How to Measure a Tree’s Critical Root Zone

Posted on October 17, 2016 by Completetree

Adequate mulching is an effective method for protecting your tree’s critical root zone or CRZ. In fact, in terms of tree health, mulch is just as important as fertilizer and water. It is important to know how to locate and measure your trees CRZ so that you may better protect it from inclement weather and pests.

Continue reading to learn more about a tree’s critical root zone and how to measure yours. You can do it all on your own and even include your kids for a great learning experience. All you need to get started is a tape measurer, a pencil, and a calculator!

Tree Protection Zone

The critical root zone of a tree is also referred to as a tree protection zone. Essentially, it is an invisible or imaginary circle that runs along or just outside the drip line of a tree. This area is important to a tree because it is where the most critical tree roots are located beneath the ground. That is why it is also called a “protection” zone.

These are the roots that require the most protection and care. Although you can estimate your tree’s CRZ by looking at the drip line, it is better determined by measuring it. You will need a long tape measurer, something to write with, paper to record your measurements, and a calculator to multiply your numbers.

Calculating the CRZ

To determine the actual radius of your tree’s CRZ, you must first measure the circumference of the tree trunk. Be sure to measure the trunk at 4 feet above the ground to ensure an accurate measurement. The general rule of thumb is that for every inch of tree trunk, the radius increases by 1.5 feet.

So once you have the circumference, you just multiply the diameter of the trunk by 1.5, and then you will have the proper radius for your trees critical root zone. In order to get the diameter, measure it’s circumference and multiply it by pi (3.14).

Here is an example:

Trunk circumference = 45 inches
45 ÷ 3.14 = 14.5
Trunk diameter = 14.5 inches
1.5 feet = 18 inches
14.5 × 18 = 261 inches
261 inches = 21.75 feet

CRZ = 21 feet 9 inches

In this example, you would measure 21 feet and 9 inches out from the tree trunk in all four directions, and then connect all four points to create a circle. Within this imaginary circle would be the tree’s critical root zone. It is important to keep this area adequately mulched all year long to protect the base of the trunk and underlying soil from dehydration, insufficient nutrition, disease, and pests. Talk to your local Indianapolis tree care specialist about protecting your trees with routine tree service.

Indianapolis Tree Care

Call A Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for free advice regarding routine tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We have extensive experience in the tree care industry and provide a wide range of tree services for commercial and residential properties. Our tree care services include tree trimming, pruning, tree removal, stump grinding, stump removal, lot clearing, and much more. Call 317-783-2518 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis tree care, today.

Strategic Tree Placement Can Reduce Outside Noise

Posted on September 5, 2016 by Completetree

Trees provide us with so many benefits. They breathe out oxygen and breathe in carbon dioxide, while we breathe out carbon dioxide and breathe in oxygen. Besides this essential phenomenon that supports all living organisms on earth, trees do so much more for us. They increase property value, provide shade and comfort, which also reduces energy consumption in the home, and they add beauty to sorts of landscapes.

But did you know that trees can also reduce the level of outdoor noise you hear from inside your property?

This is a wonderful noise control solution for homes and commercial businesses. Effective noise reduction can be achieved on your property by strategically placing trees around your landscaping. Continue reading to learn more about strategic tree placement and how it can reduce outside noise pollution.

Effective Noise Reduction

Trees can reduce the level of outdoor commotion since they are full of mass. By placing them in just the right spots, you can significantly reduce the level of outdoor noise you hear from inside your home or office. Such noises include animals, birds, traffic, inclement weather, construction, children at play, and more. Using trees as noise buffers is effective, but only if done right. You will require the assistance of an experience tree care company for accurate tree planning and placement.

Planning and Placement

First, the property must be inspected and assessed to determine where the main source of noise is located. Placing the trees as close to the source of noise and using a 20 to 100 foot-wide buffer of trees is the best practice and will greatly reduce noise pollution. The length of buffer generally depends on the size of the property.

Once the assessment and planning is complete, a professional tree service will move forward with the tree planting and placement process. Depending on the size and needs of the property, projects last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks and range in price. An on-site assessment is the most accurate method for estimating price and time frames for tree planning and placement.

Tree Species

Although full-canopied deciduous trees can work as effective noise buffers, evergreen trees are the most popular, effective, and recommended species to use. Not only does their dense fir block out noise, it provides more privacy for the property. This can also increase a home’s energy efficiency by allowing the house to maintain more steady indoor climates. Talk to your Indianapolis tree care company for advice on landscaping trees and noise reduction for your property.

Call Complete Tree Care Today!

Call A Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We have extensive, hands-on experience in the tree service industry, and provide a wide range of tree work for both residential and commercial properties. We also provide municipal tree services. And all at the most competitive prices in town! Call our office today at 317-783-2518 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis tree service, or some free tree care advice.

How to Prevent Moss Growth on Trees

Posted on August 5, 2016 by Completetree

In the appropriate setting, moss growth can be quite stunning. Waterfalls, forests, and along the shores of streams are common places moss grows without ever affecting our private landscapes. But when moss grows on our property’s favored trees, it can create a multitude of problems for both homeowners and the trees themselves. Moss can be a nuisance in many ways, and grow out of control if not managed properly.

