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Your yard is more than just a nicely landscaped area—it’s the perfect hangout spot throughout the year. Now that spring has sprung, it’s time to start thinking about how you can best put your yard and your trees to use so you and your family can better enjoy the weather and get outdoors. After you schedule regular tree care with your trusted Denver tree service, consider installing these wonderful additions to make your backyard the envy of the neighborhood.

Treehouse

Nothing makes better use of a large shade tree like a treehouse. When properly installed, treehouses won’t damage the trunk or limbs, allowing your kids to get up in the branches safely for years to come. Treehouse plans can be incredibly simple or remarkably complex, depending on your budget and the size of the trees in your yard. While a multi-level structure may be what you first dream of, consider that all it takes is a bit of imagination for your kids to make use of the space. Sometimes, even a simple platform is all you need to get your kids away from their video games and outside into the sunshine. Best of all, it will spare you the stress of wondering where your kids are as the entire neighborhood will want to hang out in your backyard.

Outdoor Kitchen

If you’re a fan of entertaining or simply want to expand your living space into the outdoors, consider building an outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchens can be as big or as small as you like, and will leave you fully equipped to make a gourmet meal right in your yard beneath your trees. Well-designed systems blend in with your existing landscaping and help make your yard a much more useable space without forcing you to choose between your shade trees or a large patio. Keep in mind that these kitchens are not as simple to build as your standard back yard barbecue pit. You’ll need to work with an electrician and plumber, especially if you want to have running water and a refrigerator right next to your grill top.

Add Flower Beds

If your yard is predominantly grass surrounded by a few trees, add a pop of color by planting flower beds around the perimeter. Flowers not only look nice, but also help bring nutrients up through the soil, helping your grass grow stronger. Best of all, they’ll attract beautiful birds, pollinating insects, and butterflies, making the space even more idyllic. If most of your yard is in full shade, there’s no reason to cut down or trim back your trees. You can add a texture-based garden bed with beautiful greenery that thrives in shade rather than relying on flowers to break up the space. While you can hire a landscaping company to install the beds, consider making it a family-friendly weekend project and let the kids get their hands dirty by spreading soil.

Build Comfy Seating Options

There’s no better way to pass a warm summer afternoon than by reading beneath the shade of a large tree. However, as we get older, sprawling on a blanket may not always be an option. Instead of forgoing this summertime pleasure, add comfy seating options beneath the trees. Purchase some outdoor lounge chairs or hire a hardscaping crew to build a natural stone seating area. To make it even more convenient, consider laying a flagstone path to the seating area. This will help protect your lawn while also making the area accessible after summer rain showers. If your trees are relatively close together, you can increase seating options by installing a hammock next to your comfy bench seating. This will transform your yard into the proper hangout spot you’ve always imagined while also giving you a variety of seating options to choose from whenever you’re ready to head outside.

Hang Outdoor Lights

If your trees have low-hanging branches, make use of them. Hang outdoor lights to add a festive flair to your yard. This will make the space more accessible late into the evening hours while also making it safer for guests to enjoy outdoor seating areas during parties and events. While you can install permanent ground lights, they will cost more and may disrupt your lawn’s growth. Sticking with hanging lights will let your lawn grow undisturbed this season. You can always install permanent lights in the fall when the weather is no longer ideal for spending time outdoors.

Add a Water Feature

If you want to transform your yard into a comforting and relaxing space, consider installing a water feature. Small fountains, ponds, and even bird baths can add to the feel of the space without adding too your weekly yard maintenance routine. Once in place, they attract songbirds, add a pleasant sound to the yard, and may even increase your home’s resale value, making them a worthwhile investment. Fountains come in multiple styles, so you’re sure to find the right fit for your home’s décor. Just make sure to choose one with a built-in filtration system and an Energy Star rating to ensure that your electricity bill does not skyrocket after the installation is complete.

Build a Fire Pit

If you want to be able to enjoy your yard and your shade trees for more of the year, consider building a fire pit where you and your guests can stay warm well into the fall. Like treehouses, fire pits can be as simple or complex as you want. For a more contemporary feel, install a gas-powered fire pit. If you prefer rustic wood fires and the smell of wood smoke, opt for a simple stone pit with high walls to contain sparks. During drought conditions, you can even cover the top of the fire with a screen to reduce the risk of spot fires.

