whole point of evergreens is to give you something green to look at in the winter! Contrary to popular belief, most established evergreens hardy in your region don't need to be wrapped.

However, as with many things in gardening, there are exceptions. Some evergreens, such as dwarf Alberta spruce, are prone to winter-burn, so they should be covered, as should newly planted evergreens. (New plants haven't had time grow extensive roots that help them take up enough moisture to prevent excessive water losses.)

To make a windbreak around vulnerable plants, hammer four stakes into the ground and staple on a burlap covering. Never use plastic, or your plants could "cook" on sunny days. (Remember the greenhouse effect?)

More tips for winter care of woody plants: 

• If your plants get salt spray from the road, burlap may help, but wrap them with a double layer, not a single layer. To avoid having to cover your evergreens, don't plant them near a road that gets salted, or plant salt-tolerant species such as junipers.
• Protect broadleaf evergreens such as rhododendron, pieris and laurel from the drying effects of winter sun and wind with an anti-desiccant spray such as Wilt-Pruf, which coats foliage with a protective waxy film. You can also wrap with burlap, if you must.
• To help preserve moisture, cover the root area of evergreens and broadleaf evergreens with a three-inch thick layer of leaf or bark mulch.
• Protect upright evergreen junipers and cedars from breakage due to ice and snow by wrapping branches with heavy string or mesh covers sold for this purpose. Once fastened into place, you'll hardly see the string or mesh.
• Protect young trees by putting plastic tree guards around the bottom of their trunks to prevent damage from gnawers such as rabbits and mice. Make sure the tree guards go high enough - over the snow line. (Remove them in the spring because it looks better and avoids the problem of the guards trapping moisture against the bark in the summer and attracting insects.)
• If rabbits are a big problem in your area, put chicken wire cages around the plants they find most tasty.
• Prevent rabbit and rodent damage with a repellent spray that you apply on lower trunks, branches and stems. Such products generally have to be reapplied after wet weather.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/63375

Two Climbers And One Guy In Aerial Lift Working Next To And Over POWERLI...

Two Climbers And One Guy In Aerial Lift

Fosnaugh's H.E.E.L. Chain Saw Safety Message

Curtis Fosnaugh of Signature Tree Service talks about safety whenever one wants to pick up a chain saw and start cutting. He uses H.E.E.L. for Head, Eyes, Ears, and Legs, or Helmet, Eye Protection (safety glasses), Ear Protection (ear plugs, noise blogging headset), and Leg Protection (chaps). Good advice!

http://www.signaturetreeservice.com.

It's All About The Kids: Vacaville Kid Fest, Sat Oct 6th, Andrews Park, Downtown Vacaville

Vacaville Kid Fest was started in 1999, when an idea was born to create a "Children's Festival", a place where families could come and have a day of activities with their children at very little or no cost, and also have the opportunity to learn about many of the services and resources that were available to children and families. We adopted the theme "For the Child in all of us".

A group of City of Vacaville representatives, ranging from business owners and managers, nonprofit groups and media people were approached with the idea and met it with enthusiasm. And thus, Kid Fest was born.

The first Kid Fest Core Committee consisted of Shauna Manina, Meaghan O'Neill from Vacaville Police Dept., Linnea Dischinger from Vacaville Fire Dept., Todd Grames and Suzanne Green from Community Services Dept., and Reggie Hubbard from Housing & Redevelopment Dept. Other business people from The Reporter, Downtown Vacaville Business Improvement District, and others all committed to the vision of a day of low cost or no cost activities, free resources, and fun.

Our first event in 1999 had 1 stage and 40 booths, with everything from food, crafters and merchandise vendors, a wide range of social service and community nonprofit groups, free children's games and entertainment, bounce houses, and a very strong focus on child safety and health. From the beginning, a large component of the event has been the presence of Vacaville Fire and Police Depts., with their equipment displays, children's fire muster, and safety information.

By 2001, there were 2 stages of entertainment and over 120 booths participating in the event. The committee members have changed over the years, but the event has continued, and become part of the fabric of what makes Vacaville a family oriented community. The focus remains on child and family safety and health.

See more about this wonderful organization at www.VacavilleKidFest.org

See you there!

taking apart of a limb in Ash tree over a house

Signature Tree Service at work. Cutting an Ash tree that has grown over a house.

