October 10, 2021

Did You Know There’s an Appropriate Way to Mulch?

October 10, 2021/ Joshua Browning

Autumn will be here soon and it’s important to make sure our trees can utilize the extra precipitation that comes with this beautiful season. Fall is a great time to plant trees, because rain amounts are higher and the temperature is not as hot. There are some things to remember when caring for trees this fall. “Mulch is king when it comes to tree planting and care. It is one of the most important, yet most forgotten steps of tree planting.” (Arbor Day Blog) But there are some tips to remember when mulching your trees.

Mulch is a newly planted tree’s best friend because it (Arbor Day Foundation):

Insulates the soil, helping to provide a buffer from heat and cold.
Retains water to help the roots stay moist.
Keeps weeds out to avoid root competition.
Prevents soil compaction.
Reduces lawn mower damage.

Despite mulch being a tree’s best friend, “there is such a thing as “too much of a good thing.” Over-application of mulch, in the form of piles or “volcanoes” mounded up the trunk of a tree, will prove detrimental to the health of the tree and can lead to premature death. This is an unfortunate and fairly common occurrence in the landscape.” (Purdue University) Here’s the best advice when it comes to mulching properly.

“Before mulching your tree, be sure to remove grass and weeds around the tree that fall under the drip line. Then add a two to four-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, avoiding the trunk. Do not pile mulch against the trunk of a tree. Once your mulch is spread out evenly, water your tree.” (Arbor Day Blog)

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://arbordayblog.org/askanarborist/ask-arborist-mulch/

https://www.arborday.org/trees/tips/

https://www.purduelandscapereport.org/article/mounds-upon-mounds-of-mulch/

September 15, 2021

Tree Topping Versus Appropriate Pruning

September 15, 2021/ Joshua Browning

“Topping is perhaps the most harmful tree pruning practice known. Yet, despite more than 25 years of literature and seminars explaining its harmful effects, topping remains a common practice.” (treesaregood.com) What exactly is tree topping and why is it harmful to trees? “This pruning practice is the reduction of tree size by heading back many or most large, live branches without regard for tree health or structural integrity. Topping manages height and spread but leaves behind woody stubs that cause decay, weak branch attachments, and increased likelihood of failure.” (Purdue University) There are a variety of reasons why a topping a tree can cause irreparable damage. Topping can (Treesaregood.com):

Cause trees stress
Lead to sunburn
Lead to decay
Cause unacceptable risk
Makes trees ugly

There is a vast difference between topping and professional pruning. “Tree topping should never be confused with proper pruning. A topped tree is easy to spot - the tree's natural shape has been destroyed, while a properly pruned tree often looks as if no work has been done at all. With proper pruning, an arborist will spend time carefully selecting and removing branches. Careful selective pruning retains the tree's natural shape and beauty. Proper pruning is an important part of caring for - and protecting - the health of your trees. In fact, many tree care professionals recommend that homeowners start early and continue proper pruning throughout the life of a tree.” (Illinois.gov)

References:

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-faq-14-w.pdf

https://www.treesaregood.org/Portals/0/TreesAreGood_Why%20Topping%20Hurts_0321.pdf

https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/conservation/Forestry/UrbanForestry/Documents/Tree%20Topping.pdf

August 10, 2021

Why are Giant Sequoia Trees So Unique?!

August 10, 2021/ Joshua Browning

On a recent trip to California, Josh, our owner, and his family were lucky enough to view and experience the giant sequoia trees famous in Yosemite National Park. “The amazing giant sequoia is one of the largest organisms on earth and grows from a seed less than half-an-inch long! When fully grown, the sequoia pushes its craggy tree top more than 250 feet into the sky.” (USDA)

Have you ever wondered why these beauties are so big and what makes them different than the trees we have here in Indiana? “Some scientists believe it has to do with the climate in which they grow. Sequoias benefit from California’s often prodigious snowpack, which seeps into the ground, constantly providing water to the roots of the trees.”(California Science Weekly) Here are some interesting facts about why most trees can’t outlive the sequoia and how sequoia are able to survive for thousands of years, thus becoming one of the largest trees in North America.

Most trees have a shorter lifespan due to the following reasons (Mountain Democrat):
Adverse environments such as under or over-watering, or poorly draining soils
Harmful insects or diseases which interfere with either the tree’s ability to make food or circulate food, water and nutrients to the entire tree.
Catastrophic events such as fires or hurricane-force winds.
Human intervention which in many cases is beneficial for humans, but not so much for the trees.
The accumulated effects of old age which affect all living organisms

In contrast, “the giant sequoias are one of the world’s hardiest trees. Their thick bark makes them flame resistant, as well as resistant to fungal rot and wood-boring beetles. They are the third longest-living tree species on the planet. Giant sequoia trees never stop growing until the day they die. They were once logged, but the practice stopped over a century ago because the tree’s wood is brittle. Today, the trees are protected.” (The Environmentor)

It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the beautiful sequoia trees and because of their long life and perfect climate, they can reach massive size. Understanding how they can grow so tall, gives us a clue as to how we can help our trees have a longer healthier life.

