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After days, weeks, or months of worrying if the next snowfall, gust of wind, or thunder storm was going to be the one that caused that perilous tree located near your home to fall, a decision to have it removed was made. Instead of having to fret about the damage which would be associated with such a disaster, being preemptive and opting for removal is often the best option and decision available to a homeowner for ensuring the safety of their family and place of residence.
 
However, now that the problematic tree is gone, in place is a stump which creates an entirely new set of dangerous circumstances on its own. While the smaller stump is never going to fall over, crushing your house in the process, the potential for other types of accidents, damage, or harm is now relevant in addition to a host of other problematic issues.
 
These include all of the following:

TRIP HAZARDS

Depending on the size and height of the stump remaining after tree removal, an immediate danger in your landscape may have been created. Especially if the arborist or individual felling the tree initially cut close to the ground, then what is left of the trunk and any exposed root system is cause for concern. If not apparent or initially visible, then anyone walking or worse, running, through the area could collide with the stump and fall.
 
Damage to yourself or anyone unaware of the stump remains would then occur. If the grasses surrounding the stump are not cut back exposing the remaining tree, which is often the case due to harder lawn care around such a plant, then the capabilities of hiding a dangerous tripping hazard are only increased.
 
Complete removal is the best option.

PEST PRODUCERS

While you may think leaving only that little piece of tree stump could not be causing too much harm, you would definitely be wrong. Even if you believe no one will ever trip or fall on the remnants of a cut down tree, the leftover stump also creates an inviting home for insects and other potentially dangerous pests over time. One of the most common, which can cause an enormous amount of unwanted damage to a home is the termite.
 
Any wood left lying around your property, but especially a leftover stump, only serves as an unintentional way you’re inviting pests to take up residence in close proximity to your house. Instead of having these creatures move in to potentially cause problems from an action made to initially rid a home of potential damage, going the extra step in an effort to complete the entire process is needed. Don’t fall short by leaving a stump after removing the tree, elect for complete removal on every occasion.

LAWN CARE EASE

Another reason for opting to remove any stumps left after cutting down a tree is to create an overall ease of lawn care for the individual or people performing such duties. By having the stump taken out, matching grasses can fill in the space once where the tree stood and increase the overall area of land use available. This extra space can provide benefits as opposed to the hazards created from leaving a tree stump in place.
 
Instead of having to account for leftover stumps and work around these areas when performing any grooming care to a yard, an individual would be allowed direct access and not be limited in their duties by stumps creating potential hazards to their work.

EYESORE

The remnants of a fallen tree not only create damage and hazard inducing pitfalls across your personal landscape, but immediately produce an eyesore within your property. Homeowners work hard to establish a beautiful area surrounding their residence and while the reasoning behind a tree removal often falls in the realm of safety, leaving a stump creates additional difficulties and is not appealing to the eye.
 
While there are numerous tree stump ideas to help eliminate the atrocious sight of a stump on property, none are really too beneficial. These options may create a talking or focal point but behind the decoration is still a pest inviting structure which may be apparent and less of a tripping or falling hazard but still does not derive the same potential from opting for complete removal.

EQUIPMENT DAMAGE

Another damaging opportunity created by not removing a tree stump entirely includes contact with lawn equipment. Not only are humans subject to being harmed from a job only halfway complete, but your lawn mower could also suffer considerable damage from a halfway removed tree.
 
Depending on the type and blades or reels, both could be subject to harm if a stump is not avoided. Blades and reels can become bent, dulled, or even broken completely if contact with a hard wood structure, such as a stump, is inflicted.
 
Complete removal eliminates the dangers associated with damage caused by contact from such implements.
 
Each of these above referenced issues with stumps let to stand alone in a yard make opting for removal the best alternative. By riding your landscape of these remote eyesores and potentially dangerous settings, a cleaner and more enjoyable space will be left in the area. Choosing this option coincides with electing to remove the initial threat but following through to complete removal is a must to ensure the safety of not only your family but any other individuals who will be visiting the property.
 
Arbor Garden Tree & Landscaping has been serving the Denver metro area for 23 years. We began in 1994 with one truck and now have a full service arborist business. Our locally owned and operated company is proud to serve Denver metro area residents and business owners including the Denver Country Club, Castle Pines Country Club, city and county governments, various homeowners associations and private homeowners. Our knowledgeable and certified arborists would be more happy to provide you with tree trimming, tree removal, tree planting and landscaping services. When you’re ready to get started give us a call at 303-722-8820 or fill out our contact form today.

