Mulch: Add Another Layer to Protect Your Trees’ Roots

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If you’re a Dallas homeowner, we always recommend planting native trees in your yard. Species that are native to North Texas have evolved to survive our climate, from extreme summer heat to below-freezing days and nights in the winter.

That said, most Dallas homeowners will need to take preventative measures to keep their trees in good health. Whether you have non-native species or your native species are struggling as the climate changes, mulch can make a big difference.

Why use mulch for trees and not just your garden beds? As your local tree experts, we’re here to tell you.

Read on to learn all about the benefits of adding layers of mulch to the earth below your trees.

Protecting Tree Roots from Temperature Fluctuations

Properly applied mulch can play a huge role in the temperature regulation of your yard. It acts as a barrier between extreme temperatures above and the root systems below, diffusing heat that could otherwise scorch or dry out your tree’s roots and protecting tree roots from winter frost. This temperature control can keep your tree happy and growing, rather than transitioning into temperature-fueled survival mode.

Maintaining Consistent Moisture Levels

Temperature fluctuations can also have a big impact on the moisture that is available for your tree’s roots. Mulch can help to retain moisture in dry spells and high heat and prevent moisture from freezing in the cold. Mulch can also help to absorb heavy rainfall so that the roots don’t drown or rot due to overwatering.

Improving Your Soil Health and Biome

Nutrient-rich soil can better support your tree’s root systems, especially when that tree is young and needs more resources to sustain its steady growth. Organic mulches such as wood chips, straw, and bark will decompose over time, and studies have found that these organic mulches reintroduce nutrients into soil that has become depleted over time. Mulch can also act as a natural pest control, preventing weed growth, while also improving the soil biome.

Making Your Yard More Attractive

Mulch can give your yard a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing look, which is always a plus. It can also create a barrier around your trees when you mow or string-trim your yard, which can prevent the trunk from sustaining unsightly damage that can harm your trees. While you may enjoy the look of inorganic mulch such as rocks or rubber pellets, we encourage you to use organic mulch that will provide substantial benefits in addition to a uniform appearance.

Reusing Sustainable Resources

Chances are, you have your trees cut back every year to encourage healthy growth and protect your property, and you may even have trees cut down. Did you know that you can use the wood from trimmed or removed trees to create your own organic wood chip mulch? This can provide a cheap and sustainable source for your mulching needs.

Proper Mulching Habits

We’re not just here to tell you why mulch is great for your trees. We’re also here to provide a few tips and tricks that will help you to get the most out of the many uses for mulch. Let’s take a quick look at some proper mulching habits.

Mulch in the Spring

While adding a fresh layer of mulch to your tree and garden beds is a good idea all year round, it’s best to mulch in the spring. In the spring, the ground is beginning to warm up, which stimulates growth and helps your trees to revive after a long winter. By mulching in the spring, you allow that warmth to settle in and then protect your soil temperatures from the high heat that’s just around the corner.

Don’t Make Mulch from Diseased or Infested Trees

As we mentioned earlier, you can use your own tree refuse to make organic mulch. However, you don’t want to mulch any branches or trunks that were removed (or fell) due to disease or infestation. Using diseased or infested mulch can cause your healthy trees to become diseased or infested, themselves.

Don’t Layer Mulch Too High

When you’re laying mulch down around your trees, you want to create an even layer that isn’t too thick. When mulch is piled high, it can create the ideal burrowing space for rodents and other pests that you probably don’t want in your yard. Plus, it can slow the natural decomposition of the mulch, which means a slower release of nutrients, and it can smother the oxygen in your soil, which is a crucial part of healthy root growth.

Replenish Mulch as It Decomposes

We don’t think of mulching as a one-and-done process. Instead, you should expect to replenish mulch as it decomposes, which can take several years depending on the type and density of your mulch. Most of the time, we recommend adding a fresh layer of mulch to your tree and garden beds each year, allowing last year’s mulch to continue to break down into the soil.

Don’t Overlook the Importance of Mulch for Trees

If you’re looking for a way to protect your trees and encourage healthy roots all year round, it’s time to consider organic mulch. As you can see, there are tons of benefits of mulch for trees, from increased temperature and moisture control to enhanced soil nutrients and biomes.

Keeping your trees healthy isn’t always an easy thing to do, which is why we recommend working with a tree service in Dallas. From storm damage to overgrowth to disease, a lot can threaten the health of your trees and the safety of your property. Contact GreenPine Tree Service for all of your tree removal and tree trimming in Dallas.

