Why Do Trees Shed Their Leaves? An Exploration of Seasonal Leaf Loss

As the seasons change, so does the scenery around us, especially when it comes to trees. The transformation from the lush green leaves of summer to the vibrant hues of autumn is a sight to behold. But why do trees shed their leaves during certain times of the year?

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of seasonal leaf loss. We will explore this natural process from a tree’s perspective, its role in the life cycle of a tree, and how it can sometimes indicate matters of tree health and care. Stay with us as we embark on this enlightening journey through the forest.

Call 317-348-0811 For Autumn Tree Care in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-348-0811 For Autumn Tree Care in Indianapolis Indiana

The Reasons Behind Leaf Loss

To understand why trees lose their leaves, we first need to recognize the importance of photosynthesis. This vital process in plant life involves capturing sunlight and converting it into energy for growth and survival. During this process, trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air through small openings on their leaves called stomata. At the same time, they release oxygen back into the atmosphere. The green pigment in leaves, chlorophyll, plays a crucial role in this process by absorbing sunlight and converting it into energy.

As the days become shorter and temperatures drop, trees prepare for winter by conserving energy. This means they stop producing food through photosynthesis and instead focus on survival until springtime returns. To do this efficiently, trees shed their leaves, which require a lot of energy to maintain. By shedding their leaves, trees can conserve resources and survive harsh weather conditions.

The Cycle of Leaf Loss

The cycle of leaf loss begins in the fall when trees stop producing chlorophyll. This causes the green pigment to break down, revealing other pigments such as yellow and orange that were previously masked. These pigments give leaves their vibrant autumn colors. As temperatures continue to drop, a layer of cells forms at the base of each leaf’s stem, cutting off the supply of water and nutrients from the tree. This causes the leaves to eventually die and fall off.

Indicators of Tree Health

Although seasonal leaf loss is a natural process, it can sometimes indicate underlying issues with tree health. For example, if a tree loses its leaves too early in the season or has discolored and wilted leaves, it may be a sign of stress or disease. In some cases, early leaf loss can also be caused by drought or insect infestation. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your trees’ leaf loss patterns and seek professional help if you notice any abnormalities.

Caring for Trees During Leaf Loss

As tree owners, it is our responsibility to care for our trees and ensure their well-being. Regularly raking up fallen leaves can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests that may have affected the tree. It also promotes a healthy lawn by allowing sunlight and air circulation. Additionally, providing your trees with proper nutrients, water, and pruning can help them prepare for the upcoming leaf loss cycle.

Conclusion

The cycle of leaf loss is a natural and critical process in a tree’s life. It allows trees to conserve energy and survive harsh weather conditions during the winter months. However, it is also essential to pay attention to any abnormal signs of leaf loss that may indicate underlying issues with tree health. By understanding the reasons behind leaf loss and caring for our trees accordingly, we can ensure their longevity and contribute to a healthy environment. So next time you see leaves falling from trees, know that it is all part of nature’s grand plan.

Are you in need of Fall tree care this season? Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree trimming and pruning services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers.

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Tree Health Inspections: Why They Are Important and How to Conduct Them

Ensuring the health and longevity of the trees in our environments is a responsibility that often goes overlooked. Yet, this task is crucial, offering significant benefits not only for our individual landscapes, but also for our local ecosystems and the planet as a whole. One key component of tree care is regular tree health inspections, a proactive measure to identify and mitigate potential issues such as tree diseases.

Conducting these inspections helps to maintain the beauty and health of our trees, and in this blog, we delve into the importance of tree health inspections and guide you through the process of conducting them effectively. So, let’s branch out in our understanding of tree care.

Call 317-348-0811 For Tree Health Inspection in Indianapolis IN
Call 317-348-0811 For Tree Health Inspection in Indianapolis IN

The Importance of Tree Health Inspections

Tree health inspections are essential for several reasons. First and foremost, they allow us to detect any problems with our trees at an early stage. Just like humans, trees can also get sick. And if left untreated, these issues can spread quickly and even result in the death of the tree. With regular inspections, we can identify and address any problems before they escalate, saving the tree and potentially avoiding costly treatments or removals.