Ensuring that your Denver landscape remains up to date and well maintained throughout the summer months can be both a difficult and time consuming task. As the temperatures rise and rainfall amounts increase, grasses, plants and even unwanted weeds will begin to flourish - even in less than ideal conditions. Keeping these unwanted weeds to a minimum requires a large amount of time but there are other plants which may need your attention as well. While a majority of the plant growth administered by a business owner adds to the surroundings of a home or other outlet, some of the plants least thought about in the heat of summer need this special care and attention to detail in order to remain healthy and cared for properly.

Almost every single tree needs a good pruning or trimming during their dormant stage in order to maintain a quality of growth while preparing the plant for future blooms. However, a few of the trees often found on landscapes throughout the area are better left alone during their dormant stage and cared for just after their blooms have been given new life following the spring season. Trees in this category are mostly flowering tree types and should be given special attention as summer approaches in order to maintain and reach their full potential.

The subtle changes within this home environment are key and should be utilized to ensure a quality landscape moving forward - giving special attention to all plants, shrubs and trees when required. While many home or business owner’s understand the need for curb appeal and a first impression, the benefits derived from following a specific plan of action for every living thing in your care can serve to assist with more than just maintaining a home or office that is pleasing to the eye from an outside landscape.

As the calendar continues to flip and time passes, the importance of keeping a quality control on the trees within your property that need a summer pruning is vital to their future success and growth. Ensuring that these plants get the care they need will help to both protect your property value in addition to helping reduce the possible effects of any damage from uncontrolled or ill-maintained trees.

Each of the following summer tree care components require the means to be treated but depending on their current situation may have to wait until professional crews or other individuals can be allowed access in an effort to keep a properly maintained landscape throughout your specific property.

Magnolias

These specific type of trees are one of the few which benefit from a solid pruning after the emergence of their flowing plant. Often used for decorative purposes and to add a sense of depth to a yard, magnolias are the favorite of many individuals but rarely receive the proper care and attention they deserve or require.

With 12 species of magnolia trees to choose from, there are plenty of options for summer pruning available should any of these be currently present on your property or added in the future.

Flowering Cherries

Another tree which requires a significant amount of time and attention during the summer months is the flowering cherry. These fruit trees are often incorporated within a landscape to create a sense of focus. Also, these trees may be maintained with both the summer cutback and a more typical fall pruning (after the growing season). This care schedule should be taken into consideration when incorporating a design concept that revolves around the inclusion of this particular plant.

Lilacs

Finally, lilacs are often not particularly sought after trees but can provide special meaning to those who wish to take on their delicate care schedule. Lilac has a few different forms but when properly maintained can create an abundance of beauty to almost any scene.

All of these plants should be subject to a professional summer pruning immediately following their flowering period. These prunings will maintain the life expectancy of each plant and ensure that your landscape achieves the desired look, growth and health creating the desired curb appeal for your property.

Storm Damage

One other factor may also lead to summer pruning, even for trees not normally associated with requiring a mid-year cut back. As temperatures rise the threat for severe weather increases with thunderstorms which can produce hail, high winds, and damaging lightning. Should a tree on your property sustain damage from any of the above then a cutting to remove damaged limbs or dead areas within a tree may be necessary.

While these trees may appear to be healthy, if you believe one has sustained any sort of damage then letting a professional assess the situation would be a good move. This way, not only can the dead limbs be removed before falling and causing damage to things below, or worse, an entire tree toppling over, but the overall health of the tree remains the key focus. Extracting just the necessary damaged portions of a healthy tree can revitalize the remaining elements and ensure a prosperous future for the foliage in question.

These summer trees that require pruning midyear provide beautiful focal points within a landscape and the flowering varieties are often the centerpieces of conversation. Just as you properly maintain their counterparts in the fall and winter seasons, when most are dormant and the growing season is past, keeping up with summer’s flowering trees is important for the overall well being of your landscape.

Arbor Garden Tree & Landscaping has been serving the Denver metro area for 23 years. We began in 1994 with one truck and now have a full service arborist business. Our locally owned and operated company is proud to serve Denver metro area residents and business owners including the Denver Country Club, Castle Pines Country Club, city and county governments, various homeowners associations and private homeowners. Our knowledgeable and certified arborists would be more happy to provide you with tree trimming, tree removal, tree planting and landscaping services. When you’re ready to get started give us a call at 303-722-8820 or fill out our contact form today.

When you think of maintaining your garden and your landscaping, weed control is likely one of the first tasks you focus on. After all, weeds are unsightly and can make even the healthiest landscaping look unkempt and disheveled. However, while some weeds may be detrimental to your garden and your trees, others are not. Here are a few of the most common weeds we see in Colorado and why Denver landscaping companies won’t panic when they see them in your yard.