Resources:

https://blog.tentree.com/15-incredible-facts-about-giant-sequoia-trees/

https://www.mtdemocrat.com/prospecting/grow-for-it-why-trees-die/

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/home/?cid=stelprdb5394941

https://californiascienceweekly.com/2020/03/04/why-are-californias-redwoods-and-sequoias-so-big/

July 13, 2021

Cicada Damage Control: What You Need to Know for Your Trees

July 13, 2021/ Joshua Browning

If you haven’t personally experienced them, you have no doubt heard about the 17 year cicadas that emerged this year. If you have experienced them, you might be wondering if they could have caused damage to your trees. “Overall, cicadas may be good for forests, which may experience a growth spurt the year after an emergence. Cicada emergence holes allow sunlight, air, water and nutrients to penetrate more rapidly and to greater depths into the soil than typically, according to Moore. In fact, the very presence of cicadas is a sign of a robust forest.” (Phys.org)

Despite this fact, cicadas may have caused damage to some trees. To make sure cicadas are the culprit, here are some things to look for. “You’ll see the little train track patterns on the side of the branches where the females actually laid their eggs. They’ll be in that branch for about a little over a month and then the nymphs will hatch and fall to the ground and go into the ground and come back in 17 years.” (WTOP) “If enough cicadas lay eggs on a small branch, it can kill the twig. As a result, large trees sometimes have minor dieback at the ends of branches but overall tree health isn’t affected. Small or young trees and shrubs, however, may be more seriously harmed.” (Purdue University)

To protect your trees from further damage, cover small newly planted bushes and trees with netting. “Larger trees may experience minor dieback at the tips of branches, but this will not harm the overall health of the tree. If you find these dead twigs unsightly, you can either trim them off or hire an arborist to remove them.” (Purdue University)

If you notice more than a few branches dying or more severe damage, you may be in need of an inspection by a certified arborist to ensure there is nothing more serious going on.

Resources:

https://phys.org/news/2021-05-year-cicadas-tree-expert-brood.html

https://wtop.com/local/2021/06/the-cicadas-might-be-gone-but-the-damage-to-your-trees-isnt-should-you-be-worried/

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/purdue-landscape-report-17-year-cicadas-are-coming/#:~:text=Cicadas%20lay%20eggs%20by%20stabbing,t%20affected%20(figure%202).

June 09, 2021

A Historical Glimpse into Arborculture

June 09, 2021/ Joshua Browning

Arborculture is a relatively unknown and new profession. Most people are unaware of the history of Arborculture and how the arborist profession came about. Prior to the 1900’s, there was little information about tree care available to people who wanted to preserve their trees. “During that same era, expanding industrialization and urbanization were adding new stresses to trees, and the detrimental effects were becoming apparent.” (ISA) Those concerned with tree welfare began doing research and forming alliances with other researchers. “It was not until 1924, however, that members of the Connecticut Tree Protective Association convened a meeting that would plant the seed of the organization that would ultimately revolutionize the tree care industry.” (ISA) “The International Society of Arboriculture [ISA] began as a marriage of convenience between progressive commercial arborists and scientists whose research concerned trees. Until then the industry was largely unregulated and uninformed.” (ISA)

“Today the ISA continues to be a dynamic medium through which arborists around the world share their experience and knowledge for the benefit of society.” (ISA) They provide information, education and certification to those who spend their careers in the tree care industry. “When a professional becomes an ISA Certified Arborist, they should be recognized by their peers and the public as a tree care professional who has attained a generally-accepted level of knowledge in areas such as tree biology, diagnosis, maintenance practices, safety, and other subject and practice areas within the tree care profession as identified through periodic job task analyses.” (Trees are good)

If it weren’t for the founders of the ISA, researchers, forestry experts and the current certified aborists, we would continue to be completely unaware and uninformed about the maintenance, health and well-being of our trees.

Resources:

https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/Types-of-Credentials/ISA-Certified-Arborist

https://www.isa-arbor.com/Portals/0/Assets/PDF/About/ISA-Memory-Lane.pdf

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/whyhireanarborist

May 14, 2021

Tree defects…How to spot them and what to do about it?

