Tree Mulch Maintenance Tips For Fall

As the weather cools down and the leaves begin to change color, it’s time to start thinking about fall tree care. One important task is mulch maintenance. Mulch helps protect tree roots from extreme temperatures, keeps moisture in the soil, and provides nutrients for the tree.

Continue below to learn what you need to know about mulching maintenance in the fall and winter season, plus who to trust for licensed tree services in your area.

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

How to Mulch Trees in the Fall

Below are some top tips for maintaining your tree’s mulch in the fall season. By following these tips, you can help your tree stay healthy and strong through the fall and winter.

Every year, tree roots grow and expand. As they do, the mulch around the tree can start to break down and become compacted. This can reduce the amount of air and water that can reach tree roots. To prevent this, add a layer of fresh mulch around your tree in the fall.

If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, you may need to replace your tree’s mulch more often. Heavy rains can wash away nutrients and compact the soil.

Fall is a good time to check the depth of your tree’s mulch. Mulch beds should be no more than 3 inches deep. Any deeper and it can start to suffocate tree roots.

Best Types of Mulch for Trees

Mulch is an important part of tree care. It helps protect trees from extreme temperatures, keeps roots moist, and prevents weeds from growing. There are many different types of mulch, so it’s important to choose the right one for your tree. Here are some of the best types of mulch for trees:

Wood Chips: Wood chips are a great type of mulch for trees. They help insulate the roots from extreme temperatures, retain moisture, and prevent weed growth.

Bark: Bark is another great type of mulch for trees. It helps protect the roots from extreme temperatures and prevents weed growth.

Compost: Compost is a great type of mulch for trees. It helps retain moisture and provides nutrients for the tree.

Straw: Straw is a great type of mulch for trees. It helps insulate the roots from extreme temperatures and retains moisture.

Grass Clippings: Grass clippings are a great type of mulch for trees. They help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Are you looking for reputable tree care in the Indy areas? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We offer tree removal, tree stump solutions, tree trimming, pruning, and more for both residential and commercial customers.

Related Posts:

Bad Tree Mulching Practices to Avoid This Fall
Why You Should Mulch Your Trees Every Spring and Winter
Common Tree Problems That Happen in the Fall

How to Get Indianapolis Tree Service at an Affordable Price

When you need tree service you can count on and at a price you can afford, Complete Tree Care is the right call to make!

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

Indianapolis Tree Service and Tree Removal

Complete Tree Care is a valued tree service company based out of Indianapolis, Indiana. As a family owned and operated business that has served the Central Indiana communities for over 30 years, you can trust us for all your tree care needs. And best of all, you can count on our Indianapolis tree contractors for honest and fair prices.

We understand the value of a dollar, but more importantly, care about providing safe and effective tree service to all those in need. By maintaining economy-based prices, providing honest estimates, and performing outstanding work, we have earned ourselves a steadfast reputation among the surrounding Hoosier communities as a trusted and affordable choice for tree removal and tree service.

Tree Care in Indianapolis at its Finest

When you call Complete Tree Care, you can expect a prompt answer and a warm greeting. We value our customers and remain dedicated to providing unparalleled customer service and support. Our Indianapolis tree service contractors and office managers make your inquiries and tree work needs a top priority. We treat each job as if it were our own properties.

As professional tree specialists, we know precisely how to manage every tree service job requested of us. We only use quality equipment to carry out our tree care services and never neglect safety. And if you have a tree emergency after regular business hours, we offer two separate after-hours phone lines! From tree removal and tree trimming to stump grinding, tree disease treatment, and more, our professionals are prepared to deliver exceptional tree service for both residential and commercial properties.

Are you ready to schedule your autumn tree care needs? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis Indiana tree services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients.

