4 Tree Diseases You Should Watch Out For

Posted on October 30, 2019 by Completetree

Tree diseases are common reasons for tree removal. There are four particular illnesses that trees fall victim to quite often. These infections, infestations, ailments, and sicknesses all have a devastating effect on trees, and can quickly lead to their demise. Continue reading to quickly learn four common tree diseases that can kill trees, and that property owners should be on the look for.

❶ Elm Disease

In the early 1900’s, oversea shipments brought in non-native beetles. Today, these beetles like to burrow into a variety of elm trees, and take down the plant fast. Elms that are already infected with a fungal disease are even easier for these Dutch beetles to invade, making them popular targets. If the leaves of an Elm tree begin to turn yellow, or die, right before Fall, it could be a sign of elm disease. In this case, the tree would need to be treated; otherwise tree removal is the only option.

❷ Heart Rot

This disease attacks hardwood trees. The name basically describes the signs of a tree with this condition. The disease begins to weaken the tree’s structure and stability from within; all while cause branches to weaken and break as well. This can be potentially dangerous for any structure or person near this type of infected tree. Mushroom caps and fungus are common hints of heart rot as well. Treatment is possible, but very complicated. Expert pruning and dead wooding could save a rotting hardwood tree. Basically, it is important to promote as much healthy growth as possible through pruning and dead wooding.

❸ Oak Wilt

Insects or root graphs carry this disease to trees. It is much deadlier than heart rot, but has the same effect. One the spores have entered the tree it can take as little as six months to kill the host completely. Oak Wilt cannot be treated, but it can be detected and prevented. Any tree near the infected tree runs risk to the disease as well. Professional tree services can properly prune and seal wounds to rid the tree of Oak Wilt.

❹ Chestnut Blight

When a tree becomes infected with Chestnut Blight, it is similar to when humans become infected with small pox. American Chestnut Trees were near extinction in the early 1900’s because of this infection. Signs that include, cankers and orange-brown stains on the bark can indicate Chestnut Blight Disease. Treatment involves chemical tree injections, so professional assistance is highly advised in this situation.

How to Evaluate Tree Care Needs in Indianapolis

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable tree service professional, and request a free estimate for Indianapolis tree service, today. We have a state-certified arborist available to inspect the health and needs of your landscaping trees. Furthermore, we are a family owned and operated tree care company, which means we understand the value of a dollar, which is why we offer our tree services at fair and reasonable rates. So get started today with a free quote!

Do Trees Need Care in the Fall?

Posted on October 8, 2019 by Completetree

Just because the summer has ended does not mean that your tree care responsibilities can be put on hold until the next bloom. Unlike other species of plants and shrubbery, trees require attention year-round. So if you are asking yourself whether or not you need to provide service for your landscaping trees this season, the answer is yes.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about tree care in autumn.

Fall Tree Care Tips

Giving your trees the care they need this time of year is important for many reasons. Not only will it abate pests and diseases, fall tree care can help ensure soil and root health, proper growth, visual appeal, and longevity. It can also improve energy efficiency, cost savings, safety, and more.

The degree of tree maintenance and care will vary among species, as well as, the time of year. In the fall, the important tree services to outsource include pruning, mulching, fertilizing, cable and bracing, staking, removal, planting, insulation, and possibly pesticide applications.

Pruning – 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.

Mulching – Mulching is also a year-round necessity for trees. Not only does it provide aesthetic appeal, it actually protects tree roots and retains soil moisture via insulation. All of this helps improve soil nutrient levels and conditions, thus promoting healthy tree growth all year.

Fertilizing – Fertilizing your trees in the fall can help enhance or improve growth.

Cable and Bracing – Winter can pose a long list of inclement weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy snow and ice. Cabling and bracing young or weak trees is a recommended task for fall. Also consider tree staking for shorter trees you wish to protect.

Tree Removal – If you have any dead or dying trees on your property that could pose a serious hazard if they were to topple over, it is imperative that you remove them before the inclement winter conditions arrive.

Planting – The fall is the perfect time to plant or transplant a tree. It gives the roots time to acclimate and expand, thus producing better results once the spring growth season is here.