Storm Damage Prevention: Trim Your Trees This Winter to Remove Limbs

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From devastating winter storms to hurricanes passing through in the summer, Dallas is no stranger to extreme storms. With this in mind, tree trimming is something that needs to take place every year. Regular tree trimming is an essential part of storm damage prevention.

In fact, if you don’t trim your trees often, they could become a serious hazard during a storm. GreenPine Tree Service offers expert tree trimming in Dallas and the surrounding area. We can help keep your trees healthy and safe. Here’s why you should count this as part of your winter storm preparation steps.

What Is Tree Trimming?

Tree trimming is the process of removing dead, diseased, or damaged limbs to improve the health and appearance of a tree. Tree trimming also helps reduce the risk of winter storm damage by reducing wind resistance and making it easier for the tree to bend in high winds.

Why Is Tree Trimming in Dallas Important?

When it comes to preventing winter storm damage, regular tree trimming is an effective form of protection. It reduces wind resistance, which helps the trees bend rather than snap during a storm. Dead or weak limbs are very vulnerable in high winds, so removing them can help protect your home from extensive damage.

Regular tree trimming can also help keep your trees healthy by increasing airflow and improving light penetration through the canopy. This will help keep your trees healthy and better able to withstand extreme weather conditions.

When Should You Trim Your Trees?

The best time for tree trimming is during late winter through early spring when the trees are dormant. During this period, the risk of disease or stress to the tree is minimal, making it an ideal time for trimming.

If you’re in a storm-prone area, such as Dallas, you may want to consider trimming earlier in the winter season December or January just to be safe.

How To Care For Your Trees

Knowing how to care for your trees is essential if you want them to stay healthy and safe. Here are a few tips:

Use The Right Tools

Using the wrong tools, such as a chainsaw or pruning saw, can damage trees and increase the risk of disease. For smaller branches, a hand-held pruner is often sufficient.

Don’t Over-trim

When you’re trimming tree limbs, it’s important not to remove more than 25% of the tree’s living branches. This could cause irreversible damage, such as dieback and the tree becoming less stable.

Clean Up Debris

After trimming dead and hazardous limbs, it’s important to clean up any debris from the ground or remaining in the tree canopy. This will help reduce pest problems and keep your trees healthy.

Benefits Of Winter Tree Trimming In Dallas

Regular tree trimming in the winter offers a number of benefits. When you remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, it reduces the risk of them falling during a storm and causing damage to your home. Pruning your trees often will keep them looking neat and tidy while also helping to maintain their natural shape.

Removing dead and diseased branches helps keep diseases from spreading to the rest of the tree. Protecting your trees from a disease will ensure they stay healthy and strong.

Winter Storm Damage Prevention

Before winter is the perfect time to give your trees a little TLC. By trimming dead and hazardous limbs, you can help keep your trees healthy and prevent damage from ice and snowstorms.

Trimming also helps to improve the tree’s shape and appearance. And, of course, it’s always a good idea to remove any limbs that could fall on your home or power lines.

Mulch

While mulch is most often associated with protecting plant roots and preventing weeds, it can also play an important role in regulating soil temperature and moisture levels.

By adding an extra layer of mulch under your trees, you can help to insulate the roots from extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. This can be very beneficial in areas with large temperature swings, like those found in many parts of the country.

In addition to protecting roots from temperature extremes, mulch can also help to maintain a healthy soil moisture level. This is because mulch helps to slow evaporation, meaning that the soil will retain more moisture for longer periods of time. As a result, mulch can improve both the health of the soil and the growth of tree roots.

Structural Trimming

Winter may be cold and dreary, but it’s the perfect time to prune your trees! That’s because corrections to a tree’s structure and form are best done while the tree is dormant.

By trimming out crossing, overreaching, and low-hanging limbs, you’ll promote healthy growth. If there are any co-dominant limbs, they should be reduced or removed at this time.

Tree Removal

If a tree appears to be beyond saving, then it is necessary to remove it. Tree removal can be a dangerous and complex process, so it’s best left to the professionals.

Professional arborists are trained in how to remove trees in a safe and efficient way, as well as how to dispose of them once they’ve been cut down. Tree removal is sometimes pricey, but by removing dead and hazardous trees before a storm, you may save yourself thousands of dollars in damage

Tree Trimming Process

The tree trimming process often involves removing any dead, diseased, or hazardous limbs. It’s also important to remove any crossing or overreaching branches that may be rubbing against each other.

When pruning your trees, it’s important to remember the “three-cut method”. This means making three cuts in order to remove a branch.