Redwoods: The Tallest Trees

Photographer Nick Nichols spent a year planning the nearly impossible: a top-to-bottom photograph of a 300-foot-tall redwood tree, now the centerpiece of the October issue of National Geographic Magazine.

4 Tips for Pruning Trees and Shrubs

1. Use clean equipment.

Look at the main three pieces of equipment you will need for pruning. In understanding your equipment and preparing to clean it, take a moment and look at your hand pruner, lopper or pruning saw closely. Open and close the device and see how the device "works". Clean the blade of the device after use with Isopropyl alcohol. As you will be using the equipment to prune trees and shrubs, the device picks up resin, juices, and sap from the plant. These "juices" may contain disease or harmful pathogens that can spread from plant to plant.

2. Proper time of year.

Proper time of year depends on the tree or shrub. In general, spring blooming plants should be pruned after they bloom in the spring the year before. Fall blooming plants should be pruned during the winter months. During the growing season remember when pruning a spring blooming tree or shrub, that you are pruning for shape and health of plant. In other words, the plant is actually creating those beautiful blooms for next spring. Around the second half of July pruning should cease, until around mid-September. Doing this will prevent new growth as cold weather approaches. After mid-September resume pruning. But, remember that the way you prune a tree or shrub in say the fall is the way it will look all winter, as the plant will grow little before cold sets in. Do hard pruning in winter months.

3. Prune for shape

Before pruning decide if an informal or formal look is desire for the plant. An informal look may only require pruning once a year or a few light prunings. A formal look will require a more scheduled, rigorous approach. Formal looking hedges or shrubs that have small or medium sized leaves can have a more uniform with routine "shearing", requiring a monthly pruning during the growing season.

4.What does one prune from a tree or shrub?

Prune out any dead wood, crossing, and rubbing branches. Pruning is actually an act of caring for the plant. Trees and shrubs need proper care to make it perform to their potential. This means that you should use proper pruning techniques. Use the proper device for the size cut to be performed. With hand pruners only cut branches that are quite small like up to a 1/2". The hand loppers prune branches from 1/2" up to about 1 1/2" depending on the angle and hardness of wood. The pruning saw is designed to prune branches form 1 1/2" up to about 3" or 4" inches. Remember that branches are heavy, any time of year, so, in pruning, the weight of the branch will have an effect on the cut, as you prune. To prune medium sized branches corrrectly, use a cross-drop pruning technique. Dead wood will appear as possibly leafless branches, brittle, rotten, distorted tips, disease infected. Collect and haul away trimmings. Next, prune any branches that cross and rub each other.

These are just 4 pruning tips for trees and shrubs that will make you a better more informed gardener

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6911850

Winterize Your Trees

As the summer winds down and fall begins to set it, it is the time of year to start making preparations for the cold. Though you probably already do a fall cleanup for your lawn, be sure that you do not forget to include your trees in your checklist. Taking care of this now will help to ensure not only that your trees stay healthy and safe throughout the winter, but that they are flourishing and as beautiful as possible come spring time. Here are a few simple tips to guide your thinking as you consider what your trees need for winterization this fall.

Pruning
Just like you would for any other plant, pruning a tree can help to make room for new growth and improve overall health. Removing any unhealthy or damaged pieces of a tree is a great idea, though this is often quite difficult to do properly without the help of an expert. Another thing to look out for is the presence of foliage or limbs drooping down to touch the soil below. This can actually create an opportunity for certain types of harmful insects and pests to gain access to the tree.

Mulching
Covering the soil surrounding the tree with several inches of organic composted mulch can function in many positive ways. This layer can act nicely as a buffer, evening out extreme fluctuations in both temperature and moisture levels. It also protects sensitive feeder roots and is a great way to ensure that nutrients are available at all times close to the roots. It is almost as if you are wrapping up the ground the way you might wrap yourself up for the winter (except your sweaters hopefully lack both nutrients and moisture).