Once you’ve decided which additions you want to incorporate into your yard, schedule an appointment with Arbor Garden to determine which trees need trimming and which ones can safely accommodate the changes you’re wanting to implement. Our experienced arborist will help you understand the unique needs of your trees so you can prepare for a comfortable and beautiful summer. Contact us today.  

Your landscaping is the first thing people notice about your property. When it’s properly maintained and your trees look their best, people can’t help but be impressed. However, like your grass and flowers, your trees need regular watering in order to produce the shade and new growth you want to see. If you’re like most homeowners, understanding how to properly care for and water your trees can seem like a bit of a mystery. Here are a few tips from your trusted Denver tree service to ensure that your trees get the care and attention they need to thrive.

Consider the Age of Your Trees

Older trees are more established in your yard and are often more tolerant to changing soil or weather conditions. This means they’ll need less water than newly planted trees in order to produce the same amount of growth each year. With newly planted trees, you’ll want to water around the roots frequently to keep the soil moist and help the roots spread throughout the yard. The more the roots can grow, the more nutrients the tree will receive. Keep in mind that you’ll need to avoid overwatering the trees as too much moisture can lead to root rot and mold growth, destroying what should otherwise be a healthy plant.

Keep an Eye on the Weather

Late winter and early spring can be volatile along the Front Range. Snows can turn to rain as early as February or continue well into May. This means keeping an eye on the weather patterns is especially important when you’re looking to keep your trees healthy. Pay attention to the weather forecast and watch for upcoming storms or dry spells and plan your watering routine accordingly. During frequent storms or extremely cold conditions, consider turning off your irrigation system. Remember, melting snow will do a great job of keeping the roots hydrated and leaving the system on can do long-term damage to the system’s plumbing. Should Denver go without moisture for a few weeks, bust out that watering can or turn the sprinklers back on a few times each week.

Make Use of Mulch

Mulch does more than make a garden look nice—it protects the roots and soil from damage due to erosion or improper drainage. Even if your trees are well established, using mulch around the roots can only help them grow. Over time, the wood used in the mulch breaks down, depositing nutrients in the soil without the use of chemical-based fertilizers. This helps rejuvenate the soil around established trees, making it easy for them to continue to grow well throughout the year. The more available nutrients trees have access to, the stronger their roots will become and the more resistant they’ll be to common hazards like pests, diseases, and drought.

Incorporate Fertilizer Into Your Watering Efforts

Though water helps trees grow and thrive and mulch helps improve the condition of the soil, it may not always be enough. In some cases, mixing a small amount of fertilizer with water is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. Not only are you providing the tree with the hydration it needs, but you’re also giving your tree additional nutrients. In appropriate amounts, fertilizer can strengthen the tree. Keep in mind that fertilizing is not a substitute to regular watering. In fact, it should only be done occasionally and is best handled by a professional landscaper who can assess the overall condition of the tree.

Trees Need Their Own Irrigation System

While your sprinklers may be enough to keep your lawn hydrated even during drought-like conditions, they may not be enough for your trees. Traditional sprinkler systems can lose up to 50 percent of the water they put out to evaporation. While this is effective for grass and other plants with shallow roots, it’s not ideal for trees and large bushes with deep roots. Relying on sprinklers alone will not only increase your water bill, but it will also keep your trees from getting the water they need to grow properly. Over time, this can result in stunted growth, disease, or even death of the plant. Instead, you’ll want to supplement your sprinkler system by either hand-watering the trees or installing an underground drip irrigation system which can maintain moisture in the soil without losing water to evaporation. Best of all, drip irrigation systems are low maintenance and reduce your landscaping’s water consumption by depositing water exactly where it’s needed.

Get Rid of Dead Growth

Regular tree trimming is good for your landscaping, but it can also bolster your watering efforts. Well-hydrated roots transfer nutrients from the soil to the rest of the tree. When the canopy is filled with dead or damaged limbs, the nutrients get spread thin throughout the tree, depositing in the damaged areas and depriving healthy parts of the tree. By scheduling a tree trimming appointment in early spring, your tree will be able to send those nutrients where they need to go more easily.

Don’t Be Afraid of Making a Hard Choice

Droughts are never entirely predictable and what may start out as a minor drought can quickly turn to a major dry spell that results in water restrictions across the county. If the situation gets bad enough that you’re forced to choose between your grass and your trees, always choose your trees. Remember, sod can be replaced easily, but an established tree takes time to grow and develop. It’s far better to preserve your property’s shade trees and reserve your irrigation water for them than it is to maintain a lush green lawn.

