Arborist or Landscaper? 3 Ways To Know When You Need Each & Why

Why Pay An Arborist When A Landscaper Said He Can Handle The Job?

Let's face it, climbing and falling trees is dangerous work. When accidents happen, they're usually not splinters. Just like owning a pool or raised deck, mature trees increase your homeowner's liability while also increasing your home's value. Arborists, tree removers and climbers are professionally trained, using professional equipment specifically designed for their trade, much like landscapers when it comes to lawns, gardening and landscaping.

When you need an electrician, you hire one. You wouldn't call a plumber instead hoping he can do just as well. Both know the innards of a house, but handle completely different jobs. The same goes for landscapers and tree service companies. Similar, yet completely different jobs.

1. Workman's Comp is a small homeowner safety net when a worker is injured on their property. If Workman's Comp insurance on every employee isn't paid to date, or the worker is performing duties not covered under his job description, your safety net is gone. 

2. Any worker on your property NOT listed on the hired company's official payroll, will NOT be covered by Workman's Comp. A certified arborist is accustomed to having proof of payroll for every worker on the job site.  

3. MOST IMPORTANT BECAUSE IT MAKES BOTH 1 & 2 MOOT: Arborists pay more for business insurance, which is based on risk assessment and potential liability. If a landscaper is injured on your property while performing the job of an arborist, their insurance will not cover them and liability falls to you, the homeowner. 

Hire a professional tree service for tree jobs to reduce homeowner liability.

You Need A Landscaper When:

1. You want regular maintenance of your yard. This may include anything from cleaning to mowing to pruning of small trees and shrubs.

2.  You need landscaping specifics, like yard design. A landscaper can tell you which plants and ground coverings will work best for your particular location, preference and lifestyle.

3. Garden layout and advice. Most landscapers have a good understanding of garden design, soil and which flowers will work best to complement your veggie garden.

You Need An Arborist When:

 1. Trees are threatening your fence, overhang, deck, house, or other space/property.

 2. You want advice on design, placement and species of trees within your landscape and location layout.

 3. You need to determine the overall health of trees on your property. An ounce of prevention! This should only be done by a Certified Tree Risk Assessor. 

Every job has a professional in that field. Signature Tree Service regularly recommends landscapers to our clients to handle jobs we don't cover. We love landscapers! This informational blog, as are many of our blogs, was written solely to educate homeowners on liability, risk and risk reduction.

We hope this blog article has been interesting and/or useful for you. Signature Tree Service strives hard to provide the best professional tree service in Northern California. Curtis Fosnaugh, CEO, is a reputable Certified Arborist and Certified Tree Risk Assessor. Signature Tree Service has proudly served Northern California for over 10 years with offices in St. Helena, Benicia, Vacaville and Santa Rosa.

Call us if your trees need work! We are here to help, 24/7.

SignatureTreeService.com

707-449-8653   

 

Power Lines & Your Trees: 5 Ways To Protect Your Property Value!

NAPA, CA: Sidewalk tree shows a butchering by PG&E

We know that power companies have a job to do, not only in supplying power but also in protecting the public from dangerous wires. Why is it, though, that these power companies, despite years of regular practice, seems to continuously get more careless with the lives of the trees they prune? 

Forget for a minute that some of these trees are older than our grandmothers. As the picture to the right shows, power companies like PG&E here in Northern California appear to be concerned with only one thing: Keep those pesky trees out of the way of our important power lines!

The Napa Valley Register recently published an article about the controversy of this practice. And Northern California isn't unique in this way! The arborists here at Signature Tree Service have seen some pretty unappetizing pictures of power company tree slaughterings all over the U.S. and Europe. Perhaps this is happening in your town? Comment and let us know! 

In order to empower you (and the trees!) as best we can, Signature Tree Service has developed a short list of 5 ways to protect your property and its value from power company butcherings.

1.  Plant Wisely. This is probably the single-most important thing you can do if you are designing your own landscape. Even though many people are drawn to taller trees around the perimeter of their property, small to medium trees are much more appropriate under power lines. Don’t forget to look up, and to think ahead 10 years when you are planning!

2.  Proactive Care. Maybe you don’t have control over the design of your current landscape (many of us are in this boat), in which case you will want to beat the power company to the punch. Hire a certified aborist to help you maintain your trees. An arborist can also assess the overall health of your trees and advise you about where to plant or transplant different types of trees.

3.  Easy On The DIY. Since trees are living creatures, the importance of a professional hand is crucial to preserving the tree’s life and your property’s value. Chopping a tree at the top (called “topping”), for instance, can remove 50 to 100 percent of a tree’s leaf-bearing crown, which is how the tree generates “food” for itself. Improper tree care can open doors for disease, decay and death. Your trees are an investment and HOLD VALUE for your home. They can increase property value when properly maintained. (The other obvious factor here is safety of doing it yourself and/or liability in hiring a handyman to do this job.)

4.  Evaluate & Transplant, if needed. Consider your current landscape. How do you expect it to grow in the next 10 or 20 years? A Sycamore tree can reach 20 feet tall in 20 years! They provide great shade…until the power company gets a hold of them. If you have a situation where you think a healthy tree may pose a future problem, consider having it moved to a different area in order to preserve property value, shade and tree life.

5.  Research & Communicate. Contact your power company or check out their website (PG&E offers info here). They can advise you as to their regulations and protocol, which will give you a head start on any pruning action they are planning to take in your area.

We love trees! We hope this blog article has been interesting and/or useful for you. Signature Tree Service strives hard to provide the best professional tree service in Northern California. Curtis Fosnaugh, CEO, is a reputable Certified Arborist and Certified Tree Risk Assessor. Signature Tree Service has proudly served Northern California for over 10 years with offices in St. Helena, Benicia, Vacaville and Santa Rosa.

