“A tree’s beauty lies in its branches, but its strength lies in its roots.” — Matshona Dhliwayo

Every beautiful tree you see is only as strong and healthy as its root system. Root health determines lifespan and proper functioning of a tree—to care for your tree, you must take care of the roots.

In this article, we will get to the root of tree needs and walk you through tree root care.

Understanding the root system

All trees begin as tiny seeds; these seeds sprout a single root called a “radicle” or first root. This root drives down into the soil and creates an anchor for the seed. Root hairs grow along the surface of the root, expanding the root’s surface area and absorbing additional water and nutrients.

Roots serve many functions for trees beyond water absorption, roots are responsible for:

• Water and nutrient uptake.
• Tree anchorage.
• Storing excess carbohydrates.
• Transportation of nutrients, water, and hormones throughout the tree.
• Producing compounds that regulate tree growth.
• Producing chemicals that alter the surrounding soil.
• Providing a home for fungi and other microorganisms.

It’s official, excellent root health equals excellent tree health.

How to care for your tree roots

Soil

Having compacted soil can harm your tree by limiting root growth, which hinders your tree’s ability to absorb nutrients and water. Air, water, and nutrients need to circulate in the soil.

Too much traffic around the base of a tree is a primary way that soil gets too compacted. To protect your tree’s roots, apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the tree (a few inches from the base).

Water

A lack of water or an excess of water will damage your tree roots and cause your tree to become weakened or diseased.

Lawn irrigation systems are not a proper solution for watering trees, as lawn irrigation only soaks into the first few inches of the soil. Focus your watering efforts on the tree roots and getting that water deeper into the soil. Research how to water your tree based on your tree’s age, type, and growing region. If you need further help, consult a certified arborist.

Nutrients

Trees need nutrients to grow healthy and strong. Nutrients help the tree to germinate, grow, fight disease and pests, and reproduce. The tree roots absorb nutrients from the soil and send them up the tree through the tree’s vascular system (the vascular system starts at the roots). Different combinations of nutrients are essential for functions in a tree, and this all depends on your tree’s type, age, and growing region. Research and consult a certified arborist for expert advice on giving your tree the nutrients it needs.

Planting techniques

Planting your tree correctly from the beginning can make a world of difference in how it develops its root system. Many trees are transplanted from a nursery, and around 50 percent or more do not survive past the first few years. This comes from transplant shock, where a tree loses most of its roots when dug up from the nursery and transplanted to another location. This makes the tree more vulnerable to disease, drought, and insects.

Reestablishing that root system and helping your tree regenerate roots is essential to survival. Digging a proper hole, consistent but not excessive watering, and protecting the vulnerable roots with mulch will help your tree reestablish a healthy root system.

Research carefully before you plant a tree so you can prepare the soil, water, and nourish your tree properly to establish a strong root system. Consult a certified arborist for expert advice.

Maintenance and prevention

You can prevent root decline and disaster for your tree by paying attention to the signs your tree shows. Your tree root health may be in trouble if you notice stunted growth, oozing liquid or soft spots on the trunk, poor growth of ground cover under the tree canopy, abnormal swelling on the tree base, or leaning of the tree.

When planting new trees, research and prepare your planting site accordingly.

Tree roots are the heart and soul of a tree, without healthy roots a tree will be unable to thrive and eventually die. Take the time to learn about tree health today and consult a certified arborist if you want additional information.

Looking for expert advice for your trees’ root health? We can help. Advanced Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced Tree Care isn’t just our name—it’s also our purpose!

Trees take care of us in multiple ways by providing shade, oxygen, and food. Tree care is part of stewarding our environment and making our earth a more beautiful, healthy place to live. We prune, control pests, fight disease and fungus, and water our trees to ensure a long and productive life.

Can all of this be done in a sustainable, environmentally conscious way? Absolutely! Here are five “green” ways to care for your trees.

1. Water your trees using harvested rainwater.
   
   Watering your trees is one of the most basic ways to ensure strong, healthy trees. Trees need water in all seasons, especially during extended drought or heat. Your trees require different amounts of water depending on the tree’s age, type, and growing region. Research your particular tree needs or consult a certified arborist for further information.
   
   Water can be costly, particularly in drought-prone areas or dryer zones. Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable practice that reduces water waste and is easy to implement; it can be as simple as connecting a rain barrel to your gutter system. Rainwater harvesting can help lower your water bill, reduce flooding in low-lying areas, and reduce storm runoff—it’s a win-win for everyone!
   
