Tree Care Tips During a Drought: How to Keep Your Trees Healthy in Water-Scarce Conditions

Trees are vital to the health and beauty of our landscapes, offering shade, clean air, and wildlife habitat. But these natural assets are increasingly under attack from an often overlooked enemy: invasive pest and plant species. These invaders can cause significant damage to your trees, weakening them, stunting their growth, or even killing them entirely. Understanding the threat they pose and knowing how to fight back is essential for homeowners and property managers alike. The Growing Threat of Invasive Species Invasive species are non-native organisms introduced—intentionally or accidentally—into an ecosystem where they lack natural predators or controls. Without anything to keep their populations in check, these species spread rapidly and often outcompete native flora and fauna for resources. When it comes to trees, invasive pests and plants can be especially destructive. Invasive insects like the Emerald Ash Borer, Spotted Lanternfly, and Asian Longhorned Beetle have wiped out millions of trees across the U.S. and CANADA. They burrow into bark, feed on sap or leaves, and ultimately weaken the tree from the inside out. On the plant side, species like English Ivy, Kudzu, and Tree-of-Heaven can overrun an area, choking out native plants, strangling young trees, and competing aggressively for sunlight, water, and soil nutrients. Signs of Invasive Damage You might not notice the problem right away, but the signs of invasive damage become more visible over time: Thinning Canopy: Trees may lose leaves prematurely or appear sparse. Bark Damage: Look for small holes, sawdust-like material, or peeling bark. Sucker Growth: Stress caused by pests may trigger unwanted shoots from the tree’s base. Vine Overgrowth: Fast-growing vines like kudzu or ivy climbing up a tree can suffocate it. Early detection is crucial. The sooner you recognize these symptoms, the better your chances of saving the tree. Combating the Invasion Fighting invasive species requires a proactive approach, combining prevention, monitoring, and treatment: 1. Know What to Watch For Learn about the invasive pests and plants that are common in your region. Local extension offices, arborists, or state forestry departments often have updated lists and images. Being able to identify potential threats is the first step in stopping them. 2. Practice Smart Landscaping Avoid planting known invasive species, even if they’re available at your local garden center. Opt for native or non-invasive alternatives that support the local ecosystem. If invasive plants are already present on your property, remove them carefully and dispose of them properly to prevent spread. 3. Inspect Trees Regularly Keep an eye on your trees throughout the year. Look for any changes in foliage, bark, or general structure. The earlier you catch an infestation, the easier it is to manage. 4. Consult a Professional A certified arborist can assess tree health, diagnose pest issues, and recommend treatment options, such as targeted insecticide applications, pruning, or even tree removal if necessary to protect others nearby. 5. Stay Informed and Report Sightings Some invasive species are part of state or federal tracking programs. Reporting sightings can help authorities manage outbreaks and protect wider ecosystems. Protecting Your Green Assets Your trees are long-term investments in your property’s value and your community’s environmental health. Invasive pests and plants threaten more than just aesthetics—they disrupt ecological balance and can cost thousands in damage and removal. By staying vigilant, choosing native plants, and acting quickly when you notice a problem, you can help protect your trees from these silent invaders. If you’re unsure where to start, contact a local tree care professional to assess your landscape and offer expert guidance.

