5 Edmonton Summer Tree Care Tips to Make Your Landscape Lush

Anyone who lives in Edmonton knows how precious those green, summer months are. When the ice begins to melt away and those hefty winter jackets go back into storage, you can find Edmonton's residents on the city streets, soaking in the summer sun. Though Edmonton's abundance of winter festivals helps break up the cold with fun activities, nothing beats the thaw after months of frigid temperatures. So, when summer peaks its head around the corner and you're looking for summer tree care tips, you want to be sure your yard is taken care of, so you can enjoy the heat while it lasts.

When you want to keep those summer trees in tip-top shape, you can trust your local. Edmonton qualified arborists with all your tree trimming needs! We have 25 years of experience which means we’re experts in our field. With that in mind, check out our 5 summer tree care tips below, for advice from your local tree care experts on how to make those trees sing!

Essential Edmonton Summer Tree Care Tips

1. Pruning

After a long winter, you may find your trees have suffered for it. Maybe your tree has diseased or dead branches. Or maybe after many months of hibernating, they need to stretch out those tired limbs and are encroaching upon your neighbour’s yard. Pruning will help keep your trees healthy and promote tree growth and structure. Maintaining the structure of the tree will also help with stray and broken branches.

But, how exactly do you go about tree pruning if you’ve never done it before? We’ve put together some Edmonton summer tree care tips for pruning to help you through the process:

Step 1: Gather tools

To get started, you’ll need pruning sheers and a pruning saw, for bigger branches.

Step 2: Make the first cut

For the first cut, you want to cut from the underside of the branch in an upward direction. Cut about 18 inches from the base of the branch you are cutting. Cut the branch about halfway.

Step 3: Make the second cut

Once you’ve made the first cut, it’s time to cut from the topside of the branch. It’s best to cut down on the branch about an inch away from the first cut.

Step 4: Cut the tree collar

The final step in the process is to cut the tree collar. This is where the base of the branch meets the trunk of the tree. You don't want to make your cut so close to the collar that it's flush with the trunk, but you also don't want to leave a stub. Start at the tree's baseline and make a 45-degree cut. This angle will prevent water damage. 

2. Mulching

When those snows begin to melt and spring is upon Edmontonians, it's hard to know where to start to get your trees and yards going again. One of the first Edmonton summer tree care tips to consider when planting new trees or maintaining the old ones is to add mulch at its base. Mulch helps lower competition with grass. The reason you don't want grass to encroach upon your tree is that it steals the nutrients and water that the tree needs to thrive and for proper root development. Mulch also cools the soil, which will help with root growth. 

But if you've never mulched your plants before, it can be difficult to know how to go about it. The good news it's a relatively simple process. Just take your bag of mulch and spread it around the base of the tree about 3 to 4 inches deep. You'll then want to create a donut-shaped hole by pulling the mulch outwards from the tree. Do not pile the mulch against the tree trunk in a volcano shape. This will create excess moisture and could lead to wood rot and insect invasion. The outer edges of the mulch should be at the drip line of the branches. And voila! These Edmonton summer tree care tips make your tree a happy camper. 

3. Monitor Pests

Though insects are an indispensable part of our ecosystem, maintaining the health of the soil, nutrient recycling, and pollinating flowers and other plants, some insects such as aphids, mealybugs, and beetles can also wreak havoc on your trees. That's why it's so important to monitor their movements for signs of disease. Some of these signs include yellow leaves, abnormal growths, and leaf spotting. Monitoring pests is one of your most essential summer tree care tips.

But what do you do when those pesky insects have already set up camp and you're looking for some summer tree care tips? Well, how you want to deal with them depends on the type of insect you're dealing with. Some insects can fended off with horticultural oil. This is the best course of action and it's entirely eco-friendly. For other insects, you may need to use pesticides. 

4. Water Regularly

It's probably not news to you that watering your trees regularly is important for their growth, but many people forget about the importance of regular watering. These Edmonton summer tree care tips will help your trees thrive:

From May until October, you'll want to water your trees about once a week. Use a slow steady stream for watering or a watering bag works well for younger trees. When you water these sturdy plants slowly, it helps the root to retain the moisture without too much water loss from soil runoff. The best times of day to water are in the morning or at night. At these hours, the water will not evaporate as easily. 

For younger trees, ensure you give them a deep watering once a week for the first year or two of their lives. Deep watering means that the soil is soaked about 8 inches deep. Young trees don't have a big enough root system yet to provide moisture. 

For mature trees, it's best to water the tree at the base of branches' drip lines. These are where their roots thrive! Follow these Edmonton summer tree care tips and your summer will be unforgettable. 

5. Fertilise

Fertilisation is an optimal summer tree care tip only if your soil is deficient. For those trees that need it, fertilisation will help with resistance to infestation and disease and will make them more robust and vibrant. Some signs that your plants would benefit from fertilisation are small, pale-green leaves, and trees that are deteriorating exhibiting dead branch tips, for example. These are signs of insect infestation or diseases. 

Do not fertilise your plants if they are new (within the first two years) or if their roots have been upended or destroyed. The roots will need to resettle and reestablish themselves before fertilise can benefit them. 

Looking For More Edmonton Summer Tree Care Tips? Hire a Professional Arborist Today!  

Edmonton summer tree care is imperative to ensure your trees stay in tip-top condition and promote growth and health all summer long. Whether you're planting new trees to elevate your landscape to a lush outdoor haven or you want to ensure your mature trees stay around for many years, these summer tree care tips will help you tend to them. However, sometimes you need a little extra help with your yard and there's no shame in that! Our qualified arborists are experts in tree maintenance, proper tree care, and many other professional tree care services.

We're proud to be a locally owned and operated business serving the communities of Edmonton in all tree services, such as tree pruning, tree removal,deep root fertilising, storm damage, and more! We're committed to creating long-term relationships with our clients. That way we're well-versed on the intricacies of your property and can best serve all your tree care needs. 

Choose Trusty Tree Services for Edmonton Summer Tree Care and More Summer Tree Care Tips Today!

Now that you've got some summer tree care tips under your belt, we're more than happy to step in and help assist in whatever tree care needs you have. Whether your trees are diseased or newly planted, trust our expert and certified arborists to handle all your Edmonton summer tree care needs today! As we all know in Alberta, those summer months are fleeting. We'll help you make the most of them. Our expansive skill set and experience in tree maintenance for urban environments make us the summer tree care company that can't be beat! With complete customer satisfaction and affordable prices, we sit one notch above our competitors. 

Need some more convincing? No problem! Just check out these local, 5-star reviews to hear from your community of homeowners and fellow neighbours on our Edmonton summer tree care services, maintenance, and upkeep.

Contact us today to book an appointment for more Edmonton summer tree care tips and all your other Edmonton summer tree care needs. Let us help you make your summer days ones to remember! 

 

Lush Landscapes: 11 Benefits of Tree Cutting in Edmonton

Everyone who lives in Edmonton knows how precious those summer months are. With Edmonton's long, frigid winters, we count down the days until we can bask in the sun again without a parka in hand. That's why you want to ensure your trees are in tip-top shape come spring, so you can enjoy the bounty of summer's lush offerings. To help your trees thrive, it's essential to employ a professional for tree cutting in Edmonton. Cutting off diseased branches will help your trees grow back healthy and stronger, making your summer landscape that much more beautiful. When you're ready for your tree cutting, Edmonton residents can count on our Edmonton arborists at Trusty Tree Services for the job. 

From tree cutting in Edmonton to deep root fertilization, our ISA-certified arborists assure you that we're the tree company you can rely on. We guarantee transparent communication through every step of the process for tree cutting in Edmonton, upfront prices, and honest, professional work. In this blog, we'll be exploring the 11 benefits of hiring tree cutters in Edmonton today to give your trees the love and care they deserve. Without further ado, let's get into it! 

The nature of trees is that they will always be growing. Watching them grow and change throughout the seasons is a part of their beauty, but sometimes they can grow so much that their stretched limbs can put you and others in harm's way, making them more of a stressor than a gorgeous component of your property to be enjoyed. 

Tree cutting in Edmonton is the process of removing dead or diseased branches. This is done for a few reasons. It can promote the overall health of your tree, encourage fruit growth, or even be used to change the shape of a tree. Though this is more a tree trimming practice, rather than pruning for tree health purposes. Whatever your reason for a tree cutting in Edmonton, there are numerous benefits to hiring a tree cutter, Edmonton! 

Some reasons to invest in tree cutting in Edmonton include:

1. Promotes New Growth

When your tree has fallen prey to damage or disease, the tree will use a lot of its energy to attempt to nourish those problem areas, even if they're past the point of no return. When you cut off these sections, it will help redirect these energies to the sections of the tree that truly need it. You will note a noticeable difference in the vitality of your tree once you invest in tree cutting in Edmonton. 