Pesticide – Although pesticide application is not recommended for all trees and properties, some have good results with fall treatments. Rather than using a pesticide, have your trees inspected for pests and diseases this time of year to learn alternative treatment options.

Indianapolis Fall Tree Care

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis tree service you can trust. We are licensed and insured tree care contractors who serve both residential and commercial properties with a wide range of professional tree care services, including stump removal, lot clearing, storm damage clearance, and more. Request an estimate, today.

What are Monocots and Dicots?

Posted on September 4, 2019 by Completetree

Have you somehow stumbled across the terms, monocots and dicots, and wonder how they pertain to the tree care industry? Well if so, you have come to the right place. Continue reading to learn the difference between these two important biological organisms, as well as, how they apply to your particular landscaping goals.

Angiosperms

In our last blog, you learned the difference between angiosperms and gymnosperms. When it comes to monocots and dicots, angiosperms are the focus. Angiosperms are often considered the dominant plant-life on the planet because there are an estimated 250,000 to 400,000 species known to man. They are any type of flowering plant whose seeds (ovules) are enclosed in an ovary (usually a fruit). Angiosperms are conventional garden plants that bloom flowers from a hidden seed usually enclosed inside a fruit, which develops from carpels.

As mentioned, angiosperms are the emphasis when discussing monocots and dicots, as all flowering plants are one or the other. These two categories of angiosperms primarily represent the differences in the morphology of plant stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits. At a closer look, the basic chief difference between the two comes down to cotyledons. Cotyledons are embryo seed leaves that store and distribute nutrition to the embryo until it can use photosynthesis make its own food.

Monocots, or monocotyledons, have only one cotyledon. Examples include:

❦ Lilies
❦ Daffodils
❦ Grains
❦ Fruit Trees
❦ Corn
❦ Onions

Dicots, or dicotyledons, have two cotyledons. Examples common include:

❦ Daisies
❦ Peas
❦ Mangoes
❦ Apple Trees
❦ Mint

Two Ways to Tell the Difference:

☑ Dicot leaves have branched veins. Monocot leaves are parallel.

☑ Dicot flowers have petals in multiples of 4’s or 5’s. Monocots bloom petals in 3’s or 4’s.

Indianapolis Tree Service

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional Indianapolis tree service you can afford. We are experienced tree care technicians that can resolve your tree problems, regardless of your projects size or scope. We offer a wide range of tree removal and tree services, for both residential and commercial properties. We even offer free estimates and free tree care advice!

3 Reasons Why You Should Never Perform Tree Work Yourself

Posted on July 26, 2019 by Completetree

If you have a tree on your property that requires some work, whether a thorough trimming and pruning, or an entire removal, it is best to leave the task to a licensed and insured tree service professional. Not only can you put yourself and others in danger, you can jeopardize your property, and waste precious time and money.

Continue reading to learn the top three reasons why you should never attempt to perform any type of invasive tree work on your own, as well as, how to find safe and affordable tree service near you.

➀ Extension Ladder Hazards

Invasive tree work, like tree removal and tree pruning, generally require the use of extension ladders. This is especially true for trees that are taller than 5 feet. The problem with extension ladders is that they can be very dangerous if not used properly. Furthermore, using such ladders requires experience, which generally involves learning safety lessons the hard way. Not only can you fall from great heights when using an extension ladder, you can also pin and pinch fingers, and even damage surrounding property like cars, play sets, and sheds.

➁ Insufficient Resources

You might have access to a chainsaw and extension ladder, but this does not equip you for major tree work. The processes of tree pruning and tree removal require specialized machines, tools, materials, and most importantly, knowledge of industry best practices. Not only are you unequipped to get the job done accurately and safely, you do not retain the proper knowledge and experience in the tree service industry. This lack of resources makes DIY tree work an incredibly dangerous feat.

➂ Lack of Tree Knowledge

Although your safety and the safety of those around you are the most important priorities to consider when talking yourself out of DIY tree work, the trees and surrounding landscape itself are other factors to keep in mind. Doing tree work on your own can put your trees at serious risk of health problems due to your lack of tree biology and arborist proficiency. If you prune your trees incorrectly, they can fall ill and even die.

Where to Get Trusted Indianapolis Tree Work

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, today.

What are the Layers of a Tree Trunk?