The first cut is made on the underside of the limb, about one-third of the way through. The second cut should be made from the top and meet the bottom cut just outside the branch collar.

The third cut should be made at a downward angle in order to remove any remaining stubs. This will help ensure that your trees heal up in the best way.

Once you’re done trimming, it’s a good idea to apply a layer of mulch around the base of your tree. Mulching helps regulate soil temperature and moisture levels, promoting healthy growth and protecting your tree from disease.

Hire GreenPine Tree Service This Winter

It’s important to remember that tree trimming isn’t just about aesthetics it’s also a vital part of storm damage prevention. Regular tree trimming helps reduce wind resistance, keeping your trees from bending or breaking in high winds. It also reduces pest problems and keeps your trees healthy overall.

If you’re looking for professional tree trimming services in Dallas, contact GreenPine Tree Service. We’ll make sure your trees are trimmed in a safe and efficient way so you can enjoy them for years to come.

Winter Tree Care: 4 Essential Tips

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The 2021 winter storm in Texas left many residents in the dark for days at a time. In February of this year, another harsh cold snap hit and caused 50,000 people to experience power outages.

If another cold storm hits this winter, it’s important to be prepared. This includes knowing about tree care tips.

Keep reading to learn more about winter tree care and how an arborist service can help.

1. Pruning Time

During the winter, trees go into dormancy which is an ideal time for pruning. Pruning trees while they are young can help them establish a good structure and prevent future damage.

To prune young trees, you’ll need to follow these steps:

  • Remove dying, dead, diseased, and damaged branches
  • Select the lowest permanent branch (LPB) based on the tree
  • Select and establish scaffold branches
  • Select temporary branches below the LPB for removal

If you’ve never pruned your trees before and don’t have the tools, a professional arborist can take care of it for you. It’s much easier to hire an expert when you need to prune mature trees as well.

2. Protect Trees From Freeze

Any trees that are vulnerable to cold weather should be protected when winter hits. Focus on winter tree care before temperatures drop to freezing.

Young trees and certain tree species, like tropical trees, cannot survive freezing temperatures.

To protect your trees from a freeze, you can follow these tips:

  • Bring potted plants and trees to protected areas
  • Cover susceptible trees and plants
  • Keep soil moist to absorb more solar radiation

You can cover trees with anything from tarps to burlap. Make sure the material you choose extends to the ground so the tree can benefit from the accumulated warmth from the earth.

3. Utilize Mulch

Cover the soil around trees with three to five inches of mulch to help trees retain moisture and warmth. Create a circle around the tree for the best results.

Trees do better when you use organic matter like wood chips. Keep in mind that mulch should not be the shape of a volcano. This can cause too much moisture around the tree which can lead to decay.

4. Continue to Water

Another great preventative winter tree care tip is to continue to water your trees during the winter when there is no rain.

For young trees, you should be watering every week or two. Use about 10-15 gallons of water each time. It’s important to water these newer plants during the winter to help them recover from transplant stress.

Mature trees only need water about once a month or every other month. You’ll want to use 10-15 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter.

When you water trees, water them slowly to ensure moisture has time to soak into the ground.

Winter Tree Care Tips to Follow

Homeowners that neglect their trees in the winter won’t have a pleasant-looking yard in the spring and summertime.

Whether you have young trees or mature trees, follow these winter tree care tips to keep your trunks healthy and thriving.

If you don’t want to risk damaging trees further, or if you don’t have the proper tools to care for your trees, hire the pros! Contact us today to learn about our winter tree services.

7 Questions to Ask Your Tree Removal Company

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Did you know that tree removal can prevent property damage? A diseased or damaged tree is just as heavy as a healthy tree, other than being structurally unsound. A falling tree can cause severe damage to your house, car, or property.

Contacting a tree removal company can prevent this from happening, saving you plenty of money in the long run. However, you need to be sure you choose the correct tree removal services.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list for you! By asking the questions below, you can be certain that you’ve chosen the perfect company.

Questions to Ask Your Tree Removal Company

If you’ve never hired a tree removal company, you may have so many questions that you don’t know where to start. These questions will give you a starting point.

Once you’ve gone over this list, you can add your own personal questions. Between this list and your own questions, you’ll have a personal checklist to make sure you know which tree removal company to go to.

1. Is There a Certified Arborist on Staff?

There are many reasons why you should make sure you work with a certified arborist.

The biggest reason you should work with a certified arborist is that certified arborists know trees. If you’re unsure whether your tree should be removed or simply pruned, you can consult with an arborist. If you need to clear away extra debris, they know how to do it.

