Autumn Tree Care: Essential Tips and Tricks

Posted on September 27, 2023 by Completetree

As the vibrant hues of autumn start to paint the landscape, it’s a clear indication for homeowners and garden enthusiasts alike to turn their attention towards tree care. Autumn presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to maintaining the health and vigor of your trees.

In this blog post, we will delve into some essential tips and tricks for autumn tree care. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge to ensure that your trees remain healthy, strong, and ready to weather the winter months. From understanding the importance of tree service to learning how to boost tree health, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s embark on this journey of responsible tree care together.

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Why Is Tree Care Important in Autumn?

Autumn is a crucial time for trees to prepare themselves for the harsh winter conditions ahead. As the temperatures begin to drop, deciduous trees start to shed their leaves and go into dormancy. This process enables them to conserve energy and survive through the colder weather. However, this also means that they are more vulnerable and require extra care to ensure their survival. Neglecting tree care in autumn can result in damaged or diseased trees, which can be hazardous and costly to deal with. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize tree care during this season.

Tip #1: Inspect Your Trees

The first step towards autumn tree care is conducting a thorough inspection of your trees. Look for any signs of damage, disease, or pest infestations. Pay attention to the leaves, branches, and trunk of your trees. Keep an eye out for any cracks, splits, or holes that may indicate underlying issues. Catching these problems early on can prevent them from worsening and save you time and money in the long run.

Tip #2: Prune with Caution

Tree pruning is a vital aspect of tree care, but it must be done with caution during autumn. Avoid pruning your trees if you can, as this can cause stress and make them more susceptible to diseases. If it is necessary, only prune dead or damaged branches and avoid heavy pruning. It is best to consult an expert tree care company for proper guidance on pruning techniques and timing.

Tip #3: Clean Up Fallen Leaves

Raking and removing fallen tree leaves from your yard is a tedious task, but it is essential for tree health. Thick layers of leaves can smother grass and other plants, leading to decay and diseases. Additionally, wet leaves can cause fungal growth and attract pests that can harm your trees. Consider composting the fallen leaves or using them as mulch for your trees and shrubs. This will not only save you time and effort but also provide valuable nutrients to the soil.

Tip #4: Water Wisely

As the weather cools down, it is easy to forget about watering your trees. However, they still need water to stay healthy during autumn. Adequate hydration ensures that they have enough moisture to endure the dry winter months. Water your trees deeply and less frequently, rather than shallow watering. This will encourage deep root growth and make them more resilient.

Tip #5: Protect from Pests

Pests can be quite active during autumn, and they can wreak havoc on your trees if left unchecked. Be on the lookout for pests like aphids, caterpillars, and borers that can damage the foliage and weaken your trees. Consider using natural pest control methods such as ladybugs or introducing beneficial insects to keep pests at bay.

Tip #6: Consult a Professional Tree Service

While these tips will help you care for your trees during the fall season, nothing beats the expertise of a professional tree service compa n y in Indianapolis. They have the knowledge, skills, and equipment to handle all your tree care needs. From pruning to pest control, they can help keep your trees in top shape throughout the year.

Conclusion

Autumn is a critical time for tree care, and by following these essential tips and tricks, you can ensure that your trees stay healthy and strong. Remember to inspect your trees regularly, prune with caution, clean up fallen leaves, water wisely, protect from pests, and seek professional help when needed. With these practices in place, your trees will be ready to bloom come springtime.

As the vibrant hues of autumn start to paint the landscape, it’s a clear indication for homeowners and garden enthusiasts alike to turn their attention towards tree care. Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured Autumn tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients with comprehensive tree care solutions.

10 Tips to Help Trees Survive the Colder Weather

Posted on December 27, 2022 by Completetree

As winter approaches and temperatures start to drop, it’s important to be mindful of how the colder weather can affect your trees. While winter is an important part of the tree’s growth cycle, extreme winter weather can cause damage and even death if not properly cared for. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to help ensure that your trees survive the winter months safely and healthily.

Continue below to learn the top 10 tips for winter tree care that will help keep your trees in top condition throughout the coldest season of the year!