Dandelions

These friendly yellow flowers are a common sight in most Colorado yards and, for many homeowners, can be a source of dismay. Though this weed can spread quickly, it’s actually beneficial for your yard. The deep roots help bring nutrients up through the soil, making them accessible to other plants and trees. This helps your trees grow more efficiently and more effectively throughout the year. Best of all, they pose no threat to your kids or pets. If a wayward child chooses to eat a dandelion, it shouldn’t cause any digestive issues. In fact, the entire plant is edible and can be harvested from yards that do not utilize chemical treatments on their grass or landscaping.

Lambs Quarters

Believe it or not, lambs quarters are a member of the spinach family and are thus edible, much like dandelions. However, their greens toughen when left in the soil for too long. Look for these triangular-shaped leaves in your yard in late spring and early summer. Though not harmful to established trees, lambs quarters can grow tall when left in the ground. If you have flower beds or young trees, these weeds can shade them, causing your landscaping to wither or grow poorly. If you see the weeds encroaching on sensitive areas of your yard, avoid the weed killer and dig them up yourself. Use a small trowel to fully remove the roots from dry soil. If the soil is damp, you may be able to remove the entire plant with a firm tug. Grab the weed close to the base and pull firmly.

Bindweed

Bindweed produces lovely flowers in the late spring and early summer, but it’s one of the most troublesome weeds in Colorado. Though not poisonous, it can spread quickly, choking out flowers, bushes, and even young trees indiscriminately. The weed is incredibly hardy and survives even moderate drought with ease, but it can be controlled. Like dandelions, this weed spreads quickly and requires frequent pulling to rid it from your yard. Leaving behind even the smallest bit of root will allow the weed to regrow. However, if you continue to pull it up anytime you see the weed, it will eventually die out.

Kochia

Kochia is from the same family as lambs quarters but can grow even larger and spread even more rapidly when left unaddressed. Though not a hazard to established trees, the weed can damage the shallow root systems of younger saplings and shade out both flowers and vegetable gardens quickly. Look for a plant with oblong leaves that have a grayish fuzz on top and a purple tint on the underside of each leaf. Pull the weed as close to the base as possible. Unlike dandelions, you should be able to remove the entire root with a gentle tug. Kochia’s root system is incredibly shallow and while it makes it easy for the weed to spread, it also makes it easy to remove.

Chickweed

Not all weeds pose a hazard to your plants and landscaping. In fact, chickweed is one that you really should leave to grow in your yard. The weed is characterized by small white flowers that bloom on top of triangular shaped waxy green leaves. The weed is typically found in undernourished soil and leaving it to grow in your garden bed and landscaping will actually help enrich the soil and return valuable nutrients to the dirt. Instead of pulling it, trim it back each month and spread a layer of mulch on top of the weeds. This will reduce the growth of the chickweed while also encouraging the weed to break down and decay. Once the full plant is decayed, the nutrients stored in the leaves and stems are reintroduced into the soil, enriching your garden without the use of expensive fertilizers.

Prickly Lettuce

As the name suggests, this weed is known for its pointy spines along the stalk and leaves of the plant. While easy to remove as a young shoot, prickly lettuce grows stronger and more barbed as the roots spread. Though the weed is not harmful, it can be a bit of a nuisance in yards where small children like to go barefoot, pricking them anytime the leaves are stepped on. When left to grow, the plant can reach several feet in height and will spread year after year. Look for arugula-shaped leaves in early spring into late summer. Pull the plant as soon as you notice it growing, but take care to wear thick leather gloves when removing the lettuce. Standard fabric gardening gloves are typically not substantial enough to protect you from the spines.

White Clover

Clover tends to show up in yards that lack nitrogen in the soil, causing underperforming blooms and unhealthy growing conditions. However, unlike most weeds, clover is almost entirely beneficial. The root systems are shallow, but as the plant grows, it helps to draw up nutrients, making them easier for nearby plants to access. Furthermore, the small white flowers attract both pollinators and ladybugs, improving your plant’s performance and reducing the presence of unwanted pests. However, the low-lying weed can spread over younger plants and you will want to keep it pruned away from new shoots.

Worried about the way a tree is growing in your yard or want some advice on how to handle weeds around your young trees? Contact Arbor Garden and schedule an appointment with our experienced arborist today. As Denver plant healthcare specialists, we’ll be able to develop a plan to care for and maintain your yard’s trees year after year. Call (303) 722-8820 for a free estimate.