   Since water for landscaping does not need to be filtered, you can immediately use your harvested rainwater for your trees. Trees need deep watering around the root system, so concentrate your watering efforts on the tree roots and getting the water deeper into the soil.
   
   
   2. Use biodegradable mulch.
   
   Mulch helps tree roots retain moisture and regulate temperature. It also protects the tree from invasive pests, insects, weeds, and fungi. When selecting mulch for your trees, choose organic materials such as wood chips or bark that nourish the soil as they decompose.
   
   If you feel adventurous, you can make your own mulch by combining organic materials such as grass clippings, chopped-up tree branches and bark, pine needles, and leftover paper.
   
   When applying mulch to the base of your tree, lay three to five inches down one to two feet out from the tree (creating a circle of mulch). Be sure you leave a few inches of free space between the base of your tree and the mulch.
   
   
   3. Prune.
   
   Pruning is a very environmentally friendly way to protect your tree’s health, as well as the vegetation and animals that live in and around the tree. You can always recycle the pruned branches into wood chips or mulch (unless they are diseased or infested).
   
   Extensive pruning is best done when the tree is dormant (in fall and winter), but there is some recommended pruning to do in spring and summer to keep your tree in good shape. If you have specific pruning questions or want your tree to be pruned by an expert, call a certified arborist.
   
   
   4.Practice integrated pest control management (IPM).
   
   IPM enables you to control pests and protect your trees with minimal chemical use which is healthier for you and the environment! It involves taking preventative measures against pests before they arrive. Protect your tree from pests by clearing debris and weeds, not allowing standing water to collect, and applying barriers (like mulch) that discourage pests from approaching your trees.
   
   You can also use environmentally safe sprays, horticultural oils (another practice of IPM), and nest removal to protect your trees from damage by pests. Keep an eye on your trees to spot any early signs of pests (sawdust, nibbled leaves, bare bark, and more).
   
   
   5. Protect and strengthen your trees to ensure a long life
   
   Preventative measures to protect and strengthen your trees can ensure a long life, safety for your home and family, and an undisturbed habitat for the animals that depend on your tree.
   
   To protect young trees, stake them down to help them remain upright and keep their newer root systems firmly in the ground. Bury stakes a few feet out on either side of your tree and tie the tree to the stakes using landscape fabric or recycled materials (like an old t-shirt). Be sure you leave space around the trunk so the tree has room to grow and will not be damaged.
   
   Older trees will be less easily moved, but you can prevent tree damage and broken branches by removing excess weight ahead of time.
   
   Our trees take excellent care of us and are vital for protecting our environment. By following these “green” tree tips you can do your part to take care of your beloved trees and the world we all live in.

Need advice on green tree care? We can help. Advanced Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced Tree Care isn’t just our name—it’s also our purpose!

Summer Hazards for Trees

Summer provides specific hardships for your trees. These include:

● Drought and heat waves. Higher temperatures for extended periods or too many weeks without rain can dry the soil out, dehydrating your tree and causing yellow/brown curling leaves. A dehydrated tree is more susceptible to disease and damage.

● Storms. Whether you live in the Midwest with severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, or on the coasts with the potential for hurricanes, your trees can take a pretty intense beating during the summer storm season.

● Pests. Everything is more alive in the summer, including rodents, and insects. These creatures are nesting and building colonies during summer, and it’s easy for them to gain a foothold in your tree, damaging it inside and out.

● Disease. Tree disease and fungus are alive and thriving during summertime and looking for an opening into your tree.

Tips To Keep Your Trees Healthy This Summer

Your trees can “enjoy” summer as much as you do if you follow these easy tree care tips.

Water
Watering your trees regularly during summer is one of the simplest ways to keep them healthy and strong. Test your soil moisture weekly, four to six inches below the surface to determine how much water your tree needs.

Lawn irrigation systems are not a proper solution for watering trees, as lawn irrigation only soaks into the first few inches of the soil. You need to deep water your trees, focusing your watering efforts on the tree roots and getting that water deeper into the soil. Research how to properly deep water your tree based on your tree’s age, type, and growing region. If you need further help, consult a certified arborist.

Prune
While extensive pruning is best done when the tree is dormant (in fall and winter), there is some recommended pruning to do in summer to keep your tree in good shape. Prune any dead, diseased, or damaged branches from your tree. Summer is also a good time to prune your flowering trees now that they have finished their spring blooming. If you have specific pruning questions or want your tree to be pruned by an expert; call a certified arborist.