In addition, the advice you can get from a certified arborist is invaluable. They can make suggestions on how to take care of your trees in the future or which ones will eventually need removal. They can also come up with the best plan to remove trees from your property.

2. How Long Will Tree Removal Take?

Timing is crucial when it comes to removing trees. Sometimes you need your trees removed urgently and don’t have time to wait. Knowing how long it will take also helps you form a plan.

Most tree removal services can have your tree removed in about a day. For complicated removals or land clearings, it will likely take multiple days.

This is assuming that everything will go according to plan. You never know when a large storm could hit and throw everything off track.

Regardless of how smoothly the plan goes, knowing how long it should take helps you work out other details.

3. Can You Give a Cost Estimate, Fees Included?

Being able to get an estimate for professional tree removal from a specific company will help you to choose the best one for your needs. Ideally, any cost estimates you receive will be given as a free quote.

A proper estimation of costs will include any fees that the company may charge. If a company cannot provide a cost estimate to you, they are likely not the right fit for you.

Knowing how much a company will charge gives you the opportunity to check if they fit your budget.

4. Can You Provide References?

Getting a list of past clients will provide you with the opportunity to fully vet the company and see if they are as trustworthy as they claim. If you are provided with references, make sure you contact each client.

Ask them what the tree removal company did and if they are satisfied with the result. Would they recommend the company to you? If so, why?

These are important questions to ask. Getting references from previous clients are more reliable than looking at online reviews. This is likely the best chance you’ll have to get the answers you need.

5. Do You Provide Debris Cleanup?

The process of tree removal often leaves a lot of debris in the yard, such as tree branches. Ideally, you should be left with a completely clean yard after the tree removal has been completed. Ask if they will remove the debris or if that’s something you need to do yourself and plan accordingly.

If they do remove debris, sometimes they will turn the debris into mulch or cut the branches into wood and stack them. This is usually for an extra fee, but if you need the materials, then it is absolutely worth it.

6. How Will You Protect My Property?

Protecting your property is a high priority. After all, preventing property damage may be the reason why you’re removing trees in the first place. Find out what precautions the company has to prevent damage to your property.

Property protection can fall in a few different categories. It could be preventing damage to your home or landscaping through falling branches. It could be ruts in your yard from vehicles used during the process of tree removal.

Accidents happen, but having a plan in place will help cut down on them. If property damage does occur, then the insurance company will likely cover the costs.

7. How Will You Do the Job?

When looking for a company to remove your trees, ask each company how they would do the removal. Asking about a company’s approach gives you a perfect view into if they’re a good fit for your needs.

Asking this question also helps weed out companies that don’t know what they are doing. Check for companies who have a drastically different answer from the others – it could be a red flag.

Get a Personalized Quote

Now that you know what questions to ask your tree removal company, you’re ready to find the perfect company to match your needs. There’s just one thing – you’ve already found it!

You can send your questions to us or any special requests through filling out the contact form. You can even get a personalized quote by filling out the contact form or using the other ways to contact us.

Reach out to us today to start the process of receiving tree removal services – you won’t regret it!

3 Tips for Pruning Pine Trees

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Did you know that the best time of year to prune trees is in the winter?

One of the great things about pine trees is that they stay green all year round. They also require much less maintenance than other kinds of trees.

This is why people mistakingly think that it is not necessary to prune them. But if you want to make sure your pine trees stay healthy and continue looking great, it is important to know the proper steps for pruning pine trees.

We’ve written a guide to help you understand the basics of pine tree pruning. Keep reading if you want to find out more.

1. Wash Your Tools Before Using Them

It is possible to spread diseases with your pruning tools if you don’t take the time to clean them before using them. This is why you’ll first need to disinfect your sheers and lopers with rubbing alcohol before you start to use them.

To do this, you will need to find a rag and cover one of its edges in rubbing alcohol before rubbing it across the cutting services of your pruning tools.

This will eliminate the majority of communicable diseases that often spread between plants.

Keep in mind that there is no cleaning method that will kill all diseases. There is always a small chance that you might spread diseases between plants.

You should make sure to wear thick gloves when you are pruning your pine tree in order to prevent yourself from getting cut.

2. Prune Branches That Are Close to the Trunk

When you are pruning a branch, make sure that you leave around half of an inch sticking from the tree trunk. And remember to leave the collar, which is the area where the branch connects to the pine tree.

It is important not to cut the collar because you would create a much larger wound on the tree if you did this, which would make it more difficult for the tree to recover.

You should also try to make clean cuts in order to decrease the likelihood that a disease will infect the tree.

