Showing posts with label Tree Services in South Jersey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tree Services in South Jersey. Show all posts

Sunday, February 21, 2010

What is "Topping" and Why it Hurts Trees

What is Topping?Why Topping Hurts Trees
Topping is the indiscriminate cutting of tree branches to stubs or lateral branches that are not large enough to assume the terminal role. Other names for topping include “heading,” “tipping,” “hat-racking,” and “rounding over.” The most common reason given for topping is to reduce the size of a tree. Home owners often feel that their trees have become too large for their property. People fear that tall trees may pose a hazard. Topping, however, is not a viable method of height reduction and certainly does not reduce the hazard. In fact, topping will make a tree more hazardous in the long term.


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. This brochure explains why topping is not an acceptable pruning technique and offers better alternatives.

Topping Stresses Trees
Topping often removes 50 to 100 percent of the leaf-bearing crown of a tree. Because leaves are the food factories of a tree, removing them can temporarily starve a tree. The severity of the pruning triggers a sort of survival mechanism. The tree activates latent buds, forcing the rapid growth of multiple shoots below each cut. The tree needs to put out a new crop of leaves as soon as possible. If a tree does not have the stored energy reserves to do so, it will be seriously weakened and may die. A stressed tree is more vulnerable to insect and disease infestations. Large, open pruning wounds expose the sapwood and heartwood to attacks. The tree may lack sufficient energy to chemically defend the wounds against invasion, and some insects are actually attracted to the chemical signals trees release.

Topping Causes Decay
The preferred location to make a pruning cut is just beyond the branch collar at the branch’s point of attachment. The tree is biologically equipped to close such a wound, provided the tree is healthy enough and the wound is not too large. Cuts made along a limb between lateral branches create stubs with wounds that the tree may not be able to close. The exposed wood tissues begin to decay. Normally, a tree will “wall off,” or compartmentalize, the decaying tissues, but few trees can defend the multiple severe wounds caused by topping. The decay organisms are given a free path to move down through the branches.

Topping Can Lead to Sunburn
Branches within a tree’s crown produce thousands of leaves to absorb sunlight. When the leaves are removed, the remaining branches and trunk are suddenly exposed to high levels of light and heat. The result may be sunburn of the tissues beneath the bark, which can lead to cankers, bark splitting, and death of some branches.

Topping Creates Hazards
The survival mechanism that causes a tree to produce multiple shoots below each topping cut comes at great expense to the tree. These shoots develop from buds near the surface of the old branches. Unlike normal branches that develop in a socket of overlapping wood tissues, these new shoots are anchored only in the outermost layers of the parent branches. The new shoots grow quickly, as much as 20 feet in one year, in some species. Unfortunately, the shoots are prone to breaking, especially during windy conditions. The irony is that while the goal was to reduce the tree’s height to make it safer, it has been made more hazardous than before.
Topping Makes Trees Ugly
The natural branching structure of a tree is a biological wonder. Trees form a variety of shapes and growth habits, all with the same goal of presenting their leaves to the sun. Topping removes the ends of the branches, often leaving ugly stubs. Topping destroys the natural form of a tree. Without leaves (up to 6 months of the year in temperate climates), a topped tree appears disfigured and mutilated. With leaves, it is a dense ball of foliage, lacking its simple grace. A tree that has been topped can never fully regain its natural form.


Topping Is Expensive
The cost of topping a tree is not limited to what the perpetrator is paid. If the tree survives, it will require pruning again within a few years. It will either need to be reduced again or storm damage will have to be cleaned up. If the tree dies, it will have to be removed. Topping is a high-maintenance pruning practice, with some hidden costs. One is the reduction in property value. Healthy, well-maintained trees can add 10 to 20 percent to the value of a property. Disfigured, topped trees are considered an impending expense. Another possible cost of topped trees is potential liability. Topped trees are prone to breaking and can be hazardous. Because topping is considered an unacceptable pruning practice, any damage caused by branch failure of a topped tree may lead to a finding of negligence in a court of law.

Alternatives to Topping
Sometimes a tree must be reduced in height or spread. Providing clearance for utility lines is an example. There are recommended techniques for doing so. If practical, branches should be removed back to their point of origin. If a branch must be shortened, it should be cut back to a lateral that is large enough to assume the terminal role. A rule of thumb is to cut back to a lateral that is at least one-third the diameter of the limb being removed. This method of branch reduction helps to preserve the natural form of the tree. However, if large cuts are involved, the tree may not be able to close over and compartmentalize the wounds. Sometimes the best solution is to remove the tree and replace it with a species that is more appropriate for the site.