Mulch
Mulch is a key part of helping your tree retain moisture and protecting it from pests and disease. Lay three to five inches of mulch down one to two feet out from the tree (creating a circle of mulch). Be sure to leave a few inches of free space between the base of your tree and the mulch.

Strength
Strengthening your trees will help them withstand summer storms. To protect young trees, stake them down to help them remain upright and keep their newer root systems firmly in place. Bury stakes a few feet out on either side of your tree and tie the tree to the stakes using landscape fabric (leave some space around the trunk to allow growth).

Older trees will be less easily moved by storm winds, but you can prevent damage and broken branches by removing excess weight ahead of time.

Pest control
Use environmentally safe sprays, horticultural oils, and nest removal to protect your trees from damage by pests. Watch your trees carefully so you can spot the signs of pests: bits of sawdust, bare bark spots, and damaged or spotted leaves.

Conclusion
Trees are such a vital part of the happy summer experience, from the sound of leaves rustling in a summer breeze to enjoying their shade on a hot day, summer wouldn’t be the same without trees. Taking care of your tree and employing these summer tree care tips can help you, and your trees, have a wonderful summer.

Looking for help in caring for your trees this summer? Schedule a quote with our team. Advanced Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced Tree Care isn’t just our name—it’s also our purpose!

Looking out into your yard to see beautiful, leafy trees is one of the greatest joys of being a
homeowner. On the flip side, the sight of diseased or damaged trees can cause great concern.
How to save damaged or diseased trees is not common knowledge, and many of the general
populace have no clue where to start. In this article, we will cover how to spot the signs of tree
damage/disease, how to care for your trees, and when it’s time to call a tree removal service.

Signs that your tree is in trouble

Knowing how to spot your tree’s distress will enable you to respond quickly before the problem
gets worse. Signs that your tree is diseased or dying may include:

● Visible fungal growth or discoloration.
● Dead branches.
● Peeling bark.
● Lesions on the branches.
● Cracks and splits where limbs join the trunk.
● Wilting and yellowing leaves.

Getting to the root cause of the problem will help you direct your efforts to heal and restore the
tree. Some common causes of tree disease and death include:

● Under-watering. Under-watering is common as many people do not realize that their
trees need to be watered (even during the winter). Signs that you are underwatering
include brown, curling leaves, discoloration in your tree canopy, undersized leaves, and
leaves that change color or drop too early in the season.

● Overwatering. Trees can also suffer from being overwatered, and some people
accidentally overwater in their zeal to avoid underwatering. If you are overwatering, the
soil around the base of your tree will remain saturated for long periods. You may also
notice pale, yellowish growth near the base of the tree, withering new growth, and new
leaves that break easily.

● Damaged or dead limbs. Damaged limbs may show signs of breaking, big cracks, or
lesions in the bark. Dead tree limbs will look withered and dry and fail to grow new
leaves.

● Insect infestation. Insects can destroy your tree from the inside out. You may have
insect infestation if you notice chewed leaves, discoloration, abnormal growths, and bark
damage.

● Bacterial or fungal infection. By the time you see visible fungal growths, the infection
has been brewing for a while. Strange masses or spots, rotting leaves or roots, broken
or peeling bark, and draining liquid from the tree can all be signs of infection.

● Lack of nutrients. Trees need nourishment just like people or animals do. If your tree
lacks proper nutrition, it may have stunted growth with short twigs, poor flower or fruit
production, unusual foliage shape or coloration, or early leaf dropping.

Five ways to save your tree

Healthy trees can last for decades, and many trees can be spared from early death if you
respond promptly to any signs of disease or distress. Here are five ways you can help your tree:

1. Set a regular watering schedule. Trees have individualized watering needs—make a
   watering schedule that caters to your tree type, age, and climate to prevent over-
   watering and underwatering. Pay attention to the signs your tree shows and adjust as
   needed.
   
2. Remove damaged limbs. Removing damaged limbs quickly and cleanly can prevent
   tears, breaks, and additional stress for your tree. If you remove any diseased branches
   or limbs, clean your tools to kill any fungal spores or bacteria (this avoids spreading the
   disease to other trees in the future). Remove the pruned branches and dispose of them.
   
3. Take a soil sample before adding fertilizer. DIY soil sample kits can be found at home
   and garden stores and will give you information on the soil your tree is currently growing
   in and what needs to be added to nourish your tree.
   
4. Remove pests. Send the insects packing! If you are concerned about the harmful effects
   of chemical sprays, there are plenty of eco-friendly options such as soap sprays,
   horticultural oils, and more to kill insects and free your tree from invasion.
   