Fortunately, moss growth can be controlled and even prevented. If you are starting to notice an increase in moss growth on your trees, it may be time to make some changes to your landscaping maintenance routine. Continue reading to learn some simple and effective methods to preventing moss growth on trees.

Moss Control and Prevention

In order to control and prevent moss growth, it is helpful to understand what makes moss thrive. Then simply eliminate any conditions or variables that contribute to moss growth! Creating unfavorable conditions for moss is the number one method for reducing or eliminating it. And to get rid of moss on tree trunks, it is necessary to start with the lawn. That’s because moss that grows on lawns is bound to reach the trees.

Moss Removal Tips

Water is moss’ best friend. Without it, moss simply cannot thrive. So try to water your lawn less often, and be sure to avoid soaking the tree trunk and tree bark during the grass-watering process. Moisture is a growth house for moss, so less moisture means less chance of moss infestation. Keep in mind that properties with more shade require less lawn watering.

Look up the proper pH levels for your lawn plants and gardens, and then use a soil testing kit to test the pH levels in your lawn. You can purchase these kits for a reasonable price at any local garden or home improvement store.

Treat your soil so that the pH levels fall within the proper parameters. Acidic soil should be treated with lime to create unfavorable soil conditions for moss growth. But be sure to not use too much because it can harm your garden and trees as well.

Outsource tree thinning services to thin out tree branches. This allows for more light, which in turn reduces moisture accumulation on trunks and bark. Be sure to use an experienced Indianapolis tree service company for professional assistance.

Use a punch-core aerator to aerate the soil in your lawn. You may also try introducing organic soil to the topsoil. Both of these methods will improve drainage and prevent standing water and slow water absorption. And this prevents moss growth.

Manually remove moss on trees with your hands. You can choose to use a power washer but it can damage your tree if you are not careful. Manual moss removal takes longer, but it is much safer for your trees.

Call Complete Tree Care Today!

Call A Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional Indianapolis tree service. 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! Call 317-783-2518 if you need tree removal in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding locations.

Need-to-Know Glossary Terms for Tree Care

Posted on July 14, 2016 by Completetree

If you are a new homeowner, or simply new to the landscaping and gardening world, you will soon discover that trees are an important part of your property, and require routine care in order to grow and thrive to their full capacity. One place to start when it comes to tree care is terminology. By reviewing some common tree care terms, you will better understand your research and be better prepared to discuss your tree care needs with a professional.

Continue reading and you will find a helpful glossary full of need-to-know tree care terms used for residential and commercial tree service.

Tree Care Terminology

Tree care is phrase used to describe the requirements and process for maintaining healthy, thriving trees. This includes routine inspections for pests, insects, and tree diseases, as well as, routine tree trimming, pruning, fertilizing, watering, and more. Already a bit confused? Don’t worry! These terms, along with a few others, will be covered below!

Crown or “Canopy” – This is the upper part of a tree. It is measured from the lowest branch to the longest, most outward branch, and again to the highest point of the tree. This includes all branches, leaves, and foliage.

Tree Trimming – Shortening the limbs and twigs of trees for the purpose of adding light and air flow, removing dead or disease branches, reducing obstructions, promoting new growth, and more.

Tree Pruning – Selectively removing branches or stems for the betterment of the whole tree. This is done for the same purposes as trimming.

Tree Thinning – This is a preferred method of tree pruning. Selectively removing interior growth and thinning out branch tips.

Tree Shaping – To selectively trim foliage and branches of trees to achieve an appealing or desired shape.

Tree Topping – To completely remove all top portions of a tree. It is considered by many to be an unnecessary and highly-detrimental practice.

Tree Pollard – This is a drastic means of tree pruning that involves the removal of all green growth and foliage, giving trees a “hat rack” appearance.

Shirt Raise – To prune only the lower branches and foliage of trees. This enables better access, reduces obstructions, and promotes more sunlight.

CODIT – Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees.

Dead-Wooding – Removing all dead, dying or diseased branches, twigs, limbs, and growth on a tree.

Root Prune – Severing sections of tree roots that pose hazardous or structural threats to its surroundings.

Stump Grinding – Shaving or cutting down a tree stump so that it is ground level.

Stump Removal – Extracting a whole tree stump from the ground.

Deep Root Fertilization – Inserting a probe (soil needle) 8 to 12 inches into the soil below the base of a tree, and then injecting a liquid fertilizer directly to the root system to provide additional nutrients for a tree.

Tree Spraying – To spray liquid insecticides and fungicides on trees to protect from pest infestations and tree diseases.

A Complete Tree Care – The Indianapolis tree care company to call for expert advice and tree service at an honest and fair price.

Call A Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional tree removal services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our tree care specialists have more than 30 years of experience, and retain the knowledge and skills needed to deliver quality tree service in a convenient time frame. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services, from tree trimming and tree pruning, to lot clearing, stump removal, and much more. Call 317-783-2518 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis tree service, today.