Call us if your trees need work! We are here to help, 24/7.

SignatureTreeService.com

707-449-8653  

ANATOMY OF A REDWOOD & OAK TREE (Exogenous Trees)

Redwood & Oak trees grow rings that hold valuable data

As a Redwood and Oak tree (or any exogenous tree) grows, it produces rings. Any changes in growth rate, along with temperature variation throughout the yearly cycle, will make the tree's growth rings more visible.

The science of Dendrochronology uses "data" from the tree through determining the Redwood or Oak tree’s age by counting and examining its rings. The data is then used to date cores or even wood taken from trees in the past.

Here Is The Anatomy of A Redwood & Oak Tree: (and all exogenous trees)

1. Pith: The inner most part of the tree. Varies in shape and size. The pith is the oldest part of exogenous tree and when the plant becomes old, the pith dies and becomes and dark and fibrous.

2. Heart Wood: The portion surrounding pith. Strong and dark in color. Heart wood is useful for several engineering purpose. The dead part of wood and consists of various annular rings.

 

2 layers of bark protect the Cambium layer

3. Sap Wood: Next to heart wood is sap wood. Sap wood is instrumental in the growth of trees through permitting sap to move upward. Annual rings in sap wood are less sharply divided and light in color. Sap wood may also be referred to as “alburnum”.

4. Cambium Layer: Thin layer of fresh sap between the sap wood and the inner bark. The Cambium layer has sap which is not still converted into sap wood. If the bark is removed and Cambium layer exposed to atmosphere, the cells cease to be active and the tree dies.

5. Inner Bark: An inner skin of tree defending the cambium layer. It provides protection for the delicate and very important cambium layer.

6. Outer Bark: The outer skin of the tree made up of wood fibers. Sometimes it contains cracks and gaps.

7. Vascular (Medullary) Rays: Thin radial fibers extending from pith to cambium layer. They work together to hold the annular rings. In some of trees they are broken and some others are simply not prominent.

We love trees! We hope this blog article has been interesting and/or useful for you. Signature Tree Service strives hard to provide the best professional tree service in Northern California. Curtis Fosnaugh, CEO, is a reputable Certified Arborist and Certified Tree Risk Assessor. Signature Tree Service has proudly served Northern California for over 10 years!

Call us if your trees need work! We are here to help, 24/7. 

Signature Tree Service

707-449-8653  

Curtis, Oak collar exam

Neighbors and Trees and Legalese: Everything You Need To Know

Trim the overhang? Eat the fruit? What's legal & what's not?

Ever wanted to tame your neighbor’s overhanging tree or shrub but weren’t sure about your rights? Better safe than sorry. In the tree service business, there is a fine line between homeowner happiness and increased liability. Let's face it, a dispute with your neighbors can exhaust a significant amount of peace of mind. This is one reason why hiring the right professional tree service is crucial! In the meantime, Signature Tree Service is hoping this blog article may save you a little time and hassle. With a clear understanding of the law and your environment, you will know where to draw the line with neighbors without drawing in liability. One idea is to print/share this article with your neighbors anonymously so all connected property owners are educated on the facts to promote healthy coexisting, and community peace of mind.

Here Are The Most Frequently Asked Questions on Trees and Neighbors:

Q: In case my neighbor’s tree branches hang over my yard do I have the right to trim them?

A: According to the law you have the right to trim the limbs and branches that go beyond your property line, but understand that you cannot cross to the neighbor’s property and cut or destroy the tree. If this happen you will be liable for its destruction.

Q: Can I eat fruits from my neighbors tree which hangs over my property?

A: This is a definite no! The fruit belongs to your neighbor and you have no right to pick any of the fruits. There is some confusion when it comes to a fallen fruits as the courts seem divided on this issue. 

Q: My neighbor’s tree sheds leaves into my yard when the wind blows, can I file a nuisance claim?

A: Leaves are usually regarded as natural, therefore you do not have good nuisance claim over the matter. It may be disappointing to know that even if they cause damage in your yard you cannot make any legal claims against your neighbor. It is only when the tree is hanging over your property that you are entitled to trimming of the hanging branches.

Q: A large tree hangs its branches over my property but the trunk is located in my neighbor’s, land, can I claim ownership of the tree?

A: The tree is owned by your neighbor, as long as the trunk is in the neighbor’s property he or she has the all the rights .You can only claim co ownership if the tree trunk cut across the property border. In such a case each of you can claim shared responsibility for the tree.

Q: If my neighbor, in the process of digging up in his land, destroyed a tree which was on my side, can I claim compensation for the tree that was destroyed?

A: You have an absolute right to claim compensation for the damages. Your neighbor should have engaged you and received permission before digging near your landscaping.

Q: Where can I get more information on what the laws in Northern California say trees and my neighbor?

A: We found helpful information online at http://answers.uslegal.com/trees/15861/. You may also seek the guidance of a certified arborist to get advice about a specific tree situation and avoid conflicts with your neighbors. Signature Tree Service is happy to help you understand more about the species of tree, its risk and our local laws. Call us anytime to schedule an appointment with Curtis Fosnaugh, Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessor at 707-449-8653.

Shopping Local: How Overthinking Can Remove Choice

On A Personal Note...

Signature Tree Service has always prided itself on being a local business. Owner, Curtis Fosnaugh, loves his home turf in the countryside of Northern California. Having grown up here, Curtis has a natural affinity for agriculture and horticulture. From there, came his love of trees.