A Professional Eye
Unfortunately, it is oftentimes not obvious to the untrained eye which trees and which specific limbs are going to be problematic over the winter. And, even if it is, tree trimming itself is usually going to be a job done much better by professionals. It is a good idea to schedule an inspection with a professional tree service so they can take a look at your situation and give you an opinion on how your trees will do if left alone during the winter. They will be able to expertly prune and trim problematic limbs, which can serve to improve the overall structural stability of a tree, create a nicer shape, encourage more full spring growth, prevent storm damage, and even discourage cold-weather diseases and insects from causing harm.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7282843

An action packed video that shows what makes Signature Tree Service your number one tree care provider!

An action packed video that shows some of the techniques, equipment and team members, that make Signature Tree Service your number one tree care provider!

The Purpose Of Doing A Root Collar Exam On A Large Valley Oak

For the longevity of the tree, it is important to do a root collar exam. One of the many services at Signature Tree Service. http://www.signaturetreeservice.com.

Clearing a Driveway in Napa

Clearing off narrow driveway in Napa Valley with help from an excavator.

http://www.signaturetreeservice.net

Fall - Time To Forget About Your Trees, Right?

The leaves are dropping. Your trees' systems are shutting down. You can forget about the great outdoors until spring. "Not true, says Lou Giroud, ISA Certified Arborist and President of Giroud Tree And Lawn. "In reality, fall is the best time to perform many tree care operations," explains Mr. Giroud. He recommends taking the following actions now to prepare your trees for winter and give them a healthy start in the Spring.

Start with a professional tree inspection
Fall is the perfect time to have your trees inspected by a professional arborist. With the leaves off, your arborist can thoroughly evaluate your trees. Spotting problems early is the main purpose of the inspection. Your arborist will be looking for cracks, decay, excessive deadwood, structural defects and other problems that may require action.

Treat for Fall and some Spring pests now.
There are two categories of pests that require treatment in the fall.

Fall Pests: This fall, the most active pests are Spider Mites, Hemlock Adelgid and Spruce Gall Adelgid. A spray application applied between now and November is the best way to treat these destructive pests

Spring Pests: Did pests attack your trees last Spring? A Merit soil injection in the Fall is the most effective treatment for controlling many Spring pests including Birch Leaf Miner, Lace Bugs and, Aphids. It takes several months for Merit to be absorbed by the root system and distributed to the branches, leaves and buds. When the pests emerge in the Spring, Merit is waiting for them in the leaves and buds that they feed on.

Stop Deer Damage
Trampled flowerbeds...Defoliated trees and plants...Most likely, deer have invaded your property. Spray products are available that can stop deer from munching on your trees and shrubs. To be effective, a deer deterrent should be applied monthly from November through March-the prime months for deer damage. Additionally, the deterrent should be biodegradable, rain resistant and have a smell that is not offensive to humans. Ask your arborist for more information.

Build your tree's energy reserves with fertilizer
Your tree may appear to be dormant. However, its roots continue to grow through the fall and winter. An injection of time-release fertilizer in the fall stimulates root growth, improves root absorption capability and provides vital nutrients throughout the winter to get your tree ready for Spring.

Prune now for health, beauty and safety
Fall is a great time to prune most trees. The risk of spreading disease is reduced and the tree's structure is more visible. A professional should remove deadwood, eliminate crossed branches and establish a healthy growth pattern. Fall is also a good time to elevate lower branches and prune trees away from houses, pools, driveways and walks.

Prevent split trees by installing cables or bolts:
Trees with multiple trunks or bark that has grown into wood at a tree's crotch are prime targets for problems. An arborist should install a cable that is bolted through both limbs to keep the tree from splitting apart. It's essential that your Arborist chooses the right hardware designed to fit the specific problem and uses it in the right way to successfully brace the tree.

Prevent Winter Burn
Cold wind can actually suck the moisture from the leaves and needles on your evergreens. Azaleas, hollies and rhododendron are most susceptible but pines, hemlocks and yews can also be affected. Ask your arborist to apply an antidescicant to protect your evergreens.

Want to plant a new tree?
Your new tree will have a better chance of survival if you plant it in the Fall. Over the winter, the roots of newly planted trees have an opportunity to grow and get established in the soil. By spring and summer, the tree has a better ability to deal with stress from lack of water and heat.