3. Trim Away Lower Branches on Older Trees

It is common for older pine trees to self-prune by dropping their older branches while they continue to grow.

If you notice that your pine tree has many older branches that are dead or dying, you should get rid of them. This is an important thing to do in order to prevent diseases from taking hold of your pine tree.

Make Use of the Top Tips for Pruning Pine Trees

If you have been wondering about how to get started with pruning pine trees, it is important to know the top tips and tricks. Make sure that you disinfect your pruning tools before you use them.

For professional tree pruning, don’t hesitate to contact Green Pine Tree Service today, and let us care for your trees.

Winter Bug Treatments: How They Help Your Trees

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Winter bug treatments are essential for maintaining healthy trees. Tree pests are experts at hiding during the winter, leading many people to believe they’ve gone. The truth is, most bugs will hide within the tree until spring when it’s often too late to save the tree from damage.

During fall and winter is the best time to act to make sure your trees are pest free for spring when your trees will start to flourish again. Take a look at this guide on common tree pests and how to treat them.

Red Spider Mites

Red spider mites can be tricky to catch. They look like small red dots on leaves so they can easily be mistaken for something other than a pest. They leave webbing behind like normal spiders would so if you believe you have red spider mites in your trees, look for the webbing on the leaves.

These pests are not easy to get rid of during the warmer months and they can quickly build in number which means many trees have an infestation before owners realize it. However, red spider mites tend to group near the tree trunks in colder weather to keep warm. That’s why it’s much easier to treat your tree during the winter and quickly get rid of these pests.

Scales

Scales are particularly frustrating tree pests and much like mites, they can amount to an infestation quickly. Many tree owners don’t recognize the infestation until the tree starts to show signs of damage. There are over 8000 species of scales that can be divided into two categories.

There are scales that stay immobile and can secrete a protective covering over themselves as they feast on the host tree. These are called armored scales. Then there are scales that secrete a wax-like covering that can move short distances along the tree which are called soft scales.

Scales often look like small bumps on the tree and they breed under the cover of their protective bumps. When an infestation occurs, a professional tree service in Dallas can help you treat it.

Aphids

Aphids are commonly known as plant lice. They can be very difficult to see, being only an eighth of an inch long. They also vary in color so they can be mistaken for something unharmful regularly.

Colors vary from orange, green, yellow, red, and more. Ladybugs love to feast on aphids but an infestation of aphids is often too much for ladybugs alone. Aphids will suck on the sap from trees which can stunt the growth of the tree.

Aphid eggs will lay dormant during the winter so many owners notice a huge increase in aphids when spring arrives. To avoid this, it’s best to treat the trees before the eggs hatch.

How to Treat Tree Pests

Winter is the perfect time to make sure your tree is clear of pests and ready for spring. A professional arborist can examine your trees and look for any signs of pests or damage that needs to be repaired. There are a few things you can do to make sure you avoid insect infestations and keep your trees as healthy as possible.

The first thing you can do is prune and trim your trees regularly. This is especially important during the winter because trimming your trees could reveal pest-hiding spots. As a pest preventative, you could try using a glue band.

Glue bands are like a type of grease you can lay around the bottom of the tree that will stop insects from climbing the trunk. Lastly, you could use a winter oil or spray on your tree. Dormant oil will suffocate any insects or eggs which will prevent them from making a home in your tree.

The oil needs to cover the whole tree, including the trunk and the branches. It’s best to spray the oil and cover the tree when temperatures are high.

Although all these things are excellent preventatives for pests, there will be times when you’ll need advice from a tree specialist. Taking care of trees can be complicated but they’re valuable to the environment and your property.

Professional Care for Your Trees

At Green Pine Tree Service in Dallas, we can help you take care of your trees. If you want to make sure your trees are pest free, our specialist arborist can visit your property and carry out an evaluation. If pests are found, we can treat your trees to ensure they’re healthy for spring.

Along with evaluations, we also provide pruning, trimming, tree and stump removal, cable installation, and more. We provide the DFW area with the highest levels of professionalism and our services are second to none. Take a look at some of the projects we’ve been involved in and the testimonials from our past clients.

Winter Bug Treatments With Green Pine

Winter bug treatments can save you a lot of hassle. If you can treat your trees before pests become a problem, it will save you time and money and keep your trees looking healthy. At Green Pine Tree Service, we’re as passionate as you about keeping your trees in good health.

If you need your trees to be maintained or restored, we’re at your service. After our evaluation, we’ll give you a customized plan and specific health goals for your tree. If you think your trees may have pests, why not book an evaluation with us today?

