Tree Bark Damage Solutions for Indiana

Posted on September 22, 2021 by Completetree

Pest, infestation, harsh weather, lawn mowers, landscape work, home remodeling projects, nuisance wildlife, and vandalism are just some of the common causes for tree bark defects here in Indiana. Because we love our trees so much and value the numerous benefits they bestow onto us, bark damage and decline are things we never want for our landscaping trees. Fortunately, there may be viable recourse for trees with damaged bark.

Continue reading to learn what your options are for a tree with bark damage, and who to call for trusted tree care advice.

Facts About Tree Bark Damage Repair

When tree bark is damaged, the underlying tissue and wood can be exposed, which is highly detrimental to the tree. It is crucial to take action as soon as possible before the tree enters a heightened state of vulnerability. Once a tree is too weak, it can lead to extensive bark damage and overall tree decline.

When you see damaged tree bark, there are some things you need to do right away. You may need to consult a licensed Indianapolis tree service specialist for advice on where to find the proper supplies, how to use them, and the best post-care instructions for your particular tree species.

To repair tree bark in Indiana, you may need to:

▮ Remove all of the loose tree bark.
▮ Provide adequate irrigation and fertilization for the tree.
▮ Look into the possibility of bridge grafting.
▮ Plan and carry out an all-inclusive agricultural care schedule.
▮ Prevent further damage with environmental modifications and routine tree care.

How to Remove Damaged Tree Bark

To remove loose tree bark, you will need a set of sharp pruning shears that have been sterilized (or a knife). Then look for any bark that is loose, flapping, or bruised, and cut off any areas that match these descriptions. It is important to not damage the inner bark and cambium cell layer that is still alive and intact. You only want to remove outer bark.

Cutting right at the line of decay is the best point of reference for safe tree bark removal. Providing adequate water and fertilizer is crucial in order to reduce the potential for tree disease and vulnerability. It also promotes strong and sturdy tree growth and tissue repair.

When tree bark is wounded or exposed, various wood-eating and burrowing pests can invade the tree. Emerald Ash Borers, Wood Beetles, and more can harm a tree’s health and damage it even further. Be sure that you are taking the necessary precautions to protect a newly-cut tree from pest infestations, bacterial infections, and fungal growth.

Are you looking for professional tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for expert advice and guidance on residential and commercial tree maintenance. We offer tree removal, tree stump solutions, tree trimming, pruning, and more.

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Fundamental Industry Advice for Tree Pruning

Posted on August 6, 2021 by Completetree

Improper tree pruning can kill trees, so the techniques and methods used to prune trees is very specific. If you care about your landscaping trees, it is wise to learn as much as you can about proper tree care practices, especially when it comes to pruning. Continue reading to review some vital information about tree pruning, trimming, topping, and more.

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Proper Tree Pruning Standards

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.

Storm Damaged Trees

Take the time to inspect your trees after a severe rain or windstorm. If serious tree wounds are left untreated, it can harm the tree. If there is damage to your trees after a storm, contact your trusted tree care contractor for storm damage clearance and tree removal services for fallen trees. They may even need to trim or cut branches to remove hazards and obstacles created from the storm damage.

Harmful Effects of Tree Topping

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 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.

DIY Tree Pruning

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.

Hire a Professional Tree Service Company

When you need to have your trees pruned, hire a licensed and insured Indianapolis tree service contractor for professional tree trimming and pruning services. They have the proper knowledge, skills, training, and resources to get the job done, safely and efficiently. Be sure to ask them for licensing and insurance information, and whether or not they adhere to ANSI A300 tree pruning standards.

Do you need professional tree shaping, trimming, or pruning assistance? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis tree trimming and pruning services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

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5 Ways to Stop Moss Growth on Trees

Posted on July 20, 2021 by Completetree

In the right setting, moss can be very attractive: along streams, cascading down a mountain side, clinging to river rock, etc. But in the wrong place, such as trees, moss is actually a detriment, and even a nuisance. That is because moss grows abundantly and fast, taking over lawns, gardens, and anything else in its way. Moss also requires a substantial amount of water to thrive; so, when living on a tree, the moss takes most of the water needed for the tree to survive. The outcome: a distressed, thirsty tree on the brink of death. But the good news is that moss is easy to remove and prevent.

Continue reading to learn about 5 effective ways to stop the growth of moss on your property.