Watering your trees should always be a priority, but it doesn’t have to be confusing. At Arbor Garden, our experienced tree trimming and maintenance team wants to help you keep your trees healthy and happy, no matter the season. We’ll assess the health of your trees before starting any work and can make recommendations on proper plant care throughout the year to help you keep your property looking its best. Don’t wait until the growing season begins in earnest. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance appointment before the weather warms up.

Pests and diseases can damage or kill the beautiful trees in our environment. As a homeowner, one of your responsibilities is making sure common pests and diseases do not affect the trees in your yard. But, it can be difficult to keep an eye out for pests and diseases if you don’t know what time of year they are most likely to attack your trees. Make it easier by referencing this Denver tree service calendar for common pests and diseases:

March

Pests and diseases are typically not active during January and February, so March is the first month that many of them appear. The ash borer is one type of pest that makes its first appearance in the month of March. The ash borer’s larvae begin burrowing into the trunks of ash trees, slowly causing internal damage that can eventually lead to the tree’s death.  

The Dutch elm disease also is present in the month of March. This fungal disease can cause the leaves on elm trees to turn yellow and then brown before prematurely falling off. The fungus quickly spreads down the trunk of tree, causing many of the infected trees to die within one season. Learn more about Dutch elm disease.

April

The ash sawfly, which feeds on ash tree leaves, tends to appear starting in April. Feeding on the leaves of a tree may not sound harmful, but these pests can actually quickly devour all of the leaves on an ash tree, leaving it completely bare.

The crown borer is another pest that homeowners should watch for in April, but this pest usually only attacks fruit trees. Many people may not recognize the crown borer when they see it because it looks so similar to a bee or wasp at first glance.

The Zimmerman pine moth is yet another pest that often shows up in April. The larvae feed on the inner bark of pine trees, severely weakening the tree. Because the larvae typically target the areas around the branches, a Zimmerman pine moth infestation could cause the branches to die and separate from the rest of the tree. It’s important to take care of this pest infestation right away to prevent branches from falling unexpectedly and possibly injuring someone who is in the wrong place at the wrong time.

During the month of April, homeowners should also start to look for powdery mildew on their trees and grass. Powdery mildew is a fungus that causes grass to turn slightly gray and leaves to look as if they have been sprinkled with a light colored powder. Fortunately, treating powdery mildew is not as difficult as treating other diseases.

May

The bronze birch borer is one pest that typically starts to cause problems during the month of May. The bronze birch borer larvae dig into the trunks of the trees, where they feed on the inner bark. If left untreated, this pest can eventually kill the tree by cutting off its ability to transport nutrients.

The elm leaf miner is also known for making an appearance in May. Despite its name, this pest can affect many trees and plants besides the elm, including boxwood, hawthorn, and roses. Elm leaf miner larvae hatch within new leaves, leaving a small brown spot behind. If you notice these spots start to appear on tree leaves in your yard, call a tree service company right away.

June

The cottonwood borer may start to affect cottonwood, poplar, and aspen trees in your yard during the month of June. This pest drills deep into the bark, where it can prevent the flow of nutrients and slowly kill the tree. But, this pest usually only targets trees that have already been weakened by other pests or diseases.

The fireblight is a disease that is present in June, although it usually makes its first appearance much earlier in the year. This bacterial disease affects mountain ash, hawthorn, apple, pear, and peach trees and needs to be treated as quickly as possible. Compared to other diseases, the fireblight is rather aggressive, so it will spread through the tree quickly and cause a great deal of destruction.

July

Adult Japanese beetles are usually spotted for the first time during July, however the grub can appear months earlier. The Japanese beetle is one of the newest pests to come to the Denver area, and so far, it seems to target any type of plant or tree.

Another pest that is new to the area is the red-headed ash borer, which targets all types of ash trees. Similar to the cottonwood borer, the red-headed ash borer drills holes into the bark of ash trees, eventually causing enough damage to kill the tree. Unlike the cottonwood borer, the red-headed ash tree does not only target trees that have been weakened.

August

If you have walnut trees, one disease that you should look for in the month of August is the 1000 canker disease. This vicious disease is transmitted by the walnut twig beetle, which is a small brown beetle that has a pill-like shape. The beetle burrows into the bark, where it introduces this fungal disease to the tree. Exposure to the fungal disease will kill the surrounding tree bark tissue, leaving what is known as a canker. Walnut twig beetles can create a lot of these cankers in a short period of time, which is why this disease is known as the 1000 canker disease.