2. Aesthetics

Though there are countless benefits to the health of your tree when it comes to tree cutting in Edmonton, it can help enhance the look of your tree and the overall aesthetics of your entire landscape. This, in turn, will help increase the value of your property, if you're looking to sell in the future. 

3. Prevents Disease

Once the branches of your tree are diseased, the illness can spread quickly and can be a breeding ground for insects. Hire our tree cutters in Edmonton on a periodic basis and prevent disease in your tree! This way, you’ll keep it healthy for longer. 

4. Sunlight Exposure

When it's time for a tree cutting in Edmonton, cutting back the branches of your tree will help it receive more sunlight. Long branches block out the sunlight exposure needed for healthy growth to the tree's canopy and prevent the photosynthetic energy your tree needs. When every part of the tree gets enough sunlight, roots, branches, and leaves will grow healthier and stronger. 

5. Eliminates Pests

Diseased and dead branches attract pests. Tree insects, fungi, and rodents are especially prevalent in trees overridden with disease. Moisture provides breeding grounds for insects. When you get a tree cutting in Edmonton from our qualified arborists, the sunlight will dry out crevices of moisture and eliminate pest infestation. 

6. Increases Lifespan

When you let your tree branches grow too long, they will create weight on the trunk and roots of the tree, weakening it and leaving it easily susceptible to damage. When you enlist regular services for pruning and tree cutting in Edmonton, it will eliminate this stress from the stem and roots and promote a longer life as well as prevent any potential hazards from hazardous trees. 

7. Eco-Friendly

When you get tree cutting in Edmonton, it will help your trees stay nice and healthy. Healthy trees are invaluable to the environment. They absorb harmful contaminants like carbon dioxide while simultaneously creating oxygen to make our air more breathable. Without these important components of earth care, our planet would be uninhabitable for wildlife. 

8. Property Value

When you get a tree cutting in Edmonton, one major benefit is the enhanced aesthetics it promotes. Whether you're looking to enhance your curb appeal for your own enjoyment or you're thinking about putting your house on the market, the importance of increased property value can't be overstated. 

9. Fruit and Floral Production

Regular tree cutting in Edmonton is a must when it comes to a proper yield for floral and fruit trees, as well as fruit production. Long, heavy branches will limit airflow and affect the healthy growth of your fruits and flowers. Pruning will encourage an increased air quality for your tree's yield. 

10. Preventative Maintenance

Getting regular services for tree cutting in Edmonton will help prevent bigger problems from piling up. There's nothing worse than finding your whole tree is diseased, and it's too late to do anything about it. When you employ our services, our tree cutters in Edmonton stop any potential disease or damage in its track before it compromises the health of your trees at large. 

11. Prevents Hazards

When your tree branches grow long, they can encroach on unwanted areas. Branches can run into electric lines, which is a potential fire hazard. Additionally, the weight of the branches might prove to be too much for the tree and cause it to break, putting nearby lives at risk or causing significant property damage. There is an especially high risk of this during severe weather or storms. Long branches can also stretch into your neighbours' property, encroaching on their privacy and putting their lives and property at risk, as well. 

Now that you know the myriad of benefits that come with regular tree cutting in Edmonton, you may be wondering about the next step in the process. Well, our certified, professional arborists are ready and willing to help with tree cutting in Edmonton. Whether you need a simple maintenance check or some of your branches are already past the point of disease, there's no need to worry! Trees require proper care and our tree cutters in Edmonton will be there to take care of any issue you're having. 

Want Healthy, Lush Trees to Elevate Your Property? Call Trusty Tree Services for Tree Cutting, Edmonton Residents! 

It's time to create the residential trees of your dreams and restore your peace of mind with our tree cutters in Edmonton! There's no time to waste when it comes to those Edmonton summer months. Blink, and they'll be gone! Get our experienced arborists in for tree cutting in Edmonton as soon as possible, so you can take advantage and relish in the warm weather. You and your family deserve to sit in a gorgeous, lush yard of greenery and enjoy those fleeting sunny days. 

We don't just offer tree cutting in Edmonton, however. Our tree cutters in Edmonton also provide a wide range of services in deep root fertilizing, tree cabling and bracing, lot clearing, tree removal services, stump removal, grounds maintenance, and more. Residents of Edmonton and the surrounding communities of Sherwood Park, Stony Plain, Spruce Grove, St. Albert, and Leduc can count on our ISA-certified arborists for all their Trust Tree Services needs. 

Curious to hear from your own neighbours about our tree pruning services? No problem! Check out these 5-star reviews. Our fellow community members will prove to you the difference our tree cutters in Edmonton can make in just one visit! There's no professional tree care service better suited for all your needs in tree cutting in Edmonton. We're an integrity-bound business, and that means we promise to make things right. If a job isn't completed to your satisfaction, we'll ensure that the job will be done right. Every time. Just ask your neighbours! 

As fellow Edmontonians, our tree care service providers know what Edmonton & area residents need when it comes to arboriculture and tree cutting in Edmonton. And because we're locally owned and operated, you know you can trust that our tree cutters in Edmonton are the locals for the job. Contact us today for an arborist consultation with one of our qualified arborists for residential property tree care with reasonable pricing. We're the tree service company you can trust for all your arboreal services. Gorgeous, lush trees are just a phone call away. 

Evergreen Trees in Edmonton 101

Unlike deciduous trees, evergreen trees maintain their foliage year-round. Evergreen means that trees will continue to grow leaves, even when other leaves fall off. Any tree that maintains its foliage all year, even in cold climates, dry conditions, and humidity, is an evergreen. As beneficial as evergreen trees are for homeowners in Edmonton, they fare very well with our backyard ecosystems. Did you know that evergreens can help sustain populations of birds and squirrels? During the harsh winter weather, animals carefully seek refuge on the branches, huddling together to protect themselves from predatory hawks and other threats. The mighty evergreen trees provide a privacy screen, safeguarding the delicate balance of nature.

In Canada, you'll never find a shortage of evergreens. Though, the spruce is the most prevalent tree in Canada, with approximately 40 species found worldwide, five of which are native to our home country.

Needle-ss to say, evergreen trees are a splendid choice for both your own backyard and community parks. They showcase remarkable resilience by persistently growing, undeterred by any obstacle that comes their way.

In this article, Trusty Tree Services will present you with valuable information about evergreen trees, whether you are considering planting them or simply eager to learn more about these extraordinary trees. Let's dive into the fascinating world of evergreen plants, where we will discover their remarkable characteristics, various types, and tips for successfully planting them!

The Characteristics of Evergreen Trees

Literally, "evergreen" denotes a tree that stays "green forever" throughout its life. Evergreens are frequently associated with immortality and eternal life due to their ability to keep their leaves throughout the winter. Evergreen trees do shed their leaves, but unlike deciduous trees, they drop them gradually throughout the year instead of all at once during a specific season. Some evergreens have slender, pointed leaves, often referred to as needles, while others have thicker leaves, known as broadleaf evergreens. Certain evergreen species have aromatic needles, filling the forest with scents unmatched by any perfume. In the summer, the tiered branches of an evergreen tree provide the perfect conditions for some afternoon shade.

Different Types of Evergreen Trees

Like all species of living things, evergreens have many varieties.  From tall and majestic spruces to low-growing junipers, there is a wide range of evergreen tree species to choose from. Each variety offers unique characteristics, such as colourful foliage or exceptional tolerance to harsh climates. Whether you're looking for a stunning centrepiece for your garden or a windbreak for your property, there's an evergreen tree to suit your needs.

If you want to buy an evergreen tree for your Edmonton home, there are popular varieties available in plant stores.