We've developed over the years due to demand for quality by consumers that Curtis is driven to satisfy. Signature Tree was fortunate that customer satisfaction, referrals and repeat business saw us through The Great Recession. And we’ve added satellite offices and crews to cover areas where we were getting calls but could not service locally before.

Recently, we were not chosen for a job in Sonoma because we are a Vacaville based company, just 35 miles from Sonoma! And, although our marketing agency is based in Sonoma County and we have many local ties to the area (referral networks, friends/followers, Home & Garden Shows, satellite office), our neighbors in this particular scenario felt Signature Tree was too far to be local.

Northern California is our home and we wouldn’t trade it for the world! So let’s talk local…

Local vs. Regional vs. National

You would think that “local” in California is a larger footprint than in, say, tiny Rhode Island, but due to the awareness of buying local among highly conscious Northern Californians, it remains quite small in our area. When consumers here want “local”, they are talking within about 20 miles or less. This is micro-local. Anytime you can shop on a micro-local way, it’s the most effective place to start when shopping local.

The challenge is that micro-local can remove choice. Control over the quality of service/product is reduced when variety and competition are slim. The product or service within 20 miles may not be as high of quality as a “regionally-local” item from the next county over. 

Local job: Root collar exam, Napa. April, 2014

This is why regionally local is a completely acceptable form of shopping local. Regionally-local is the next best thing to micro-local. Some of the revenue and tax dollars will remain in your county, and all state taxes are recycled. Also, the company providing the product/service is likely hiring individuals from your county so local economic development (LED) is happening and strengthening local economy (i.e., our marketing agency being based in Sonoma County).

National companies are the antithesis of “local”. They often talk the talk about having local franchise owners and employees but when it comes down to it, most of the revenue from national companies goes back to their home state. 

One of the ways national companies grab business from smaller local/regional mom & pops is through a strong online presence. National companies have a larger marketing budget, allowing them a strong reach to consumers. And it works! Often, consumers will see 72 reviews and pick up the phone without considering whether the company is local, regional or national.

NorCal Supporting NorCal

Signature Tree Service always appreciates doing business locally. No matter where the job, you will NOT find Curtis frequenting franchise restaurants—ONLY locally owned and operated.

We are proud to be Northern California’s local and regionally-local Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessor. We proudly open the doors to quality and local competition that is healthy for our communities, economies, and of course, trees! 

If you have a question or need our help, feel free to call Signature Tree Service at 707-449-8653.

Tree Service: Japanese Maple Trees, Planting & Maintenance

Who doesn't love a beautiful, colorful Japanese Maple Tree? So many of our customers love them, we thought we'd pass along the very basics of planting and maintenance of these little gems.

Care of Japanese Maples can produce beautiful results!

LOCATION: Japanese Maple Trees are very susceptible to full sun. They prefer a nice shady spot, although early morning sun is also suitable.

SEASONALITY: Spring is a vulnerable time for Japanese Maples. New growth is always at the mercy of a late Spring frost. If your tree is small enough, cover it to protect the new growth from frost. Never transplant your Japanese Maple Tree in Spring. Fall is a peak season, displayed by beautiful crimson leaves. The perfect time to transplant the tree, if necessary. Remove dead leaves that cling to branches before heavy frost. To avoid snapped branches in Winter, do not let branches freeze to the ground. If there is a layer of ice on the tree, use extreme caution when brushing snow off the tree top (recommended). The ice means the branches themselves are frozen and vulnerable to breakage. Do not try to remove the ice from the branches!

PLANTING: Mulch about 3" of shredded bark (hard wood) will insulate the trees and prevent water from evaporating. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to allow for air circulation. Japanese Maples are best planted in fall, about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes. This allows the roots a chance to establish themselves. Sufficient water in this early stage is crucial! (see "WATERING" for guidance)

AVOID:  Planting Japanese Maple Trees near a hot springs area, as this can invite fungal damage, like Botrytis, Pseudomonas and Fusarium. Avoid using fertilizer on these trees, especially salt-based. And, of course, avoid over- and under-watering. As mentioned above, avoid afternoon full sun. 

WATERING: Water extremely well twice per week. Newly planted or container-grown Japanese Maples will need more water, so watering around 4 times per week is needed when the tree is in a more delicate state.

FERTILIZER: Generally, Japanese Maple Trees do not need fertilizer. If you think it may be sick, feed it kelp meal or something similarly rich in trace elements.

MAINTENANCE: Good air circulation, soil drainage and sanitation practices will help prevent many issues with your Japanese Maple Tree.

PRUNING: Late Summer, early Fall is a Japanese Maple's favorite time for pruning. Start at the base of the tree and work from the inside out, cleaning out small twigs growing along the trunk and major branches, dead wood, and crossed/rubbing branches. Stand back and take stock (or should we say "stalk"? :) of your tree's shape. Look at what you may do to improve its form, if anything. IMPORTANT: Before making each cut, study where the branch goes and visualize the tree without it. Cut just above a live bud or just in front of the collar (small ridge where one branch attaches to another).

LEAF TIP BURN: Don't panic! Usually burnt tips are caused from over- or under-watering, an under-developed root system (newly planted) or too much fertilizer (especially salt-based!). Shade and healthy watering practices help. Some results you may have to live with for the rest of the season.

DROPPED LEAVES: By dropping its leaves, the tree is protecting itself and telling you it is not getting enough water. Maples have a secondary set of leaves just for such occasion. So you get a second chance!

If you need our help with a Japanese Maple, or any other type of tree, feel free to call us at (707) 449-8653 or visit SignatureTreeService.com. 