Trees are a vital part of any landscape. They add beauty, provide shade, increase property value, and contribute to the overall health of the environment. However, just like any living organism, trees require proper care and regular evaluation. A professional tree assessment is a key step in maintaining the safety, health, and longevity of your trees.  If you’ve never scheduled a tree assessment before, you might be wondering what it involves and why it's worth your time. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect during a professional tree assessment and the valuable benefits it provides. The Tree Assessment Process A professional tree assessment, often conducted by a certified arborist, is a thorough inspection of the trees on your property. Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens during the process: 1. Initial Consultation and Walkthrough The assessment usually begins with a walkthrough of your property. The arborist will ask about any concerns you have, such as visible damage, leaning trees, or recent storm impacts. They’ll also inquire about the history of the trees, soil conditions, and any past maintenance. 2. Visual Inspection Using their trained eye, the arborist will closely examine each tree from the roots to the crown. This includes: Trunk inspection for cracks, cavities, or signs of decay. Branch evaluation for dead or hanging limbs that could pose a hazard. Leaf and canopy health to assess disease or pest activity. Root zone inspection to check for girdling roots, soil compaction, or fungal growth. 3. Risk and Health Assessment The arborist evaluates each tree’s structural integrity and overall health. Trees that are diseased, dying, or unstable can pose safety risks, especially near homes, driveways, or power lines. Using standardized methods like Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ), professionals rate the level of risk and recommend appropriate action. 4. Recommendations and Reporting Once the assessment is complete, you’ll receive a summary of findings. This may include: A list of trees that require pruning, removal, or disease treatment Maintenance recommendations such as fertilization or soil amendments A timeline and cost estimate for suggested services In some cases, especially for large properties or commercial sites, a detailed written report is provided. Benefits of a Professional Tree Assessment 1. Improved Safety One of the most important reasons to schedule a tree assessment is safety. Weak or damaged trees can fall without warning, especially during storms. Identifying hazards before they become problems can prevent property damage and injury. 2. Healthier Trees Early detection of disease or pest infestations can mean the difference between saving a tree and removing it. Regular assessments ensure your trees receive the right care to stay strong and vibrant year-round. 3. Cost Savings Addressing minor issues early—like pruning dead limbs or treating a fungal infection—can prevent expensive emergency removals or property repairs in the future. 4. Increased Property Value Well-maintained trees boost curb appeal and can significantly raise the value of your home or business property. A professional tree assessment is a smart investment in your landscape’s long-term health and aesthetics. When Should You Schedule a Tree Assessment? Ideally, property owners should schedule a tree assessment at least once a year or after severe weather events. If you notice signs of decline—such as sudden leaf loss, cracking bark, or leaning trunks—it’s a good idea to call in a professional as soon as possible. Final Thoughts A professional tree assessment is much more than a quick look at your yard. It’s a detailed, science-based evaluation that can protect your property, extend the life of your trees, and save you money down the road. Whether you’re planning improvements to your landscape or just want peace of mind, investing in expert tree care is always a wise decision.

Pruning is more than just cutting off branches—it’s a carefully planned process that directly affects a tree’s health, appearance, and structural integrity. When done correctly, pruning helps trees grow stronger, live longer, and coexist more safely with their surroundings. The science behind pruning lies in understanding how trees respond to each cut, and using specific techniques to achieve different outcomes. Among the most common and scientifically grounded pruning methods are crown thinning, crown reduction, and crown lifting. Each serves a distinct purpose and, when applied correctly, enhances both tree health and landscape safety. Crown Thinning: Letting Light and Air In Crown thinning involves selectively removing branches throughout the canopy to reduce its density without altering the tree’s natural shape. This technique improves airflow and sunlight penetration, which helps reduce the risk of disease and allows inner branches to thrive. Why it matters: Dense canopies trap moisture and limit airflow, creating an ideal environment for fungal infections and pests. Thinning alleviates this by creating space within the crown, reducing weight on heavy limbs and improving the tree’s overall balance. Science in action: Each cut in a thinning process is made with intention—typically removing no more than 10-20% of the canopy in one session. Arborists target rubbing, crossing, or inward-growing branches to promote a healthier structure and allow wind to pass through more easily, decreasing storm damage risk. Crown Reduction: Scaling Back Safely Crown reduction is used to decrease the height or spread of a tree. This is not the same as topping, which is harmful and can lead to decay and structural failure. Instead, reduction involves making strategic cuts back to lateral branches that are large enough to assume the terminal role of the removed limb. Why it matters: Reduction is useful when trees begin encroaching on buildings, power lines, or other structures. It’s also a helpful solution when managing storm-damaged trees or ones at risk of failure due to weight or age. Science in action: Proper reduction cuts preserve the tree’s natural shape while minimizing stress. Arborists apply the "one-third rule"—cutting back to a lateral branch that is at least one-third the diameter of the limb being removed. This supports healthy regrowth and reduces the chance of decay or dieback. Crown Lifting: Creating Space Below Crown lifting, also called crown raising, involves removing the lower branches of a tree to increase clearance from the ground. This is commonly done along sidewalks, driveways, and roads, or to allow more light to reach lawns and gardens below. Why it matters: Low-hanging limbs can pose safety hazards for vehicles, pedestrians, and buildings. Lifting provides improved visibility, access, and light while helping guide the tree’s growth upward rather than outward. Science in action: Lifting must be done gradually, especially on mature trees, to avoid weakening the trunk or causing imbalance. Removing too many lower limbs at once can stress the tree or leave it vulnerable to sunscald and decay. Arborists usually recommend lifting over time to promote structural integrity. Why Pruning Requires Expertise While DIY pruning may be tempting, improper techniques can damage a tree permanently. Over-pruning, making flush cuts, or removing structural limbs can lead to poor growth, disease, and even death. Certified arborists understand tree biology and growth patterns, ensuring that each cut promotes rather than harms the tree. Final Thoughts Tree pruning is both an art and a science. Whether the goal is to reduce risk, improve aesthetics, or support long-term health, understanding the right technique—be it crown thinning, reduction, or lifting—makes all the difference. When performed with knowledge and care, pruning supports a tree’s health for years to come.