May 14, 2021/ Joshua Browning

As trees mature in your landscape, it’s important to keep an eye out for defects or possible hazards that might jeopardize the health of your trees. Also, “to ensure your family and friends have a safe environment in which to enjoy the beauty and many benefits of your backyard woods, you can learn to recognize hazardous defects in trees and take corrective actions.” (Indiana Department of Natural Resources)

“All trees have some sort of risk involved with it. They are living organisms that are endangered by environmental impacts and pests. However, it is important to create a balance between the risk a tree may pose and the benefits provided by the tree.” (Purdue University) Inspection and risk assessment is key to mitigating any future hazardous issues with your landscape.

Some common signs of tree failure include (Purdue University):

Dead, diseased, dying or broken branches.
Thinning or poor canopy health.
An unstable branching pattern overextended or weakly attached branches, or cracks in the stems.
Cracks or decayed areas in the main trunk.
Exposed or decayed roots, heaving of the soil, fungus growth or cracks in the soil around the root plate.

“If a high-risk situation exists, there are four recommended options for correcting the problem: move the target, prune the tree, convert the tree to a wildlife tree, or remove the tree.” (Indiana Department of Natural Resources) Preventative pruning and moving the target are things a homeowner can do as needed, but large pruning jobs and removal should always be handled by a professional.

“Recurrent inspections to determine tree health and condition are important for sustainable, long-lived tree plantings. The most important factor for any tree owner is know when to contact an ISA Certified Arborist who understands tree risk assessment.” (Purdue University)

Resources:

https://www.arboristnow.com/news/The-Top-6-Most-Common-Tree-Issues-How-to-Solve-Them

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/how-to-identify-tree-defects-and-what-to-do-about-it/

https://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/files/04_Identify_and_Manage.pdf

April 13, 2021

How to Know When to Prune or Remove?

April 13, 2021/ Joshua Browning

Trees bring so many benefits to our homes and landscape. They provide shade, cool our homes in the summer, and provide a beautiful scenery to look at. Sometimes, however, they can become dangerous if they are too close to your home and are compromised because of size or health. So how do you know when you should just prune or actually remove a tree?

In most cases trees can be saved, only needing a proper pruning and regular inspection for disease or possible structure damage. “Pruning is an important maintenance practice for tree care. Start with corrective pruning to remove any broken, damaged or dead branches, or suckers that sprout from the base of the tree.” (Purdue University)

You should also consider what is underground during an inspection. “The length of tree roots varies by species, but in many cases the spread of the roots is much greater than the height of the tree. Since the roots are underground, homeowners often have no idea how far they extend. Roots can damage the foundation, which can result in cracked walls and uneven floors inside the house.” (RISMedia)

“Tree removal is usually a last resort, when no other safe management option, like pruning or disease mitigation, is sufficient. Dead, dying or otherwise hazardous trees can lead to thousands of dollars in damage, plus the priceless cost of personal injury. Often a tree doesn’t look dangerous until after a storm or heavy snow exposes its vulnerabilities.” (Arbor Day Foundation)

So it’s time to call an arborist if you notice signs of infection, large dead branches, the tree isn’t growing well, and any other possible tree concerns that may end up damaging your home.

Resources:

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-433-w.pdf

https://arbordayblog.org/treecare/saying-goodbye-when-its-time-to-remove-your-tree/

https://rismedia.com/2020/01/06/problems-that-can-result-from-having-trees-and-bushes-too-close-to-your-house/

March 13, 2021

Tree Wounds…Tips for avoiding them when pruning!

March 13, 2021/ Joshua Browning

Did you know that tree wounds are actually common? There are several ways a tree can become wounded or damaged. “Trees are commonly wounded and the causes are many: broken branches; impacts, abrasions and scrapes; animal damage; insect attack; fire; etc.” (University of Tennessee) Many of these wounds cause permanent damage and possible death if not addressed properly. “Wounds expose the inside of the tree to organisms, primarily bacteria and fungi that may infect and cause discoloration and decay of the wood. Decay can result in structurally weakened tree stems and unsightly trees and can shorten the life of a tree.” (University of Tennessee)

Trees can also become wounded and have permanent damage if they are not pruned properly. “Trees wounded in any way have a natural defense mechanism, which allows them to recover. This process is called CODIT (Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees), which is walling-off or sealing affected areas to prevent decay from spreading from the point of the wound into the tree.” (Purdue University) In order to avoid further decay and possible weakness in the tree it’s important to make the proper cuts when pruning. “Pruning cuts should be made to maximize the tree’s ability to close its wound and defend itself from infection. When pruning, make clean, smooth cuts. Do not leave branch stubs. Leave a small collar of wood at the base of the branch.”(Agrilife.org)

For more assistance with proper pruning and how to avoid causing wounds on your trees, contact a licensed arborist to assist you. They can guide you make the right cuts to keep your trees healthy and strong in the future.

