| Pruning of Fruit and Ornamental Trees, Hedges and Perennials |
Most plants benefit from regular pruning to maintain vigor, stimulate flowering and to maintain their size for the area they are planted in. Having worked in wholesale nursery production, I have grown most ornamental plants from seed or cutting and know where to make my cuts to keep the plant true to its natural form. To prevent damage to your trees while climbing, I use ropes instead of spurs. Pruning Definitions |
| Removal |
Because of the value trees give to your property value and to the environment I prefer to preserve them when possible. However, when a plant or tree has become a problem or is diseased or dying removal is necessary. |
| Health & Hazard Evaluation |
Many of my clients worry about their large trees falling and causing harm. As a certified arborist I am qualified to assess the health and site conditions and give you information that will allow you to decide if action needs to be taken with your trees. See gallery for common tree defects and problems to watch out for. |
| Cabling and Bracing |
The installation of static or dynamic cables in a tree reinforces the natural structure of the tree. It is used to correct for faults or defects in a damaged tree or to prevent failure in a large mature tree that has special value to the owner. Cabling is effective to reduce risk and to preserve trees and requires proper placement and maintenance. |
| Tree Selection and Planting |
Much of the work I do is the result of a tree being planted where it should not have been. The tree may be planted where it receives too much water and becomes sick, it may grow very quickly and threaten power lines or structures or it may have invasive roots that disrupt a lawn or paved surface. |
| On-site Consulting |
Many situations can call for the help of a consultant. Construction projects can harm trees by decreasing root are, cutting roots or changing the surface grade. Having a plan to protect the tree during construction can prevent the tree from becoming a hazard in the future. Neighbors often disagree about what should be done with trees crossing the property line. A consultation can often help both parties understand the options avaiable that consider the welfare of the tree and the wishes of those involved. Finally, many of my clients worry about their trees falling down and causing harm. A consultation will identify the tree and its growth characteristics including whether or not is is likely to fall. |
| Fertilization and Soil Health |
In general trees do not benefit from fertilization after they have become established. Excessive fertilization actually decreases the trees natural resistance to insects and disease. In many situations, trees are growing under suboptimal conditions such as in lawn areas, parking areas or slopes where erosion is occurring. Ideally, trees have a thick layer of wood chips or mulch surrounding them that extends to the dripline. This ensures the soil is not compacted, increases organic matter in the soil and helps the retain water in the summer. |
| Wildlife Habitat Construction |
Songbird, bat and owl house placement in trees, snag creation, nest platform construction. |
| Disease/Insect Diagnosis and Management |
Why are there dead branches on that side of the tree? Are those mushrooms supposed to be there? What is that powder piling up at the base of my tree? Why didn't I get any fruit last year? Is my tree dead? Why is my tree dropping its leaves? Why are my rhododendrons not flowering? What is that black "stuff" all over the leaves? Are lichens killing my tree? |
| Irrigation Management |
How long and how often you water your trees, plants and lawn has the biggest impact on the health of your landscape. It also has a big effect on your water bills. I can help you create a water schedule that matches the needs of different microclimates in your landscape and save you money. |