Moreover, trees play a vital role in our environment – they provide us with clean air, shade, and contribute to biodiversity. Conducting health inspections helps ensure that our trees continue to thrive and fulfill these critical functions. Early detection of tree diseases can prevent them from spreading to other trees, maintaining the health and balance of our ecosystems. Furthermore, healthy trees are more resilient to environmental stressors such as extreme weather conditions or pest infestations. By conducting regular inspections, we can keep our trees strong and robust, increasing their chances of survival during challenging times.

How to Conduct Tree Health Inspections

Now that we understand the importance of tree health inspections, let’s discuss how to conduct them effectively. Ideally, tree health inspections should be done by a certified arborist who has the expertise and knowledge to identify any potential issues accurately. However, as tree owners, we can also conduct basic visual checks on our trees regularly. Here are some steps to follow when conducting a tree health inspection:

► Start with a general overview of the tree, looking for any obvious signs of distress such as discoloration or dead branches.

► Check the trunk and bark for any cracks, holes, or fungus growth.

► Inspect the branches and leaves, looking for any abnormalities or pests.

► Pay attention to the root zone and check for issues like root rot or girdling roots.

► Keep a record of your findings, including any abnormalities or changes compared to previous inspections.

If you notice any significant problems during your inspection, it is best to consult a certified arborist for further evaluation and treatment recommendations.

Common Tree Diseases in Indiana

While tree diseases can be prevalent in any area, each region has its specific types of diseases to watch out for. In Indiana, some common tree diseases include:

Oak Wilt: Oak wilt is a fungal disease that affects oak trees and can result in their death.

Dutch Elm Disease: A vascular disease caused by a fungus that affects elm trees and can lead to their decline.

Anthracnose: A fungal disease that affects many tree species, causing leaf discoloration and defoliation.

Emerald Ash Borer: Emerald Ash Borers are an invasive beetle species that attacks and kills ash trees.

To protect trees from these diseases, regular inspections are essential. If you suspect any of your trees may be affected by a disease, it is crucial to act quickly and seek professional help to prevent the spread.

Conclusion

Tree health inspections may seem like a small task, but they have significant benefits for both individual trees and the larger environment. By conducting regular inspections, we can detect and address any problems early on, ensuring the survival of our trees and contributing to a healthier planet. So, let’s all do our part in caring for our trees and the environment by conducting regular tree health inspections. Remember, healthy trees lead to a healthier world.  So, go out there and give your trees some love! 

Are you looking for professional tree care near Indy? Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured seasonal tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial tree care solutions at economical prices.

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Understanding the Science of Pruning: When and Where to Cut for Maximum Health Benefits

Pruning trees is an important part of tree care. It can help to keep your trees healthy and vibrant, as well as improve their overall appearance. However, it’s not enough to just start snipping away at branches – you need to understand the science behind pruning in order to get the most health benefits from your efforts.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss when and where to cut for maximum results so that you can ensure that your pruning services are effective and beneficial for your trees.

Call 317-348-0811 for Tree Pruning in Indianapolis IN
Call 317-348-0811 for Tree Pruning in Indianapolis IN

Types of Tree Pruning Techniques

First, it’s important to understand the different types of pruning and when each one should be used. Light pruning can be done all year round; however, major pruning should generally only be done in late winter or early spring when trees are dormant. When making cuts, it’s essential to remember that you want to encourage growth on the tree rather than decrease it.

To this end, cuts should be made at an angle just above a bud or branch node – this will promote new stem growth from the cut point. Additionally, you should also keep an eye out for dead branches or ones that have been damaged by disease or pests – these can be safely removed without harming the overall health of your tree.

ANSI Tree Pruning Standards

Following ANSI tree pruning standards helps to prevent damage done to a tree and establishes better care practices in the arborist field of work. Tree pruning is a necessary step in a tree’s life, but it needs to be done correctly. ANSI standards are published regularly and serve as guides for professionals dedicated to their craft.