Hiring a Tree Care Professional
Pruning large trees can be dangerous. If pruning involves working above the ground or using power equipment, it is best to hire a Tree Care professional. A Tree Care Professional can determine the type of pruning that is necessary to improve the health, appearance, and safety of your trees. A professional arborist can provide the services of a trained crew, with all of the required safety equipment and liability insurance.

About E-Z Tree Care
At E-Z Tree Care our goal is to treat every client like our ONLY customer by providing High quality, Professional, Reliable Tree Services at a fair price!!! We service homeowners, as well as commercial, institutional, government and historic properties in Camden, Gloucester, and Nothern Salem Counties. Our Highly Skilled and experienced Tree Care professionals are ready to help you maintain a healthy, safe and beautiful outdoor living environment.

Our Company is BIG enough to handle the largest job and small enough to provide you with the service and attention that you deserve.

Our Tree Care Professional will inspect your landscape, diagnose any problems, make recommendations based upon years of experience on properties in your neighborhood and provide a tree service estimate at no charge. You are always welcome to walk along if you have questions or would like to have the condition of your trees and shrubs pointed out. E-Z Tree Care provides the following tree services:


•Tree pruning and trimming
•Tree removal and takedowns
•Deep Root Fertilization
•Insect and mite treatment
•Disease diagnosis and treatment
•Emergency tree service
•Storm Damage Risk Analysis
•Woodlot management
•Lot and Land Clearing
•Stump and Root Grinding and removal

Call today at (856) 879-2029 for a complimentary tree pruning consultation from E-Z Tree Care's fully trained professionals. Click here to contact the office nearest you.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Proper Mulching Techniques

At E-Z Tree Care, we are not only dedicated to providing Professional Tree Care Services to Home and Business owners throughout Camden, Gloucester and Northern Salem Counties in NJ, but we also commited to educating consmers on Proper Tree Care. That is why we have decided to Create this BLOG. Below is an article found on the ISA website treesaregood.com regarding Recognizing Tree Hazards. You can view the actual article at http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/hazards.aspx

Proper Mulching Techniques
Mulches are materials placed over the soil surface to maintain moisture and improve soil conditions. Mulching is one of the most beneficial things a home owner can do for the health of a tree. Mulch can reduce water loss from the soil, minimize weed competition, and improve soil structure. Properly applied, mulch can give landscapes a handsome, well-groomed appearance. Mulch must be applied properly; if it is too deep or if the wrong material is used, it can actually cause significant harm to trees and other landscape plants.

Benefits of Proper Mulching
•Helps maintain soil moisture. Evaporation is reduced, and the need for watering can be minimized.
•Helps control weeds. A 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch will reduce the germination and growth of weeds.
•Mulch serves as nature’s insulating blanket. Mulch keeps soils warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
•Many types of mulch can improve soil aeration, structure (aggregation of soil particles), and drainage over time.
•Some mulches can improve soil fertility.
•A layer of mulch can inhibit certain plant diseases.
•Mulching around trees helps facilitate maintenance and can reduce the likelihood of damage from “weed whackers” or the dreaded “lawn mower blight.”
•Mulch can give planting beds a uniform, well-cared-for look.

Trees growing in a natural forest environment have their roots anchored in a rich, well-aerated soil full of essential nutrients. The soil is blanketed by leaves and organic materials that replenish nutrients and provide an optimal environment for root growth and mineral uptake. Urban landscapes, however, are typically a much harsher environment with poor soils, little organic matter, and large fluctuations in temperature and moisture. Applying a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch can mimic a more natural environment and improve plant health. The root system of a tree is not a mirror image of the top. The roots of most trees can extend out a significant distance from the tree trunk. Although the guideline for many maintenance practices is the drip line—the outermost extension of the canopy—the roots can grow many times that distance. In addition, most of the fine, absorbing roots are located within inches of the soil surface. These roots, which are essential for taking up water and minerals, require oxygen to survive. A thin layer of mulch, applied as broadly as practical, can improve the soil structure, oxygen levels, temperature, and moisture availability where these roots grow.