Signature Tree Service is owned by Curtis Fosnaugh, one of Northern California's most reputable Certified Arborists & Certified Tree Risk Assessors. Curtis takes pride in his workmanship from customer care to highest safety standards to immaculate clean-up upon each completed job. Signature Tree Service is proud to hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. As a member of the California Arborists Association, The Tree Care Industry Association and the International Society of Arboriculture, Signature Tree Service is committed to the health of trees and their environment.  

TREE SERVICE: 5 QUESTIONS TO REDUCE HOMEOWNER LIABILITY

Signature Tree minimizes liability.

Hiring a quality contractor of any type is almost equal parts faith, luck and reputation. Signature Tree Service tries extremely hard to stand heads above our competitors. We are, above everything else, committed to customer satisfaction. Sound cliche? Maybe. But cliche or not, Curtis (and his fast growing team) doesn't really have time to care about cliches...he's too busy being concerned with more important things, like quality workmanship and employee safety.

How do you know that the tree service company you hire won't have an accident on the job? Since accidents are virtually unpredictable, the best you can do is reduce that chance as much as possible and, if the unfortunate does happen, minimize your liability. We hope these 5 questions will help you do just that.


5 Questions To Ask Any Tree Service Company Before Hiring Them

1. Will you be sending a certified, professional arborist?
A professional arborist has the highest level of training, experience and knowledge available. They tend to do it right the first time. 

2. Are you locally owned and operated?
National companies may be reputable but hiring a locally owned and operated business keeps more of your dollars in our local economies.

3. Are all your employees on payroll? 
The liability is ultimately that of the property owner. It is important that you know who is working on your property, especially in such a dangerous situation. 

4. Can you show proof of that payroll?
If they can't provide proof, enough said.

5. Will you provide proof of Workman's Comp. for every employee on my property?  One word = liability. Do NOT let anyone be climbing ladders, trees, or anything else on your property without seeing proof of Workman's Comp coverage. Any professional tree service company should be proud to show you this!  

 In our industry, "better safe than sorry" is a mantra. When you consider the consequences of an accident on your property...law suits, asset loss, time loss, etc., it's easy to see why. The more you have, the more you have to lose. 

Signature Tree Service can always provide a "yes" to the questions above, minimizing our client's liability and maximizing their satisfaction. If you need our help, feel free to call us at (707) 449-8653 or visit SignatureTreeService.com.

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

Signature Tree Service Home Show Demonstration - Vacaville

Signature Tree Service shows us their climbing skills at the Vacaville Total Home and Garden Show. See more at http://www.signaturetreeservice.com

Hire Tree Trimming Service for Effective Shrub Grooming

Shrub experts have unveiled a lot about shrubs and their behaviors in botany books. Grooming is an important activity for shrubs. It keeps them healthy and free from diseases. Due to inadequate nutrition, shrubs fail to resist germinal diseases. It mainly happens when they grow and become large and dense. The dense leaves abstain the interior from adequate sunlight and air. Thus the structures become weak and tend to fall finally. People should save them from these dangerous hazards. However, only experts are able to do the task. A Tree Trimming Service comes into play in this situation. The professionals of a Tree Trimming Service know how to deal with a shrub structure. They agents have profound knowledge on botany science. They know the technique to detect the flaccid branches of a shrub. They test different parts of a shrub on grounds of strength and endurance. As soon as they find any branch not enduring enough, they immediately carry out a removal process.

It is very important to remove the weak branches of a shrub. This is because any weak branch is susceptible to catching the perilous shrub germs. Some of these are bugs, infections and other microscopic parasites that haunt the roots and branches of shrubs. They lessen the growth rate of shrub structures. Shrub experts say that garden owners should check their shrubs from time to time. Regular checking helps one to find out the flaccid and dead branches in a shrub. If anyone finds any debilitated branch, it is advisable to call shrub care agencies for a removal or grooming process.

These agencies treat weak shrubs like patients. Like humans these shrubs also need medicines for their treatment. At times storms and other natural calamities cause holes or ruptures in these shrubs. These holes expose the interior of the shrubs to harmful germs and microbes. These organisms carry the potential to kill the structure in degrees. They gradually decompose the structure and cause it to die. Therefore it is essential to treat these shrubs with disinfectants and fertilizers. These disinfectants are strong chemicals that guard the plants from decomposition. These chemical fertilizers enhance the growth rate of plants. Stump Grinding agencies have highly qualified professional experts who have profound knowledge on shrub medicines. Stump Grinding agencies have certified professionals who boast an authorization to carry out shrub grooming and pruning activities.

People want to own beautiful gardens. However, it is not easy to keep up the beauty of a garden unless one has knowledge on shrub affairs. People who own gardens should contact the plant care agencies to gather adequate knowledge on how to keep gardens evergreen.

People have many wrong ideas about shrub behaviors and mistreat them due to ignorance. Shrub care experts have addressed these issues by writing many articles and blogs on shrub behaviors. In these writing pieces they have explained how one should treat a shrub. They have detailed a lot about the shrub medication and other things essential for maintaining the health of a plant. One can log on to the internet to read these articles in detail.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7823574

Tips For Keeping Your Trees Healthy And Beautiful

Have you ever given up on your child's bad health at any time or even kept him away from the best possible treatment? The basis of the question was not to rage you in any way but just to make you realize that trees and plants are also living things just like ordinary humans and they not only need attention from time to time, but they also need the proper care and protection which enables them to live longer. If not for the sake of their health, be concerned about the benefits the foliage provides to the society and the overall environment.

With a large number of manufacturing industries producing various wood products, the raw material forest timber or firewood is always in high demand. Tree owners and planters are often given inducements for their provision of chopped lumber and due to the cash or incentives being high; owners supply the wood to these giant companies, not thinking about the drawbacks of deforestation. Trees and landscapes face various problems such as pests, storms and seasonal endurance, and it is up to you as the tree-owners or society-helpers to make a difference. Just giving water to your tree every day for a minute does not equal tree care in any way.