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Winter Tree Care Tips That Promote Longevity

For your trees to stay happy and healthy through winter, some simple caring steps will help you on your way. Taking the time to prepare your trees now may prove fruitful come springtime. Follow these helpful tips for winter tree care so that your trees remain in optimal condition even during the chilliest season:

1. Water Your Trees Regularly: It might seem counterintuitive, but winter is actually a great time to water your trees – even if it’s cold outside! Giving your trees a deep and thorough watering will help them stay hydrated during periods of extreme cold. Be sure to use lukewarm or slightly warm water for winter watering – cold water can cause damage to tree roots.

2. Prune Your Trees: Winter is the best time of year for pruning, as it gives trees a chance to heal and grow in the spring. Be sure to use sharp tools and follow correct pruning techniques so you don’t cause any unnecessary damage to your trees.

3. Wrap Your Trees: Wrapping your trees before winter arrives can help protect them from extreme weather conditions such as strong winds, ice storms and heavy snow. Make sure you use wrapped that is rated for winter tree protection and fit it snugly around the trunk of the tree without restricting its growth.

4. Fertilize Your Trees: Applying winter fertilizer before winter arrives will help your trees stay healthy and strong. Choose a winter-specific fertilizer that is designed to meet the needs of winter tree care.

5. Mulch Around Trees: A thick layer of mulch around the base of your trees can help insulate their roots from cold temperatures and help the soil retain moisture. Be sure not to over-mulch, however, as too much mulching can actually cause tree roots to rot!

6. Avoid Planting Trees in Winter: While winter may seem like a great time for planting trees, it’s important to remember that winter is a tough season for tree survival. Avoid planting trees in winter and wait until spring when temperatures are milder.

7. Look Out for Pests: Winter is a prime time for pests such as rodents, insects, and even disease to attack your trees. Take some time to inspect your trees regularly throughout winter and look out for any signs of damage or distress.

8. Monitor for Signs of Stress: Extreme winter weather can cause trees to become stressed, so it’s important to monitor your trees regularly and look out for signs of stress such as yellowing leaves or wilting branches. If you notice any concerning signs, contact a tree service company immediately.

9. Protect Trees From Snow and Ice: If your area is prone to heavy snowfall, it’s important to make sure that your trees are protected from the weight of the snow. Place some winter tree guards around the trunks of your trees to reduce the pressure from heavy snow.

10. Seek Professional Help: If you’re having problems with winter tree care or are unsure how to proceed with winter tree protection, it’s always best to consult a professional tree care company in Indianapolis. The team at your local tree service company can provide expert advice and assistance in winter tree maintenance that will help keep your trees healthy and safe throughout winter.

Indianapolis Winter Tree Service is a Phone Call Away

Following these 10 tips for winter tree care is the best way to make sure your trees survive winter safely and healthily. Taking the time to properly care for your trees during winter will ensure that they stay strong and resilient when the warmer weather arrives.

Complete Tree Care is your premier winter tree service provider in the Indy region. Contact us today at 317-783-2518 to request more information about our winter tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide residential and commercial tree services, as well as storm damage tree service.

Spring to Winter Seasonal Pruning Tips for Trees

Posted on May 12, 2022 by Completetree

Tree pruning is a complicated process for the novice property owner. Just one incorrect cut can lead to a lifetime of health and growth issues for a tree. Furthermore, there is a lot of conflicting information on the best times of year to prune trees. That is partly due to the different hardiness zones throughout the country. Here in Indiana, we are hardiness zone 5B and 6A, which makes a big difference on when to prune and when not to prune.

Continue below for a basic seasonal guide on tree pruning, plus who to trust in Indianapolis for skilled tree service at an affordable price.

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Why Should You Prune Your Trees?

There are several important benefits of tree pruning. Mostly, pruning trees supports healthier, stronger tree growth and longer tree life. It will also improve fruit and flower blooms. Additionally, pruning trees improves curb appeal and property aesthetics. Overgrown trees can hover closely to a house or generate too much yard coverage, which can be unappealing and even lower property value. Another reason why pruning is beneficial for trees is safety. Overgrown trees can disrupt power lines, which can lead to fallen telephone poles, fires, or electrocution accidents. Large, overgrown branches can also break off, causing blunt force trauma accidents or property damage.