Each year more rules are released, and it is essential for workers in this field to review and be aware of the latest regulations in the industry. Not following them could be hazardous for both the tree and its environment, making knowledge of current standards even more imperative. All in all, practicing good tree care starts with understanding what these regulations entail.

Where to Prune Tree Branches

Another important factor to consider when pruning is where you should make your cuts. Never cut too close to the trunk of the tree – instead, you want to leave a small “collar” around the base of each branch so that it can heal properly after being cut. This collar also provides protection from disease and pests so that your tree can remain strong and healthy. Additionally, try to avoid cutting more than one-third of the live crown at once – this is because if too much foliage is removed, your tree may go into shock and become susceptible to diseases or pests.

When to Do Your Pruning

Tree pruning is a delicate process that should only be conducted during a specific period of time. Although trees can survive without periodic trimming, it is important to keep up with neglecting to prune them as they mature. Properly timing the tree pruning will benefit your tree and help it grow healthily into the future. Depending on the species, trees should receive proper care at different times throughout the year. Regular maintenance helps keep any dead or dying limbs from becoming too unmanageable for removal. It also aids in providing lots of sunlight and air circulation while minimizing hazards surrounding your home or business property. With planning and precision, you and your trees can thrive together well into the future!

In Summary

By understanding the science behind pruning and taking care with where and when you make cuts, you can ensure that your trees are receiving all of the health benefits that come with pruning. With proper care and attention, your trees will stay vibrant and beautiful for years to come!

Would you rather have an experienced professional handle the pruning of your landscaping trees? Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree trimming and pruning services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers.

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7 Reasons Why Professional Tree Care is Important

Having trees in your yard is a great way to enhance the beauty of your landscape and provide shade, but it also requires regular maintenance. Tree care is essential for protecting your property from damage caused by overgrown or unhealthy trees. Professional tree service providers can help you keep your trees healthy and safe with expert advice and specialized services such as tree pruning, removal, trimming, fertilization, pest control, mulching, soil testing, and more.

Below are seven reasons why professional tree care service is so valuable.

Call Our Tree Service Company in Indianapolis at 317-348-0811 Today.
Call Our Tree Service Company in Indianapolis at 317-348-0811 Today.

The Importance of Professional Tree Service

1. Tree Health and Well-Being: Professional tree care can help promote the health of your trees by removing dead or diseased branches, thinning out congested crowns, and providing necessary fertilization and nutrient treatments to maintain a healthy canopy. Tree trimming also helps reduce stress on the tree, allowing it to better withstand storms and other environmental factors.

2. Tree Safety: Tree removal and tree trimming can help protect your property from potential damage caused by overgrown or damaged branches, as well as from pests and disease. An arborist can also identify potential safety risks such as dead limbs that could fall onto your property or into a power line.

3. Tree Longevity: Tree pruning and tree removal can help protect trees from disease, pests, and environmental conditions so they can live longer. Tree trimming also helps promote a healthy canopy by keeping the branches at a safe distance from one another, as well as reducing wind resistance in storms.

4. Tree Protection for Structures: Tree removal and tree trimming help protect your home, garage, and other structures from damage caused by overhanging branches. Tree pruning can also remove weakened or dead limbs that could potentially fall onto a structure.

5. Enhanced Tree Appearance: Tree removal and tree trimming can help enhance the aesthetic appearance of your landscape by removing dead or damaged branches and promoting the growth of healthy foliage. Tree pruning can also improve the overall shape and aesthetic appeal of your trees.

6. Improved Tree Efficiency: Tree trimming helps reduce wind resistance, allowing trees to better withstand storms, while tree removal can help increase sunlight exposure to nearby plants and shrubs. Tree pruning also improves air circulation around the tree, allowing it to grow more efficiently.

7. Tree Appreciation: Tree care can help ensure the health of your trees and improve their overall beauty, making them a source of pride for you and your family. Tree removal and tree trimming can also create more space in your yard for other activities or landscaping opportunities.

Where to Get Licensed Tree Service in Indianapolis

Professional tree care is an essential part of keeping your trees healthy, safe, and beautiful. By scheduling regular tree service appointments to inspect and maintain your trees, you can protect your property from potential damage caused by overgrown or unhealthy trees while also enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your landscape.

Are you in need of expert arboricultural services for your existing or freshly planted trees? Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers all throughout the surrounding Indy areas.

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How to Help Your Trees Through the Winter

Now that winter is embracing us more and more each day, it is time to put more thought into the well-being of your landscaping trees. There are several types of winter tree damage that can affect your own property if the proper precautions are not taken. Although proper winter tree care starts much earlier in the year, it is still not too late to implement some strategies that will keep your trees protected through the winter season. Then once spring comes, you can develop a new annual tree care plan that will enhance the quality and strength of your trees.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to help your trees survive the winter.

Indianapolis Tree Services
Indianapolis Tree Services 317-348-0811

Even the hardiest trees can be susceptible to certain winter weather conditions. Some of the harshest inclement weather conditions Indiana landscapes are subjective to each year include snowfall, ice accumulation, hail, heavy winds, and cold temperatures. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to ensure your trees can withstand such inclement weather and climates, and enter their spring growth spurt with optimal energy.

Winter Tree Protection

In the winter, some of the most commonly-affected trees are young trees, newly planted trees, and sick or dying trees. The best method for protecting these kinds of trees is staking. Tree staking involves inserting a set of wooden or metal stakes in the ground alongside the tree’s trunk, and then attaching the tree to the stakes with tree-safe string or rope.

This setup provides stability in the midst of harsh winds and heavy snow accumulation. Even healthy and mature trees can benefit from winter tree staking. Larger trees, especially those that are sick or dead, must be cabled and braced, which is essentially the same concept, but with heavier hardware and materials. See our blog, “Should I Stake My Trees?” to learn more about this highly-recommended tree care practice.

Additional Tree Security Tips

Aside from bracing your trees for heavy winds and snow, you want to also insulate them against the cold winter temperatures. There are a few ways you can provide insulation for your trees. The easiest method is mulching. Always be sure your trees have enough mulch around their base to keep all that warmth and moisture underneath them. Furthermore, you can use burlap wrapping around the base of tree trunks to give an extra layer of insulation. This approach is generally reserved for young trees.

In the spring and fall, it is important to keep your landscaping trees properly pruned. Proper pruning will play an important role in how well your trees can withstand inclement weather come winter. Without proper pruning, trees experience branch overgrowth and over-development, which puts them at risk of breaking as a result of heavy snow and ice accumulation. By staying current on pruning, you can prevent branch and limb breakage.

Indianapolis Tree Services for Winter

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 to schedule your needed Indianapolis tree services for your residential or commercial property. We are licensed and experienced tree care contractors who offer a wide range of professional-level tree work at all scopes. Whether you need a stump removed, or an entire lot cleared, we are the pros to trust for quality work at the right price.

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811

Cost Differences of Removing Difference Species of Tree

When you hire a tree removal company to take down a tree, they will generally provide all-inclusive tree removal service, including removing all limbs, chopping down the tree, and hauling away all the debris. However, the cost to have this service done will depend on several factors, one of which being the actual species of the tree. Continue reading to learn how much tree removal will cost for pine trees, oak trees, and more, as well as, which additional tree service costs might apply to your tree removal needs.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-348-0811
Dead Ash Tree Removal 317-348-0811

Paying for Tree Removal

There is a very good reason why tree removal is not cheap. Not only is the job very dangerous since contractors must climb high trees while also coordinating the use of high-tech, heavy equipment, tree removal professionals must also implement loads of labor removing and hauling heavy pieces of tree debris. For these reasons and more, you can expect removal to be a bit of the cost. However, this does not mean you should ever overpay for tree removal, nor does it mean that you can’t afford when the time comes.