The cankers may not be immediately obvious due to their size and location. Many homeowners notice the yellowing of the leaves on the tree prior to recognizing the signs of cankers on the bark.

To learn more about pest and disease management, talk to the experts. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Our certified arborists are more than happy to answer your questions and care for your trees. Contact us today to learn more about our tree and integrated pest management services and receive a free estimate.

The ideal environment for trees to grow in is one that is free from obstacles and is one where they are able to thrive without much intervention. Trees thrive in natural environments where they can grow in their natural habitat. Trees that grow in an urban and suburban environment are not as well adapted to the elements that come with city living. Growing conditions in a city environment are not as ideal for a plant, and it can require additional care and attention. As a result, it is important to be aware of the common mistakes people make when trimming their trees in Denver.

Planting too deep

Regardless of if your tree was planted last year or a decade ago, if it was planted too deeply, it may still be suffering from the effects of being too far in the ground. Tree roots do much better in shallow soil, as it allows for ample oxygen, water, and warmth. By planting your tree too deeply, it will be deprived of these elements and its growth will suffer as a result.

For planting purposes, your tree’s root flare, which is the part where the roots begin to widen, should be planted at ground level or slightly above ground to allow for optimum growth conditions. If the roots of your tree have been planted below the surface of the ground, it is recommended to excavate the area to allow for more root exposure.

Roots may also begin to grow back towards the trunk, which creates a ‘girding root’. This root can encircle the plant, causing a restriction in the movement of water and other nutrients. If you come upon a girding root, it should be carefully removed for the benefit of the tree.

Damage from equipment

In the process of caring for a lawn, heavy equipment can sometimes interfere and damage your trees. If a tree has been scrape hard enough, it can permanently damage the bark and cambium area. If the cambium layer has been damaged, it can restrict the flow of water and nutrients from the roots to the branches, which can negatively affect the overall health of the plant.

A wounded area from mechanical damage can also be an entry point for pests and diseases, and this leaves the plant vulnerable to decline. By employing a protective area of mulch around your tree, it can not only be a benefit to the soil but it can also be a constant reminder to landscapers and anyone else who make work on your yard that your tree to keep equipment away. Young trees are particularly vulnerable to damage from equipment, which can heighten the need to have some sort of barrier around them.

Over or under irrigation

Trees need the proper amount of moisture to thrive, and supplying your tree with too much or too little water can lead to poor health. The ultimate result from having improper water inputs is that your tree will not go through enough photosynthesis to stay in optimal conditions. Many gardens and properties employ automated watering systems, which can be a great way to maintain consistent watering schedules. However, this is not always perfect, as weather and plant conditions may necessitate an increase or decrease in the amount of water the plant receives.

The amount of water required depends on the specific species requirements, as well as changes in weather conditions. In this way, it is important to consider the placement of species, as you don’t want to place a tree that requires a lot of water next to a shrub that requires very little water. When placing your irrigation system, give special attention to where the water hits the tree, as you don’t want the water to be consistently hitting the trunk and leaves, as this can lead to decline of the plant.

Too Much Mulch

Having too much mulch around your tree can be a negative factor for your tree. Although the practice of volcano mulching can look aesthetically pleasing, it is harmful for the health of the tree. Volcano mulching keeps the bark moist, which can lead to fungi and pests attacking the plant.

Wood chips can be a great choice to utilize as a form of mulch. A layer of 3-4 inch high mulch can be all that is needed in order to conserve moisture and maintain the temperature of the soil.

Poor Pruning Practices

Another way in which your tree can be harmed is due to poor pruning practices. This can be when you prune too much, or make improper cuts that is ultimately detrimental to the health of the plant. Pruning not only changes the shape of the plant, it also affects how the plant will continue to grow and thrive.

Removing too much from a tree can result in poor growth and can lead to the tree being permanently damaged. Improperly trimming your tree can result in dead wood and branches that are not growing to their full potential.

It is important to employ qualified arborists who take time to prune your plant to the best shape and form, not only for the look of the plant but for the overall health of the plant. During the course of any pruning project, the general rule is that you don’t want to remove more than 25% of the crown, as this can be harmful to the tree. Your arborist should take care not to remove too many live branches, and should focus on removing the ones that are dead or are in poor decline as much as possible.