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How to Get Rid of Moss on Trees

Watering the Lawn

Water your lawn less frequently. But when you do water your lawn, water it deeply. This way, you can afford to water it less without the risk of your grass drying up and dying. And most importantly, when you water your lawn, be very careful to NOT get the trunks of your trees wet. This is the formula for moss growth.

Test pH Levels in the Soil

Knowing your lawn’s pH levels is helpful when it comes to preventing moss growth. Use a store-bought soil testing kit to determine the pH level of your soil. Acidic soils can be balanced out with lime treatments. This will create unfavorable conditions for moss, preventing it from growing.

Aerate the Lawn

On the topic of soil, it is wise to aerate the lawn to prevent moss growth. If you do not want to aerate the soil, you can introduce new organic topsoil to your existing lawn soil. This will improve drainage, thus preventing standing water and moss growth.

Remove By Hand

If you have loads of moss growing on one or more of your landscaping trees, you can instantly get rid of it by picking it off manually. Just be gentle doing to not jeopardize the integrity of the tree bark. In the wintertime during their dormant stage, you can also use a power washer to remove moss from trees.

Hire a Tree Care Company for Tree Thinning Service

Thinning the branches of your landscaping trees will be beneficial for the trees because it lets in more sunlight to your property. Not only does this promote more food production in the tree, it prevents the cold, wet conditions that can lead to moss growth. Keeping your tree trunk dry is critical to moss prevention.

Do your landscaping trees seem to be suffering this summer? 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.

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Top Advantages of Choosing Professional Tree Service

Posted on June 17, 2021 by Completetree

Landscaping is important to any homeowner that cherishes beautiful outdoor novelties and nature. Trees are a huge part of landscaping and property maintenance. Trees can add an undeniable degree of comfort, beauty, and character to any property. To care for them is a job in itself. Trees require routine care and maintenance in order to sustain their health and enable growth. A professional tree technician retains all the proper equipment and training to accurately facilitate residential and commercial tree services. There are several advantages of professional tree services; and a tree and landscaping lover should know them all!

Continue reading to learn a few more advantages of professional tree care for your home or property.

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Why Hire a Pro for Tree Care?

Experience and Training

A professional tree care company employs teams of highly trained and experienced tree technicians. These teams usually have anywhere from ten to twenty years of experience on average. Experience and training combined, they can accurately and safely remove trees, trim trees, and provide all other tree care services on any type of property. If your property is in a heavily wooded area, these chores are not an easy DIY job. Professional tree service is incredibly helpful for large, wooded lots, as well as lot clearing, stump removal, and stump grinding; jobs that an average home or property owner can’t accomplish on their own.

Licensed and Insured Work

On top of experience and training, it is comforting to have professional service that is licensed and insured. A good choice for a reliable tree care company should have these qualities to responsibly provide tree services to their clients. Knowing that the work is insured protects you as a consumer, as well as ensures quality work that is backed by the company.

Safety and Liability

One of the most important advantages of professional tree service is safety. There are several ways a person can injure themselves during a tree removal or maintenance job. It is crucial to use proper equipment and practices to service trees in any way. A professional tree tech understands how to properly handle trees and the tools that are used in the industry, without harming themselves or jeopardizing anyone else or their property. If a tree is cut incorrectly, it can fall in the wrong direction; perhaps on someone’s fence, roof, or car! An expert tree tech can avoid these accidents because they retain all the proper tools, equipment, knowledge, and experience.

Are you ready to discuss your tree maintenance and landscaping needs with a seasoned professional? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for affordable and reliable Indianapolis Indiana tree services and tree removal you can trust. We provide commercial work too.

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Questions and Answers About Oak Tree Care

Posted on June 3, 2021 by Completetree

Oak trees are a remarkable ancient species that provide a wide range of benefits for us and the surrounding environment. For these reasons, it is no surprise that you are interested in learning how to take better care of your oaks. Continue reading to review some common questions about oak tree care, and their answers too!

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Oak Tree Care FAQS:

How Big Does an Oak Tree Get?

When it comes to how big an oak tree can get, you must think about how old it can get. Oak trees can live up to 1,000 or more, but on average, live to be 200 years old. In fact, the Pechanga Great Oak Tree is considered to be the oldest in the world, coming in at a ripe age of 2,000 years. Although they live very long, they tend to max out in height, averaging between 50 and 70 feet. Branch to branch, their canopies can span as wide as 50 feet or more, and they produce an average of 2,000 acorns per year. White oaks tend to grow the tallest.

What are the Common Types of Oak Trees?

Our continent has the highest number of oak tree species, with 90 species native to the U.S., and 160 more in Mexico. The most prevalent oak trees found in Indiana include Northern and Southern Red oaks, Eastern White oaks, Chestnut oak, Bur oak, Black oaks, Scarlet oak, Pin oak, and Post oak.

Do Oak Trees Need to Be Pruned?

All trees require a specific regiment of care, and one of the most important parts of a tree care plan is annual pruning. Pruning oak trees and removing deadwood is a very delicate task compared to pruning other deciduous trees, so it should always be performed by a trained Indianapolis tree service professional.

Are Oak Trees Susceptible to Disease?

The two most common diseases that kill Oak trees are Sudden Oak Death and Oak Wilt. Sudden Oak Death (Phytophthora ramorum) is a water mold that takes down Oaks in as little as one month. Oak wilt is another lethal tree disease that is caused by the fungus Ceratocystis fagacearum. Additional diseases and pests that can impact an oak tree’s health include Powdery Mildew, Foamy Bark Canker (generally exclusive to California), galls, wood-boring beetles, gall wasps, and gypsy moths.

What Can I Do to Improve the Look of My Oak Trees?

The best way to get bountiful, robust, and brilliant looking oak trees is with a proper tree care plan. Trees require watering, fertilizing, mulching, sunlight, and more in order to grow strong and big. Talk to your professional tree service contractor for advice you can trust.

Do you have oak trees on your property that could use some TLC? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for oak tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and residential clients.

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Tree Care Tips for Homeowners Who Want an In Ground Pool

Posted on May 12, 2021 by Completetree

Adding a pool to your property this spring will certainly raise your home’s value; but be sure to take the proper measures to ensure your beautiful landscaping trees are not negatively affected by the construction and installation process. Trees add property value too! Continue reading to learn what you need to know about tree care before having an in-ground swimming pool installed.

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Preventative Maintenance Should Come Before Installation

Before construction begins for your in-ground swimming pool, be sure to talk to your contractor about their internal safety standards and practices in regard to landscape protection. You will want to know where they will need to enter your yard, which equipment will be driven on your lawn, which trees will need to be removed (if any), and much more. You will need to develop a plan together that will protect your trees during the construction process.

Tree Location

If trees are too close to a swimming pool, several inherent risks are posed. Not only can the leaves and pollen jeopardize the clarity of your pool water and add to the amount of manual maintenance you need to do, but it can also affect the tree root system. Trees that are too close are more likely to develop root stability problems, which can lead to tilting, tipping, and falling. This can subsequently cause the tree to experience health issues and eventual decline. As for your pool, the filter can be affected by all the falling tree debris, resulting in costly repair and replacement bills.

The general rule of thumb is to make sure trees are at least 2 ½ times the tree’s trunk diameter away from the lip of the swimming pool. Here’s an example on how to do the math:

Tree Trunk Diameter = 36 Inches
36 x 2.5 = 90 Inches
► This tree should be at least 90 inches (7.5 feet) away from the pool’s edge.

Pool Installation Crew

It is important to discuss how your pool company plans on installing your pool. That is because the impact of construction equipment and crew members can be highly detrimental to existing landscaping trees. Compaction of the critical root zones of trees can be easily prevented by simply discussing the concern upfront, and strategizing a way to avoid tree damage during the construction phase.

Certain tree species are more resilient to this type of stimuli, such as live oaks. However, it is still important to take the necessary precautionary measures anyway. Other tree species are particularly vulnerable under such conditions, such as Hackberry trees. These will quickly split, rot, and decline if impacted negatively by pool construction.

Additional Tree Care Tips For Pool Owners

It is best to install pools in the fall or winter when trees are dormant. The stress of the construction and hot summer heat can take a large toll on landscaping trees. Also, watch out for root damage when the pool installers begin to trench the ground. Roots should be cut cleanly, and never ripped or torn. This could cause uneven regeneration or root rot.

Do you need to remove some trees to make room for a new pool this summer? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional tree removal service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and residential clients.

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How to Mulch Around a Tree

Posted on April 5, 2021 by Completetree

Did you know that mulching is one of the most effective and beneficial method of tree care? In fact, properly mulching your landscaping trees can promote healthier, longer-lasting trees. Continue reading to learn the correct method of laying mulch around your landscaping trees, and where you can get affordable help with Indianapolis tree care near you.

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Spring is the Right Time to Re-Mulch Trees

When applied improperly, mulch can have negative effects on a tree’s health. For this reason, proper mulching methods are important, and should be practiced every spring. And since spring is here, it is time to start thinking about your seasonal tree care needs, including new mulch! Just a quick note, but mulching is not just a spring tree care task; it is also important to mulch your trees in the winter too! Get started in the Spring as soon as the ground has fully thawed. In the fall, you will wait until temperatures are pre-freezing, and then lay your mulch before the first winter front arrives.

Professional-Level Tree Mulching Advice

When it comes to mulching your trees, it is recommended to use organic mulch. Although inorganic mulch is tempting since it doesn’t need to be replenished as often, the benefits derived from organic materials and decomposition outweigh the benefits of using inorganic mulch. In fact, most arborists prefer to use an organic product.

When mulching your trees, keep in mind that using too much can actually be detrimental. Over-mulching can lead to tree stress, excessive ground moisture, root rot, tree and bark diseases, insect and rodent infestations, tree girdling, reduced air penetration, unbalanced soil pH, and more. To be safe, keep mulch depths between 2 and 4 inches.

Be sure to check the project area for adequate water drainage before applying mulch. If the water drainage is poor, then too much mulch may lead to many of the above-mentioned tree problems. Try using less mulch for areas with inadequate drainage.

Before applying new mulch over existing mulch, first measure the depth to prevent over-mulching. If the depth is still 2 to 4 inches, do not apply new mulch. Instead, use a rake to release the top matted layers and refresh the look of the mulch. If faded, visit your local gardening store for a spray-on, water-soluble, vegetable-based dye to brighten up the color. Also, be sure to also spread out any piles that may have built-up against the tree trunk. The base of the tree should be exposed.

Do you need professional Indianapolis tree care or tree assistance? 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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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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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.

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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.

How to Prevent Poor Tree Health

Posted on February 4, 2021 by Completetree

It is wintertime, so it’s expected for trees to be well into their dormancy stage. But there is a different between dormant trees and dying trees, even though the signs are virtually indiscernible at first glance. Dying trees are not green under the bark, and do not show signs of growth buds on their branches. Talk to a local tree care contractor to assess the condition of a tree that has given you some concerned. They will be able to determine whether or not your tree is dormant, dead, or dying. When it comes times to ask yourself what caused your tree to experience problems, you will need to understand a few things about tree care.

Continue reading to learn what it takes to ensure landscaping trees remain healthy and hazard-free assets to your property.

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What You Need to Know About Tree Health

Fundamentally, trees need water, nutrients, and sunlight to survive. But trees really need a lot of water. In fact, some trees require hundreds of gallons of water each day! There are several other factors that influence the health of a tree (i.e. soil, weather, pollution, over-crowdings, etc.), but these three elements are the most influential. If even one of them is disturbed, it can cause the tree distress, and eventual decline in health. And a spot of decline leaves a tree in a more vulnerable state, making it more susceptible to pest infestations and tree diseases.

Fortunately, there are plenty of effective ways to make sure your trees survive the winter, and thrive throughout each upcoming season. Below are some important tree care tips to consider if you are concerned about the condition of your landscaping trees.

Professional Tree Care Advice to Follow All Year

Provide routine tree care, including trimming, pruning, watering, fertilizing, and mulching. Pruning dead branches is especially important to prevent tree cankers, weevils, and blights.

Use a professional tree care company for major tree work, like tree removal, stump grinding, tree diseases, infestations, and more.

Only plant drought-tolerant tree species if you live in a region where hot-spells and dry-spells are common.

Remove dead or dying trees IMMEDIATELY. The longer they are on your property, the more problems and hazards they can potentially impose.

Thin out any underbrush and small tree canopies to improve the vigor of your other trees. Provide canopy thinning in the spring to promote more sunlight and healthy growth.

Where to Get Trusted Indianapolis Indiana Tree Service Year-Round

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional tree inspection services from a certified arborist in Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding locations. Our certified tree service company in Indianapolis delivers a wide range of skilled tree removal and tree care services for residential and commercial properties. If you have a tree emergency, we also offer same day service, and two separate after-hours phone lines. Request a free estimate, today.