Resources:

https://agrilife.org/treecarekit/after-the-storm/tree-wounds/#:~:text=Pruning%20cuts%20should%20be%20made,the%20base%20of%20the%20branch.

https://extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-506-w.pdf

https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/SP683.pdf

February 16, 2021

How do you know when you need an arborist?

February 16, 2021/ Joshua Browning

An arborist is more than a tree guy. Whether it be an assessment or tree removal, it’s best to hire a real professional for your tree needs. “Hiring an arborist is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well-cared-for trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability. Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Tree work should be done only by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees.” (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension) So, how can an arborist help your landscape?

Services that arborists can provide (Purdue University Extension):

Pruning - Determine type of pruning to maintain or improve tree health, appearance, and Safety. Eliminate rubbing branches. Remove limbs that interfere with wires, gutters, or roofs, or those that are obstructing streets or sidewalks. Remove dead or weak limbs that pose a hazard or lead to decay.
Removal - As a last resort, but when necessary, an arborist can help decide whether or not the tree should be removed. Arborists have the skills and equipment to safely and efficiently remove trees.
Planting - An arborist makes proper species selection based on site conditions. The wrong tree in the wrong location leads to future problems such as Limited growing space, Insect and disease infestations, Poor growth, and utility obstructions leading to topping.
Emergency tree care - Storms may cause limbs or entire trees to fail; limbs often land on homes, cars, other structures or trees. The weight of storm damaged trees is great and they can be very dangerous to remove or trim. An arborist can assist in performing the job in a safe manner, and reduce further risk of damage to your property.

When you are ready to hire an arborist, make sure you are an informed consumer and always contact a certified arborist. “Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through experience and by passing comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading experts on tree care. Certified Arborists must also continue their education to maintain their certification. Therefore, they are more likely to be up-to-date on the latest techniques in arboriculture.” (Treesaregood.org)

https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/hire_arborist.pdf

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-faq-13-w.pdf

https://agrilife.org/treecarekit/planting- tree-maintenance/why-hire-an-arborist/

January 14, 2021

Boost Your Property Value Now for a Spring Sale

January 14, 2021/ Joshua Browning

It is common to see a spike in home sales in the spring and when people are preparing their homes for sale, they don’t always think about their landscape, specifically their trees. Potential “buyers like to purchase a home with a curb appeal that has a little bit of greenery around it. Adding trees to your property can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you are looking to stay in your home for the next couple of years before selling it.” (Realtytimes.com) But in order to increase your property’s value, you have to make sure your trees are valuable too.

“Proper selection and planting can provide years of enjoyment for you and future generations as well as increased property value, improved environmental quality, and economic benefits. On the other hand, an inappropriate tree for your site or location can be a continual challenge and maintenance problem, or even a potential hazard, especially when there are utilities or other infrastructure nearby.” (Purdue University)

“To boost your curb appeal, trees should be healthy, maintained, and planted in the right place. But if your tree poses a risk and could harm your home, removing it could boost your property value. Here’s how to decide if you need to cut down a tree on your property." (Davey.com)

If your tree is 100% dead, you need to have it removed.
If your tree has branches hanging over the roof, it (hopefully) just needs to be pruned.
If your tree is closer than 15’ from your home, it may be a liability and need to come down.

Late winter/early spring is the perfect time to inspect your trees and decide if they need professional pruning or possible removal. To make sure you are ready to list you house this year or sometime in the future, contact a professional arborist and schedule an inspection.

Resources:

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-433-w.pdf

https://realtytimes.com/advicefromtheexpert/item/1037738-benefits-of-pruning-trees-around-your-home-before-selling

https://blog.davey.com/2018/04/what-trees-to-add-or-cut-down-to-increase-property-value/#:~:text=A%20tree%20in%20front%20of,11%20percent%2C%20found%20Michigan%20University.

December 14, 2020

What is a Tree Risk Assessment?