Tree Pruning Per Season

Spring

Tree pruning can be beneficial for trees that bloom in spring. Spring tree pruning can enhance the flower growth and generate fuller, larger canopies. Prune them soon after the flowers fade away. Trees that bloom in the mid-to-late summer are also best pruned in the springtime, or even earlier in the late winter.

Summer

Summer tree pruning can also be good for trees if done correctly. Pruning off branches that you do not want to grow longer or larger helps to slow down their growth rate. That is due to less leaf presence. The fewer leaves, the less the tree needs to distribute nutrients to the roots. This inhibits growth.

Fall

You do not want to prune trees in the fall season. In the fall, the air is still contaminated with decay-causing fungi that can infect open tree cuts and wounds, and ultimately, cause tree decline. Because tree wounds and cuts in the bark heal slower in the fall, pruning will leave a tree more vulnerable to disease and pest infestation.

Winter

Winter is an acceptable time to prune trees, so long as you wait until the coldest part of the season has passed. Wintertime tree pruning is beneficial because it encourages bigger, better, healthier growth come spring. In the winter, trees are dormant, which makes it a lot safer to incorporate cuts, plus easier to spot problematic branches and limbs.

Spring Tree Care Checklist:

□ Pruning
□ Mulching
□ Watering
□ Fertilizing
□ Trimming
□ Shaping
□ Stabilization/Staking
□ Risk Abatement
□ Wildlife Protection
□ Inspections

Are you looking for professional tree care services near you? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for affordable tree trimming and tree pruning in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We provide residential and commercial tree services.

The Advantages of Tree Pruning in Winter

Posted on March 11, 2022 by Completetree

Most would agree the spring and summer seasons in are the prime time to care for your landscaping and trees. But the truth is, it is important to pay attention to your trees during the wintertime as well. Winter tree care is highly beneficial for your landscaping trees in many ways, especially tree pruning.

Continue reading to learn all the advantages of winter tree pruning, and protocol for prompt and professional tree service you can trust in your neighborhood.

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Winter Tree Pruning Promotes Healthy Growth

Treat pruning is the practice of trimming and cutting back tree branches for the purpose of stimulating new healthy growth. This is why tree pruning is so vital for winter. The harsh conditions are influential enough on landscaping trees, but add that with neglect, in your trees are not likely to survive the season. Tree pruning in the wintertime is a common practice because it promotes vigorous, healthy branch growth come spring and summer. The best time to prune trees is in the coldest part of the season. By then, trees are fully in their dormancy stage.

A Haircut for a Tree?

You can think of it as getting a haircut for yourself; if you want your hair to grow and be healthy, it requires occasional trimming, as well as other forms of care, like routine cleansing, conditioning, eating a healthy diet, taking vitamins, and more. In a similar sense, trees require the same type of care in order to grow strong and healthy. And winter tree pruning is exactly what they need this time of year.

Why Prune in the Wintertime?

There are several advantages to pruning trees in the wintertime. These advantages are most visible come spring and summer when foliage and branches are full-grown and bursting with life and color. This includes flowers, leaves, and fruits. Pruning during the dormancy stage of trees also allows the exposed cuts to recover and heal better. This reduces the likelihood of tree diseases, pest infestations, and infections. There is also less of a chance for trees to wilt due to a lack of water. During the dormancy stage, trees to not require the same amount of water as they do during the growing seasons.

Ready to schedule your seasonal tree services? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured tree trimming and pruning in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Winter-Resistant Tree Species for Indiana

Posted on December 20, 2021 by Completetree

The first day of winter is officially here tomorrow! Are your trees ready for the upcoming season? The ground is not yet frozen, which means you may be able to plant some more trees before dormancy kicks in. In Indiana, we experience a wide range of seasonal changes; one winter may be mild and calm, while the next is harsh and relentless. For this reason, it is important to carefully strategize which trees you will plant, and more importantly, where you will plant them.

Continue reading to learn which tree species are most resistant to ice and winter storm damage, as well as some tips that will help you make a safe, long-term plan for your property.

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Winter Tree Damage

Wintertime in Indiana is usually unpredictable. We never know if we should expect an early winter with lots of snow and ice, or if winter will come late and we will have an extended fall season instead. This is why tree planning is so important. Not only do you need to consider protecting your trees through the changing seasons, but you must also think about protecting your property and its surroundings.