Posted on July 12, 2019 by Completetree

One of the most interesting facts about tree trunks is that they have 5 different layers! Continue reading to learn more about these 5 tree trunk layer, including what they do!

? Tree Trunks

As mentioned, tree trunks have 5 separate layers to them. They are the outer bark, inner bark (phloem), the cambium cell layer, sapwood, and heartwood. Each layer has their very own purpose, but overall, the trunk’s primary job is to protect and support the tree. Look below to review each layer and what they do.

❶ Outer Bark

Like a shield, a trunk’s outer bark is there to protect the tree from its outside surroundings, including inclement weather, wildlife, pests, and more. It also controls moisture, by both preventing excess moisture in the rain and snow, and retaining sufficient moisture levels during dry seasons. It also provides insulation in cold weather and protects against sunburn in the summer.

❷ Phloem (Inner Bark)

The phloem, or inner layer of bark, is where food and nutrients are passed through the tree. This layer has a very important job, but a very short lifespan. It eventually dies, turns to cork, and becomes part of the outer layer of bark!

❸ Cambium Cell Layer

The cambium cell layer is interesting because it is the part of the trunk that grows. Each year, this layer produces more bark and wood as a reaction to the hormones being passed down from the leaves along the food pipeline. These hormones are called auxins, and they are very important because they stimulate new cell growth!

❹ Sapwood

Sapwood is new wood, and serves an important role as the tree’s water pipeline, delivering water to the entire tree. And as new sapwood is created, the inner cells lose their vigor and turn to heartwood.

❺ Heartwood

Heartwood is the most inner part of the trunk. It plays an important role in balance, stability, and security for a tree. Technically, heartwood is dead, but it does not atrophy or decay (unless the outer layers are jeopardized). It is made up of a hollow, needle-like cellulose fibers that are joined together by a glue-like chemical called lignin.

Additional Parts of a Tree Trunk:

The pith is made of soft, spongy parenchyma cells, which serve the purpose of storing and transporting nutrients throughout the tree. The medullary rays are cellular structures found in only some tree species., and appear perpendicular to the growth rings. The growth rings, also known as Dendrochronology, appear one at a time, once per year, darker in the fall and lighter in the spring and summer.

Get Professional Tree Care in Indianapolis

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional Indianapolis tree service you can trust. We serve all of Central Indiana with a wide range of skilled tree removal and tree care services, for both residential and commercial properties. Whether you need a single tree removed, or simply require routine tree service, like trimming or pruning, we can deliver prompt and professional service at a fair price. Request a free estimate, today.

Why Choose Complete Tree Care

Posted on May 31, 2019 by Completetree

There are many reasons why Hoosiers all across the city choose us for professional tree work. Continue reading to learn why we are a leading tree service provider here in Indianapolis, and why you too should choose us for your year-round tree service needs.

? We Offer a Wide Range of Services

Our expert tree care contractors provide a wide range of residential and commercial tree services, including tree trimming, tree pruning, thinning, crown reduction, crown raising, storm damage clearance, stump removal, and much more. Aside from routine service, we also provide major tree work, such as tree removal, dead-wooding, lot clearing, and more. On top of a wide selection of tree care services, we also offer free estimates and advice, and cleanup is included on every job! We also provide flexible scheduling, custom agendas, and unparalleled customer support!

? We are State Certified Arborists

Here at Complete Tree Care, we have a state certified arborist on staff to help with any questions concerning your trees. Our professional arborist is licensed in tree disease diagnosis, as well as, tree insect identification, for all Indiana tree species. Not only are our certified arborists capable of answering your tree care questions, they are more than happy to do so! Simply call our office during regular business hours for assistance and service for questions about tree problems.

? Our Credentials are Real

Hiring a professional tree service with the amount of experience we have is crucial to getting the job done correctly. Experience is the first credential to look for when searching for a tree service company. Check out some more of our credentials, below!

✅ INDIANA STATE CERTIFIED ARBORISTS #IN-3208A

✅ TREE DISEASE DIAGNOSIS (LICENSE #21263)

✅ TREE PEST IDENTIFICATION (LICENSE #21263)

✅ LICENSED AND INSURED

✅ OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

✅ BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU MEMBERS

✅ ANGIE’S LIST APPROVED

How to Get Started With a Free Quote

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable contractor, and request a free estimate for Indianapolis tree service, today. As a family owned and operated tree care company, we understand the value of a dollar, which is why we offer our tree services at fair and reasonable rates. So get started today with a free quote!