December 14, 2020/ Joshua Browning

An important part of owning a home is maintaining your property which includes your trees and landscape. Obviously, proper maintenance includes pruning and fertilizing of your trees, but one thing that homeowners don’t always think about is regularly assessing their trees for risk. “Trees provide many benefits for our homes, businesses and properties. If a tree is defective, however, it may become a hazard. It is important to understand that tree owners have a duty to inspect and maintain their trees.” (Purdue University)

“The primary responsibilities of the arborist are to assess the potential for tree failure, advise owners of the consequences of failure and recommend the proper measures to prevent and abate failures.” (Purdue University) When you request a Tree Risk Assessment by a professional arborist, here are some of the things they will be looking for during their assessment. (Purdue Extension -Forestry & Natural Resources)

Decay, cankers, cracks and other positive indicators of weakness in the roots, stems and branches.
Canopy size, shape and weight distribution. This is especially true in situations where a tree is exposed to windy conditions, is leaning or has a poor stem-to-canopy ratio.
Crown architecture. Poor branching and similar characteristics can create high-risk situations in strong winds and other weather conditions.
Plant health and vigor. This determines how a tree can overcome wounding or pest infestations.

“It is important to create a balance between the risk a tree may pose and the benefits provided by the tree. We don’t want to remove trees unnecessarily, but rather reduce the liability by identifying, analyzing and evaluating the problem.” (Purdue University) There are several ways to reduce the liability of possibly hazardous trees by regular assessments and maintenance. “An arborist familiar with tree risk assessment may suggest one or more of the following:” (TreeAreGood.org)

Remove the target
Prune the tree
Cable and brace the tree
Provide routine care
Remove the tree

Dormant season is a perfect time to have a professional arborist inspect your trees for possible liabilities because the branches are more visible without leaves. “The most important factor for any tree owner is know when to contact an ISA Certified Arborist who understands tree risk assessment. They can help with the decision making for the tree if there are concerns about its safety and health.” (Purdue Extension -Forestry & Natural Resources)

Resources:

https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/TreeRisk.pdf

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/how-to-identify-tree-defects-and-what-to-do-about-it/

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-475-W.pdf

November 17, 2020

Benefits of Pruning Trees in the Winter

November 17, 2020/ Joshua Browning

Hard to believe, but winter is almost here and the snow will be falling soon. So what can you do to make sure your trees survive another harsh winter and bloom beautifully in the spring? Did you know, pruning during dormant can be beneficial for your trees? “Pruning in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth emerges, is good timing for many trees. This leaves wound tissue exposed for a shorter period of time before sealing begins.” (Purdue University) Here are some other reasons to prune this winter (Arbor Experts):

makes tree structure more visible
stops diseases from spreading
increases efficiency
causes less stress for trees
improves tree safety over winter

“Applying proper pruning techniques at the correct time of year is an essential component of maintaining urban forests,” says Keith Wood, community forestry program manager for the Colorado State Forest Service. “By being proactive and pruning trees during the winter, residents can help maintain the health, appearance and safety of their trees for the long term.” (Arbor Day Foundation)

So if you want to improve the value of your property and keep your trees beautiful, don’t forget to go out and assess your trees for any pruning needs this winter. If you need more information or assistance, always contact a certified arborist.

Resources:

https://arbor-experts.com/winter-tree-pruning/

https://extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-506-W.pdf

https://arbordayblog.org/treecare/arborist-advice-prune-trees-dormant-season/

October 16, 2020

Protect Your Property from Future Winter Storms

October 16, 2020/ Joshua Browning

It’s hard to believe, but the cooler temperatures are on their way, and soon we will be dealing with snow and ice as winter gets closer. Before the weather turns too cold and you’re still able to get outside, it’s a good idea to prepare your trees and landscape for those possible winter storms. Here's some helpful information and a few tips you can follow to prevent possible costly winter storm damage to your trees or home.

In January 2014, a “winter storm caused widespread damage across numerous midwest, southeast and northeastern states and the total estimated costs were $2.2-$2.4 billion.” (National Centers for Environmental Information) The damages in these types of storms usually consists of power outages, car accidents, snow, wind, freezing rain accumulation, and of course ice and snow on tree limbs, causing them to fall. Fortunately, most homeowners’ policies cover this type of damage. “Tree limbs that fall on a house or other insured structure on the property—this includes both the damage the tree inflicts on the house and the cost of removing the tree, are generally [covered] up to about $500.” (Insurance Information Institute)

Even though the damages from these events are usually covered under your homeowners insurance, it’s best to avoid filing a claim if possible. Here are few things you can do to help your trees withstand the power that winter can bring (Purdue University):

Eliminate codominant stems by pruning weak-forked branches. Choose a good, strong central leader for young trees.
Inspect trees for broken, dying, diseased and dead branches each year. Also, conduct a visual assessment after a storm event.
Under no circumstances should a tree be “topped” to prevent wind or ice damage.
A healthy tree is the best defense to any challenge the tree may face in its lifetime. Appropriate watering and fertilization improves root growth and structure, making the tree more stable.