Winter snow, ice, hail, and harsh winds can cause an extreme amount of damage to a tree, especially if the tree is already diseases, damaged, or dying. In turn, the amount of winter damage can cause structural damages to your home, power lines, vehicles, and worst of all, people. This is why you do not want an unhealthy tree to be located near anything it can fall on top of. With winter-resistant tree species, you can better prevent the possibility of tree damage and fallen trees.

Here are some top-recommended tree species that hold up well in the winter:

▷ American Sweet Gum
▷ Arborvitae
▷ Black Walnut
▷ Blue Beech
▷ Catalpa
▷ Eastern Hemlock
▷ Ginkgo
▷ Ironwood
▷ Kentucky Coffee Tree
▷ Norway Maple
▷ Little Leaf Linden
▷ Silver Linden
▷ Swamp White Oak
▷ White Oak

If Storm Damage Happens

If you have a storm-damaged tree on your property, be sure to have it inspected by a licensed Indianapolis tree service company to ensure it does not pose any safety hazards to people, pets, or property. In the case that a damaged or dying tree is near such areas, it is strongly encouraged to have it removed before the harshest of winter weather conditions are here. Next spring, when you plant your new winter-resistant trees, be sure to also stay on top of routine tree care, such as pruning, watering, and fertilizing.

Are you interested in learning how to protect your trees from winter season damages? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed Indianapolis Indiana tree service and affordable price. We serve both residential and commercial clients all throughout central Indiana.

FAQS About Tree Care in the Fall

Posted on October 5, 2021 by Completetree

Just because summer is behind us doesn’t mean that our landscaping trees are through being cared for. In fact, right now is a prime time to tend to your trees. One of the most important things you can do for trees is care for them through all the seasons of the year. Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about fall tree care to learn what you need to do this season for your landscaping trees.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn Tree Care

Do I Need to Mulch a Tree in the Fall?

Mulch is not just necessary in the spring and summer; it is also highly impactful to soil and tree growth conditions in the fall. Be sure to mulch around the base of your trees, around 2 to 3 inches deep, to keep soil moist and protected all winter long.

Do I Need to Water a Mature Tree?

Mature trees have slowed in growth, making them more vulnerable to the hazards in their surrounding environment this time of year. They are more susceptible to pest infestations, diseases, blights, and wildlife tampering. To ensure proper growth and survival, mature trees need regular watering, all the way up until the very first snow fall.

When Do Trees Need to Be Pruned?

The prime time to prune trees happens to be coming up very soon! Pruning is vital to tree growth and overall tree health, as it promotes vigorous, healthy branch growth come spring and summer. The best time to prune trees is in the coldest part of the season, before the first snow falls. By this time, trees are fully in their dormancy stage.

Can I Prune My Trees Myself?

It is not wise to prune trees on your own. Several factors go into the process of tree pruning, so it requires extensive training and experience, as well as professional tools and resources to implement the job safely and effectively. Attempting to prune your trees can put you at risk of having an accident or being seriously injured, and incorrect pruning can harm your trees. Even small trees that do not require the use of a ladder should not be pruned by anyone but a trained professional.

Should I Top My Trees in Fall?

Tree topping also goes by the names, “tipping”, “hat-racking”, “heading”, and “rounding over.” Sadly, many people believe that tree topping is an effective form of pruning. The truth is that it is not an acceptable technique at all. In fact, tree topping is the most harmful tree care practice used for pruning trees. It can cause a long list of damage and health decline, including bark and tissue decay, sunburn, epicormic sprouting, pest infestations, and more.

Can I Plant a Tree in Fall?

The arborvitae industry standard suggests planting trees in the fall or early spring. The reason why the rule of thumb is to plant trees in spring or fall is because trees are in their dormant stage during these times. During dormancy, trees require less water, sunlight, and nutrients. This means their growth is significantly decelerated, making it easier for healthy root development. Dormancy and cool temperatures are the reason why spring and fall continue to be the best times to plant trees. These seasons are more likely to produce a healthy, mature tree.