5. Add mulch. Adding mulch around the base of your tree helps to lock in moisture around
   the tree’s root system. Mulch will protect any exposed roots and keep pests and weeds
   away from your tree. Be sure you lay the mulch down a few inches away from the base
   of the trunk.

When is my tree too far gone?

If at least 50 percent of your tree appears to be dead, visibly covered all over with infection or
infestation, has large cracks or splits forming on the branches or trunk, or is leaning more and
more to one side—it’s time to call an expert tree removal service. Tree removal can be a
hazardous job and is better left to the professionals who have the training and equipment to
handle the job safely.

Trees are beautiful when healthy and cared for—learning how to spot distress in your tree will
give you the tools necessary to save your tree and enjoy it for years to come.

Looking for guidance on how to save your dying or diseased trees? We can help. Advanced
Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to
provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine
counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and
efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced
Tree Care isn’t just our name—it’s also our purpose!

Have you ever stepped out into the yard to the soothing sound of leaves fluttering in the
breeze? Or perhaps you’ve enjoyed watching a family of baby birds grow up in a nest perched
on the branches of a tree by your window. Do you look forward to the brightly colored foliage of
autumn?

Trees are amazing—they provide oxygen, shade, shelter, beauty, fun, food, and a home for
many living creatures. Trees are assets in every way; in this article, we will cover some of the
specifics of how trees add value to your wallet, community, and personal life, and how to best
care for them.

The value of trees by the numbers

Did you know that trees increase your home’s property value? According to an article from The
Arbor Day Foundation, trees can:

● Reduce the need for heating and cooling in your home (sometimes up to 30 percent for
air conditioning, and 20-50 percent for heating when trees are properly placed around a
building).
● Can increase property values by as much as 20 percent.
● Have an appraised value between $1000-$10,000 when mature and healthy.

Studies have shown that home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with trees. Even a
home without trees but with proximity to public spaces with trees (such as parks) can be sold for
a higher value. People like trees, and they are willing to pay for them!

The value of trees for the environment

Trees are a vital part of environmental health and sustainability. Trees:

● Absorb carbon dioxide from the air, store the carbon in their biomass, and release the
oxygen into the air.
● Help regulate temperature and precipitation.
● Purify the air.
● Are home to millions of species that keep our environment in balance and protect us
from disease.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a single acre of forest can absorb six tons of
carbon dioxide and release four tons of oxygen, which is enough to meet the annual oxygen
needs of 18 people.

The personal value of trees

Many people have happy memories or experiences connected to trees: a childhood tire swing or
treehouse, jumping in autumn leaf piles, apple picking, or resting in the shade provided by a tree
during the heat of summer.

Studies have shown an increase in satisfaction for members of the workforce who were able to
work within view of trees. Areas of cities with more tree growth and greenery have lower rates of
vandalism, graffiti, and littering.

Research reveals that people living in areas of higher tree density reported fewer health
complaints and felt healthier and younger overall.

Six ways to care for your trees

Our trees take such good care of us, it’s only fair that we take care of them in return. Here are
six ways to care for your trees.

1. Water them. Trees need to be watered in all seasons (even winter). Be sure to research
   how much water your tree will need depending on type, season, and your climate
   conditions.
   
2. Use mulch. Mulch is an excellent way to protect the base of your tree from harmful
   plants and rodents, and to help the tree retain moisture in the soil by its roots. Place your
   mulch a few inches out from the base of the tree.
   
3. Prune. Pruning is a vital part of tree health; ideal pruning seasons are fall and spring.
   Consistently pruning your trees prevents damage that can lead to disease and
   infestations.
   
4. Strengthen and protect. Small or young trees often need support while they are growing
   their root system. Place stakes out to the side of the tree and secure them with
   landscape fabric (always leave some space extra around the tree trunk so it can grow).
   
5. Use fertilizer. Trees need nourishment just like humans do, especially after long seasons
   of dormancy like winter. Research what fertilizers to use and how much to apply (too
   much fertilizer can be damaging).
   
6. Control pests. Protect your trees from harmful insects (like carpenter ants) and rodents
   using eco-friendly pest deterrents such as horticultural oils, soap sprays, and
   diatomaceous earth.
   
   Trees are superheroes in our world. They add to our health, wealth, and happiness every day. Taking care of your trees will add to the value of your home, community, and environment. Looking for guidance on how to best care for your trees? We can help.
   
   Advanced Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced Tree Care isn’t just our name—it’s also our purpose!