Tree Species Than Can Worsen Seasonal Allergies

Posted on April 12, 2019 by Completetree

Many people suffer from seasonal allergies. From the watery eyes and itchy throat, to the sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and that dreaded mental fog, no one wants to add on to their suffering when it comes to spring and summer allergies. One way you can prevent setting off your allergies is to limit your exposure to pollen.

Whether you are renovating your landscaping this year or planning an outdoor event, it will help you to learn which plants and trees are most likely to trigger seasonal allergies so that you can avoid them as much as possible. After all, a tree in your proximity exposes you to 10 times the amount of pollen as the tree down the street.

Here in Indiana, there are several species of trees that will worsen your seasonal allergies. Continue reading to learn some of the most common, and what to do if you have one that you want removed on your property.

Tree Pollen

Deciduous trees produce very fine and powder-like pollen, and some species produce more tree pollen than others. These are the particular tree species you want to avoid if you suffer from allergies. Winds can carry tree pollen for miles and miles, and even just a little inhalation can set off or exacerbate allergic reactions. You may assume that the trees with big, colorful flowers are the ones that will get you, when in fact, these species tend to have stickier pollen that does not travel as well as other tree pollen.

According to WebMD.com, here are the list of trees found in Indiana that will trigger seasonal allergies and potentially worsen existing symptoms:

? Ash (Fraxinus Genus)
? Aspen (Populus Genus)
? Beech (Fagus Genus)
? Birch (Betula Genus)
? Box Elder (Acer Genus)
? Cedar (Thuja Genus)|
? Cottonwood (Populus Genus)
? Elm (Ulmus Genus)
? Hickory (Carya Genus)
? Mulberry (Morus Genus)
? Oak (Quercus Genus)
? Pecan (Carya Genus)
? Willow (Salix Genus)

Helpful Allergy Reminders:

✔ Pollen counts are usually higher on dry, warm, windy days.
✔ Get tested for allergies to see what causes your reactions.

Professional Tree Service in Indianapolis

What You Need to Know About Uprooted Trees

Posted on March 29, 2019 by Completetree

Whether from soil instability, water logging, or heavy storms, trees have the capacity to uproot themselves from the ground. An uprooted tree is a tree that looks like it’s been plucked from the ground by a giant, and laid to rest next to the gaping hole it came from. Because uprooted trees appear to still have their roots intact, many property owners believe they can simply stick them back into the ground and go on with their lives.

Unfortunately, most uprooted trees do not survive. This is because the root system is too damaged to fully recover. This is especially true for large or mature trees. But sometimes, a tree can be saved by replanting it, but only under certain circumstances. And even if the tree can be revived by putting it back into the ground, it could experience problems such as transplant shock. This is why post-replanting care is so vital for the survival of a tree that has been uprooted by inclement weather.

Continue reading to learn more about large and small uprooted trees, including what you can do to care for an uprooted tree that has been replanted.

Large Uprooted Trees

Large trees are not common survivors of uprooting. Their root systems are extensive and mature, which provides the tree with water and nutrients. When massive severing occurs, they are not strong enough to supply the tree with adequate amounts of food and water, causing the tree to die. But also, replanting a large tree is not easy to do since their extensive root systems also anchor the tree down, providing stability. Once the roots are severed, this stability is difficult to recreate. It is also challenging to get a large tree to stand straight to begin with.

Small Uprooted Trees

Smaller trees have a higher chance at survival because their roots systems are not as extensive. A large portion of their root system stays intact after being uprooted, and the smaller size reduces the amount of exterior damage to the trunk and branches caused by the actual fall. When uprooted, they suffer the same amount of stress as large trees, but can then be replanted in most cases. It requires professional tree service to replant uprooted trees properly. This is because they have the tools, training, and knowledge to complete the job safely and in a convenient time frame.

Caring for Uprooted Trees

Once a tree has been replanted, the after-care portion is critical to its survival. This includes regular tree pruning, sufficient watering, and adding fertilizer after one year of new-growth. Trust your local tree care technician for professional tree service so that your replanted trees do not suffer from transplant shock or any other issues.

Indianapolis Tree Removal Services

Most often, an uprooted tree must be removed from a property. In this case, contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional Indianapolis tree removal and tree care. We are experienced tree care technicians that can resolve your tree problems, regardless of your projects size or scope.

How Much Does it Cost to Remove a Tree That Fell Over?

Posted on February 27, 2019 by Completetree

With all the recent wind and rain storms happening around Central Indiana, it is no surprise that thousands of homes and landscapes were damaged as a result. One of the most common findings so far are fallen trees. If you have a tree that fell after a storm recently, you may be wondering what you should do now. You can either figure out a way to deal with yourself, such as chopping it up into logs and disposing the limbs according to local regulations; or you can hire a professional tree service to remove the tree for you. Your choice will depend on your personal preference, which is usually driven by budget.

Continue reading to learn how much it might cost to have a fallen tree removed professionally, as well as, why you don’t want to do it yourself.

Cost Factors for Tree Removal

Although there are some baseline average cost precedents for tree removal jobs, the true cost will always vary from case to case because there are so many different factors that can influence the overall price. Some of the most common factors include the size, location, degree of difficulty, present hazards, and condition of the tree.

Luckily, a tree that has already fallen over is generally easier to remove since there is no need for climbing it or chopping it down. This can also reduce labor time and costs. On the other hand, a tree that has already fallen over can also cost just as much, or even more, if it has fallen onto or into something that makes the job more dangerous, difficult, or time-consuming.

Average Tree Removal Costs

The average price of tree removal falls between $100 and $1,000, however, it can be more depending on the circumstances. Furthermore, it is common practice for tree removal contractors to charge an additional 25% to 50% in fees if there are utility lines, buildings, roads, or other vital obstructions beneath or near the tree.

Just to get a ballpark idea of what it might cost to have a fallen tree removed from your property professionally, take a look at this average tree removal cost breakdown:

➤ 25-30 FEET = $100 – $400

➤ 30-75 FEET = $400 – $1,000

➤ OVER 75 FEET = $1,000 or More

➤ STUMP REMOVAL = Additional $100 – $500

➤ BRANCH CHIPPING = Additional $65 – $150

➤ HAUL AWAY = Additional $50 – $75

Where to Find Affordable Tree Removal Near You

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional Indianapolis tree removal you can trust. We serve all of Central Indiana with a wide range of affordable tree removal and routine tree service, for both residential and commercial properties. Request a free estimate, today.

Can I Plant a Tree This Time of Year?

Posted on October 30, 2018 by Completetree

Situations happen all the time that call for tree replacement or transplanting, such as storms, land development, home renovations, and more. In the same position, you may be wondering whether or not you can successfully plant or transfer a tree this time of year.

Continue reading to learn about fall tree planting, including the right times to plant deciduous and evergreen species.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

Fall Tree Planting

In Indiana, early fall, between late August and early October, are the best times of year to plant a tree. The reason why this time of year is best suited for tree planting has to do with the weather and root systems. Cooler temperatures support new root growth, and render stronger roots in the seasons to come. Furthermore, newly planted trees are more prone to sun scald drought, wildlife tampering, disease, and more; so planting them in the fall when the weather is mild can encourage a higher survival rate.

Exceptions to the Rule

This rule of thumb does not always apply every year since seasonal weather conditions can sometimes be unpredictable or inconsistent in Indiana. It really just depends on the type of fall we are having. So long as the hottest temperatures of summer are past, and the ground isn’t frozen yet, the conditions should be suitable for tree planting.

Also, certain species of trees are better planted at certain times in the fall. For instance, Maple trees should be planted in fall, while species like Birch, Dogwood, and Willow trees require more time to establish root systems, so they are better off planted in the spring. As for fruit trees, these also need to be planted in the spring to avoid winter weather damages.

Who to Trust for Expert Tree Transplanting

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for experienced Indianapolis tree transplanting and removal you can trust. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree work, including tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump removal, lot clearing, and more. Call 317-783-2518 to request a free estimate, today.