"A final thought for fall, suggests Mr. Giroud, "keep a protective layer of mulch around your trees and don't forget to water newly planted trees until the ground is frozen. "

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5165616

Signature Tree Service Commercial

Curtis and his team show how Signature Tree Service are the right choice when if comes to taking care of your trees. See more at www.signaturetreeservice.com

Tree Planting and Care During the Fall

Although it is not typically thought of as such, fall can actually be one of the best seasons for planting trees. Because summer months are drier, sometimes even drought-stricken, newly planted trees often face a hostile environment, unable to take root and thrive. Depending upon the average temperatures and weather and soil conditions for the region in which one lives, this may even be the case for the mid to late spring months. Conversely, the harsh winter months can also be hostile to newly planted trees.

Trees planted during the fall, however, have a great advantage to both these extremes. In fact, timely planting during the fall can prove to be quite beneficial for the successful growth of the tree. By planting during the fall, the climate is typically quite temperate, and the extremes of hot or cold temperatures are no longer an issue. Additionally, with the fall months, the soil tends to better retain moisture, thereby allowing a more nourishing environment for the tree. Planting trees during the fall also allows them the benefit of the winter months for taking root into the surrounding soil and establishing a better chance for viability with the onset of spring.

It is best to start by researching which trees are native to a region. Selecting a species native to a region further ensures the probability of survival. Once a tree has been selected, plant it by first locating the area where the tree is to be planted, carefully considering the average dimensions for the species selected.

Dig a hole as high as, but several times wider than the root ball of the tree. Loosening the soil of the sides of the hole will allow the roots to better establish themselves. However, the bottom of the hole should be left intact to stabilize the tree. If planted correctly, staking the young tree should not be necessary. Generally, staking is only required if there is damage to the lawn or if there are consistently windy conditions.

Remove any containers or, minimally, loosen any burlap (although removing the burlap altogether is best) that may have come on the tree when purchased from the nursery. Then, place the tree into the hole and begin backfilling. Occasionally stomping on the soil will help to remove air pockets.

Backfill approximately two-thirds of the soil originally dug out, then water and allow the soil to settle, continuing to remove any air pockets. Use the remaining one-third of the soil to create a berm (a mound or wall of soil or sand).

Finally, cover the span of the berm all around the base of the trunk with mulch for added support and protection of the young tree.

Once this simple planting process is completed, care of the tree is quite minimal during the fall months and usually includes only watering every other week.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5231541

80' Pine Saved From Falling Into House - Signature Tree Service

Owner/Operator Curtis Fosnaugh of Signature Tree Service loading a top of pine tree into load line and pulley with use of a "port-a-wrap". Port-a-wrap is a lowering device that enables one person to control heavy weighted items to the ground. This job took place in Benicia,CA

How Many Trees Can Make a Ton of Paper?

We all know that papers are made from trees and it is common to hear people say save more trees by using less paper. Some people have also heard and it has been circulating in the internet that "a ton of recycled paper saves 17 trees."

However, there is some caution when taking this quote. This first came out about 40 years ago, so with all the changes happening in the world, it may not be exactly true and applicable today. Also, this was computed based on paper used for newspaper printing. Producing this type of paper has a different process when compared to office and printing papers. But this is the closest calculation one can get when it comes to estimating the number of trees saved from cutting by recycled paper or the number of trees used to make virgin paper, regardless of the type of paper is being referred to.

During the recent years, there has been information online that some efforts made by a non-profit organization to somehow update this statistic. Some questions were posed and answers were given to give people an idea about how much paper can be produced with one tree or how many trees can be saved by recycling a particular amount of paper.

The first consideration is determining what kind of paper is being referred to. Paper that is made using a mechanical process or ground wood process are using trees efficiently twice as much as compared to making paper using the kraft or free sheet process.

Some examples of paper using the mechanical process are catalog, newsprint, telephone directories and some low-budget magazines. The free sheet process, on the other hand, produces paper for office, business cards, letterheads, high-quality coated materials and advertising and offset papers. Whether a paper is coated or uncoated also could spell a difference.

So, really, how many tress are needed to produce a ton of paper? In the book Recycled Papers written by Claudia Thompson, she reported an estimate that was calculated by a Pulp and Paper Technology program graduate student, Tom Soder. It was estimated that a rough average of 24 trees can produce one ton of paper for writing and printing. The craft chemical is the process used. This was based on a mixture of soft and hard woods that are about 40 feet high and has 6-8 inches diameter.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4234491