Types of Mulch
Mulches are available commercially in many forms. The two major types of mulch are inorganic and organic. Inorganic mulches include various types of stone, lava rock, pulverized rubber, geotextile fabrics, and other materials. Inorganic mulches do not decompose and do not need to be replenished often. On the other hand, they do not improve soil structure, add organic materials, or provide nutrients. For these reasons, most horticulturists and arborists prefer organic mulches. Organic mulches include wood chips, pine needles, hardwood and softwood bark, cocoa hulls, leaves, compost mixes, and a variety of other products usually derived from plants. Organic mulches decompose in the landscape at different rates depending on the material and climate. Those that decompose faster must be replenished more often. Because the decomposition process improves soil quality and fertility, many arborists and other landscape professionals consider that characteristic a positive one, despite the added maintenance.

Not Too Much!
As beneficial as mulch is, too much can be harmful. The generally recommended mulching depth is 2 to 4 inches. Unfortunately, many landscapes are falling victim to a plague of overmulching. A new term, “mulch volcanoes,” has emerged to describe mulch that has been piled up around the base of trees. Most organic mulches must be replenished, but the rate of decomposition varies. Some mulches, such as cypress mulch, remain intact for many years. Top dressing with new mulch annually (often for the sake of refreshing the color) creates a buildup to depths that can be unhealthy. Deep mulch can be effective in suppressing weeds and reducing maintenance, but it often causes additional problems.

Problems Associated with Improper Mulching

•Deep mulch can lead to excess moisture in the root zone, which can stress the plant and cause root rot.
•Piling mulch against the trunk or stems of plants can stress stem tissues and may lead to insect and disease problems.
•Some mulches, especially those containing cut grass, can affect soil pH. Continued use of certain mulches over long periods can lead to micronutrient deficiencies or toxicities.
•Mulch piled high against the trunks of young trees may create habitats for rodents that chew the bark and can girdle the trees.
•Thick blankets of fine mulch can become matted and may prevent the penetration of water and air. In addition, a thick layer of fine mulch can become like potting soil and may support weed growth.
•Anaerobic “sour” mulch may give off pungent odors, and the alcohols and organic acids that build up may be toxic to young plants.

Proper Mulching
It is clear that the choice of mulch and the method of application can be important to the health of landscape plants. The following are some guidelines to use when applying mulch.

•Inspect plants and soil in the area to be mulched. Determine whether drainage is adequate. Determine whether there are plants that may be affected by the choice of mulch. Most commonly available mulches work well in most landscapes. Some plants may benefit from the use of a slightly acidifying mulch such as pine bark.

•If mulch is already present, check the depth. Do not add mulch if there is a sufficient layer in place. Rake the old mulch to break up any matted layers and to refresh the appearance. Some landscape maintenance companies spray mulch with a water-soluble, vegetable-based dye to improve the appearance.

•If mulch is piled against the stems or tree trunks, pull it back several inches so that the base of the trunk and the root crown are exposed.

•Organic mulches usually are preferred to inorganic materials due to their soil-enhancing properties. If organic mulch is used, it should be well aerated and, preferably, composted. Avoid sour-smelling mulch.

•Composted wood chips can make good mulch, especially when they contain a blend of leaves, bark, and wood. Fresh wood chips also may be used around established trees and shrubs. Avoid using noncomposted wood chips that have been piled deeply without exposure to oxygen.

•For well-drained sites, apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch. If there are drainage problems, a thinner layer should be used. Avoid placing mulch against the tree trunks. Place mulch out to the tree’s drip line or beyond.

Remember: If the tree had a say in the matter, its entire root system (which usually extends well beyond the drip line) would be mulched.

About E-Z Tree Care
At E-Z Tree Care our goal is to treat every client like our ONLY customer by providing High quality, Professional, Reliable Tree Services at a fair price!!! We service homeowners, as well as commercial, institutional, government and historic properties in Camden, Gloucester, and Nothern Salem Counties. Our Highly Skilled and experienced Tree Care professionals are ready to help you maintain a healthy, safe and beautiful outdoor living environment. Our Tree Services include Tree Pruning, Tree Trimming, Restorative Tree Care, Tree Removal, Deep Root Feeding, Disease Diagnosis, Insect and Mite Treatment, Stump Removal, Land and Lot Clearing, 24 Hour Emergency Tree Removal, Lightning Protection Systems, and more. Call us today at 856-879-2029 or to schedule a Complimentary Tree Removal Consultation and Estimate. At E-Z Tree Care, your estimate is free and the work will be fully insured and owner Supervised.

"Our Company is BIG enough to handle the largest job and small enough to provide you with the service and attention that you deserve."