No magical procedures are essential for a tree's healthy survival, just a little time and some simple steps can ensure plants' vitality and you get your compliment from the trees in return with better environmental shape and shelter. Dangerous pests, storms and EAB imperil the lives of trees in various ways. You have to recognize the pests and tree diseases in the landscape and also the damage they pose to the trees. Any threat should be dealt with through pesticides and insecticides; although it should be noted that some bugs are actually valuable to the trees and it is important that they are not mistakenly harmed. Storm-struck and EAB tree disease affected areas should be quarantined without delay as it is known that trees cause the most danger to lives and property during and after a storm. Landscapes need deep-root fertilization in intervals but it should be taken care of, that trees are not harmed in any way. Tree pruning and tree trimming is very necessary for ornamental trees for better scenery, health and shelter. Pruning also enhances the timber value and stimulates more fruit production in trees.

This and much more can be done to help trees regain their health and make a green world. For the best possible results and no damage to the vegetation, it is best that you employ a trustworthy and certified Arborist who can relieve you of all the pain and do all your work with professionalism. Many things have to be considered when tree care and certified Arborists make sure that they make no less or no more changes to the original structure and give no potential damage to the trees such as re-planting trees after expert tree removal, preventing tree chopping, pruning trees in their best season, helping landscapes survive all seasons, fixing any potential storm damage, using correct fertilization techniques, treating tee diseases and tree bugs, and root grinding and removing stumps. Tree on houses are also taken care of without extra charges, where their wrong plantation might cause damage to furniture and property. These teams consisting of professionals make the decisions and plan the tree-protection directions for you. You just have to worry about the sum of money paid to them and you save your trees from any likely harm.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3981799

Signature Tree Is The Right Choice

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

5 Benefits Of Pruning Your Trees Regularly

If you currently have trees in your yard, you undoubtedly already know how important they are to the outer area of your home. Trees are also the perfect addition to any yard or landscape that is too open or bare. Trees certainly provide immeasurable benefits to your outdoor space, but they also require special care to keep them looking their bests. One of the most important parts of maintaining your trees is to prune them regularly. Below is a list of the top five benefits you will receive from pruning your trees regularly.

1. Keep Your Trees Healthy

Regularly pruning will help to remove dead or broken branches, as well as, get rid of any branches that have disease or infestation growing on them. This allows you stop any problems on the plant before it spread to other areas, possibly damaging the entire tree. The pruning process also helps your tree start growing fuller, more stable branches.

2. Add to the Beauty of Your Trees

Trees often grow in odd, irregular shapes. Branches may too low in one area, yet too tall in another area. Pruning helps this problem by pruning or trimming the necessary areas to enhance the overall beauty of the tree. This process can help either stimulate or restrict growth in certain areas of the tree. Trimming your trees regularly helps them keep its shape, which actually makes it look fuller and healthier.

3. Detect Problem with Trees

One of the best benefits of regular pruning is that you can detect problems with your trees early. Whether the tree has been infected, contains an unwanted animal nest, is broken or dead, pruning will help detect these problems. If caught early, many of these problems can be addressed before they spread to other trees in the area. You may also be able to prevent further damage.

4. Prevent Damage

Depending on where in your yard your trees are located, it may be necessary to prune or trim your trees to prevent them from doing any damage to your property. Trees planted close to your home or garage are especially likely to grow large enough to cause damage to your home or car. Unfortunately, if you do not keep regular track of your trees, you may not notice how close the branches are to your property until they have already done the damage.

5. Cost Effective

Most of the companies, offer their services at very affordable rates. The small fee you may pay on a yearly, quarterly or monthly basis do not compare to the cost of replacing your trees. If a tree is left untreated, it means that you will have to pay to both remove the tree and plant another one in its place. It could also be very costly to replace a scratched car, broken windows, or other property damage.

If you have experience in pruning plants, than make sure you regularly check and prune your trees. However, if you have not done this type of work before, it is best to hire a professional to help you prune your trees. A tree pruning specialist can help you determine how to best take care of your trees and how often you should have them pruned. This is the best way to protect your trees and ensure that they look beautiful and stay healthy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Fogarty

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7781621

Eucalyptus Removal over house in Benicia, California

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

Add Beauty to the Property With Shade Trees

A well planted selection of shade trees is certain to offer a quite dramatic look to the garden landscape. Beyond the attractive appearance, the shade trees offer multiple benefits from the potential to increase the property value, prevent soil erosion, and convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. Below are several steps necessary for including these trees -

Planning the tress

If planning on planted a selection of shade tree it certainly helps to conduct the necessary research to make sure they are able fully grow and thrive. Location of tree is determined by several points which related to the available space (consider the size of a mature tree); wind (avoid exposed areas since these trees are more likely to topple with severe storms); and sunlight (most of these trees need full to partial sun).

Selecting the right trees

Look to include the native trees often seen in the local area. A well-chosen selection of native trees is certain to thrive in the garden compared to some of the more exotic choices which aren't accustomed to the growth conditions in this area. Speed of growth is a feature of most types of trees, so you will have an option to go for the slow-growing or fast growing varieties. Other points to consider include issues related to insects or diseases.

Invest in the container grown trees - A healthy tree specimen is likely to be in the region of two to four years old, and already grown to a size that it is able to fill a five gallon tub. An ideal size for the trunk is about 1-inch or more in diameter. It often benefits to invest in the already grown saplings since it can be a very slow process to start growing the trees from scratch.