The most common factors used to determine the cost of troop of the project includes the size of the tree, the condition of tree, the location of the tree, the difficulty of the project overall, and even the species of the tree. On average, tree removal costs anywhere between $200 and $1,500 per tree. But again, these costs vary depending on the above mentioned factors and more.

Here are some average costs you can expect for certain species of tree:

🌳 Oak Trees: Like pine trees, Oak trees also grow to great heights. The average oak tree at full maturity can reach heights up to 60 feet or more. On top of height, oak trees are strong and durable, which also makes them heavier and harder. For these reasons, you can expect tree removal to cost around the same as pine tree removal.

🌲 Pine Trees: Because the average height of a pine tree is between 40 and 60 feet high, some as high as 80 feet at full maturity, they are typically more costly to remove. You can expect the average cost of punch removal to fall between $700 and $1,500 per tree, give or take.

🌳 Ash Trees: ashtrays are unique because they are quite vulnerable to several different types of pest infestations, namely – borers and similar wood boring beetles. For this reason, they can sometimes be complicated to take down, and even more difficult to dispose of since their infestations can spread quickly from tree to tree. For this reason, ash tree removal might cost little more than standard tree removal, falling anywhere between $500 and $1,000 per tree.

Additional Tree Removal Costs:

✅ Stump Removal
✅ Limb Chipping
✅ Wood Chipping
✅ Log Splitting
✅ Underbrush Clearance
✅ Large Limb Removal

Indianapolis Tree Removal You Can Afford

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for affordable and professional tree removal in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are licensed and experienced tree care contractors who offer a wide range of professional-level tree service for both residential and commercial properties.

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811

Make Sure Your Trees are Safe for Trick-O-Treaters!

Are you expecting your usual crowd of Trick-or-Treaters this Halloween? If so, your most important priority is their safety. Many people go the extra mile to ensure their candy and treats are safe for consumption before handing them out to the community, but very few people consider the potential hazards that might be lurking around their property. One commonly overlooked hazard are dangerous trees. If there is a tree on your property that fits one of these descriptions, and is within the reach of the trick-or-treating pathway, it is important to take action fast in order to prevent dangerous accidents and injuries.

Continue below to learn how to prevent your property’s sick or damaged trees from toppling over on innocent passer-byers this Halloween!

Indianapolis Tree Service
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-348-0811

Signs of a Risky Tree

Although you want your house to be spooky on Halloween, you don’t want it to be dangerous! So be sure you know your trees are in stable condition before inviting the public onto your premises. You can tell simply by looking at a tree whether or not it poses a risk of falling over, breaking apart, or losing a heavy limb. The most common signs that a tree is sick, diseased, or damaged include the following:

⚠ Heavy Tilting in One Direction
⚠ Early Leaf Loss
⚠ Dead Spots or Blights on Leaves
⚠ Unusual Leaf Behaviors or Changes
⚠ Peeling or Missing Bark
⚠ Wet or Slimy Bark
⚠ Insect or Pest Infestation
⚠ Exposed Roots
⚠ Uprooted Trees
⚠ Low Drooping Branches and Limbs
⚠ Cracked or Broken Limbs in Canopy
⚠ Swollen Trunk or Branches

Dead Trees and Newly Transplanted Trees

If you have a tree that is very old and dead, it could potentially be at risk of falling over at any time. This includes trees with heavy damage, such as lightning-struck trees and rotted tree trunks. Even trees that are not sick or dead can pose hazards, such as newly transplanted trees. Be sure to stake these well in order to prevent the possibility of them falling over on someone.

What You Should Do

If any of the trees on your property exhibit signs of poor health or potential hazard, contact a local Indianapolis tree service company for a professional inspection. They will use a comprehensive approach to examine all conditions and factors surrounding your tree, and make qualified recommendations for your best course of action. In most cases, the best course of action is to remove a dangerous tree. In some cases, the tree can simply be staked, or cabled and braced, to enhance stability.

Where to Find Professional Tree Care Near You

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for professional tree removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are licensed and experienced tree care contractors who offer a wide range of professional-level tree service for both residential and commercial properties.