Visit us online at http://www.e-ztreecare.com/

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Tree Removal Tips

The time has come to remove the tree that has shaded family get togethers,supported the children’s swing, and provided privacy to the upstairs rooms. Fond memories often make tree removal a difficult decision, even if the tree has outgrown the area, is declining, or has become hazardous. A knowledgeable Tree Care Professional can help to determine whether or not your tree really does need to be removed, and what removal options are available.
Homeowners have numerous questions. For example:
  • “Can the tree be removed without destroying my yard and landscape?”
  • “Will the tree be felled in one piece?”
  • "What happens to all of the wood?”
  • “What can be done about the stump?”
  • “Can grass be grown or can a new tree be installed to replace the removal?” 
I'd like to take a few minutes to address the most common questions.

Q: Can the tree be removed without destroying my yard and landscape?
A: YES, although tree removal in most urban and suburban landscapes presents a challenge, an experineced Tree Service company with properly trained crews, will take the necessary precaustions to prevent damage to your property. Trees in neighborhoods like yours are often surrounded by other valuable plantings or structures like Fences, Out buildings, Pools and Homes. Tree removals often require careful dismantling by highly trained personnel utilizing state-of-the-art machinery to ensure safety and the protection of your home. The use of specialized equipment during tree removals is determined by the conditions on your landscape, branch architecture, and the soundness of your tree. A standard tree removal includes taking down a tree, chipping all brush, removing all wood, and cutting the stumps as flush as possible to the ground.

Q: Will the tree be felled in one piece?
A: Not necessarily; Basically, trees can be removed in three ways:  Felled in one piece, Removed piece by piece by a tree climber or aerial lift operator, or Removed using a truck mounted crane.The tree removal method that you select should be the one that is the safest, most efficient, and has the least negative impact on your property. Small and medium sized trees can sometimes be felled in one piece, but often require removal by a tree climber or an aerial lift operator using lowering lines to minimize landscape damage. Large and Dangerous trees are best removed by a crane to protect your property. Large sections of the tree can then be safely and efficiently lowered to the ground and disposed of by the ground crew.

Q: What happens to all the firewood?
A: Generally speaking removal of ALL wood and debris is included in the cost of the Removal and many Tree Service Companies operate Firewood businesses as well. However, if you, a family member or friend have use for the Firewood it can be arranged to have the wood cut to firewood length and stacked on the job site.

Q: What can be done about the stump?
A: Next, a decision needs to be made regarding the stump. If left, it will usually be unsightly and take years to rot and decay. There are two convention methods for the Removal of Stumps and Roots, Stump Grinding and Stump Removal. The BEST method to have your stump removed depnds on what you plan on doing with the area after the tree is gone. Stumps removed wth a stump ginder allow you to turn the area into lawn or to plant a new tree. Regardless of whether grass or a tree is to be planted, it is crucial that the entire stump be ground out and the stump grindings hauled away. Any planting must be done in quality topsoil.

Q: Can grass be grown or can a new tree be installed to replace the removal?
A: YES, although the type of tree and method of removal will effect how quickly you can plant and expect the best results.

Tree Removal Alternatives


Tree removal can be avoided in some cases, particularly when a safe and reasonable alternative is available that will allow you to keep your beloved tree. Proactive tree service and maintenance is the best way to ensure the longevity of your trees and shrubs. Cabling and bracing create artificial support to structurally weak or injured trees and branches. These supports help to prevent injuries to your trees, such as crotch and branch failure, and help to provide protection against storm damage. This practice may extend the life and well-being of feature trees.

Call today for a complimentary consultation from our fully trained professionals for tree removal service from E-Z Tree Care. Contact E-Z Tree Care.


About E-Z Tree Care
At E-Z Tree Care our goal is to treat every client like our ONLY customer by providing High quality, Professional, Reliable Tree Services at a fair price!!! We service homeowners, as well as commercial, institutional, government and historic properties in Camden, Gloucester, and Nothern Salem Counties. Our Highly Skilled and experienced Tree Care professionals are ready to help you maintain a healthy, safe and beautiful outdoor living environment. Our Tree Services include Tree Pruning, Tree Trimming, Restorative Tree Care, Tree Removal, Deep Root Feeding, Disease Diagnosis, Insect and Mite Treatment, Stump Removal, Land and Lot Clearing, 24 Hour Emergency Tree Removal, Lightning Protection Systems, and more. Call us today at 856-879-2029 or to schedule a Complimentary Tree Removal Consultation and Estimate. At E-Z Tree Care, your estimate is free and the work will be fully insured and owner Supervised.


Our Company is BIG enough to handle the largest job and small enough to provide you with the service and attention that you deserve.

Visit us online at http://www.e-ztreecare.com/