Maintain moist soil - Once the sapling has been planted in the garden it helps to maintain a moist soil condition in the early stages. Provide a good watering to keep the soil moist for several weeks after it has been planted. It might also help to include a high-quality fertilizer to improve the soils nutrient qualities and ability to retain moisture.

Keep a close eye on the trees - In the early stages of planting the trees it helps to monitor them closely to see early signs of damage caused by wind, insects, or birds. A wounded tree is easily treated with tar or sap to give time to heal and grow.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8203577

The Acceptable And Valid Reasons Why Trees Have To Be Removed

Though people hate in general to lose any type of tree, there are just some instances when completely removing them cannot be avoided. Even just the thought of completely removing trees can bring sadness and tears to many people, whether they are die-hard nature-lovers or not. Of course, there are other ways wherein they can be still helped to grow healthily, such as pruning and trimming and trees also usually benefit from some fumigation. And the last and most drastic option, when there really is no other sound and safe reason to keep the tree around, is to remove it.

Below are the main and most common valid and acceptable reasons why trees have to be cut down or properly removed:

1. If the tree is dead or its disease/s can no longer be treated or cured.

All people love to look at healthy and lush trees. But the ones that are dead or suffering from some diseases are pretty disheartening to look at. Dead trees are also usually serious safety hazards and can be a source of many accidents so people often decide to just have them removed.

2. Wrong tree type at a poor location.

Some trees can be a threat when they are rooted in areas of high pedestrian and/or vehicular traffic. One particular tree is the Eucalyptus, which always have the tendency to lose or drop big branches frequently. Of course, cutting them down is not always the immediate option; if they are still very healthy, they can be removed and transplanted to a different area where they cannot cause any problems or danger with the help of local professional arborists or some tree surgeons.

3. When a tree has become a refuge and breeding ground for big and small pests.

Dead and healthy trees can become the home of unwanted and disease-carrying pests, such as rodents and ants. Bees and wasps, which can be very dangerous insects, also tend to nest or build their hives in trees. And if people are very particular about the safety and security at their properties, especially if they are concerned about their children, then they do have a valid reason for removing them.

Trees, in addition to being wonderful and beautiful natural structures that everyone should nourish and cherish, also provide many benefits to all humans, living creatures, and the environment in general. But it is also important to look at the big picture, too. When trees have to be removed, harboring any doubts or misgivings about this course of action will not serve to help anyone. After all, your safety and good health, and your loved ones' as well, are also important and should be your top priority.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8295892

Tree Care - The Unseen Dangers That Threaten The Life Of Your Garden Trees

Trees are such massive and imposing things that we tend to take their needs for granted. We fuss and fret over annual bedding plants, and get all hot and bothered if a small dry spot appears on the lawn. Lawns and flowers though are ephemeral elements in the garden, while the tree is a long term matter. Indeed, it is the one part of the garden that we truly bequeath to future generations. It is of the utmost importance therefore not only to care and nurture it as one would a child, but also to recognize that many processes that potentially threaten its life, take place unseen and unheard, rather like cancer creeping up on a person.

Trees are not good communicators!

Grasses and flowers are pretty effective in telling us how they feel. A lack of moisture in the soil is almost immediately communicated to us by the wilting of the plant. A tree on the other hand can appear healthy and strong, with none of the tell-tale signs of stress, such as drooping leaves. Yet appearances can be very deceptive. In fact it can be stated in general terms that when stress symptoms first appear, the internal damage that has already occurred is so severe, that the tree is well on its way to an early death.

Water shortages

The minimum water requirement for trees is thought to be about 300 mm a year. That is the most drought hardy species in the world, like Pistachio and Tamarisk, need access to some 300 liters of water for every square meter of ground that they cover. So areas with less annual rainfall cannot support trees of any form, other than in localized spots such as valley bottoms, where water may collect.

Most garden trees require a lot more than that. A lemon tree growing in a Mediterranean climate for instance needs some 800 mm of water a year. If the annual rainfall averages say 400 mm, then the remaining 400 has to be supplied by irrigation.

In dry climates therefore it's vital to know the annual water needs of the trees in your garden. Again, it should be pointed out that the tendency of most people is to water those plants that appear to be most in need. Actually, in drought years the exact opposite should be the case. When water is in short supply, the flowers and lawn should be left to dry out, while the trees are given what they require. Grass and flowers can be replaced; a mature tree, 150 years old, never!

Rot and Decay

Rot and decay normally develop in the branches and trunks of trees following poor pruning operations. As with water stress, the signs can take years to show themselves. The incorrect pruning of a major limb could cause that limb to collapse 15 years later or more, as the unseen, unheard progress of the rot eats its way into the heart of the wood. Trees that look entirely healthy, complete with pruning wounds totally calloused over, can suddenly collapse. On examination, the trunk or branch is discovered to be hollow inside, the result of rot and decay working slowly over the years.

Just remember then that "all that glitters is not gold." Tree care, or arboriculture, is the most important part of gardening, because the tree is the garden's most precious item.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/954499

Removing Downed Trees

A huge tree has fallen across your driveway and you need help. Who do you call and what do you do? It pays to know someone to call for emergency tree removal Atlanta style. The best way to deal with emergency tree issues is being proactive.

Trees can be an asset in providing shade during the hot Atlanta summers. They're a place to sit for a pleasant summertime meal with your family. They can even provide food if you choose fruit trees for your yard. However trees are something that are easy to take for granted and occasional maintenance helps to insure that these treasures remain healthy.

Despite all caution there are times that your efforts are not enough. Demand for emergency tree removal may increase after storms. By knowing in advance who to call, you can minimize the response time by calling early. There is a variety of situations that could result in needing a tree removed.