Luckily, you still have a few more weeks before any winter storm is expected and autumn is one of the best times to assess your trees and prune where needed. If the job is out of your realm of expertise, consider consulting a certified arborist. And if, despite all your preparation, you find yourself with damage to your home following a storm, “a professionally trained arborist can determine if a tree can be saved. Even if the tree must be removed, safety and training are needed to prevent additional damage or injury from the removal.” (Purdue University)

Resources:

https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/billions/events.pdf

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-FAQ-12-W.pdf

https://www.iii.org/press-release/concerned-about-winter-storm-damage-to-your-home-or-car-iii-reviews-whats-covered-by-your-insurance-012615#:~:text=Vehicle%20crashes%20between%20two%20or,is%20required%20by%20most%20states.&text=Physical%20damage%20to%20a%20vehicle,portion%20of%20an%20auto%20policy.

September 17, 2020

Searching for a New Home with Mature Trees?

September 17, 2020/ Joshua Browning

What do you think of when searching for your forever home? Mature trees come up on a lot of homeowners’ ‘must have’ list. There’s just something about large beautiful old trees that have a lot of people looking for these beauties when searching for their next property. Despite their stately presence, there are a lot of things to consider before purchasing a property with mature trees.
Obviously, there are a lot of positives to having mature trees on your new property. “Trees can add value to your home, help cool your home and neighborhood, break the cold winds to lower your heating costs, and provide food for wildlife.” (Arbor Day Foundation) “They can [also] help to absorb noise, freshen the atmosphere, serve as windbreaks, provide privacy, protect, shade, shelter and divide grounds into several use areas.” (University of Minnesota)

Despite these benefits, there are also things to consider before purchasing a home with mature trees. “A mature tree right next to or near a home works great as a natural home cooler or wind blocker. But there are risks of having a tree situated near a house: it could fall, its limb could drop or it could damage the home’s foundation. That’s why the most important thing you can do is get lots of information about the trees up front. And then decide if they’ll be a sound investment or a serious liability.” (Davey) Also, “Remember that existing trees grow and will need to be pruned later to keep this space open.” (University of Minnesota)

Before you make an offer, have a certified arborist check out the potential property if you have questions on the possible value of removing or keeping any large, mature trees. It could potentially save you a lot of money in the long run!

Resources:

https://extension2.missouri.edu/g6900

https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm

https://blog.davey.com/2018/04/buying-a-house-with-big-mature-trees-near-house-or-foundation/

August 18, 2020

Location, Location, Location…Tree Placement Do's and Don'ts

August 18, 2020/ Joshua Browning

Most people agree that trees add value to your landscape, but how do you know when a tree is in the right location and not causing damage to your home? Also, when planting a tree, what’s the recommended placement distance from the home or other structures? “Choosing and planting a tree should be a well informed and planned decision. Proper selection and planting can provide years of enjoyment for you and future generations as well as increased property value, improved environmental quality, and economic benefits. On the other hand, an inappropriate tree for your site or location can be a continual challenge and maintenance problem, or even a potential hazard, especially when there are utilities or other infrastructure nearby.” (Purdue University) Here are some tree placement ‘Do’s’ according to Purdue University:

Before planting your tree, consider the tree's “fullgrown” size.
When selecting trees for energy efficiency, don’t plant evergreen trees near the house on southern exposures.
When choosing trees for shade and solar gain, choose larger, deciduous-canopy trees, which provide an advantage year round.
Be certain that the mature height and spread fit the location before placing the tree.
A good rule of thumb to plant the tree at least 20 feet from the house. For larger shade trees, you may need to plant as far as 40 feet from the house to insure room for growth.

Also, there are several risks with improper placement of trees. Here are some planting ‘Don’ts from University of Missouri:

Do not plant trees near underground pipelines, septic tanks, walks or drives or under overhead wires.
Do not plant a tree where it will overhang the house, in front of the front door or where it will obstruct a desirable view from inside the house.
Do not plant a large tree closer than 5 feet from a sidewalk; it will eventually push up the concrete.
Do not plant trees closer together than half their total spread at maturity.
Do not plant trees closer than 25 feet from the corner of a block so that they will not interfere with motorists' vision at intersections.
Do not plant trees directly on property lines.
Do not plant trees that give dense shade where you want to grow grass.