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811

What You Need to Know About Lot Clearing Services

In order to make room for new construction, building, and excavation projects, trees, shrubbery, underbrush, overgrowth, hills, mounds, depressions, and more need to be leveled and removed. But who can provide this type of service? The answer is a professional tree removal and service company.

Licensed and experienced companies that retain the proper equipment, training, and qualifications, can offer lot clearing services for residential or commercial construction. Lot clearing involves a comprehensive agenda and specialized tools and training to facilitate safely within a timely fashion.  If you need to get rid of a wooded lot, call a professional tree service company in your city.

Continue reading to learn more about lot clearing and the process it involves; as well as, where to find reputable service you can trust.

Indianapolis Tree Removal Lot Clearing
Indianapolis Tree Removal and Lot Clearing 317-348-0811

Commercial and Residential Lot Clearing

Lot clearing is not just for new construction or for homeowners that wish to remove a selection of trees in order to install a new backyard swimming pool. Lot clearing can also be a service for storm damage victims.  An abundance of trees, bushes, shrubbery, dirt, branches, and storm debris can be quite overwhelming at first site.

Fortunately, there is a professional service that provides assistance with cleanups such as these. Not all tree service companies provide lot clearing services. These services are usually offered by more seasoned and experienced tree service companies. Such services include tree removal, bucket truck crane service, stump removal, stump grinding, underbrush clearance, underbrush cleanup, storm damage cleanup, and more.

Removing a large number of trees and landscaping can be strenuous and complex.  It is never recommended for a novice or amateur to attempt tree removal on their own. It can be very dangerous and a person can get face potential injury or death. Always outsource a professional tree removal company for lot clearing service and storm damage cleanup and repair.

Professionals are highly trained, licensed, and certified to use the equipment necessary for proper lot clearing and tree removal.  These instruments include high powered chain saws, timber jack tools, heavy-duty chains, cranes, tractors, excavators, bulldozers, more. These machines, tools, and equipment require expert training and certification for safe and proper operation.

Indianapolis Lot Clearing Services

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for professional lot clearing, underbrush clearance, and tree removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer residential and commercial tree work, as well as, free estimates, senior discounts, and the guaranteed lowest price in town! When you meet with us, you can expect us to show you the highest level of courtesy and respect by showing up on-time, neatly dressed, and ready to work. Request an estimate, today!

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811

What You Need to Know About Tree Mulching

Mulch is a man-made product generally composed of organic materials like wood chips, pine needles, manure, and other types of compost. But it can also be made from non-organic materials like rock, stone, Geo-textile fabrics, and even pulverized rubber. When applied properly, mulch allows soil to retain sufficient levels of moisture. This not only improves the condition of the soil, it does so much more. This is why mulching around trees is such a critical part of tree care.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about mulching trees.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-348-0811
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-348-0811

Benefits of Tree Mulching

You may already mulch are trees for the sake of having pretty landscaping, but you might be surprised to learn that your annual mulching routine does more than add value to your property. So if you are asking yourself, “Do I really need to mulch my trees?” the answer is, yes! Take a look at the most common benefits mulch provides our landscaping:

🌳 Promotes overall tree health;
🌳 Controls weed growth;
🌳 Insulates soil;
🌳 Protects tree roots from extreme temperatures;
🌳 Prevents certain plant diseases;
🌳 Improves soil aeration and drainage;
🌳 Gives landscaping a well-groomed look;
🌳 Mulch decomposition improves soil fertility;
🌳 And much more!

Mulch Application Tips

When applied improperly, mulch can have negative effects on a tree’s health. For this reason, proper mulching methods are important, and should be practiced every spring. And since spring is here, it is time to start thinking about your seasonal tree care needs, including new mulch! Here are some tips on how to properly mulch a tree:

When it comes to mulching your trees, it is recommended to use organic mulch. Although inorganic mulch is tempting since it doesn’t need to be replenished as often, the benefits derived from organic materials and decomposition outweigh the benefits of using inorganic mulch. In fact, most tree care pros prefer to use an organic product.

When mulching your trees, keep in mind that using too much can actually be detrimental. Over-mulching can lead to tree stress, excessive ground moisture, root rot, tree and bark diseases, insect and rodent infestations, tree girdling, reduced air penetration, unbalanced soil pH, and more. To be safe, keep mulch depths between 2 and 4 inches.

Be sure to check the project area for adequate water drainage before applying mulch. If the water drainage is poor, then too much mulch may lead to many of the above-mentioned tree problems.

Before applying new mulch over existing mulch, first measure the depth to prevent over-mulching. If the depth is still 2 to 4 inches, do not apply new mulch. Instead, use a rake to release the top matted layers and refresh the look of the mulch.

If faded, visit your local gardening store for a spray-on, water-soluble, vegetable-based dye to brighten up the color. Also, be sure to also spread out any piles that may have built-up against the tree trunk. The base of the tree should be exposed.

Indianapolis Tree Services

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 to schedule your needed Indianapolis tree services for your residential or commercial property. We are licensed and experienced tree care contractors who offer a wide range of professional-level tree work at all scopes. Whether you need a stump removed, or an entire lot cleared, we are the pros to trust for quality work at the right price.

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811

What Causes Chlorine Poisoning in Trees?

Like most things in life, too much of a good thing can turn out to be bad. In the case of trees and chlorine, the same theory applies. Although chlorine is a trace element essential to tree health, too much can be poisonous. Continue reading to learn more about chlorine poisoning in trees, including causes, treatment options, and prevention.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-348-0811
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-348-0811

Chlorine Poisoning

When chlorinated water comes into contact with elements in the soil, chloride compounds develop, which are then imbibed by the tree roots. The excess content of chloride compounds in a tree will eventually lead to chlorine poisoning, which is detectable by signs of stress and decline. Not only can chlorine poisoning make tree leaves turn yellow, curl, burn, or drop prematurely, it can also kill a tree in a very short amount of time. Tree species that tend to be more susceptible or vulnerable to chlorine poisoning include maple trees, box elders, ash trees, crab apple trees, dogwood trees, horse chestnut trees, mulberry trees, pin oak trees, sweet gum trees, and yellow woods.

Causes of Tree Chlorine Poisoning

There are several factors that influence the extent of damage caused by chlorine poisoning, all of which depend on the unique environmental surroundings. The most common factors that influence how harmed a tree is from chlorine poisoning include the time of year, length of time the tree was exposed, total concentration of chlorine in the tree, and just how the tree took in the chlorine water. City water is safe for trees. However, although municipal water has safe levels of chlorine, groundwater can be affected in various ways. Some common causes for chlorine in groundwater might include:

☑ Swimming Pool Water Runoff
☑ Swimming Pool Leaks
☑ Water Contaminated by Heavily Salted Roads and Driveways
☑ Air Pollution
☑ Naturally Occurring Chloride Salts in Soil
☑ Tampering
☑ And More

Prevention Tips

The number one rule is to never water your trees if the water smells like chlorine. From there, you can have your personal water supply tested and treated for high chlorine concentrations to ensure your hose is delivering safe water for your gardens. Another helpful approach to preventing chlorine poisoning in your landscaping trees is to keep them at least 10 feet from chlorinated swimming pools. If your soil is testing high for chlorides, consider incorporating some gypsum to drive out the excess chlorine content. The general rule of thumb for gypsum is 58lbs. per 1,000 square feet.

If your tree is already suffering from chlorine poisoning, water it thoroughly and deeply to extract the excess chlorine from the ground. You may also need to have the tree removed if it is too far damaged. Talk to a trusted tree service provider for advice on removing a sick or dead tree from your property. Not sure if your tree is dead? Stay tuned for our next blog to learn the signs of a dead or dying tree!

Indianapolis Tree Service

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for professional tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are licensed and experienced tree care contractors who offer a wide range of professional-level tree service for both residential and commercial properties.

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811