Having experts deal with tree trimming can save you money. Regular inspection of your trees can show problems such as insects, rotted branches and other issues long before they become a problem. Perhaps you need to open up an area of your yard for a new garage or other structure. Professional tree trimmers can take out limbs and branches safely, with special equipment that reduces the damage to structures and property.

Look up high for loose branches or weak spots in trees. If there are woodpeckers visiting your tree look closer or call a tree expert as this could be a sign of pests in the tree. Where there is food there are animals to eat it. A healthy tree is less apt to split in wind storms but when you know a tree is compromised with pests or disease, act promptly to protect your property or that of neighbors.

Pay particular attention to trees during times of drought. Ask professionals about insuring the health or your trees. This will reduce the chances of having large trees come down across your driveway in a storm. Sometimes for safety reasons a weakened tree must be eliminated, but most often the professionals will do their best to save it.

Remember that often insurance companies don't cover tree removal. Many found in the wake of Hurricane Katrina that their fence or roof was covered, but the removal of trees was not. This can make for a challenge when help is needed after a storm. With many folks needing emergency help all at once, the challenges can be great.

When there are power lines being compromised after a storm and other challenges it's not the time to put people in danger. Call the tree removal experts for maintenance and prevention as well as in emergency situations. Take care of your trees so they live a long and leafy life. Do your best to learn about them because they are a valuable resource to all of us.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4245193

Felling dead trees next to house 8 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA

Felling dead trees next to house 7 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA

Felling dead trees next to house 6 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA

Felling dead trees next to house 5 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA

Felling dead trees next to house 4 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA

Felling dead trees next to house 3 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA

Felling dead trees next to house 2 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA

Felling Dead Trees Next To House 1 of 8

Dead poplar trees dead leaning towards neighbors house and over clients patio get wedged over against gravity! by Signature Tree Service of Vacaville,CA. http://www.signaturetreeservice.com.

The Importance of Tree Planting

Trees have always played an important part in people's lives, from providing shade and maintaining the beauty of the place to fruits and flowers that attract fauna! Whenever you are around trees you feel a sense of peace and calm and more importantly, protection. If you are concerned about saving the planet, then tree planting is what you should be considering on top priority. Making the most of a spacious yard around your home for planning fruiting and flowering trees, helps the property to look attractive and pricey. In spacious gardens, woody plants enhance the look when supported in visual appeal by shrubs, shorter flowering plants and bushes. For any landscape, an essential part of planning is the choice of trees.

Planting the right kind of trees in the garden is pivotal. By following a few suggestions it is possible to narrow down on the right tree types to invest in. Shape and size is very important while selecting a half or full-grown tree. Many of the trees become a permanent part of your garden and heirlooms. Big trees cannot be transported easily, so make sure you plant them at the right place in the beginning itself. Check on and plan the drainage system in the yard when the landscaping endeavor is being executed. The type of soil and selection of the right kind of trees is very essential to get the best out of the outdoor space around the home.

Undesirable results cause a loss to time, money and effort when the trees are planted in an improper way. To ensure that your plants enjoy a healthy life, space them well in the outdoor space around the home so that they get sufficient sunlight. In time, proper spacing will give you, your family as well as your guests enough shade. After a period of years, when the trees grow to their full size and branch out, trimming on regular basis is necessary. Value of your property increases with a well-maintained garden, developed with exotic trees. There are a number of real-time and online resources you can tap for assistance to source the best trees. You can shop for them online and have them delivered and even re-planted in your garden area.

Planned tree planting is the key to a healthy garden. Though plants and trees grow on their own, they do need a lot of care and concern initially. Mulching, fertilizing, pruning, trimming, etc. help in enhancing aesthetic value, and in turn the overall look and functionality of the garden. If you look after trees well, the future generations too get to enjoy the beauty of the flowering and fruit bearing natural wonders. Plants and trees do get affected by harsh environmental factors, so make sure you take care of them according to the impacting factors identified. Trees play a very important role in the garden landscape. Shop wisely and only after you have done your homework on the factors that will impact their growth, in your region on the planet.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5642329

Types Of Trees And What They Are Good For

Trees are not only beautiful, but they are an important part of the environment. They absorb all of the Carbon Dioxide in the air and release Oxygen so that we as humans have clean air to breathe. Every tree has something that it is good for, whether that be climbing, tapping, or putting in our homes as decoration. Here's a list of some of the most loved trees and what it is that they're good for.

1. Maple Trees:

Maple trees grow mostly, in the North Temperate Zone. There are a variety of species of Maple tree, which is why they are seen in many different sizes. In addition to their beautiful wood, ability to self-pollinate, and charming clusters of green flowers, maple trees also have sap that can easily be made into sugar or maple syrup, which is one of the most delicious toppings for pancakes on Earth!

2. Willow Trees:

One can always spot a Weeping Willow tree because its branches hang down as if it were crying (hence the name). The hanging branches provide natural shade, which makes the trees ideal for resting under. It is not uncommon for people to hang hammocks under willow trees, where they can enjoy an afternoon nap.

3. Pine Trees:

Pine trees are most commonly known as Christmas trees. They are bushy and have strong needles which make them conducive to hang Christmas ornaments off of. Some species have large seeds called pine nuts which are often used for cooking and baking.

4. Oak Trees:

Oak trees are mostly used for their strong and attractive wood. Oak wood has a density of approximately 0.75g/cm squared. In addition to being hard and strong, oak also has a high tannin content which makes it very resistant to insect and fungal attack. As a result many alcohols are stored in oak barrels including brandy, whiskey, sherry, and wine.