Do your trees look like they could use some TLC this Fall? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and residential clients all throughout the central parts of the state.

You Should Also Read:

How to Mulch Around a Tree
Fundamental Industry Advice for Tree Pruning
Top Advantages of Choosing Professional Tree Service

The ANSI Standards for Tree Pruning

Posted on March 17, 2021 by Completetree

Spring is just about here, and tree pruning is a critical part of spring tree care. Trees must be pruned to promote new, strong, healthy growth, as well as, to promote safety and security of landscaping trees. Not only is tree pruning a vital component to your tree’s overall health, but it is also a dangerous job that requires decades of hands-on experience and practice. It also requires specific tools, equipment, and most importantly, the right knowledge.

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The American National Standards Institute (ANSI)

Improper tree pruning can kill trees, so the techniques and methods used to prune trees is very specific. In fact, the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) developed a set of standards for proper tree pruning that is used among true professional tree service contractors. This set of voluntary industry consensus standards was written by the Accredited Standards Committee (ASC), and is called the American National Standards Institute A300, or ASC A300. They are the generally accepted industry standards for tree care practices. They continue the initiative of developing consensus performance standards based on current research and sound practice for writing specifications to manage trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.

The Parts of ANSI A300

Tree pruning is only the first part of the ANSI A300. It other parts include soil management, supplemental support systems, lightning protection systems, management, planting and transplanting, integrate vegetation management, root management standard, tree risk assessment, and IPM (pest management).

ANSI A300 Tree Pruning Standards Cover:

☙ Pruning Objectives
☙ Pruning Systems
☙ Pruning Specifications
☙ Pruning Cuts
☙ Pruning Practices
☙ Palms and Similar Plants
☙ Pruning Definitions

*You can view the ANSI A300 in full, here.

Ready to schedule your lot’s seasonal tree services? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis Indiana tree services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

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Seasonal FAQS About Tree Care

Posted on December 11, 2018 by Completetree

Our landscaping trees are more than just magnificently appealing; they are also highly valuable to our overall indoor comfort, protection, and efficiency. Not only do trees provide privacy on our properties, they also double as built-in shade canopies, snow fences, wind barriers, and UV-ray absorbers. These attributes offer a higher level of energy efficiency in the home, which in turn, reflects on your monthly utility bills.

For these reasons and more, it is important to implement proper tree care practices every season, even in the winter. Continue reading to review some of the most frequently asked questions and answers regarding winter tree care.

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❄ Should I Prune Trees in Winter?

Tree pruning is important because it stimulates new growth, which in turn, enhances the strength, appeal, and performance of trees. In the winter, trees need to be pruned for optimal spring growth, as well as, pest and disease protection through the colder months. It is a great time to have your trees pruned since all the foliage has dropped. Tree service technicians can easily see where limbs and branches connect, giving them more access to the tree’s canopy.

❄ Do Trees Need Mulch in Winter?

Just like pruning, mulch is also a year-round necessity for trees. Not only does mulch provide an added aesthetic appeal to your landscaping, it actually protects tree roots and retains soil moisture. The mulch bed preserves the heat of the sun and prevents the ground from freezing in harsh temperatures. All of this helps improve soil nutrient levels and conditions, thus promoting healthy tree growth all year.

❄ Will Snow and Ice Kill My Trees?

If you take good care of your trees all year long, including proper tree care practices, watering, pruning, fertilizing, and mulching, you can expect your landscaping trees to survive the winter. However, inclement conditions like snow and ice can harm trees, and even kill them, if they are already weakened, inadequate, or diseased.

❄ How Can I Protect My Trees in Winter?

Aside from pruning and mulching, there are several other initiatives you can take on to ensure winter time survival and optimal spring tree growth. Such undertakings include cabling and bracing, bark repair, integrated pest management, routine inspection, and even dead or hazardous tree removal. Consider talking to a licensed Indianapolis tree service company for professional and personalized advice for your landscaping trees.

Who Do I Call for Trusted Winter Tree Service?

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis tree service you can trust. We are highly trained and experienced tree care technicians that offer commercial and residential tree services at affordable prices. Request an estimate or advice anytime. Call 317-783-2518 to learn more about tree care in Indianapolis, IN today.