Indiana Winter Tree Care: Essential Steps for Healthy Trees

Posted on November 24, 2023 by Completetree

As the temperature drops and Indiana settles into the heart of winter, your trees require special attention to stay healthy and thrive. This blog post aims to shed light on essential winter tree care practices, primarily focusing on tree mulching and tree cable installation. These preventive measures can ensure the well-being of your trees during the harsh winter season. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can help your trees withstand the Indiana winter with grace and emerge in spring, robust and full of life.

Call 317-783-2518 For Winter Tree Services in Indianapolis Indiana

Winter Tree Care

Winter poses unique challenges to trees, including freezing temperatures, snow accumulation, and harsh winds. These elements can cause damage to the tree’s branches, bark, and roots, leaving them vulnerable to disease and pest infestation. Therefore, it is crucial to take proper care of your trees during this time of the year. You might want to also consider planting winter-resistant tree species that are hardy to Indiana climate.

Tree Mulching in Winter

One of the most critical aspects of winter tree care is mulching. Mulch acts as a protective layer around the tree, insulating it from extreme temperatures and maintaining soil moisture levels. Additionally, mulching helps to suppress weed growth and provides essential nutrients to the soil.

When mulching your trees for the winter, keep in mind the following tips:

► Use organic materials such as wood chips, bark, or pine needles.

► Spread mulch in a 2-3 inch layer around the base of the tree, leaving some space between the trunk and the mulch to prevent rotting.

► Avoid piling up mulch against the tree’s bark as it can create a favorable environment for pests and diseases.

Tree Cable Installation

Winter storms can bring strong winds, causing trees to sway and potentially break. Tree cable installation is a preventive measure that can help reduce the risk of tree damage during these storms. It involves installing cables and braces to support weak or damaged branches, providing additional stability to the tree. Tree cable installation should be done by a professional tree service company that can assess the tree’s structure and determine where support is needed. This process typically involves drilling into the tree’s branches and attaching cables to provide extra strength.

Tree Watering in Winter

Though trees require less water during the winter, they still need some moisture to survive. During extended periods of dry weather, watering your trees can prevent root damage and dehydration. It is best to water your trees when the temperature is above freezing.

Winter Pests That Can Damage Trees

Pests are a common problem for trees during the winter, especially when they are weakened due to extreme temperatures and lack of water. Some common winter tree pests that can cause damage to your landscaping trees during this time include:

Bark beetles: These insects target weak or stressed trees and can cause severe damage by boring into the bark.

Mice and rabbits: These critters can gnaw on tree bark, causing significant harm to the tree’s health.

Deer: In search of food, deer can strip bark from trees with their antlers and hooves. This is known as bark rubbing, which leaves trees vulnerable to disease and infection.

To prevent pests from damaging your trees during winter, consider installing barriers or deterrents around your trees and keeping a watchful eye for signs of infestation.

Conclusion

Proper winter tree care can make a significant difference in the overall health and well-being of your trees. By mulching, watering, installing tree cables, and protecting trees against pests, you can protect your trees from harsh weather conditions and give them the best chance for survival. Remember, it’s always best to consult with a professional arborist for expert advice on tree care and maintenance. With these essential steps, your trees will be ready to bloom again come springtime. So, enjoy the winter wonderland while taking good care of your trees!

If you’re in need of a professional tree care this winter season, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured 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!

For Winter Tree Service in Indianapolis, Call 317-783-2518 Today!

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.

Is it Too Cold to Water My Trees?

Posted on December 13, 2022 by Completetree

It’s almost winter, so you’re probably wondering if it’s too cold to water your outdoor landscaping trees. In this post, we’ll explore the answer to that question and more! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about watering trees in cold weather.

Call 317-783-2518 to Speak With a Licensed Tree Service Contractor in Indianapolis.

Tree Watering Tips for Winter

When it comes to watering trees in cold weather, the most important thing to remember is that even though temperatures may be lower, proper watering is still essential. Trees can become stressed or even die if they don’t receive enough water during the cold season. So, what are some tips for keeping your trees healthy during winter?

1. Do not water too much or too frequently in cold weather. It’s easy to think that your trees need more water when the temperatures drop, but this is actually a mistake. Too much water can lead to root rot and other problems. Instead, focus on providing enough moisture for the tree’s roots without over-watering.

2. Avoid using sprinklers in cold weather. Sprinklers can be great for watering your lawn, but they’re not the best option when it comes to trees. The water droplets created by a sprinkler can actually freeze on the tree and cause damage. Instead, use a hose to supply the needed moisture.

3. Water in the morning. In cold temperatures, it’s best to water your trees in the morning when there’s still some warmth in the air. This will help ensure that your tree has time to absorb the moisture and avoid freezing overnight.

4. Check soil moisture levels regularly. The key to successful tree watering in cold weather is to check soil moisture levels regularly. This will help you determine when your trees need more water and how much they need.

Watering trees in cold weather can be tricky, but with the right tips and information, you can keep your trees healthy all winter long. So don’t let the colder temperatures prevent you from providing your trees with the care they need! With a bit of knowledge, your tree will thank you come springtime.

Recommended Tree Care in Winter

Taking care of trees in winter is essential for keeping them healthy and strong for the upcoming year. During cold weather, frost can cause significant damage to trees and shrubs if not properly cared for. To ensure your trees are in the best condition possible, here are a few tips on recommended tree care during the winter season.

The first step is to protect your trees from the cold. This can be done by wrapping them in burlap or frost cloth and tying it securely around the trunk of the tree. Not only will this provide insulation, but it also helps prevent sunscald, a condition where scorching winter sunlight causes bark tissue to dry out and crack.

Another important step in tree care during the winter is pruning. Pruning helps trees grow more evenly, protects them from disease and promotes healthy growth in the spring. When pruning, be sure to cut only dead or diseased branches and never over-prune, as that can damage your tree’s health.

Lastly, you should protect your trees from wildlife. Squirrels and other animals may try to feed on new growth, so consider using repellents or protective netting around the tree’s base.

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your trees are in top condition for the upcoming year. Winter is a critical time for tree care, so make sure you’re taking all the necessary steps to keep them healthy and strong!

Are you in need of professional and affordable tree service within the Indianapolis County or its surrounding areas? Look no further than Complete Tree Care! We specialize in residential and commercial tree services in Indianapolis, as well as storm damage. Contact us today at 317-783-2518 for a quote!

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.

Indianapolis IN Tree Service Company 317-783-2518

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.

Should I Spray Anti-Desiccants on My Evergreen Trees?

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Completetree

Winter is hard on trees. It may not look like it, but the cold climate and harsh conditions can cause a long list of hardships, even for coniferous trees like evergreens. The ultimate way to better protect your evergreen landscaping trees from freezing temperature and inclement winter weather is stay on top of your routine tree care checklist throughout the winter season. Additionally, consider adding anti-desiccant treatments to your checklist too. Unsure about the effects and applications of anti-desiccants on evergreen trees? You are not alone.

Continue reading to learn some brief, fundamental facts about such tree care treatments, including how they help trees survive the winter and where you can find trusted winter tree service near you.

Winter Tree Service Indianapolis Indiana 317-783-2518

Coniferous Tree Damage in Winter

In general, the most damaging effect on trees is the loss of moisture they experience. Through tiny pores on their needles or leaves, trees will lose moisture and dry out. Because of the extreme dry air and harsher winds, the rate of moisture loss in trees is drastically accelerated, which causes a faster decline compared to other seasons of the year. Coniferous trees react to these elemental conditions by drawing more and more water from the roots to feeds the leaves or needles. As a result, trees experience all sorts of health problems, primarily needle discoloration and loss. This tree health problem is known as winter burn, or winter desiccation.

Anti-Desiccants Can Prevent Winter Burn

A common method of preventing the affects of winter weather and moisture loss in trees, including winter burn, is to include anti-desiccant treatments to your regular tree care routine. Anti-desiccants are effective at abating this cycle of water over-consumption and needle loss in trees because they are specially formulated to stop moisture in its tracks. Anti-desiccant treatments are a wax coating application applied to the needles and leaves of trees that acts as a barrier against harsh winters, freezing temperatures and dry air. Think of anti-desiccant coatings like your hand moisturizers or house humidifiers, which promote moisture retention and abates moisture loss in our skin.

Additional Ways to Protect Trees in Winter:

► Mulch Around Trees
► Insulate/Wrap Tree Trunks
► Brace Young or Vulnerable Trees
► Prevent Deer Damage
► Remove Heavy Snow on Branches
► Keep Ice Salts Away
► Prune in the Spring and Fall
► Annual Tree Inspections

Where to Get Winter Tree Service in Indianapolis, Indiana

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. Contact us to learn more about tree care in Indianapolis, IN today.

Where to Recycle Your Christmas Tree in Indianapolis

Posted on December 30, 2020 by Completetree

Although Christmas Day is behind us, the beloved tree is still standing and decorated in the living room. That’s the way to continue the seasonal spirit into the New Year! But before long, you will have to take down your verdant Christmas tree, and find a way to dispose of it nearby. Some neighborhoods actually have a community garbage service that is scheduled to collect Christmas trees on an upcoming day.

If you do not have access to curbside Christmas tree garbage collection, or perhaps you miss the collection day, there are plenty of other places you can recycle your old Christmas tree in Indianapolis!

Indianapolis Indiana Tree Service — Indianapolis Winter Tree Service 317-783-2518

Indianapolis Department of Public Works and Indy Parks

The Indianapolis Department of Public Works and Indy Parks are this holiday season’s GO-TO Christmas tree recycling source! From Dec. 25 to Jan. 31, there will be several locations set up throughout Marion County, inside local public parks, for anyone to dispose of their Christmas trees. Not only is this service free of charge, but you can appreciate and feel good about the fact that you are actually RECYCLING your Christmas tree! That’s because all Christmas trees that are dropped off are reused as soil blends, mulch, and wood chippings in several different Indianapolis public parks and communities!

What You Need to Know About Christmas Tree Drop Off

Before you drop off your Christmas tree, remove all decorations, lighting, tinsel, and hooks. Then find an Indianapolis Department of Public Works Indy Park Christmas tree disposal location nearest you, here. Be sure to thoroughly secure your Christmas tree to the top of your vehicle using quality cargo support straps or ratchet straps. If you can fit your tree inside the trunk, be sure you can still close it all the way. It is not recommended to use bungee cords or ropes to secure a half-open trunk. If you are transporting your Christmas tree in the bed of a truck, still use straps or weights to ensure it does not fly out.

A Full List of Drop Off Locations in Marion County:

? Sahm Park
? Krannert Park
? Northwestway Park
? Ellenberger Park
? Garfield Park
? Perry Park
? Riverside Park
? Broad Ripple Park

What Happens to Recycled Christmas Trees in Indianapolis?

Not only do the Indianapolis Department of Public Works and Indy Parks make Indianapolis Christmas tree disposal easy and free of charge, but they also make it very worth your while. That is because all Christmas trees dropped off for recycling are repurposed into wood chips, mulch materials, and soil blends, all of which are used in our local public parks and surrounding communities! In fact, last year Park Maintenance chipped more than 7,200 Christmas trees, and dispersed them in public parks all throughout the city! Now that is something the whole family can feel good about! What a great opportunity to teach your children about Eco-consciousness and preservation too!

Are You in Need of Winter Tree Service in Indianapolis?

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for winter 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, an entire lot cleared, or some routine tree service like tree trimming or pruning, we can deliver the prompt and professional service you expect, and at a fair price. Call 317-783-2518 to request a free estimate, today.

Professional Tips for Winterizing Trees

Posted on November 24, 2020 by Completetree

Just like you would the rest of your home, prior to the cold season arriving, it is important to prepare your trees for winter conditions. Weakened, exposed, or otherwise vulnerable trees can be subjected to irreversible damage caused by inclement weather. Prevent losing your landscaping trees from these causes and more by implementing some winter protection.

Continue below to learn some professional tips on how to winterize your trees before winter is here.

Winter Tree Service Indianapolis Indiana — Winter Tree Service in Indianapolis 317-783-2518

Tree Winterization Advice You Should Consider

Even though trees look like they are dead or inactive in the winter, they are actually alive and well. They are working hard to regulate their metabolism and stay strong till spring season blooming. Even in winter, trees are growing at their roots, limbs, and more. To help trees accomplish this through the winter, implement some important seasonal tree care practices.

Here are some tips for winterizing your trees:

☙ Pruning

Until the ground is frozen and the first full frost has fallen, it is not too late to prune back some of your landscaping trees. Just be sure you are extensively experienced and retain the proper tools for the job, or hire a professional tree service company in Indianapolis for insured work you can trust.

☙ Mulching and Aeration

The changing weather conditions in winter also affect the temperature and moisture levels in the soil, which are important to tree health. For this reason and more, it is wise to aerate the soil surrounding your landscaping trees to ease compaction, and follow up with a proper mulching around the base of the tree trunk.

☙ Fertilization and Watering

Using a balanced fertilizer is optional when it comes to tree winterization, however, it is highly recommended. Be sure you know what you are doing in terms of tree fertilization, otherwise, it is even more recommended to hire a certified arborist for the job. For ornamental and fruit trees, a dormant spray might also be a good addition to pre-winter tree care. Talk to your arborist for advice.

Certified Arborist and Tree Service Experts in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional arborist and tree care service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. 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!