If you need assistance with tree placement or removal of dangerous trees, make sure to contact a professional arborist. Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-433-W.pdf

https://extension2.missouri.edu/g6900

July 16, 2020

A Common Tree Problem You Should Be on the Lookout For

July 16, 2020/ Joshua Browning

Most people purchase trees for their landscape, hoping the tree will grow to be tall and beautiful. However, the health and structure of a tree has a lot to do with how the homeowner cares for it. One of the best things you can do to promote proper tree structure is to prune regularly and one of the most common results of improper pruning is codominant stems. “The term codominant stems describes two or more main stems or leaders that are the same or nearly the same diameter and emerge from the same location on the main trunk. A strong central leader system is important for tree stability and for creating a resilient, sustainable tree. Trees with codominant stems fail much more readily due to the weak attachment at the trunk.” (Purdue University)

So now that you know what codominance is, how do you spot these types of trees? “It’s easy to identify. If the trunk produces two main stems that look like a slingshot—with a V union in the canopy—there is a codominance. Usually, the branches are growing very close together just above the trunk as well.” (Purdue University) How can you tell if there is a serious problem though? Classifying codominant stems into 3 risk stages can aid in their management: (Northeast Center for Urban and Community Forestry)

Risk Stage 1: does the union between the two stems form a "V" but there are no other symptoms? A "V" union is much more likely to fail than a "U" Stems with a "V" union compress bark between them as they grow, leaving little physical connection
Risk Stage 2: are there symptoms of decay in the union? Can you see rotted matter between the stems? Is there any fluid flowing from the union? Are there woody plants growing in the union? Do you see wide "ears" (swelling) on either side of the union?
Risk Stage 3: is there any sign of failure? Can you see any cracks in the union itself? Is reaction wood being formed rapidly at the base of the stems?

If you have a tree in Risk Stage 1, “there are three basic steps to removing a codominant branch structure and restoring a strong central leader branching system” (Purdue University):

Identify the best stem to become the dominant leader.
Determine which stem or stems are competing with the leader.
Remove or subordinate the competing stems to improve structure

If your tree has surpassed Risk Stage 2 or 3, then it might be necessary to contact a professional arborist to assist in pruning or removal of the tree. Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.umass.edu/urbantree/factsheets/35codominantstems_rev1.html#:~:text=The%20term%20%22codominant%20stems%22%20is,any%20single%20one%20becoming%20dominant.

https://www.arborday.org/trees/bulletins/documents/001-summary.pdf

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-563-W.PDF

June 17, 2020

Root Rot…What is it and how do you spot it?

June 17, 2020/ Joshua Browning

When you think of summer in Indiana you think of hot humid air and you probably worry about protecting your trees from drought. What you might not think about is that your trees absorbed too much water in spring and then have to survive in hot and humid summer air. This change in weather pattern is when plants are more prone to root rot.

“Unusually wet weather results in poor root grwth, predisposing plants to problems. The plant failed to develop an extensive root system because water was too easily acquired. During these periods of excessive moisture, roots may even leak, attracting opportunistic fungi and water molds that infect and rot roots. These infections may be completely asymptomatic in the aboveground portion of the plant until spring and summer rains change into summer heat, dry spells or drought. The poorly developed and/or infected roots that grew during the wet periods can no longer support the aboveground plant (stems, branches, leaves) in dry times.”(Purdue University) According to University of Maryland:

Root rots can be caused by various fungi, such as Phytophthora, Armillaria, Ganoderma, Fomes, Inonotus and Laetiporus spp.
Symptoms include poor growth, loss of healthy needle color (needles eventually turn light yellow or brown), dark brown discolored wood at the base of the stem for several inches above the soil line, and loosening and separation of the dead lower bark.
Other symptoms include slowed growth, smaller than normal needles on evergreens, excessive cone or seed set, premature autumn color, and winter twig dieback.
Infected plant material often has extensive dieback.

So what can you do as a homeowner to prevent this from happening to your trees? There are a few things to keep in mind. (University of Maryland)

There are no cures once the tree or shrub is infected and the fungi cannot be eliminated from the surrounding soil once the tree or shrub is removed.
Root rots can be prevented by proper planting and maintenance practices.
Avoid damage from improper pruning, lawn mowers, and excavation within the root zone.
Avoid planting trees and shrubs in poorly drained compacted soils.
Construction of raised beds or grade changes may be needed to ensure proper drainage.
Root diseases on older established plants can result from changes in water drainage patterns.

If you need assistance with identifying and handling root rot, an assessment should be done by a certified arborist. Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/root-rots-trees-and-shrubs

https://forestpathology.org/root-diseases/

https://www.purduelandscapereport.org/article/root-rot/

May 14, 2020

What is an Arborist and What do they do?

May 14, 2020/ Joshua Browning

Have you ever wondered what an arborist does? Or when you might need one? Well if you don’t know, you should, because they are extremely important and helpful when it comes to the health of your trees and landscape. “An arborist is a specially trained professional who deals with the art and science of planting, caring, maintaining, and diagnosing trees, shrubberies, and other woody plant life.” (American Arborists) So what exactly is it that they do? What services do they provide?