You Should Also Read:

Get Spring Tree Service Deals in Indianapolis at Complete Tree Care
3 Reasons Why You Should Never Perform Tree Work Yourself
Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Removal

4 Topsoil Problems That Can Negatively Affect Tree Health

If you are having trouble with your newly-planted or transplanted landscaping trees, it could be due to poor soil conditions. It is important for soil to retain the proper pH levels in order to be conducive to tree growth and ongoing health. Continue reading to learn about the top 4 most common soil problems, including what you can do about them.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

Top 4 Soil Problems and How to Solve Them

Clay Soil

Too much clay in your dirt will come with some problems. It hinders water penetration, or at least slows it down dramatically, which means that tree and shrub roots cannot get adequate amounts of water. Unfortunately, it takes anywhere from 5 to 10 years to completely do away with this problem, but start by removing 6 inches of clay, and then filling the bottom with a few inches of quality compost soil. Then continue by planting your tree or shrub on top. This helps to creates new topsoil.

Compacted Soil

Not only does soil compaction reduce the structural integrity of your dirt, but it also prevents adequate water penetration. It is often caused by constant pressure over the years from heavy objects like sheds, playgrounds, and concrete patios, as well as repetitive foot traffic and motor vehicles. To relieve this problem, increase the frequency of hollow tine aeration. If your case is severe, you may need to rip up the soil. Once you have a new foundation of fresh quality topsoil to work with, consider installing pavers or flagstones to relieve heavy traffic.

Hard-to-Dig Soil

Extremely hard soil is very difficult to cultivate. If you can’t dig up enough to create a suitable hole for planting, you can’t plant anything at all. To help ease the struggle of hard-to-dig dirt, you may need to have a secondary irrigation water stubbed into the yard, followed by installing a temporary hose bib into the stubbed secondary water. If this is not possible, culinary water practices may be your best option to moisten soil.

Rocky Soil

The only thing worse than soil that is too hard or compact is soil with too many rocks. Although suitable for plants and trees, it can be very hard to work with. Digging, cultivating, and more are all made more difficult when there is a presence of excess rocks and gravel. TO help this problem, you can choose to use raised garden beds or add a new level of fresh topsoil (at least 6 inches for best results).

Are you interested in enhancing the health of your landscaping trees through routine tree maintenance like trimming, pruning, and deep root fertilization? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We offer tree removal, tree stump solutions, tree trimming, pruning, and more for both residential and commercial customers.

Related Posts:

How to Spot the Signs of Tree Stress
How to Mulch Around a Tree
How to Prevent Poor Tree Health

FAQS About Tree Care in the Fall

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

Fall Tree Care Indianapolis IN 317-783-2518
Fall Tree Care Indianapolis IN 317-783-2518

Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn Tree Care

Do I Need to Mulch a Tree in the Fall?

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

Do I Need to Water a Mature Tree?

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

When Do Trees Need to Be Pruned?

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

Can I Prune My Trees Myself?

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

Should I Top My Trees in Fall?

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

Can I Plant a Tree in Fall?

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

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

You Should Also Read:

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

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Do Trees Need Care in the Fall?

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.

Indianapolis Tree Service
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

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.

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Are Rabbits Damaging Your Trees?

In our last blog, we discussed how to protect your landscaping trees from territorial bucks. But there is another species of animal that you should also watch out for: rabbits. Rabbits are a common tree pest this time of year, and their bad habits can cause your trees to suffer a swift decline. If you notice even a minor level of rabbit activity around your property, it is wise to take the proper precautions in protecting your trees from damage.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about rabbits and tree damage in spring.

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Tree and Shrub Rabbit Damage

During the spring, rabbits target young trees and shrubs for the inner tissue between the bark and wood of the trunk and stems. They start at the base of the trunk, and work their way around the tree; a behavior known as tree girdling. This eventually kills a tree because the downward flow of nutrients from the foliage to the root system is disrupted.

Other animals are known for this type of tree damage too, such as voles. In fact, see our blog, “How to Put a Stop to Vole Girdling” to learn more. This feeding activity increases when springtime yields are in bloom. Their favorite trees and shrubs to pillage include apple, barberry, burning bush, crabapple, flowering quince, honey locust, pear, raspberries, redbud, roses, serviceberry, and winged euonymus.

If you have any of these trees or shrubs on your property, you can be sure rabbits are on the hunt, nearby. Even if you do not have these particular kinds, but other trees and shrubs, your property can still be a target this season. This likelihood is increased when food is scarce and rabbit populations are high, which often occurs in the springtime when their reproduction cycles are most active.

Protection Against Nuisance Rabbits

Fortunately, there is plenty of precautions you can take to ensure your trees and shrubs are guarded against rabbits and other types of pests. The best method that has been an accepted practice across the board is fencing and chicken wire. Since rabbits can dig and burrow, you must plant chicken wire fencing a foot into the ground, followed by an actual fence tall enough so rabbits cannot jump over.

Another approach is tree wrapping. You can wrap a tree in a metal sheet, which obstructs their ability to access the bark. This, however, can be high maintenance and not visually appealing. Your best option is to discuss your tree care agenda with a licensed tree care professional who can give you advice and instruction based on extensive hands-on experience.

When nothing else seems to abate the rabbit damage to your trees, you may require professional wildlife control assistance, which includes making certain changes to your landscaping to thwart nuisance animal activity altogether.

Indianapolis Tree Service

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

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Will a River Birch Tree Damage My House?

River Birch trees, with their shimmery trunks and draping leaves, are absolutely lovely come spring and summer. As a water-loving tree species, they adapt well in moist conditions, especially near banks of rivers, hence their name. But many property owners are weary of planting new River Birch trees near their house in fear that the roots might grow excessively and damage the underground plumbing, and ultimately, the foundation.

Whether you are interested in purchasing a home with River Birches along the property, or you wish to add some to your existing landscaping, have no fear that they will give you trouble. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about River Birch tree care, including how to prevent their roots from causing damage on your property.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

About River Birches

River Birches (Betula nigra) are wetland-loving, water-thirsty trees that grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9. They require an abundant amount of water, which is why they are often found growing along the banks of rivers and other year-round bodies of water. Their root systems are very strong, and spread wide as they grow.

When River Birch trees do not get the water they need, they will stretch and lengthen toward any source of water. This is the behavior that has many property owners concerned. But their roots are not able to grow strong enough to damage a house or other structure. So there is really no need to worry about these trees on your property, especially if they are on the bank of a year-round body of water.

River Birch Tree Care

Here is exactly what you need to know about River Birch trees to put your mind at ease about the potential for property damage: So long as River Birches have ample amounts of water, they should never pose a problem to your underground plumbing or property’s foundation. Other than ample water, River Birch trees are low-maintenance, fast-growing, and highly disease-resistant.

Routine Tree Service is Key to a Healthy Landscape

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for experienced tree service in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services, including tree removal, tree trimming, stump grinding, stump removal, lot clearing, and more. If you want professional and efficient service you can trust, Complete Tree Care is the right call!

Hardiness Zone facts for Trees, Flowers, and Plants

Wikipedia defines a hardiness zone as, “a geographic area defined to encompass a certain range of climatic conditions relevant to plant growth and survival.” If you are planning to remodel your landscaping this year or next, you will need to know some important facts about the Indiana hardiness zone map. Continue reading to get started!

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

Facts About the U.S. Hardiness Zone Map

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, “USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which plants are most likely to thrive at a location.” This map is based on the average minimum temperature that occurs during the winter, per year, over the past 30 years. Here are some more pertinent facts!

🍃 The Hardiness Zone Map was developed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

🍃 It is the most commonly-used reference for growing trees, plants, flowers, crops, and more.

🍃 It defines 13 regional zones according to annual extreme minimum temperature.

🍃 Annual extreme minimum temperature is the lowest average temperature during a period of one year.

🍃 If a tree species is categorized as being hardiness zone 10, it means that it can withstand a minimum temperature of 30.2 to 39 degrees Fahrenheit.

🍃 Various forms of the Hardiness Zone Map have been developed to match other regional climates, such as Canada and other countries.

🍃 The UK Royal Horticultural Society and US Sunset Western Garden Book systems are other forms of hardiness rating classifications.

🍃 You can find the zone for your specific zip code by visiting this USDA.gov webpage and selecting your state.

🍃 The USDA Hardiness Zones for Indiana are 5 and 6, specifically 5b, and 6a, and 6b.

🍃 Common trees that are hardy to Indiana zones include Ash, Cedar, Pine, Hemlock, Elder, Birch, Beech, Cherry, Walnut, Chestnut, Buckeye, Hickory, Locust, Magnolia, Maple, Oak, Poplar, Sweetgum, Sycamore, Willow, and more.

🍃 Warmer zones, such as 9 through 11, are located in the southern parts of the country where you’ll find more tropical-like flora, such as Palm trees.

🍃 Central and northern coastal areas are middle zones, between 6 and 8.

✨ We hope you enjoyed these popular agricultural facts! Be sure to share them with all your gardening friends! If you have questions about tree care, contact a licensed Indianapolis tree service company for expert information and advice you can trust.

Indianapolis Tree Service

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

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!

How to Put a Stop to Vole Girdling

If you have ornamental trees in your yard, you may be at risk of a common nuisance wildlife occurrence known as vole girdling, which generally becomes a problem around fall and winter. Voles will chew the bark of planted and ornamental tree trunks, causing extensive bark and tissue damage. If you want your trees to grow tall and strong, you must put a stop to any vole activity on your property.

Continue reading to learn the most effective method for protecting your trees from nuisance voles.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

Tree Girdling

Girdling is basically a chewing action. Voles will nibble and chew at tree bark and roots when there is not much else around for them to eat. This is why tree girdling is most noticeable in the early spring, once all the snow melts away. The most common trees targeted are fruit trees, especially apple trees, chestnut trees, and even junipers.

Signs of vole girdling are often very easy to discern. Look for wide patches of missing bark near the base of tree trunks, or on tree roots. Although not necessarily a sign of girdling, a common sign of a vole infestation is large spots of dead grass in your lawn. If you know you have a vole problem, you can prevent tree girdling more effectively by taking action before the damage can occur.

Preventing Vole Girdling

The best way to prevent tree girdling is to mitigate the nuisance wildlife activity on your property. This includes making any necessary environmental modifications, and even hiring a professional wildlife abatement company for animal proofing services. Effective environmental modifications basically entail removing any food, water, and shelter sources used by nuisance wildlife. This includes making sure your lawn is cut very short. The less underbrush and ground cover, the less places voles have to hide.

When it comes to protecting gardens and fruit trees, you may want to try installing a type of fence or barrier. For instance, homeowners have had success with vole control by installing hardware cloth cylinders around the base of tree trunks. For best results, use a mesh fencing that is 1/4 inch or less in size, and bury it at least 3 inches into the ground.

Indianapolis Tree Care

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

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518

What is Tree Fertilization?

Just like most living organisms on the planet, trees need micro and micro-nutrients to survive. Tree fertilization is a common tree care practice that provides supplemental nutrients for newly-sprouting and young trees. Continue reading to learn more about tree fertilization, including it’s many benefits.

Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Service 317-783-2518

Reasons to Fertilize a Tree

The most common reasons why tree are administered fertilization treatments include aesthetics, strength, and longevity. Tree fertilization provides added nutrients, which in turn help a tree grow strong and healthy, and live longer. Not only does this help a tree look beautiful and rich in color, it gives the tree durability and an increased resistance to inclement weather, disease, pests, nuisance wildlife, and other forms of environmental bearings.

Micro vs. Macro-Nutrients

Trees require both micro-nutrients and macro-nutrients, but they use more macros than micros. Macro-nutrients include elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sulfur. Micro-nutrients are made up of nitrogen, zinc, copper, magnesium, chlorine, molybdenum, and boron.

Although a tree does not need as many micro-nutrients, without a sufficient amount, they will experience vulnerability or decline. Without the proper levels of macros, trees will also greatly suffer, and at a much faster pace. Tree fertilization helps to make up for any nutrient deficiencies that might be at play.

Protect Your Trees With Routine Care!

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.

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-783-2518