• The Norway Spruce Tree: The Norway spruce growth rate is fast, and displays a graceful silhouette, featuring sweeping branches upon reaching maturity. At its full height, it can soar up to 25 meters with a spread of 12 meters. Ideal for large gardens, it thrives in spacious corners, not narrow spaces, where it can extend its branches. Its expansive shade is perfect for shielding homes and providing relief from the high sun.
• The White Spruce Tree: If you are seeking a tree that can effectively shield you from powerful winds, consider the White Spruce. Its sturdy trunk is adept at withstanding strong gusts, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to intense winds. These trees are best suited for planting in locations you wish to safeguard, such as near your home or in the heart of your garden.
• The Colorado Spruce Tree: The Colorado Spruce is a robust choice for windbreaks, especially when compared to the White Spruce. In addition to its hardiness, this tree can serve as a striking specimen or an effective garden hedge. With the potential to reach 20 meters in height and a 5-meter spread, it offers impressive coverage.
• The Colorado Blue Spruce Tree: The Colorado Blue Spruce is a stunning variation of the original Colorado Spruce. This exceptional specimen boasts vibrant blue-green needles, which perfectly match its name. With the ability to reach towering heights of up to 20 meters and a spread of 5 meters, it is truly a sight to behold. While it may not be the fastest-growing tree, its moderate growth rate leads to reaching its majestic peak over time.
• The White Pine Tree: You should definitely consider adding the stunning White Pine to your tree list. Standing tall at 25 meters with a spread of 10 meters, this tree offers two compelling reasons to make it yours. Firstly, its remarkable growth rate allows you to enjoy fully rooted and sturdy trees in no time. Secondly, the White Pine's soft, long, and green needles seamlessly complement your privacy shrubs, creating an ideal privacy screen. Moreover, this tree serves as an exceptional specimen, adding a touch of sophistication to your surroundings. Don't miss the opportunity to enhance your landscape with this perfect choice.
• The Serbian Spruce Tree: The Serbian Spruce stands out as one of the most elegant spruce trees, suitable for providing shade in your garden. Its slender straight trunk and thin arching branches give it a graceful appearance, and its needles come in varying shades of green. With a height reaching up to 15 meters and a spread of 8 meters, this tree is narrower than most other spruce trees, making it perfect for landscaping projects.
• Leyland Cypress Trees: The Leyland cypress is a remarkable tree that grows rapidly and showcases a bountiful display of lush, blue-green foliage. With their evergreen needles that persist throughout the year, these trees effortlessly form a dense hedge when planted in close proximity. While they require minimal upkeep, it's important to note that pests and diseases can pose a potential challenge. If left unpruned, they can reach an impressive height of 40 to 60 feet, spreading out to cover an area of 15 to 20 feet. What sets them apart is their exceptional growth rate, as they can easily gain three or more feet in height within their second year of growth. Additionally, certain Leyland cypress are drought tolerant.
• Thuja Green Giant Trees: The name Thuja Green Giant perfectly captures the essence of these spectacular trees. Thriving in ideal conditions, they can grow up to 3 feet per year, with a mature height of 50–60 feet and a width of up to 12–20 feet. These trees boast a uniform, columnar shape, saving homeowners the hassle of regular pruning. Their large, dense, pyramidal form showcases a vibrant green hue in warmer months and a rich bronze in winter. The tightly packed, glossy leaves create a stunning fan of distinctive foliage.

How To Properly Plant Evergreen Trees

Many evergreen trees thrive in areas with full to partial sunlight, and they exhibit varying degrees of tolerance to factors such as poor soil drainage, salt spray, extreme weather, and pests. Generally, evergreens are low-maintenance plants, making them an excellent choice for landscaping. Certain trees only need occasional pruning and yearly fertilization. Some types will drop needles and seeds during certain times of the year. For instance, evergreens like Cypress and Spruce Trees shed their foliage annually, creating needle litters. So, if you're worried about having a messy yard, it might be best to steer clear of these varieties.

Ideally, the best time to plant evergreens is in the autumn. However, as long as the weather is not excessively hot, these resilient trees can also be successfully planted during spring.

The Growth Rate Of Evergreen Trees

Consider the future size of the trees once they are fully grown and take into account their growth rate. Will you be satisfied with a slow-growing tree, or do you require something that will quickly reach a considerable height? If shade or privacy screening is crucial, a fast-growing tree may be the best choice. It's essential to carefully consider the actual size of your yard and the space available for the trees in order to choose your evergreen trees wisely. Some evergreens may not look as appealing if they outgrow their designated area.

For smaller homes and yards, it is advisable to opt for small to medium-sized varieties, placing smaller trees near your home and taller trees farther out in your landscape. When it comes to soil for evergreens, moist soil, as well as well-drained soil is ideal. A soil type like loamy, silt, or peat will provide the perfect amount of nutrients for excellent tree growth!

Trusty Tree Services: Edmonton and Area's Reliable Choice For Tree Service

Be-leaf us when we tell you that Trusty Tree Services is the true embodiment of arboricultural excellence. As a local company led by certified arborists dedicated to safety, we offer expert tree care, including pruning, removal, planting, and disease management to preserve the vitality of Edmonton's urban greenery. Our company focuses on providing exceptional tree services, including tree planting, removal, and informative guidance regarding a wide range of tree species. Need help planting your evergreen trees in Edmonton, or have concerns about which one to plant? We can help you out!

Trusty Tree Services is more than just a service; it is a commitment to caring for, safeguarding, and elevating the innate beauty that blesses our community. Get in touch with us now and select our team of specialists for a future that is not only greener but also healthier!

A Green Thumb's Guide To Finding The Best Soil For Planting Trees

To ensure the long-term health of your tree, it's important to recognize the remarkable and symbolic significance of trees in nature. With the potential to endure for centuries, they epitomize the enduring beauty of our environment. There are factors to consider in this such as, what type of tree to plant, where to plant the tree, how to plant the tree, will the tree get enough light there, and of course, what is the best soil for planting trees? The health of a tree and root growth greatly depend on the soil. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to ensure that the tree is planted in the proper soil to ensure its overall well-being.

Before you embark on this new project, Trusty Tree Services is here to provide our fellow green thumbs with a guide on how to find the best soil for planting trees. As you'll find in this comprehensive guide, there are many different types of soils, some ideal for planting, and some not so ideal for planting. Our certified arborists are here to ensure that no matter the soil condition, there are approaches you can take to make sure that your tree not only prospers but continues to grow for the years to come.

Soil Types To Be Aware Of

Every homeowner needs to be aware of the various types of soil that exist. Moreover, it's important to understand that certain trees require specific soil conditions to thrive. These conditions may vary based on the type of minerals and irrigation that each tree necessitates. One can identify the different soil types by various characteristics such as texture, colour, acidity, and more. In general, there are six primary soil types that one should be acquainted with. Knowing these six types can help you find the best soil for planting trees. The six primary soil types are:

• Sandy soil
• Chalky soil
• Clay soil
• Loamy soil
• Peat soil
• Silt soil

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty about these six types of soil!

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil is typically nutrient-poor and acidic, making it one of the lightest soil types. The soil temperature is also one of the warmest. Its low water retention leads to fast drainage, but with simple adjustments, this soil can be highly productive. Adding organic materials not only boosts plant nutrients but also improves water retention, since this type is a loose soil. It's important to note that this soil type is more prone to drying out in spring compared to other soils. Therefore, regular watering and adding a layer of mulch are essential for maintaining soil moisture levels and preventing soil erosion. Additionally, incorporating compost or well-decomposed manure can enhance the soil's fertility and structure, promoting healthier root development and overall plant growth.

Chalky Soil

Lime-rich or chalky soils can vary in density, containing alkaline soils and calcium carbonate. Due to the lack of essential nutrients for specific trees and shrubs, it is important to select plants that can thrive in alkaline conditions if you have this type of soil. You can identify chalky soil by locating white lumps, and if you want to enhance its nutrient content, consider adding some clay soil to it. By adding clay soil to chalky soil, you can help improve its nutrient content and enhance its ability to retain moisture. The addition of clay can also help balance the pH levels and provide a more favourable environment for a wider range of plants to thrive.

Clay Soil

In the Edmonton area, heavy clay soil is common and can hinder drainage, but adding a generous amount of organic mulch can help to alleviate this issue. This soil, while nutrient-rich, has poor water drainage and is dense, making it challenging for water and air to penetrate. Its texture is smooth when dry and sticky when wet. Technically, it consists of about 25% clay particles, causing it to warm up more slowly. During summer, it tends to develop cracks, making it easily identifiable. During the winter months, the clay soil in Edmonton becomes compact and more prone to erosion due to its inability to absorb excess water. Additionally, the presence of clay can lead to uneven ground surfaces and pooling of water, making it less ideal for certain gardening activities.

Loamy Soil

Loamy soil, composed of sand, silt, and clay particles, effectively mitigates the limitations of individual soil types, resulting in high fertility and proper water drainage. It offers homeowners an affordable and excellent option for plant growth, with the possibility of high pH and calcium levels. Moreover, it can be created using existing soil with the addition of organic matter, enhancing its quality. In addition, the loamy soil's balanced composition allows for optimal root development and nutrient uptake, which promotes healthy plant growth and high yields. This makes it a preferred choice for avid gardeners and farmers alike.

Peat Soil

Peat soil is primarily composed of organic materials and water particles, making it an exceptional soil type known for its fertility. Similar to silt soils, peat soil is a rare find. It surpasses expectations when it comes to choosing the optimal soil for planting trees, especially for newly planted and young trees. The conditions it offers are nothing short of excellent. Not only does peat soil retain moisture exceptionally well, but it also provides a rich source of nutrients for the trees to thrive. This makes it a highly desirable option for nurturing young trees and promoting healthy growth.

Silt Soil

Pure silt soils are a rare and valuable soil type due to their unique characteristics. They have a smooth, soapy texture that does not clump up, and their particle size falls between that of clay and sand. Notably, they possess exceptional water retention capabilities and are highly fertile. These exceptional soils are commonly found near bodies of water, such as lakes and rivers. Silt soils are particularly valued in agriculture for their ability to retain moisture and nutrients, making them ideal for growing a wide variety of crops. Additionally, their fine texture allows for good drainage and aeration, promoting healthy root development for plants.