 

The Benefits of Winter Tree Trimming

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Did you know that 40% of homeowners that have a lawn or yard hire professionals to help them keep it nice?

If you’re a homeowner, you probably know how difficult it can be to maintain your yard. It can be easy to forget about the health of your trees and bushes. However, investing in pruning tree services is crucial.

You can save yourself a lot of money, time, and stress by planning ahead. You may be wondering when is the best time to trim your trees. Pruning pine trees and the rest of your trees will make a huge difference to your yard come spring and summer time.

We are going to tell you about the benefits of winter tree trimming. Read on to learn how to care for your yard.

Better Efficiency

It might surprise you, but pruning in the winter is more efficient and can save you money. If you have large trees, a professional may need to bring in some heavy equipment.

When the ground is frozen, it’s much easier to bring supplies and materials in and out. You won’t have to worry about the heavy material ruining your ground or other landscaping. A professional will have easy access to the trees in the winter.

Less Risk of Spreading Diseases

If your tree has a disease that you don’t know about, pruning them in the spring will make the rest of your trees vulnerable. During the winter, most organisms and pests are dormant, meaning they won’t carry the disease around. You’ll have a much easier time containing the disease if you prune in the wintertime.

Easier To Evaluate in The Winter

When your tree is in full bloom, it can be hard to tell if it needs to be pruned. The leaves and flowers may be covering a portion of the tree that needs to be removed or isn’t healthy.

Hiring a tree service in Dallas in the winter will make it easier to see what areas need attending. There may not be any branches or limbs that need pruning, but you won’t know that unless you have someone come take a look in the winter when the trees are bare.

Reduces Risk of Winter Damage

In the winter, once it starts to snow, damaged and dying trees become dangerous. The snow can get heavy on their weak branches and cause them to snap off.

This could do damage to your home, your neighbors, or someone outside nearby. In order to avoid dangerous situations, it’s best to have them removed. The last thing you want is for a tree, that you thought was healthy to fall onto your house.

Pruning a tree can also influence the way it grows. It can help ensure the tree’s weight is disturbed correctly and doesn’t become a danger.

Better Looking Trees in The Spring

Your trees will be much healthier in the spring if you prune them in the winter. The branches will have time to recover and promote new growth when the warmer temperature comes.

Pruning in the late winter will also reduce the amount of time you have to look at bare trees and sticks. Your trees will be stronger and healthier after pruning them.

Less Stress On The Trees

Pruning can be stressful on trees. They need time to heal, and doing it in the winter allows that. When you prune in the winter, the trees won’t bleed sap or form new buds right away.

If you don’t wait for the cold snap and have your trees pruned in the fall, new buds may start to grow, and then they’ll freeze in the winter, and have a harder time coming back in the spring. The trees will be able to heal before pests, and other creatures come out.

Hiring A Professional

It’s crucial that you hire a professional to prune your trees. You likely don’t know what you’re looking for and may miss the signs of a diseased or dead tree. Pruning too much can also be harmful.

An experienced professional will know exactly how much to prune and where. It is also a dangerous task.

Someone who has worked in the industry for a while will know how to do it in the safest way possible. If you have concerns it’s about a tree, it’s best not to wait until the spring or summer to address them.

Common Questions

Besides knowing the benefits of winter tree trimming, you may have a few other questions. We are going to address a few common questions that our customers have.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost will vary depending on the size of your tree. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $800.

Is Pruning Necessary Every Year?

How often your trees need to be trimmed depends on the type and their age. Older trees need to be pruned about every three to five years. Younger trees should be pruned more often, between two and three years.

Fruit trees, however, should be pruned yearly to ensure the fruit returns are sweet and abundant. It doesn’t hurt to have a professional check your trees once a year to ensure they are all still healthy.

Winter Tree Trimming

If it’s been a while since you’ve had a professional arborist come to check on your trees, now is the time to hire someone. Waiting could do a lot more damage and be much more costly.

We have a great team here at Green Pine Tree service, and we’ve helped many homeowners. We can help you too. If you have questions about winter tree trimming, don’t hesitate to contact us.

What Is the Difference Between Tree Trimming and Pruning?

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Do you have curb appeal?

If not one of the best ways to get it is to keep your yard looking its best. Taking care of the yard often involves trimming and pruning trees.

Trimming and pruning your trees will ensure that they look their best at all times and continue to be healthy. Healthy trees not only look great but they provide good shade.

If you have questions about the difference between trimming and pruning, here is a closer look at what you need to know.

