The most important time to prune a tree is when it is young. Most structural defects that occur in older trees can be prevented by pruning when the tree is young. This practice can avoid the need for more expensive tree care practices later in the life of the tree and can extend the lifespan of the tree by…
Mulch is a great tool when used in moderation. Do not stack the mulch high up on the tree trunk. Only 2-3 inches of mulch is necessary when mulching under trees. Benefits of mulch include: aesthetically pleasing, reduces weed trimmer damage, reduces evaporation, reduces inter-plant competition and helps maintain soil temperature. Mulch eventually breaks down…
The Emerald Ash Borer. Is it in Texas? If so, is this a problem? Here at Advanced Tree & Shrub Care, Inc. we keep our eyes and ears open for potential new pests that may have, or may be about to enter our area. By keeping up to date with the pests, diseases, and other…
It is important not to neglect your trees when watering your yard. Frequent drought conditions and the Texas heat can take a toll on any shrub or tree, but it can be especially damaging to newly planted trees. The most limiting factor for newly planted tree growth and survival is a lack of adequate water. Without enough…
When we as Arborists are called to diagnose a tree problem, we look at very specific areas and ask very specific questions. Looking at the neighborhood in general, we can spot larger trends geographically. Plants and trees in the location of interest can often tell us a story of common pathogens or insect outbreaks. Obtaining historical facts…
Some people try to save a little money by doing some of the home chores themselves. And I do the same whenever I can, but doing one’s own tree pruning is cutting into a living organism without the necessary training or experience can make the tree more susceptible to insect and disease damage, structural damage…
Warm temperatures, light winds, plenty of available moisture, what else could you ask for? Not much if you’re a tree! Conditions are optimal for growth right now, and woody shrubs and trees are responding. We have observed up to 12″ of terminal extensions in the first few weeks of spring. This is outstanding. We will hope…
Oak wilt is a fungal disease that kills live oaks and other species by attacking their vascular system. Once a tree is infected, the disease eventually chokes it to death. Trees from the red oak family (Spanish, Shumard, Blackjack and Water oaks) are especially susceptible, dying within months of infection. Live oaks, while not in the red…
There are many types of wood borers. We are already seeing activity from all types. Symptoms include: thin canopy, die back, dead limbs, and “bleeding”. Trees often bleed, or ooze sap from areas infested with borers. Borers are the most damaging insects to trees, they can and will kill trees if left untreated. Advanced Tree Care has…
Mulch, when applied correctly, is one of the best things you can do for your trees. A nice even layer from the edge of the root flare out to the drip line is great. Remember not to place mulch in contact with the root flare as this can cause health problems. Mulch helps retain moisture, adds…