Soil Testing

Besides analyzing the soil's physical properties and remedying poorly drained soils, conducting a soil test is crucial for identifying which nutrients should be applied and whether pH adjustments are necessary. This will help you find the best soil for planting trees. It's best to collect a soil sample several weeks before planting to properly address soil treatment at planting time. If new soil is introduced at planting or if soil is redistributed during the final grading, it's advisable to wait until all the soil is in place before sampling. pH adjustment and surface application of fertilizer can be done later, after the plants are established, following the recommended rate.

Inspect The Native Soil Where You're Planting Your Tree

Make sure to assess the soil before planting your tree. This will help you determine the soil type it requires, and ensure its successful growth. Additionally, conducting a soil assessment can identify potential hazards in the area, enhancing the safety of your planting venture. When you're looking for the best soil for planting trees, the best soils are:

• Silt
• Loamy
• Peat

For most homeowners, the optimal choice is to opt for loamy soil, as it can usually be created easily on your own through soil amendments.

Choose A Type of Tree That Will Work In The Native Soil

Now that you are aware of the different types of soil, you can find the best soil for planting trees. We've compiled a list of some of the most common trees that thrive in Edmonton weather conditions and soil conditions. This list of trees is not only beautiful but will also be able to adapt to the native soil found in the area. Some popular choices include mountain ashes, maples, and burr oaks, which are all known for their ability to withstand different soil types and weather conditions commonly found in Edmonton.

• Silver Maple: Renowned for its stunning autumn colours, this rapidly growing tree swiftly offers ample shade. Its ability to thrive in diverse soil conditions makes it an adaptable and appealing option for gardens in Edmonton.
• Mountain Ash: One of the most visually stunning trees in Edmonton is distinguished by its vibrant red berries and captivating autumn hues. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it also serves as a magnet for wildlife.
• Burr Oak: Renowned for its durability and long lifespan, this impressive tree showcases a broad canopy and deep green leaves that transform into a beautiful yellow-brown hue in the fall.
• Parkland Pillar Birch: With its ability to withstand even the harshest winter conditions, this tree is truly unbeatable, especially in Edmonton. Not only that, but its magnificent appearance, boasting a sleek white bark, makes it the perfect choice for compact areas.
• Larch: Larches, unlike the majority of conifers, are deciduous. They shed their needles in the fall, creating a stunning display of brilliant yellow foliage.

Trusty Tree Services—Edmonton's Certified Arborists

Trusty Tree Services is the ultimate solution for all your tree-related needs in Edmonton. Our team consists of professional, certified arborists who are dedicated to providing exceptional service to give you peace of mind. Whether you require tree pruning, removal, or planting services, Trusty Tree Services is the answer. We can help you find the best soil for planting trees for a successful planting. Our skilled arborists will carefully evaluate your trees and ensure they receive the necessary care for healthy growth. With our expertise and unwavering commitment to safety, we are fully equipped to handle any tree-related concerns you may have. Being a local business based in Edmonton, we specialize in delivering top-notch tree care services tailored to the unique requirements of residential, commercial, and municipal properties. Here is a glimpse of what our company can offer you and your property:

• Tree Cabling and Bracing
• Plant Trees
• Edmonton Tree Assessment Services
• Tree Trimming
• Tree Removal
• Tree Pruning
• Stump Removal
• Year-Round Grounds Maintenance
• And so much more!

Get in touch with us today to discuss any questions you may have about your soil type, and how we can help with not only tree growth, but with its maintenance too!

Everything You Need To Know About Girdling Roots

In this captivating blog post, we delve into the fascinating topic of tree roots that dare to soar above the soil's surface, and provide remarkable solutions to thwart their audacious endeavors. Nursery and transplanting methods, as well as soil obstructions, commonly lead to the problem of "girdling roots." When something tightly wraps around the trunk or stem of a tree, it becomes girdled. The stem-girdling root encircles or partially encircles the base of a tree at or just below the soil surface. Imagine a tree, growing under the pressure of a constricting leather belt, experiencing the same discomfort you feel when trying to enjoy a festive Christmas meal with an unbearably tight belt around your waist. Girdling the stem of your tree can be extremely detrimental as it obstructs the essential flow of water and nutrients required for its overall well-being and robust growth. It can also weaken the trunk, leading to instability and potential leaning. Moreover, girdling roots can cause a gradual decline in the tree's health and ultimately result in premature death.

Understanding girdling roots and the factors that lead to this fascinating phenomenon is crucial before delving into prevention strategies. So dig out your green thumb and let's dive in!

Understanding Girdling Roots

Girdling roots are more widespread than most people realize, and their impact can be devastating. When the lateral roots on the surface of the soil wrap around or penetrate the main trunk of a tree, the flow of water and nutrients becomes restricted, as mentioned before. The longer a tree is affected by girdling roots, the more it will weaken and become unstable. If left untreated, girdling roots can eventually lead to the decline and death of the tree. It's important to recognize the signs of girdling roots early on and take appropriate actions to prevent further damage.

What Causes Girdling Roots?

In urban environments, trees face unique challenges that their rural or forest counterparts don't. These factors can lead to various issues, such as girdling roots. Root girdling, often caused by incorrect planting or transplanting procedures, is the most common problem. If a tree remains in its nursery for an extended period, the roots tend to accumulate and circle at the bottom of the container due to limited space available. To ensure a successful tree planting, it is crucial to prioritize the loosening of tree roots as an integral part of the process.

Similarly, if the planting hole is too small, the tree roots will start to grow in a circular pattern, causing girdling roots over time. Additionally, leaving pieces of the planting container or other debris in the hole can lead to the formation of girdling roots as the tree establishes itself. Other factors such as heavily compacted soil and being in close proximity to foundations, curbs, and other obstructions can also impede proper, healthy root growth.

Identifying Girdling Roots

An abnormal tree trunk flare is the main indicator of girdling roots. Normally, the trunk flares out where it meets the ground. However, in trees with girdling roots, the trunk may appear straight or even narrower. Additionally, you may observe roots circling above the soil line, although usually girdling roots are just below the surface. Other less noticeable signs may include early leaf drops, smaller leaves, and canopy dieback.

How To Prevent Tree Girdling

Girdling roots should be removed, although it is crucial to seek advice from a certified arborist to prevent any harm to the main stem. In extreme situations, girdling roots may jeopardize the tree's stability, necessitating the removal of the tree.

One of the most effective methods to prevent girdling roots is by properly digging the planting hole of the correct size. Later on, we will share some straightforward yet powerful techniques for successfully planting a tree to avoid girdling roots. A common misunderstanding is that deeper is better, but the planting hole should actually be two to three times wider than the root ball and no deeper than that. Soil should not cover the root flare, and mulch should not be placed up against the trunk.

We've compiled a few tips for treatment and prevention, including:

• Regularly inspecting the growth of trees is essential in order to promptly identify girdling roots during their early stages.
• To eliminate small girdling roots, you can use a sharp chisel and mallet. Remove several inches of the root where it meets the tree trunk to prevent reconnection.
• If there is a big girdling that has become attached to the tree trunk, it is recommended to leave it undisturbed. Making a V-shaped cut in the upper part of the girdling root may be beneficial in weakening it without interfering with the flow of nutrients to the top of the tree.
• If you are thinking about removing large girdling roots, especially those that are over two inches in diameter, it is highly recommended to seek the expertise of a professional arborist. This is a complex process that requires skilled hands and proper knowledge in order to be properly handled.

Should You Cut Girdling Roots?

It is not advisable to completely remove very large girdling roots, as they may still be providing significant amounts of water and nutrients to the tree's canopy. Instead, they should be removed gradually over time, allowing the tree to adapt and compensate for the loss in water and nutrient flow. If any dieback occurs, it is recommended to remove the dead branches.

Tree Planting Tips To Avoid Future Girdling Roots

Knowing when the perfect moment to plant a tree is as vital as mastering the proper planting technique. Trees thrive on the nourishment derived from the soil and water, and their triumph hinges upon two critical factors: soil temperatures and water availability. To ensure robust root development and proper nutrient retention, it is imperative for the soil temperatures to consistently remain at or above ten degrees Celsius. Accordingly, the weeks leading up to the emergence of leaves in spring and the autumn when leaves have fallen serve as the ideal periods to embark on the tree planting journey. Isn't it fascinating how nature effortlessly signals the opportune time to plant? It eloquently demonstrates that everything follows a harmonious cycle.

A reliable and steady water supply is essential for young trees to thrive and recover from natural rainfall or regular watering. Consistent access to water throughout the year can make a significant difference in the initial years after planting.

• Dig The Right Plant Hole Size: Making the hole three times wider than the current root mass is crucial for the healthy development of the plant. Avoid deepening the hole beyond the plant's previous environment. The planting depth is a critical factor and can lead to premature death if not done correctly. When placing the tree in the hole, ensure that the root collar, where the roots connect to the main stem or trunk, is at ground level or slightly above.
• Plant Higher Thank You Would Assume: For a truly successful adaptation of trees to their new environment, we highly advise taking an additional measure. Position the trees so that up to 25% of the root ball is raised above the level of the surrounding soil. Then, carefully backfill the roots with soil and generously apply a layer of mulch on top. This approach not only prevents the trees from sinking below the desired level due to soil settling, but also provides vital protection against root rot and disease.

• Inspect The Circling Tree Roots: Once you have removed the plant from its container, carefully inspect the roots. If you observe tightly tangled roots in a circular formation or roots that have conformed to the shape of the container, it is crucial to intervene to prevent the roots from becoming root bound.

• Remove All Air Pockets: For optimal soil-to-root contact, it's crucial to gently press the native soil around the plant roots. After backfilling halfway, a firm spray of water is essential to provide moisture and eliminate potentially damaging air pockets. Finally, complete the process with a thorough and meticulous watering of the plant.

• Encompass With A Layer of Mulch - But Not Too Much Mulch: For a robust soil-to-root connection, carefully press the natural soil around the plant roots. Moreover, after filling halfway, firmly water the hole. This not only provides vital moisture but also removes any air pockets that could damage the roots. Finally, water the plant again, ensuring a comprehensive and meticulous process.

• Watering Maintenance: Properly watering and establishing your trees after planting is essential. This crucial task can take weeks to months, and the key to success lies in slow and deep watering. However, manually achieving this can be impractical. The most efficient methods for ensuring proper tree establishment involve using soaker hoses or drip irrigation.

 

Tree Preservation and Care With Trusty Tree Services

Trusty Tree Services offers professional tree care services in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain, and the surrounding areas. Our skilled arborists provide expert tree care for residential, commercial, and municipal properties. Here are some ways to contribute to tree preservation in Edmonton with the assistance of the experts at Trusty Tree Services:

• Tree Maintenance: Maintaining your trees regularly is essential for their long-term health and longevity. Trusty Tree Services provides a comprehensive range of services dedicated to preserving the well-being of Edmonton's trees. Our team of certified arborists can evaluate the state of your trees and offer expert advice on essential pruning, fertilization, and pest control. Through our rigorous care and meticulous attention to detail, we ensure that your trees will flourish for years to come. With Trusty Tree Services, you can rest assured that your trees are receiving the top-quality care they deserve.

• Environmental Stewardship: By choosing Trusty Tree Services, you're not just taking care of your trees - you're making a difference in Edmonton's natural heritage. Our company actively engages with local initiatives and organizations dedicated to preserving green spaces. We prioritize sustainable practices and emphasize the importance of tree preservation and urban greenery. With Trusty Tree Services, you can trust that you're making a positive impact while ensuring the well-being of your trees.

If you're struggling with girdling tree roots, your friend, neighbour, mom, dad, or siblings, you can always rely on our certified arborists to come and check out what the problem is. Our professionals will be able to carve out the appropriate method to remove girdling roots, so your tree can breathe and prosper again! Reach out to Trusty Tree Services today, and let's make the world a little more green one tree at a time!

 

The Benefits Of Crown Thinning And Crown Raising in Edmonton

Sometimes, natural growth isn’t the best thing for your tree. From wayward branches to crowding other trees or structures, there will be times when it’s necessary to trim back or prune a tree. But through services like crown thinning or raising, a local trusted arborist can help you maintain your deciduous tree’s overall appearance and health.

Often done together, these pruning methods focus on different parts of your tree to reduce the bulkiness of the canopy, provide better clearance, and improve the health of your tree.

What Is Crown Thinning?

Tree crown thinning is the process of removing select branches from a tree’s canopy in order to thin out the foliage and allow more light and air to penetrate through the tree. This type of pruning focuses on the upper portion of the tree in order to maintain its overall shape and health.

Crown thinning isn’t to be confused with crown reduction, as crown reduction involves reducing the overall size of the tree's canopy by pruning back the branches to decrease its height and spread. While in crown thinning, you are reducing the density of the tree's crown by selectively removing branches and foliage to allow more light and air to penetrate through the canopy, unlike crown reduction, it does not aim to alter the shape or size of the tree's canopy. Crown thinning is primarily done to improve the tree's health and overall structure.

That Sounds Like Tree Topping To Me

Crown thinning is nothing like tree topping. While tree topping refers to the indiscriminate removal of a significant portion of the leafy crown or canopy, crown thinning is a selective pruning technique that involves removing specific branches to reduce the density of the crown while maintaining its natural shape in order to promote better health.

Tree topping, on the other hand, does not improve the tree’s health. In fact, it’s harmful to the tree, and can lead to a weakened structure and increased vulnerability to disease and pests. It's important to prioritize proper pruning techniques, such as crown thinning or crown raising, that promote the tree's natural growth and long-term health.

What is Crown Raising?

Tree crown raising, or crown lifting, refers to the process of removing the lower branches on a tree, creating the appearance of a raised canopy, and this type of tree pruning method is done with the goal of providing better access and clearance beneath the tree.

While crown raising may also give the appearance of a reduced canopy, unlike crown thinning and crown reduction, which involve upper limb and entire canopy respectively, crown raising is focused on the select removal of lower branches to improve vertical clearance beneath the tree rather than reducing the overall shape of the canopy. This technique is commonly employed to address issues related to height restrictions or obstructed views.

However, crown raising may not work well for every tree. Tree branches stemming off low on the trunk may not respond well to crown raising because of the potential for weak attachment points and structural instability. Removing too many low limbs can add stress to the top of the tree, especially during windstorms, as there’s no counteracting balance to prevent the tree from breaking or falling. Additionally, limbs that are too large are not good candidates for removal, as they play a crucial role in the overall stability and health of the tree.

Because of these restrictions, it is often better to perform crown raising on young trees, and to remove or thin out only a few branches at a time, allowing the tree to adjust gradually and minimizing stress.

Benefits Of Crown Thinning and Crown Raising

Both crown thinning and crown raising are a form of maintenance, helping to keep your tree in its best condition and preventing potential hazards, keeping both your tree and your property safe. These services are often done in tandem, as they both contribute to the overall health and appearance of the tree while focusing on different areas. By maintaining a proper balance of foliage density and lifting lower branches, the tree can thrive while minimizing risks.

Some of the benefits of crown thinning and raising include:

Improve Overall Health

Crown thinning and crown raising can improve your tree’s health by promoting better airflow and light penetration, reducing the risk of disease and improving the overall aesthetics of the tree. A cumbersome, heavy, or sagging canopy can prevent the tree from receiving adequate sunlight and hinder its growth potential. By strategically thinning or raising the crown, the tree can thrive with a more balanced and functional canopy.

These forms of pruning can also help prevent disease or pest infestations, as they create an environment that is less conducive to the growth and spread of pathogens or pests. Pruning can lessen the risk of disease by removing dead limbs or decaying branches. By getting rid of these branches through crown thinning or raising, more resources can be allocated to healthier branches and growth and fighting off diseases. Pests are also less likely to thrive in a well-pruned tree, as the removal of dead or diseased branches eliminates potential habitats and food sources.

Additionally, for flowering or fruit trees, crown raising or crown thinning can help increase production of blooms or fruits by allowing more sunlight to reach the lower branches, stimulating the tree's reproductive processes, resulting in a healthier and more fruitful tree.

Increase Safety

By removing or reducing heavy branches, you can increase safety around your tree. Crown raising removes lower branches, providing clearance and preventing head injuries from whacking against lower branches. Crown thinning reduces the density of the upper branches and heavy limbs, allowing for better air movement and reducing the risk of branch breakage during storms.

Additionally, removing broken branches or dead tissue in your tree helps to strengthen it by reducing stress levels and diverting resources to strengthen healthy branches, helping to improve limb strength and preventing further damage.

Let In Light

Crown thinning and crown raising allow for sunlight to reach the lower parts of your tree easier. This not only can improve its own health, but improves the health of the surrounding ground and yard.

A heavy canopy of leaves lessens the amount of light and other resources from hitting the ground. This in turn prevents growth of nearby grass or surrounding foliage, and can create a damp and shady environment underneath the canopy. While trees are expected to provide some shade, too much can have a detrimental effect on its surroundings, hindering the growth of plants and ultimately impacting the entire food chain.

As both crown thinning and crown raising helps thin out or reduce the canopy, this creates more opportunities for light to get through and hit the ground, promoting healthier growth among the understory vegetation, improving air circulation, and reducing the risk of disease or pest infestations.

Improve Appearance

While the goal of most tree pruning services is to promote the health of your tree, a natural consequence of crown thinning and crown raising is improving the shape of your tree. A tree that’s undergone one or both services will have a less dense canopy that isn’t as sprawling or low to the ground as before. This helps it appear healthier and tidier, while providing more room around your tree and better access to surrounding plants, areas and views.

Improve Accessibility

It can be hard to navigate around a tree with a dense canopy or low-hanging branches. By removing or reducing these through crown thinning or raising, you can improve accessibility around your tree.

Crown thinning provides better access to the top of your tree, while crown raising removes cumbersome lower branches that may get in your way. These services, especially when removing lower branches, can provide ease-of-access around your tree, providing clearance for foot traffic, vehicles, and structures. When your tree has a more open canopy, it’s easier to navigate around, as there’s less risk of branches obstructing pathways or structures.

Contact The Tree Care Professionals

When you have an ISA-licensed arborist performing crown thinning or raising, your tree's health and well-being are their top priority. While many Edmonton homeowners can prune their own trees, you have to be careful of where and how much you cut. Cutting too much off your tree can harm its health, and cutting the wrong branch at the wrong time could result in further injury to your or the trees. A professional arborist will be able to tell which branches to trim back or get rid of, and do so safely while benefiting the health of your tree.

If you’re interested in crown thinning or raising services, contact the experts at Trusty Tree In Edmonton and the surrounding area to see how we can help improve the health and appearance of your trees. With our arborists’ extensive knowledge and experience, Trusty Tree will ensure that your crown thinning or raising service is done efficiently and with utmost care.

How to Plant a Tree on your Edmonton Property

Trees have a direct impact on our lives. Trees hold a symbolic significance, making them a cherished and meaningful gift. Saplings are often planted to honor or remember important moments in a person's life. The act of gifting a tree can bring a deep sense of connection to both the recipient's loved ones and the Earth, providing a spiritual bond. Planting a tree possesses the remarkable ability to infuse your soul with healing energy, fostering a profound reconnection with the world and the essence of life. Beyond the ethereal, trees also offer a scientific marvel: through the miraculous process of photosynthesis, they generate precious oxygen, thus replenishing the very air we breathe.

All of that being said, it's important to know how to plant a tree the right way. Trees do wonders for us, so when planting, proper care, planning, and upkeep is needed so we can give back to the tree that gives so much to us. This blog will take you through the best ways to plant a tree, so it can grow in nourishment and prosperity. Planting trees not only provides beautiful features to your property, but ecological ones too.

Preliminary Stages of Planting A Tree

Planting trees is a fantastic idea, whether it's to celebrate Earth Day or as a thoughtful gift for a friend. There are countless compelling reasons why we should strive to plant as many trees as we can. The importance of rainforests cannot be overstated - they are truly the lungs of the earth, essential for sustaining life on our planet. Understanding their critical role in so many aspects of our world fuels the passion of tree lovers like us, driving the need for more action and support. But before you plant trees, there are general rule of thumb tips you should consider for proper planting.

Let's take a look.

Plan Ahead

Selecting the perfect tree for your property holds great significance, as it not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures the well-being of your land. With a wide array of tree species at your disposal, the options are seemingly endless. A plethora of magnificent trees adorn the Edmonton Area, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Among them, Balsam Poplars, Colorado Spruces, Lodgepole Pines, and Tamarack Larches stand tall, gracing the landscape with their presence. In addition, White Birches, Aspens, and White Spruces flourish abundantly, ideally suited to the unique conditions of this remarkable area.

You'll want to also consider the type of soil you have at your home. Do you require a plant that can endure drought, or does your soil remain consistently moist? Identifying the conditions in which you intend to plant your tree is crucial. The tree's form, height, size, and its role in your landscape will dictate the most suitable tree for a given location.

In addition, it is essential to request underground utility locates prior to any excavation. This is necessary to ensure the safety of buried cables. It is crucial to avoid planting trees in close proximity to overhead utility lines, buildings with overhanging branches, or mature trees. Furthermore, it is advised to maintain a distance of at least two meters between trees and sidewalks, light posts, or buildings.

When to Plant

The best time to plant a tree is typically in the fall or spring. In the Edmonton region, spring is the optimal time to plant a tree. By doing so, you are giving your new tree the greatest opportunity to flourish and thrive in its new environment, while also allowing it to acclimate and strengthen itself before the winter season sets in. The best time to plant trees depends on two key factors: soil temperatures and water availability. For successful root development and nutrient storage, it is crucial that soil temperatures remain at or above ten degrees Celsius consistently.

Therefore, the ideal periods to plant trees are the weeks leading up to spring when leaves begin to emerge, and the fall when leaves have fallen. During these times, the soil is warm, allowing trees to redirect their energy towards tree root growth rather than leaf production.

Consistent access to water is crucial all year round and often makes the difference in whether young trees can recover from transplant shock and effectively take root in their new environment. Whether it comes from natural rainfall or regular watering, trees thrive when they have a reliable and steady water supply during the initial years after being planted.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that your trees receive the best possible start and thrive in their new environment!

Plant A Tree, Hug A Tree: Here’s How to Correctly Plant A Tree

1. Dig A Proper Planting Hole: Ensure that the hole is three times wider than the current root mass, but avoid making it deeper than the plant was growing in its previous environment. The planting depth is crucial and can result in premature death if not done correctly. When placing the tree in the hole, make sure that the root collar, where the roots join the main stem or trunk, is level with or slightly above ground level.
2. Plant High: To ensure the successful adaptation of trees in their new environment, we strongly recommend taking an extra step. Place the trees with up to 25% of the root ball elevated above the surrounding soil level. Then, gradually cover the roots with soil and generously apply a layer of mulch on top. This method not only prevents trees from settling below grade due to soil settling, but also safeguards them from root rot and disease.
3. Inspect the Tree Roots: After removing the plant from its container, examine the roots closely. If you notice that they are tightly tangled in a circular formation or have begun to grow in accordance with the shape of the container, take steps to interrupt this pattern. It is important to prevent the roots from becoming root bound.
4. Eliminate Air Pockets: To establish strong soil-to-root contact, gently press the native soil around the plant roots. Additionally, after backfilling halfway, give the hole a firm spray of water. This step not only supplies essential moisture but also helps eliminate air pockets that may harm the roots. Finish by watering the plant once more, ensuring a thorough and meticulous process.
5. Surround With A Layer of Mulch: Begin by leaving a bare area around the trunk about two inches wide and then spread approximately two inches of organic matter, like shredded leaves or ground bark, around the tree, extending at least out to the drip line. This layer of mulch not only helps to maintain essential moisture but also plays a significant role in keeping the surface roots cool, which is vital for newly planted trees.
6. Water, Water, Water: Ensuring your trees are properly watered and established is crucial after planting. This critical task may take anywhere from weeks to months. The secret to effective irrigation and successful establishment lies in slow and deep watering. However, manually doing so can be impractical. The most efficient methods for proper tree establishment involve irrigation through soaker hoses or drip irrigation.

After Care

• Water: It's important to stay vigilant about the weather and watch for signs of drought stress in your trees such as wilting, yellowing leaves, and bark cracks. Adequate watering is crucial to maintaining soil moisture and tree health. Water trees right after planting and then on a weekly basis, adjusting the schedule as needed based on rainfall.
• Stake: While not always essential, staking can greatly benefit your tree by providing support during its growth process. If you decide to use stakes, make sure to remove them after one year, allowing the trees to develop their own strength.

Trusty Tree Services - Edmonton Area’s Reliable Tree Professionals

Trusty Tree Services is your go-to solution for ensuring the health and safety of your trees and property in the Edmonton area. With a team of professional certified arborists, we are committed to delivering top-notch service for your peace of mind. Whether you need tree pruning, tree removal, or tree planting services, Trusty Tree Services has you covered. Our professional arborists will assess your trees and ensure they receive the necessary care to promote their healthy growth. With our expertise and a focus on safety, you can trust us to handle any tree-related concerns you may have. As a local business based in Edmonton, we specialize in offering top-notch tree care services tailored to the needs of residential, commercial, and municipal properties. Here's what our company can do for you and your property:

• Tree Cabling and Bracing
• Tree Planting
• Edmonton Tree Assessment Services
• Tree Trimming
• Tree Removal
• Tree Pruning
• Stump Removal
• Year-Round Grounds Maintenance
• And so much more!

If you have any doubts about planting a tree by yourself, you can rely on our skilled team at Trusty Tree Services to ensure a safe and successful planting. This way, both the tree and you will be able to thrive and find happiness. We have years of experience in the world of trees, so you can rely on our team to securely finish the job for you! Get in touch with us today and request a free quote on the service you need handled! We look forward to making a greener world with you!

The Top 8 Benefits of Planting Trees

A tree is a beautiful thing, and there are so many varieties of them. Stately oaks, colourful maples, sturdy pines—there’s even a wide range of ornamental, flowering and fruit trees to choose from. No matter your favourite kind, there is a tree for everyone. And when you need to plant a new one, you give the expert Edmonton arborists at Trusty Tree Services a call. Our experienced ISA-certified arborists are well versed in what trees work best for the greater Edmonton area, and can provide you with expert advice on how to best care for your newly planted tree, so it will thrive for years to come.

But why should you plant a tree? Besides increasing your home’s curb appeal, there are a myriad of benefits of planting trees, including improving the health and well-being of not only your surrounding environment, but yourself as well.

Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of planting trees, or speak to one of our customer service representatives today to learn what plants would work best for your outdoor space.

Benefits of Tree Planting—As If You Need More Reasons!

Not everyone has easy access to nature. But if you plant a tree, it makes for a long-term investment for your property, providing joy and shelter throughout the years. Whether you are looking for a replacement tree, a seedling or sapling, or even a mature tree, our knowledgeable arborists can help you choose the right tree for you and provide professional tree planting services.

There are plenty of reasons why you should have deciduous or conifer trees on your property. Some of the amazing benefits of planting trees include:

Improved Energy Conservation

You already know that trees provide shade, but did you know they can also help lower your energy bill? Having trees around your home can help shield it from strong winds in the winter, helping preserve heat in your home, and by shading your home in the summer heat with their leafy canopies, they help keep your home cooler.

This natural method of temperature regulation can significantly reduce your need for air conditioning and heating, leading to overall lower energy consumption and savings on your utility bills. It's a win-win situation for both the environment and your wallet.

Reducing Heat Island Effect With Urban Temperature Regulation

Much like their effect on your home, urban trees can help offset the effects of extreme heat and chill on streets, public spaces, and other municipal areas.

Shade from leafy canopies shade streets, helping to cool down streets, parking lots, and other hot surfaces, as well as parks and sidewalk areas, creating a more pleasant environment for pedestrians and reducing the urban heat island effect. Furthermore, during winter, evergreens can act as windbreaks, with a well-placed treeline helping to provide protection against cold winds and helping to conserve heat within urban buildings. Initiatives like green roofs can also improve the overall city environment.

This helps make urban environments more liveable during periods of intense heat and cold, which in turn will lead to increased use and economic growth.

Stormwater Management

While some water is good, a lot of water all at once is bad. Trees can help reduce the impact of run-off on your home and its surrounding environment by absorbing excess water through their root systems, preventing runoff and erosion. Additionally, they can improve the quality of the soil, making it more resilient to waterlogged conditions and natural disasters like landslides.

In urban settings with more hard, absorbent surfaces, trees serve as natural sponges that help to minimize flooding and filter pollutants from rainwater before they infiltrate the underground water tables. Their leaves and branches also play a critical role in intercepting rainfall, which is an important benefit of planting trees, ultimately reducing the burden on city drainage systems.

Natural Noise Buffering

A wall of trees can provide a measure of privacy for your home by obstructing views, but they can also act as a noise buffer as well. When the sound waves reach the reaches, it gets intercepted by the dense foliage, which disrupts the waves' path and diminishes their intensity before they can reach beyond the trees. This natural barrier can significantly reduce noise pollution, creating a more tranquil and secluded environment for residents. This is especially beneficial in urban or suburban areas where traffic noise can be an ongoing issue.

Evergreens tend to work best for year-round noise buffering, as they have foliage that reaches the ground compared to deciduous varieties that lose their leaves in fall, resulting in a significant reduction in noise reduction capabilities during winter months. Another benefit of planting trees is that the dense foliage of evergreens absorbs sound more effectively.

Protecting and Creating Wildlife Habitats

Sure, you may not like that squirrel your dog keeps barking at, but without the diversity of wildlife in our neighborhood, the ecological balance could be thrown off. Each creature, no matter how small or annoying, plays a significant role in the health of our environment.

Your oaks, willows, aspens, pines and flowering varieties all provide valuable shelter for your neighbourhood’s wildlife population. They offer a place for birds to nest, insects to flourish, and mammals to find refuge, creating a vibrant ecosystem right in your backyard. This benefit of planting trees helps not only your own yard, but your entire community, to flourish.

Improved Aesthetic Appeal

People enjoy seeing plants, and value properties with towering canopies and broad branches. Streets that have urban forests lining them are considered to be more attractive than those with open lawns, and people will pay more for homes on these greenery-filled streets.

Properties featuring trees often convey a sense of a more vibrant and healthier yard. Even a single tree can have a positive impact on someone's view of a space. Trees improve soil conditions by protecting your property from excess run-off and soil erosion, giving the appearance of a more stable and sustainable landscape.

Reduced Stress and Improved Health

There is a term in Japanese, Shinrin-yoku, which in English translates as “forest bathing.” It refers to the therapeutic practice of immersing yourself in a forest or natural setting, engaging your senses to foster a profound connection with nature.

You don’t need to even go outside to participate in this practice—studies have shown the stress-reducing or relaxing effect that looking at plants can have. Even having plants inside your home can have a positive effect on your health and well-being, reducing mental fatigue.

The more trees, flora and landscaping that an urban environment has, the more likely people will engage with public infrastructure and local businesses. After all, if given the choice, would you rather walk through a more natural landscape in a city park or a concrete block?

The former option not only provides aesthetic pleasure but also improves mental health, making cities more livable and inviting, increasing social interactions and creating connected communities. This in turn increases the use of alternative methods of transportation, such as public transit, walking and bicycling, which in turn reduces the city’s overall carbon footprint further and provides more opportunities for business at the local level for an economic benefit. Incorporating green spaces into urban planning is therefore essential for fostering community well-being and economic success.

Promoting a Healthy Environment

Like other plants, trees and shrubs provide environmental benefits by acting as a natural filter to help protect us from air pollution and other pollutants. By absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, they significantly contribute to air quality and climate regulation, and by absorbing harmful heavy metals, nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus in the soil, they help protect our clean water sources and create healthy soil.

Forests and flora of all kinds help improve soil and water conservation, capture harmful pollutants like carbon, and moderate the local climate by regulating extreme temperatures, providing shade, increasing wildlife habitat and making the land better able to adapt to climate change. These benefits of planting trees, known as ecological services, would be very difficult and expensive for humans to replicate, if possible at all. Moreover, they serve as critical support systems for our environment and planet, enabling a balance that sustains various forms of life, including our own.

Choose Trusty Tree Services, and See the Benefits of Planting Trees For Yourself

Each tree species not only varies in its appearance but serves an important role in nature's greater ecosystem. For instance, an oak tree provides a robust habitat and food source for various wildlife, while a willow plays a crucial role in water purification and soil stabilization. But all different types of trees can provide numerous social and health benefits for yourself, your green space, and your community's quality of life.

Whatever your tree care service needs, whether you are planting one or need help with routine care, you can count on the skilled arborists at Trusty Tree Services to provide excellent customer service and provide you with the knowledge you need to ensure your tree’s long-term health. Our ISA-certified arborists will help you choose an appropriate species, assess the condition of your property, and take care of the planting and resulting clean-up, so you receive the full benefits of planting trees.

Family-owned and operated, and proudly serving the greater Edmonton area, including Sherwood Park, Stony Plain, Leduc, and the surrounding areas, we are the tree care company you can trust. Contact us today, or request a free quote online, and see how we can take care of your trees.

Tree Fungus Dangers

Healthy trees bring a natural beauty to any landscape, improving the overall ambiance of any outdoor space. A tree with curled leaves, unnatural growths, and bare branches does not improve the space, and is a sign of a bigger issue: tree fungus. Identifying and addressing fungal infections promptly is crucial to maintaining the health and appearance of the tree, as well as preserving the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Your trusted Edmonton arborists can help you do just that.

If left untreated, fungal infections have the potential to weaken and ultimately kill trees. Adding to the problem is the fact that these infections can spread quickly, posing a threat to neighbouring trees and plants. Quite often, if you find one tree suffering from a fungal infection, there will be more trees in the immediate vicinity suffering as well. If you suspect that a tree in your area is suffering from a fungal infection, you should seek immediate professional assistance to prevent the spread to other trees and take preventive measures to protect nearby trees from potential fungal infestations.

Common Types of Tree Fungus Found In Edmonton

Tree fungus will greatly sicken and weaken any infected trees. Regular care, maintenance and inspections will help ensure your tree’s health, but even previously healthy trees can become infected. If you notice any signs of fungus on your trees, such as discoloration or unusual growths, it's important to address the issue promptly. Tree fungus can spread quickly and have detrimental effects on the overall health of your trees if left untreated.

Some of the more common types of fungal infection you should keep an eye out for in Edmonton include:

Dutch Elm Disease (DED):

DED affects any type of elm tree, and since its introduction from Europe around the 1930s, it has destroyed millions of American elm trees across North America.

The elm bark beetle, which carries the disease, has been found in the province since 1994. DED has typically arrived three to seven years after the first detection of elm bark beetles in other jurisdictions, and the City of Edmonton has invested in a preventative strategy to protect one of the world's last stands of healthy elms.

The early signs of infection appear from the end of June to the middle of July when the leaves at least one of the infected tree’s branches wilt, droop and curl, before turning brown, although they usually stay on the tree. If infected later in the summer, the leaves will droop, turn yellow and drop prematurely, and will often be confused with seasonal changes. These symptoms will be accompanied by brown staining in the sapwood. As it can be confused with other fungal infections, lab testing is needed to confirm

If left untreated, DED will lead to tree death.

Black Knot Fungus

Cherry and plum trees are vulnerable to Black Knot Fungus. It appears as dark, rough growths on branches and twigs, deforming branches and reducing growth. It can weaken and stunt a tree’s growth, and eventually kill the tree if left untreated.

Unlike DED, it is a native plant disease and well established in the province.

Root Rot

Root Rot refers to several types of fungi that attack the roots of a plant, depriving it of water and nutrients. While some kinds of fungi, such as honey mushrooms, do appear on the infected plant, as others do not show any external signs of infection, so it can be hard to identify.  However, yellowing or browning leaves, and a general thinning of its foliage, are signs that there is something wrong with your tree’s ability to feed itself.

Regularly monitoring your trees for any signs of fungal growth or overall decline that may indicate deeper root issues.

Dortiorella Elm Wilt

Dothiorella Elm Wilt causes the wilting and die-back of American and Siberian elm trees. It causes wilting, drooping, curling and yellowing of leaves, branch dieback, and browning of sapwood. It is very hard to distinguish from DED.

The disease attacks elm trees that are already under stress. Elms with Dothiorella Elm Wilt can live for years with low to moderate levels of fungal infection. However, not all infections lead to the death of the infected elm tree, as those with extensive canopy dieback are considered for removal.

While the tree can fight the disease with proper care, the problem lies in its ability to spread, as the disease is spread through its spores and is hard to contain.

Treating And Preventing Tree Fungus

The presence of fungal infection in one tree suggests that the environmental conditions are favorable for the spread of the disease to other nearby trees. It's important that you monitor the health of any neighboring trees, and take preventive measures to control the spread of the infection. Regular inspection and appropriate treatment can help minimize the impact of the fungal disease on the entire tree population in the area. But be aware there is no perfect tree fungus treatment. What works for one tree may not work on another, even if they’re the same species, and factors like severity and spread can impact treatment options.

Treatments for different fungal infections will vary, so be sure to consult our ISA-certified arborists before attempting any treatments and preventative measures. Some common methods include:

Proper Watering Techniques

Stressed-out trees have a lower natural defense, making them more susceptible to disease and infection. Proper watering, particularly during periods of drought, can reduce a tree’s stress, and ensure your tree is getting enough water.

Avoiding over-watering your treat, as excessive moisture in soil with poor drainage can lead to root rot. Your Edmonton arborists can assess your soil conditions and provide tips on how to better irrigate your trees.

Pruning

The pruning of diseased or infected branches may help slow or eliminate fungal infections. However, for disease control purposes, pruning certain types of trees may only be allowed during certain times of the year. Speak to our expert arborists about when you may be allowed to prune your trees, and keep a diligent watch on any potential or neighbouring trees.

Antifungal Treatments

After pruning, you often can apply fungicide to your tree, but keep in mind that not all fungicides are alike, as they can be applied in different ways. Additionally, antifungal treatments may not work on some diseases, such as Dortiorella Elm Wilt.

Be sure to do your research before applying any treatment, and speak to a professional arborist about your options.

Count On Us For Trusty Tree Services

Regular monitoring and maintenance of your trees can go a long way in preventing tree fungus from taking hold of your tree. In addition to regular monitoring and maintenance, proper pruning techniques and ensuring good airflow in your soil can also help minimize the risk of tree fungus, and promote a healthy growing environment for your trees.

Our arborists are ISA-certified, and are dedicated to helping you with all your tree care and maintenance service needs. We offer a wide range of services, including tree pruning, tree removal, deep root fertilization and tree consultation services. Contact us today for your free quote, and learn how we can help you care for your trees.

 

Identifying and Preventing Diamond Willow Fungus in Edmonton, Alberta

Diamond Willow Fungus refers to the fungi that grows on the sides of willow trees. Typically having white, black or brown colouring, the name doesn’t appear to reference a single type of fungi, with sources referring to Diamond Tree Fungus as coming from the Haploporus Odorus, Valsa Sordida, or Haploporus Adorus family. However, the distinctive shelf-like cap and smell make it easy to identify Diamond Willow Fungus in the wild. The cap is diamond-shaped and has a smell similar to anise. Its odor is usually noticeable before you see the fungus. An Edmonton arborist can help you identify the fungus.

Diamond Willow Fungus is mainly found in northern Alberta and British Columbia in North America, or anywhere north of the 51st parallel. It typically grows on willow trees in damp areas of forests or wooded wetlands. The name doesn't refer to a single tree species, but rather the unique scarring it leaves on the otherwise regular willow trees it affects. These scars resemble the faceted surface of a diamond, and this distinctive feature makes it easily recognizable among other types of fungi.

The wood of an infected tree is rather appealing. The diamond-like legions left in the wood of the tree make it aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and the beautiful wood is sought after for a wide range of decorative uses, everything from diamond willow walking sticks to handmade diamond willow home decor.

This fungus holds deep meaning for Indigenous people, and reverence for fungi is reflected in various spiritual ceremonies and traditional medicinal practices. As such, the fungus is harvested at specific times of the year and with great care. However, the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation has noted that very few clumps of willow trees actually have the fungus. Ensuring the survival of fungi heavily relies on the protection of willow habitats.

But there may come times when trees with Diamond Willow Fungus should be removed. Maybe the tree itself needs to be taken down, or perhaps the Diamond Willow Fungus has spread too extensively and poses a risk to nearby trees or structures. In such cases, careful consideration and consultation with arborists are essential to ensure the proper removal and disposal of the affected tree and fungus.

How Diamond Willow Fungus Can Affect Your Trees

Diamond Willow Fungus is a type of parasite. Growing several inches wide, it primarily infects willow trees and is known for leaving distinctive diamond-shaped patterns on the wood. The fungus gets its nutrients by absorbing them from the tree's living tissue, ultimately causing harm to the host tree and causing branches to die back. A canker will form where the dead branch was, often creating a concave diamond shape in the wood.

If left untreated, the Diamond Willow Fungus can spread to other healthy branches, weakening the willow tree's overall structure. It is important to promptly identify and address any signs of infection to prevent further damage to the entire tree. The fungus is perennial, and will come back year after year if left untreated.

The tree fungi can spread to surrounding trees and ultimately weaken or kill them, so it's important to monitor and take action when necessary. Maintaining the health of the overall ecosystem is crucial for the longevity of your trees.

Prevention and Treatment Options for Diamond Willow Fungus

Diamond Willow Fungus is a type of canker disease on your tree. A canker is an area of dead or dying tissue on the branches or trunk of a tree, caused by various factors such as fungi, bacteria, or physical injury. Unlike other types of fungal diseases on trees, canker diseases are typically caused by tree stress or trauma, with the cankers generally starting where the injured part of the tree is, leading to discolouration of the bark on branches and stem.

To treat and prevent cankers, the key is employing good pruning techniques. Regular pruning helps to remove any damaged or diseased branches, allowing for better air circulation and reducing the risk of cankers. Removing dead, broken or infected branches will help eliminate the potential for spread, and applying fungicide will help to further protect the tree from cankers. It is important to choose a fungicide that is specifically formulated to treat the type of canker affecting the tree and carefully follow the instructions for application.

Remember, it is important to sterilize pruning tools between cuts to prevent the spread of infection. This can be done by wiping the blades with a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol or a dilute bleach solution. It's essential to ensure that the pruning tools are completely dry before using them again to avoid any potential harm to the plants.

Providing proper care and maintenance for your trees, such as fertilizing, watering, and, of course, pruning can also help you prevent the growth of cankers on your trees. Regularly inspecting your trees for signs of cankers and promptly addressing any issues can help maintain tree health and vitality.

Even if you take preventative measures, you still may end up with tree fungus. Be sure to contact our trusted team of ISA-certified arborists, who can help you identify, mitigate, and remove any potential fungi.

Helping You Care For Your Trees

Because of the cultural significance of Diamond Willow Fungus, it is important to have a professional tree service help in its removal and mitigation from your property. Our arborists can handle the removal and treatment of the fungus with respect, while ensuring the health of your trees.

Our arborists have extensive knowledge and experience in dealing with various types of tree fungus, ensuring that they can provide the best possible solution for your specific situation. With their expertise, you can rest assured that your trees are in capable hands. Whether it's identifying the type of fungus affecting your trees or implementing effective treatment plans, our arborists are dedicated to preserving the health and beauty of your landscape. You can rely on their commitment to delivering top-notch tree care services.

Contact us today for a consultation and a customized plan for the management of Diamond Willow Fungus on your property. Our team is committed to preserving the beauty and vitality of your trees.