Tree Trimming

Trimming is done to remove any bushes that have become overgrown. When bushes are overgrown they stop shrubs from getting moisture and light.

Trimming focuses on removing any green shoots that may be developing. Trimming is often done for aesthetic reasons since trimming a tree does improve the overall appearance of it.

Trimming is also done when branches hang over roofs or are about to get entangled in power lines. Trimming is something that is often done once per year.

Tree trimming is usually done using a hedge trimmer. It may be electrical or powered by gas.

Pruning Your Tree

Pruning your tree will protect it. It usually involves removing any branches that are unnecessary. Often roots are removed as well.

The branches and roots that are removed are usually dead or damaged and need to be removed from the tree. If you have branches that are growing in the wrong direction then pruning helps to keep unwanted growth from occurring.

Pruning is often done with lopping shears or hand shears. However, for thick branches, a saw is sometimes used.

Trimming and Pruning The Major Differences

The major difference between tree trimming and tree pruning is the tools that are used and the purpose for which each is done.

Pruning often requires the use of shears and it involves removing bud and leaves. It will also involve the removal of branches and roots.

Tree trimming on the other hand will often involve the removal of large limbs of the tree. Green shoots are removed and the tree is shaped in order to give it a more pleasant appearance.

Depending on the time of year and the maintenance you have done in the past you may find that at any given time it is better to do one instead of the other.

Take Care of Your Trees

Taking care of your trees is important for the overall health of the trees. Trimming and pruning serve different purposes and are generally done at different times of the year for different reasons.

Make sure that when you are performing each of these maintenance tasks you hire a professional service to do it for you so that you do not damage the tree.

If you would like professional help with trimming or pruning your trees, please do not hesitate to contact us.

These Are the Dangers of Overgrown Trees

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Are your trees out of control and out of reach? We need big trees to live and breathe. What we don’t need is our overgrown trees becoming more of a hazard than they are helpful. We may have a long list of things on our minds other than the trees in our yard. Don’t worry, that is a thing of the past. There’s no better time than now to start.

No one expects you to trim or prune your trees, that is a Certified Arborist’s job. You should, however, know when your trees are overgrown, and what problems they can present.

Taking Control

Trees are always growing, and need regular maintenance. More or less, depending on the health of the tree and the environment that it is in.

Trim overgrown trees for reasons beyond esthetics, though looking good is also a top priority. On-site consultation with a Certified Arborist will be informative as you learn about the general health and wellbeing of your trees as well as a plan of action to treat existing conditions and future maintenance needs.

Pruning vs Trimming

What is the difference between pruning and trimming? Is there even a difference? Though the terms are often interchanged, there is actually a difference.

  • Pruning- Removal of dead branches, or branches the are growing into power lines or property. Pruning is done annually or whenever necessary.
  • Trimming- Trimming a tree is done to help the tree grow, and also to help it look more manicured. Typically performed twice a year trimming is done for the health of the tree, and the esthetics.

Security

Pruning and trimming your trees become a matter of security when unmaintained branches risk covering motion detection lights, cameras, or allow unwanted guests to lurk in the shadows.

Safety

Overgrown trees are not only unsightly, but they are also dangerous. Dangers of overgrown trees include branches that can fall at any time, which is even worse when a storm rolls in.

The people, pets, vehicles, and buildings, etc on your property could be in harm’s way. What about when your trees fall on someone else’s property? Who is responsible when tree branches fall on neighboring properties?

Overgrown tree roots are also a danger when they take over places they don’t belong to. They, too, can be maintained.

Pruning for Pest Control

Allowing dead branches to hang out is an open invitation to extra insects to inhabit your tree. They may even be the cause of branches dying. Woodboring insects can ruin a perfectly good tree in a small amount of time.

Best Time of Year for Pruning

Cut overgrown trees while they are dormant, it is best for their health. For most trees, the dormant season is the winter. Pruning in the colder months also allows for more sun to shine through making it harder for ice to form on sidewalks and walking paths in freezing temperatures.

If you live in an area that frequently experiences high winds, you may want to increase your maintenance appointments.

Overgrown Trees

After all of that, if you are still feeling unsure of how or when to schedule your next overgrown tree service, call on the pros at Green Pine Tree Service at (214)212-2832 or online at https://greenpinetreeservice.com/. Don’t delay, call today!

Why Do We Use Green Pine Trees for Christmas?

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Ready to celebrate Christmas?

The Christmas holidays are always great bonding moments for your family. One of the most important symbols of Christmas is the green pine trees used as Christmas trees. But how did they come to be?