5. Fruit Trees:

Most fruits grow on trees, including apples, avocados, pears, peaches, plums, bananas, guava, pineapples, pomegranates, mangoes, oranges, grapefruits, limes, lemons and more. When many fruit trees are grown and taken care of together, the space if referred to as an orchard. Picking fresh fruit directly from a tree is quite delicious and a fun activity.

In addition to picking fruit, taking a nap, or putting them up indoors to celebrate special occasions, trees are also great for climbing and for shading a home. There are millions of tree species on our planet each more beautiful than the last.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5952832

Amazing Tree Houses!

It is every kid's dream when they are young to have an amazing tree house in their backyard. Somewhere where they can have secret meetings with friends, battle imaginary villains or have a No Boys Allowed Club. Maybe you were lucky enough to have a tree house when you were young and maybe you didn't. Regardless, architects have come up with some incredible tree house designs that will make everyone - even adults - want to fulfill that dream and live in the trees. From invisible tree houses to space age eco-friendly designs to homes on stilts, imagination is the only limitation when it comes to these unique dwellings.

Some of the coolest tree houses out there are called Free Spirit Spheres. These little houses were designed to blend in and harmonize with the forest around them. The spheres are eco-friendly, all wooden and constructed much like a canoe. They are suspended from the tree tops like a sail from the mast on a boat. Each sphere is accessible by a spiral staircase that comes down around the tree and a small suspension bridge. There is a surprising amount of amenities within each sphere. Each one contains a double bed, 2 small windows, a settee with table and a galley kitchen with cupboards, sink, microwave and refrigerator.

Another sustainable yet amazing tree house design comes from Japan and is called the 4Treehouse. This house is designed to fit right in to a natural environment and is built around 4 trees, using them like stilts. It looks like a giant paper lantern and rises 3 stories in to the forest. The walls all have varying levels of transparency letting light in and out making it quite a sight in the darkness. Even though the house is 3 stories, it is only 420 square feet. In order to enter and exit the house, there is a staircase on casters that sways with the house and trees, allowing movement regardless of how much the house is swaying. The bottom floor of the home is almost completely protected from the outside elements and opens up the higher you go. The top floor is an enclosed patio with only the sky for a ceiling.

It may seem an impossibility to build an invisible house but that is exactly what architects did in Sweden. They created a "Treehotel" made out of a type of mirrored material that makes the walls disappear into the surroundings. The tree house is a 4 meter glass cube that is virtually undetectable to the eye without close scrutiny. Everything in the forest reflects off the walls of the tree house - the clouds, the sun, birds and trees. Many critics were concerned about birds crashing in to the house while flying through the forest but the architects have taken care of this as well. They applied a film to the glass that is visible to birds to help avoid crashes. The cubes are made of sustainable wood, have heated floors and even an incineration toilet.

Today, through the marvels of modern technology and the deep imaginations of some daring architects, tree houses aren't just for kids anymore. They really are catching on in popularity and there are even tree house resorts popping up around the globe. You can have a truly unique, eco-friendly vacation in nature by visiting one of these tree houses. It is guaranteed to be unlike anything you have experienced before.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6321769

Eucalyptus Removal over house in Benicia, California

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

Environment Control Through Tree Service

Tree service can be said to be very important for maintaining a pollution-free environment. If trees get uprooted during storms, they can prove to be threats to traffic movement and people. Companies that provide such services need to have a large equipment fleet, and personnel must be sufficiently experienced in tree planting or removal.

Lumber taken for trees must be used for useful purposes. It is also necessary to plant saplings side by side after cutting these trees. This would help keep the global carbon footprint under control. For carrying lumber, the company that provides such tree service needs to have a fleet of large 30 ton trucks.

The work of tree removal companies involves a fair degree of risk. Companies carrying out such removal operations must make sure that adequate safety standards are followed, both for themselves and for communities in the neighborhood. Trees that have been damaged can be handled appropriately by these companies. This ensures that accidents or injuries do not take place. In case of tree fall emergencies, removal companies can be called on the phone 24 hours a day.

For the purpose of stump grinding, equipment such as a stump cutter or grinder is required. Grinders can range from being as large as a lawn mower or truck. A high speed disk is attached to these grinders, which can easily chip away wood. Cutter wheel movements are controlled by hydraulic cylinders.

Free estimates to carry out tree trimming services for homes and commercial spaces can be obtained from reputed vendors. Trimming is done when trees become significantly large and need to be trimmed in order to reduce space occupied by them. Even in the event of damage due to storms, damaged trees can be taken care of by tree removal companies.

Shrubs and hedges also form an important part of the landscape around homes. These shrubs and hedges require trimming, to prevent them from becoming very large. For this service, tree removal companies also provide hedge maintenance services.

Very few trees actually fall on persons or property. However, if they fall on utility lines, there is potential for tremendous damage. These can cause electrical short circuiting, power outages and fire. If trees with dead branches are seen close to utility lines, tree removal companies must be contacted immediately.

Sometimes, extra support for weak branches is helpful in increasing strength and stability. Routine care can also be provided in the form of fertilizers and water. Recognized professionals would be the best persons to tell how to handle trees. Either removal or support may be the solution, as per their experience. Tree trimming service could also be helpful in removing the hazardous portions.

There are several benefits of planting trees. They help to maintain the balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. The environment is made green due to trees and they also provide shade, which is very useful during summer. Wood from trees is used for several construction activities.

In areas which are not large enough to have trees, shrubs and hedges are planted to impart greenery. Hedge maintenance is required to prevent the shrubs and hedges from overgrowing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7479754

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.

Call Signature Tree Service of Vacaville at 707-449-8653 and see more at http://www.signaturetreeservice.com.