Summer is just around the corner and as the weather warms up, more and more kids will start spending time outside rather than in front of the TV. Though there’s no denying that the fresh air and activity is great for them, keeping them and your landscaping safe throughout the summer can be a bit of a challenge. The backyard should be a safe-haven and paradise for any kid looking to get away from technology and unplug. Here are a few tips from a trusted Denver landscaping company to help you keep your kids and your landscaping safe this summer.

Create Designated Play Spaces

If you have young kids, setting boundaries is incredibly important when it comes to preserving the health of your landscaping and your trees. Rather than letting them play anywhere in the yard, create designated play areas. Use natural boundaries like shrubs to create green fencing or lay mulch around the plants and garden beds you want to protect. This will help preserve the nutrients in the soil while also giving your kids a visible “off-limits” indicator to watch for whenever they’re playing. If you have vegetable gardens or young plants you wish to protect completely, consider installing a small fence around the bed. This way, the soil will be undisturbed by activity, giving your plants the time they need to grow well.

Keep Gardening Tools Out of Reach

As a parent, it’s easy to get distracted when you’re gardening. This often results in gardening tools and equipment getting left out in the yard for days on end. Unfortunately, unattended tools are almost a magnet for curious kids and even a small spade can be a major safety hazard when they’re running around the backyard. Rather than leaving your gardening tools out and about, put them away after each use. Store them in a designated garden shed or put them in the garage where they can stay protected from the elements until you’re ready to use them again. This will not only preserve the life of your tools, but it will keep kids from hurting themselves by using the tools improperly and without adult supervision.

Retract Sprinklers or Put Them Away

If you’ve ever stepped on a sharp rock barefoot, you know the pain it can cause. Sprinkler heads are no different and if your kids are running through the grass barefoot on a hot summer day, stubbing their toe on a sprinkler head is sure to bring them to tears. If you have a permanent sprinkler or irrigation system installed in your yard, make sure it’s set to retract the heads at the end of each watering cycle. If you have sprinkler attachments for your hose, pick them up when you’re done using them. This way, your kids’ feet will stay safe and your sprinkler head will be undamaged no matter how much they trample the lawn.  

Clean Up Debris After Pruning and Tree Trimming

Regular trimming and pruning is important for the health of trees and shrubs of all sizes. However, no matter how careful you are, some debris will get scattered throughout the yard. If you know that your kids will be spending time playing outside, take the time to clean up thoroughly after trimming. Bag large clippings and twigs as you go and rake up smaller debris after the yardwork is finished. If you’re worried about finding the time to prune and clean up your yard, hire a professional to take care of the job. They’ll make sure your lawn is safe after every trimming so you can avoid worrying about your kids getting splinters and cuts after playing outdoors.

Think About Insects

Unfortunately, the warmer weather attracts stinging insects as much as it does beneficial pollinators. Periodically check the trees and play structures around the yard for signs of wasp nests, bee hives, and fire ants. If you notice any around the yard, contact an exterminator to discuss your options. Bee hives should be removed and relocated without harming the insects. However, wasps and fire ants can often be treated simply with the help of an experienced pest control team. If you don’t see any signs of nests, set up a preventative wasp trap in a part of the yard far away from the central play area. These traps lure wasps hunting in your yard and keep them from interfering with your kids’ playtime.

Create a Kids’ Garden

The easiest way to get kids to be mindful of plants is to get them involved in gardening. The more they appreciate the work involved in caring for a garden bed, the less likely they are to trample your plants. Start a small garden bed and let your kids plant a few of their favorite flowers or veggies. They’ll love the opportunity to get their hands dirty and learn the value of caring for plants throughout the year. Let them take ownership of the garden bed and encourage them to water their garden routinely. The more involved they feel, the more they’ll understand and appreciate the work it takes to maintain the rest of the yard’s landscaping.

Make Use of Shade Trees

Sunburn may not be a major safety hazard, but it can be a big source of discomfort in the summer. Rather than relying solely on copious amounts of sunscreen, create hangout spots for your kids that use the shade your trees provide. Swing sets, play sets, and sitting areas can all be placed in shady areas of the yard, letting your kids stay outside longer without getting sunburned. If you don’t have any shade trees in your yard, consider planting some this year to help turn your backyard into a comfortable retreat for your kids and yourselves.

Summer should be a time of fun and relaxation for the whole family. Need help getting your yard and your trees ready for the summer? Contact Arbor Garden today. Our experienced arborists and pruning specialists will keep your trees in good shape so you and your family can focus on enjoying the great outdoors in comfort.