Services an arborist can provide include (ISA, Trees Are Good):

Pruning. An arborist can determine the type of pruning necessary to maintain or improve the health, appearance, and safety of trees.
Tree Removal. Although tree removal is a last resort, there are circumstances when it is necessary. An arborist can help decide whether a tree should be removed.
Emergency Tree Care. An arborist can assist in performing emergency tree care in a safe manner, while reducing further risk of damage to property.
Planting. Some arborists plant trees, and most can recommend species that are appropriate for a particular location.
Plant Health Care. Preventive maintenance helps keep trees in good health while reducing any insect, disease, or site problems.
Many other services. Consulting services, tree risk assessment, cabling and bracing trees, etc.

Why is this stuff important? Well, “Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well managed trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability.”(Purdue University)

So if you want to ensure your trees are in good health or need assistance with pruning or removal make sure your arborist is certified. “Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through experience and by passing a comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading experts on tree care.” (ISA, Trees Are Good) “Anyone with a chainsaw can chop up tree branches and limbs and call it pruning. It’s the knowledge and expertise in the proper way of pruning, trimming, and removing trees that really makes a difference.” (American Arborists)

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A and is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.americanarborists.net/tree-tips/2017/march/what-is-an-arborist-anyway-/

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/whyhireanarborist

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-FAQ-13-W.pdf

April 20, 2020

It’s Storm Season…What Does that Mean for Your Trees?

April 20, 2020/ Joshua Browning

It’s April and that means stormier days ahead. Tornadoes, thunderstorms, wind, rain and hail are all possible this time of year, especially for Indiana’s unpredictable weather pattern. “With their girth, large trees may seem indestructible but though they may withstand most things, hurricane-force winds, lightning, and floods brought about by non-stop rain can wreak havoc on the plants.” (American Arborists). With these destructive forces, comes damage to your property, home, and trees. So what do you do to prevent your trees from being damaged?

The good news is, “over time, trees swaying in the wind develop extra strength to withstand directional forces. If conditions are consistent, trees will initiate changes in their development to compensate for these loading patterns.” (Purdue Extension)

You can do a lot to help your trees better withstand these massive storm systems with a little extra care and attention. “The first and the most effective step to storm-proof trees is by keeping them strong and healthy long before a storm arrives and ruin everything in your yard.” (American Arborists) Here are some other key factors that help trees withstand these storms (American Arborists).

Make sure trees are:

Watered
Fertilized
Pruned properly, especially with young trees.
Protect tree’s root system and avoid construction and excavation.
Add mulch

Also, if you are concerned about the strength and tolerance of specific trees on your property, you can contact us, and we can send a professional to your home to assess which trees are sensitive to future storms and damage. We can also assist with deciding which trees need pruning or removal.

Make sure you are prepared this storm season and prevent possible damage to your home, landscape and property with the help of our services. Browning Tree Service is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-FAQ-12-W.pdf

https://www.americanarborists.net/tree-tips/2017/august/protecting-your-trees-from-storm-damage/

March 16, 2020

Are You Ready for Spring?

March 16, 2020/ Joshua Browning

It’s almost time! Spring will be here in a few weeks. Are you ready? There are a few things that you need to get your landscape ready for warmer weather and to maximize growth and beauty. According to Arborist Now, “It’s time to make sure your trees are ready for the changing seasons! No matter where you live or what kind of trees you have, there are some basics to cover in your landscaping at the beginning of the spring season.”

They first recommend pruning your trees. “Proper pruning techniques allow you to remove any unsafe branches that may be a hazard from winter weather damage. It also gives you a chance to assess the trees and ensure that it is in good shape and will continue to thrive on your landscaping.” So how can you prune your trees if you don’t have the proper tools? “Before you prune any plants, make sure you have the proper tools. Your tools should be the highest quality you can afford, and they should be sharp.” (Purdue Extension)

Once you have the proper tools, you can start pruning right? But how? There are three common techniques to pruning according to Purdue University:

Pinching
Removal (thinning) cuts
Reduction cuts (heading back)

For more information on these techniques and how to prune your landscape, check out the resources below. However, “while these are tasks you can most likely handle for your trees, you may not have the time, energy, or resources to take care of all of these spring tree care tasks.” (Purdue University) If your pruning needs are more than you can tackle, hire a professional!

Browning Tree Service is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.arboristnow.com/news/the-top-4-spring-tree-care-tips

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/HO/HO-4-W.pdf