Don’t let go of that question yet.

With this guide, you’ll learn how the green pine tree became the Christmas tree symbol. You’ll also learn about some types of Christmas trees you can use for your home. Read on and find out more:

Who Brought Christmas Trees to America?

Most Americans in the 19th century found Christmas trees odd. The first record of a Christmas tree on display was in the 1830s. These are trees used by the German settlers that made Pennsylvania their home, but German homes already had this tradition earlier.

After all, the German settlements within this region had Christmas trees as early as the late 1740s. But most Americans as late as the 1840s saw Christmas trees as paganistic. That’s why most of them didn’t accept these as symbols of Christmas.

How Did Americans Receive Christmas Trees and Other Customs?

Since Americans at that time saw Christmas trees as pagan symbols, it’s unsurprising why the country took so long before they adopted it. For example, some influential religious figures preached that Christmas trees and other traditions like Christmas carols as “heathen traditions” that defile the sanctity of Christmas. It got to the point that even the General Court of Massachusetts made a law that made anything other than church services on December 25 a penal offense.

That means people got fined for simple activities like hanging decorations. This type of stern solemnity persisted until well into the 19th century. The constant influx of both German and Irish immigrants served to undermine the legacy of the Puritans.

When Did Christmas Trees Become Popular?

Queen Victoria’s popularity with her subjects made the Christmas tree fashionable. This extended beyond Britain since the East Coast American Society adopted it with open arms.

By the 1890s, Christmas trees are rising in popularity in the United States, with ornaments from Germany arriving in the country. While Europeans used four-foot-tall trees, Americans preferred cutting pine trees that reach their ceiling.

In the early 20th century, Americans decorated their trees using homemade ornaments. Those with German heritage continued using apples, marzipan cookies, and nuts. Later on, they added popcorn since they can dye it with bright colors.

When electricity got discovered, it introduced Christmas lights somewhere down the line. This made it possible for the trees to glow for days. With that, having a Christmas tree at home became a full-fledged American tradition.

What is the Best Green Pine Tree Species for Christmas?

There are many species of pine trees reside within the United States. They’re evergreen conifers, and they’re the most common coniferous trees across the globe. Here are some great options for Christmas trees:

1. White Pine

This tree grows bundles of needles. It has this bluish-green hue with pointed tips, with flexible branches that give little to no aroma. If you’re planning to use this as a Christmas tree, avoid using heavy or large ornaments since its branches aren’t that strong.

If you plan to make an outdoor Christmas tree that can last for generations, the white pine is a great choice.

It’s because it’s the largest pine in the countries, with mature trees growing to heights of up to 230 feet tall. It can also live up to 400 years, meaning your succeeding generations can enjoy this tree, especially when they employ proper cutting and trimming techniques.

2. Scotch Pine

Also known as the Scots pine, this pine tree is another great option as a Christmas tree. It has dark green foliage and sturdier branches compared to white pine. This makes it a perfect tree if you want to go all-out with your Christmas lights and ornaments.

Scotch pine trees aren’t as tall as white pines since they can only grow up to 115 feet tall. Their needles change colors, from blue-green to darker green during the winter months. It also grows in fascicles of two.

If you want a pine tree with long-term needle retention, the scotch pine is your best bet. This means you need not clean as much when Christmas concludes. Depending on your preferences, this tree also has this medium aroma.

3. Virginia Pine

This pine tree is easy to identify because it has short, twisted needles that grow in pairs. This pine tree has short branches but it has denser foliage. This makes it responsive to trimming.

Among the trees on this list, the Virginia pine is the smallest. It’s because it’s a small to medium-sized tree that can only grow up to 70 feet tall. If you have limited spaces in your home, this tree can brighten it up.

How to Choose the Best Christmas Tree for Your Home

Now you know some types of pine trees, you now have a better idea of how they can affect your choices. Here are some tips to get the most out of your investment this Christmas:

1. Check Your Home Location

To get the right indoor Christmas tree, you must ensure that there’s a six-inch gap between the tree top and your ceiling. If you want a tree topper, double this gap. This means getting a 7-foot tree if you have standard 8-foot ceilings.

2. Consider the Angles

Look at the tree from a few vantage points, preferably 5-8 feet away. Ensure that the trunk is as straight as possible. At the same time, it must not stand out from the foliage.

Get Your Christmas Tree Today!

These are some of the things you must know about green pine Christmas trees. Use these to ensure you get the best trees around.

Do you need help with your Christmas tree? If so, contact us today and let’s talk.