When it comes to taking care of your trees, routine rainfall makes it easy. With proper moisture levels, even young trees thrive, producing vibrant growth and creating the shade most homeowners look for in their yards. However, during drought conditions, those same trees may not be grow as well without additional help. Though water levels may be low, you’ll still need to care for your landscaping and your trees until the rains start to fall again. Your trusted Denver tree service explains how to take care of your trees, even in periods of extreme drought.

Understand the Signs of Stress

Before you can adequately care for your trees, you need to understand the signs of drought stress those plants may exhibit. Look for yellowing leaves, brown edges around the leaves’ perimeters, and any spotting on the tops of the leaves. These signs all indicate that the tree is not receiving enough moisture or nutrients from the soil under current conditions. If you have evergreens in your yard, inspect the color of the needles. If they appear red or brown, the tree is not receiving enough moisture from the soil. Keep in mind that the symptoms of drought stress may not appear throughout the entire tree, so it’s important to take the time to inspect each area closely throughout the summer.

Avoid Supplementing With Fertilizer

Since drought conditions can leave trees producing growth more slowly, many homeowners are tempted to fertilize the roots in order to encourage normal growth. While this may seem like a good idea, it’s actually bad for the trees. Fertilizers contain salts and chemicals that can be caustic to roots without proper dilution. During drought conditions, there is not enough moisture in the soil to adequately dilute the fertilizer, putting the roots and your trees at risk. Instead of trying to encourage new growth, focus your efforts on keeping your trees as well-hydrated as possible. This will ensure that they’ll survive the drought so you can enjoy their shade and growth in years to come.

Water Properly

Even if you decide to let the rest of your landscaping go, it’s important to keep your trees watered during periods of extreme drought. Remember, tree roots go deep into the soil, so you’ll need to make sure the water reaches 12 to 18 inches beneath the surface of your yard. Any shallower than that and the roots will not receive the water they need to support the tree. If you have a drip irrigation system in place, make sure to use it to water your trees—these systems reduce the amount of water that evaporates during watering as they’re placed beneath the soil. Should the drought be severe enough that your community enacts water restrictions, make use of your grey water. When waiting for your shower to warm up, collect the cool water in a bucket and use it to water your plants. Rather than discarding pasta water, let it cool and water your trees with it.

Make Use of Mulch

Keeping the roots and soil moist will help your trees survive the drought and nothing helps more than spreading mulch around the base of the tree. Mulch acts as a protective barrier between the soil and the sun, reducing the amount of heat that reaches the roots. This lets the soil retain as much moisture as possible between watering. Keep in mind that too much mulch and too much moisture can lead too root rot. To prevent this, leave about four inches of space around the base of the tree so the roots can breathe without being covered by mulch.

Schedule a Pruning Appointment

Proper pruning helps keep your trees healthy while eliminating diseased or damaged parts of the tree that could do damage both to the tree’s vascular system and your property. During a drought, proper pruning will ensure that the tree can support itself, getting rid of problematic limbs and branches. Keep in mind that you’ll want to hire a professional tree service to handle drought-time pruning as trimming too much growth can damage the tree’s ability to produce new blooms in the affected area. Furthermore, pruning reduces the risk of insects and disease, helping keep the rest of your landscaping healthier even when it’s under duress. If additional measures or treatments need to be taken, your arborist will be able to make the appropriate recommendations after the pruning.

Water at the Right Time of Day

If you’re like most people, you probably water your landscaping whenever you happen to think about it. While this is fine on cooler days, it’s dangerous during warmer drought conditions. Watering during the heat of the day or the afternoon allows the sun to evaporate more of the water. This means your plants receive less water than they should. Rather than watering whenever the urge strikes, try to establish a schedule. Water once every week in the early morning or after dusk when the moisture has a chance to penetrate the soil. This will go a long way towards keeping your plants in good condition, even if rainstorms are few and far between.

Understand the Watering Needs of Your Trees

Established trees are more equipped to handle drought conditions than younger trees. This is because their roots already reach deep into the soil. Younger trees have smaller root systems that dwell only in the top few inches of soil. To keep their roots happy, you’ll need to water young trees more frequently. Check the soil around the base of the tree every few days and water once the soil is dry to the touch. It won’t take much, just enough to saturate the dirt.

If you’re worried about the health of your trees, let the experts at Arbor Garden help you care for them this summer. Our experienced landscaping professionals understand the unique conditions Colorado’s weather creates and we’ll help you develop a tree-care protocol, whether it keeps raining regularly or dry conditions create a drought. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate.