Spring to Winter Seasonal Pruning Tips for Trees

Posted on May 12, 2022 by Completetree

Tree pruning is a complicated process for the novice property owner. Just one incorrect cut can lead to a lifetime of health and growth issues for a tree. Furthermore, there is a lot of conflicting information on the best times of year to prune trees. That is partly due to the different hardiness zones throughout the country. Here in Indiana, we are hardiness zone 5B and 6A, which makes a big difference on when to prune and when not to prune.

Continue below for a basic seasonal guide on tree pruning, plus who to trust in Indianapolis for skilled tree service at an affordable price.

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Why Should You Prune Your Trees?

There are several important benefits of tree pruning. Mostly, pruning trees supports healthier, stronger tree growth and longer tree life. It will also improve fruit and flower blooms. Additionally, pruning trees improves curb appeal and property aesthetics. Overgrown trees can hover closely to a house or generate too much yard coverage, which can be unappealing and even lower property value. Another reason why pruning is beneficial for trees is safety. Overgrown trees can disrupt power lines, which can lead to fallen telephone poles, fires, or electrocution accidents. Large, overgrown branches can also break off, causing blunt force trauma accidents or property damage.

Tree Pruning Per Season

Spring

Tree pruning can be beneficial for trees that bloom in spring. Spring tree pruning can enhance the flower growth and generate fuller, larger canopies. Prune them soon after the flowers fade away. Trees that bloom in the mid-to-late summer are also best pruned in the springtime, or even earlier in the late winter.

Summer

Summer tree pruning can also be good for trees if done correctly. Pruning off branches that you do not want to grow longer or larger helps to slow down their growth rate. That is due to less leaf presence. The fewer leaves, the less the tree needs to distribute nutrients to the roots. This inhibits growth.

Fall

You do not want to prune trees in the fall season. In the fall, the air is still contaminated with decay-causing fungi that can infect open tree cuts and wounds, and ultimately, cause tree decline. Because tree wounds and cuts in the bark heal slower in the fall, pruning will leave a tree more vulnerable to disease and pest infestation.

Winter

Winter is an acceptable time to prune trees, so long as you wait until the coldest part of the season has passed. Wintertime tree pruning is beneficial because it encourages bigger, better, healthier growth come spring. In the winter, trees are dormant, which makes it a lot safer to incorporate cuts, plus easier to spot problematic branches and limbs.

Spring Tree Care Checklist:

□ Pruning
□ Mulching
□ Watering
□ Fertilizing
□ Trimming
□ Shaping
□ Stabilization/Staking
□ Risk Abatement
□ Wildlife Protection
□ Inspections

Are you looking for professional tree care services near you? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for affordable tree trimming and tree pruning in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We provide residential and commercial tree services.

How to Hire an Honest Indianapolis Tree Service Company

Posted on April 11, 2022 by Completetree

Trees are incredibly valuable to the planet and every living organism that lives here. This also makes trees significant assets to property owners. Trees can grow for hundreds of years, and so long as you implement routine tree care, they achieve outstanding strength and height. Plus, they provide a wide range of benefits, including oxygen, viable Eco-systems, shade, privacy, increased energy efficiency, sound barriers, snow fencing, and so much more. All of these advantages make trees an important part of your property’s overall investment, as well as your quality of life.

For these reasons, choosing an Indianapolis tree service professional is something that you should take seriously. There are hundreds of contractors who claim to have the credentials to perform tree work, but not all of them are the best choice for your landscaping needs.

Continue reading to learn how to separate the real tree service professionals in Indianapolis from the ones that are not to be trusted with your hard-earned cash.

What to Look For in a Tree Service Contractor

Licensing

Having a professional license shows that a tree service company is qualified to perform the duties they are advertising to provide. Check to make sure you are hiring a tree care service that has the proper permits, licenses, and most importantly, sufficient insurance coverage in the case of an accident on your property. These documents prove that they are a qualified tree service company.

Experience

The first attribute you want to look for in an Indianapolis tree care contractor is experience. Ask them how long they have been in business as their own company, as well as, when they began their hands-on experience. Their total combined experience is a good indication of their knowledge, skills, and understanding of the industry’s best practices.

At least ten years’ experience is a good number to start with; after this amount of time, a person should have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills. Furthermore, it shows that they are good at what they do; after all, who would stay in a job they weren’t any good at?

Company Ratings

In this day and age, we have the internet, which provides us with an abundant amount of information. One of the most reliable resources to use on the internet, when it comes to assessing a business, is customer reviews and testimonials. Read what past clients have to say about the tree care providers in your area and choose one that has a larger number of positive testimonials than negative ones.

Keep in mind that no one is perfect, and sometimes people exaggerate, so if there are a few poor reviews, it is not always an indication of their service or skills. If a tree care company has several poor reviews, then you can probably assume they are not operating with good business practices.

Would you like to skip the hassle of researching dozens of tree care companies in the Indy area and just go straight to the best source for trusted tree service near you? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients with comprehensive tree care solutions.

The Advantages of Tree Pruning in Winter

Posted on March 11, 2022 by Completetree

Most would agree the spring and summer seasons in are the prime time to care for your landscaping and trees. But the truth is, it is important to pay attention to your trees during the wintertime as well. Winter tree care is highly beneficial for your landscaping trees in many ways, especially tree pruning.

Continue reading to learn all the advantages of winter tree pruning, and protocol for prompt and professional tree service you can trust in your neighborhood.

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Winter Tree Pruning Promotes Healthy Growth

Treat pruning is the practice of trimming and cutting back tree branches for the purpose of stimulating new healthy growth. This is why tree pruning is so vital for winter. The harsh conditions are influential enough on landscaping trees, but add that with neglect, in your trees are not likely to survive the season. Tree pruning in the wintertime is a common practice because it promotes vigorous, healthy branch growth come spring and summer. The best time to prune trees is in the coldest part of the season. By then, trees are fully in their dormancy stage.

A Haircut for a Tree?

You can think of it as getting a haircut for yourself; if you want your hair to grow and be healthy, it requires occasional trimming, as well as other forms of care, like routine cleansing, conditioning, eating a healthy diet, taking vitamins, and more. In a similar sense, trees require the same type of care in order to grow strong and healthy. And winter tree pruning is exactly what they need this time of year.

Why Prune in the Wintertime?

There are several advantages to pruning trees in the wintertime. These advantages are most visible come spring and summer when foliage and branches are full-grown and bursting with life and color. This includes flowers, leaves, and fruits. Pruning during the dormancy stage of trees also allows the exposed cuts to recover and heal better. This reduces the likelihood of tree diseases, pest infestations, and infections. There is also less of a chance for trees to wilt due to a lack of water. During the dormancy stage, trees to not require the same amount of water as they do during the growing seasons.

Ready to schedule your seasonal tree services? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured tree trimming and pruning in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients.

How To Tell if You Have Dangerous Trees On Your Property

Posted on December 8, 2021 by Completetree

Trees grow and grow and can reach incredible dimensions. They are tall, heavy, and subsequently, dangerous in the case that one was to fall over. Trees are vital parts of our surrounding landscapes and Eco-systems; however, they can also pose several safety threats if not properly maintained.

A fallen tree can damage anything in its path, including vehicles, buildings, homes, patios, bridges, power lines, telephone poles, man-made structures, landscaping, and more. It is important to know what a dangerous tree looks like so that you can prevent serious and costly accidents.

Continue reading to learn the signs of a tree that has a high risk of falling, and who to call for trusted tree removal service near you.

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Common Tree Hazards to Look Out For

Many factors can lead to a tree falling over, including construction damage, storm damage, wildlife tampering, disease, and more. The most common causes are undernourishment, tree disease, and pest infestation. These factors can quickly throw a tree’s health into decline, which renders a tree weak and more vulnerable to dying. And a dead or dying tree has a high risk of falling over. When it comes to a tree potentially falling over, here are the top signs to lookout for:

► Leaning Trunk – The most obvious sign that a tree might fall over is if it is leaning to one side. This blatant indication of imbalance is a forewarning that something is not right with the tree. This makes the tree a hazard, and it should be removed as soon as possible. Something as minor as a windy day can cause it to finally topple.

► Increased Wildlife Activity – A hole in the tree trunk is a great place for wildlife to take shelter, including birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and more. However, too much wildlife activity can be a sign that a tree is not as healthy as it could be. This is especially true with insects. If you notice an increase in bugs, it could be a result of a sick or dying tree.

► Trunk Cavities – Many times, a tree will self-prune and drop branches from the trunk. This causes holes in the trunk, which then lead to tree decay, pest infestation, and wildlife activity. However, according to the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, as long as there is enough wood surrounding the hole, there is a good chance the tree will not fall.

► Rotting Roots – Root rot is a common tree disease that occurs as a result of several factors. And unfortunately, it is hard to spot. Look to the base of the trunk for signs like excessive or sudden mushroom growth or moist bark. Fungi growth generally implies that the tree is rotting from within, which puts the tree in an incredible unstable condition. Also look at the leaves. When a tree loses leaves from the outside in, it is a sign that something is wrong with the root zone.

Do you want to protect your landscaping trees from becoming a liability or hazard in Indiana? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for Indianapolis Indiana tree services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients all through the central parts of the state.

How to Stop Deer Damage to Trees in Fall

Posted on November 4, 2021 by Completetree

Usually when you see a deer, you feel honored and excited. And when it’s a buck, you really feel like you’ve hit the jackpot! However, frequent deer sightings can sometimes veer more towards a nuisance deer problem depending on the impact they have on your property, particularly on your trees. In fact, many homeowners who live near wooded areas begin to question whether or not deer activity can harm their trees.

Aside from grazing, many homeowners ask why bucks rub their antlers on newly-planted trees, and if this behavior can injure young trees. These are very good questions, and important information to your overall tree care routine.

Continue reading to learn why bucks are rubbing their antlers on your trees, and how to stop them from causing any damage with this behavior.

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The Link Between Bucks and Trees

Bucks rub their antlers against young trees because they are still flexible. This is informally known as buck rubbing. There is a misconception about bucks who rub their antlers on trees. Many people in the past have assumed that it is due to the velvet that initially covers buck antlers.

It was believed that this velvet was itchy, and bucks were simply relieving the irritation. But this can’t be true because antlers do not have nerve endings! Research shows that bucks most likely exhibit this behavior for a number of reasons. But the 3 most common include:

☑ Bucks rub to mark their territory.
☑ Bucks rub to practice or strengthen neck muscles for battle.
☑ Bucks rub to arouse and attract fertile does.

Deer and Buck Damage to Trees

This distinctive buck behavior can harm trees. It can create open wounds in trees and break off bark. This leaves a tree more vulnerable to diseases, infections, and pest infestations. If a tree gets sick, it can quickly decline and die. So, it is necessary to take action because deer will come back to your trees, season after season.

Tree Protection Tips for Deer Tampering

You have a few options to protect your trees from deer interference. You can install a fence around your property, which will inhibit deer from being able to enter your premises. If you are not interested in such a large investment, you can install a perimeter fence just around your trees. You can make these using sheets of welded wire mesh, or you can purchase manufactured tree barriers or ornamental metal grates on the market.

Be sure they are at least 5 to 6 feet tall and reinforced by 8-foot-tall rebar. The rebar should be pounded into the ground at regular intervals around the perimeter of the tree. If this doesn’t work for you, you can use corrugated plastic drainpipe. Cut it in half, lengthwise, and wrap it around the tree.

Do you have trees on your property that need to be removed as a result of deer and buck damages? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional and affordable tree removal in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and residential clients.

Bad Tree Mulching Practices to Avoid This Fall

Posted on October 20, 2021 by Completetree

Good tree mulching is easy to achieve. Mulch beds for trees should be wide, deep, and kept at the right moisture level throughout the season. That’s right; trees still need water in the Fall and Winter. But many homeowners fall victim to tree mulching errors this time of year, causing them a slow onset of disappointment come spring since poor mulching can result in tree decline and even death.

Continue reading to learn some of the most common bad tree mulching practices in Fall and how to avoid them.

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Good Tree Mulching

As mentioned, good tree mulching in Fall means making your mulch beds wide enough and deep enough. Tree mulch beds should be at least 3 feet wide and anywhere from 2 to 4 inches deep. These are the “Goldilocks” dimensions for tree mulch beds. Your mulch beds help retain moisture in the tree roots, but they can dry out themselves, so be sure to continue watering your trees during times of drought.

What Bad Tree Mulching Looks Like

The most common tree mulching errors made by homeowners include mulching too high and narrow, using the incorrect type of mulch, letting mulch go sour, and adding more mulching onto of old mulch. These are the bad tree mulching practices you want to avoid this Fall.

► Mulch Pyramids

A common mulching mistake is to create a mulch bed that is too high up on the tree trunk and too narrow. This formation looks like a pyramid or volcano. This traps moisture on the tree trunk and roots, which can lead to rot.

► Wrong Mulch

When mulching trees, it is important to use a compatible product. A common tree mulching mistake is using mulch that is too fine. Trees need to retain moisture throughout the Fall season, and delicate or finely manufactured mulch can become impermeable and block off water and air.

► Sour Mulch

Another big tree mulching mistake you want to avoid this Fall is letting your mulch turn toxic. Mulch can become compacted for many reasons, such as using too fine of a mulch. When it does, air and water are not able to penetrate, causing the mulch to go sour as a result of low oxygen levels. Furthermore, the souring process produces methanol and acetic acid, which are harmful to soil-sharing plants.

► Topping Off Old Mulch With New Mulch

A very common bad mulching practice is to top off old mulch beds with new mulch, without first removing the old mulch. Mulch does not fully decompose, so it is necessary to break up the old mulch with a rake before adding new mulch in the Fall and Spring.

Are you looking for a helpful tree care company to improve the look and quality of your landscaping trees? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for professional tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients with comprehensive tree care solutions.

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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How to Spot the Signs of Tree Stress
Do Trees Need Care in the Fall?
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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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How to Hire a Reputable Tree Service Company
How to Prevent Poor Tree Health
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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.

You Might Also Read:

How to Identify and Treat Oak Wilt
How to Identify Dead Trees on Your Property
Should I Remove a Leaning Tree?

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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