Incorrect pruning cuts can lead to your tree having a canopy that is too dense or too barren, and can make your tree look unsightly. This makes the importance of selecting an arborist who is experience and knowledgeable all the more important, as the health of your tree is something you shouldn’t take lightly. If you are in need of tree trimming services in the Denver area, contact Arbor Garden today.

Springtime in Colorado is beautiful. The plants start blooming, the temperatures rise, and the promise of summer is always on the air. However, with those changing conditions come spring storms that can wreak havoc on your landscaping, trees, and even your home. The last thing any homeowner should have to deal with is damaged landscaping at the height of the growing season. Your trusted Denver landscaping companies want to help. Here are a few simple tips to get your yard ready for all that springtime weather can throw at it.

Inspect Your Trees

The first thing every homeowner should do is visually inspect their trees before spring is in full swing. Look for cracks in the trunk that could house pests or turn into weak spots during a windstorm. Inspect the canopy for damaged branches and limbs that might become a hazard during one of the Front Range’s notable windstorms. If you see anything that looks like a possible hazard, schedule an appointment with a tree trimming service. They’ll be able to assess the extent of the damage and develop a proper solution to protect your home.

Clear Away Debris

Winter weather can take its toll on tree health. When the temperatures start to rise, take the time to pick up any debris and limbs that may have fallen during the colder months. This will help prevent pests and insects from taking up residence in your trees, keeping them healthier for the spring growing season. Remember, insects like termites and beetles can do long-term damage to even the healthiest trees. When left unchecked, infested trees can become a major safety hazard, often weakening to the point of collapse in gusty conditions. Though removing fallen limbs is not the only thing you’ll need to do to protect your trees from common insects and diseases, it will still help significantly.

Add Supports

For younger trees, especially ones you planted in the last year or two, you’ll want to make sure they have the support they need to continue growing. Remember, it takes time for root systems to anchor themselves in the soil. If the tree is too young, it may lose its footing after a heavy rainstorm or windstorm. Rather than leaving it up to chance, install supports around the trunk of the tree. This will give the tree something to brace against during high winds and keep the trunk upright without doing damage to either the bark or the root system.

Schedule an Inspection with an Arborist

Some signs of damage are difficult to spot unless you’ve seen the problem before. For many homeowners, this means they’re leaving potentially dangerous trees on their property without taking the proper precautions to keep their house and surrounding property safe. Scheduling an appointment with an experienced arborist will give you the peace of mind knowing that your trees are safe enough to leave for the growing season. Should anything be damaged or have underlying issues, an arborist will be able to develop a plan of treatment or discuss removal options. Arborists pride themselves on doing what’s best for the trees and they’ll work to make sure your yard looks its best without putting your home at risk for damage.

Make Sure Your Home is Ready

While trees more often do damage to nearby structures, flying debris from the house can do damage to the trees. Inspect your roof for damaged shingles and loose roof flashing. When these items get carried off by high winds, they can cut into the bark of nearby trees or, worse, do damage to parked vehicles and other parts of your home. If you notice any issues, have them repaired as soon as possible. This is both beneficial to your home and your landscaping and can save you money down the road.

Knock Snow Off Low-Hanging Limbs

Let’s face it—springtime often brings heavy snows, even with temperatures starting to warm up. Anyone who has lived in the Denver area for more than a few years knows that May snows can be incredibly wet and heavy. If you wake up to several inches of the white stuff, check your trees. Gently knock the snow off of low-lying branches to alleviate some of the stress on the limbs. This will help reduce the risk of cracked and broken branches that can destroy the way your landscaping looks once the growing season is in full swing.

Care for Other Plants

Though trees are a large part of your landscaping, the garden beds, shrubs, and smaller features still need attention, especially as we transition from winter into spring. Mulch the soil with a high-quality wood mulch to protect the nutrient-rich dirt from erosion and wind. The same method can be applied around the roots of younger trees to help insulate their root systems during the final frost of the year. Should temperatures drop below freezing, cover young plants, flowerbeds, and shrubs with lightweight blankets to keep the frost off the plants.

Schedule Preventative Trimming

Get a jumpstart on tree maintenance and keep your yard and house safe by scheduling preventative trimming with your tree service. By letting an expert take care of overgrowth and potentially damaged or dying limbs before the growing season, you’ll set your trees up for a more successful spring, improve the appearance of your shade trees, and prevent damage during the last few frosts. Best of all, tree trimming at the appropriate time helps trigger growth, encouraging the trees to produce leaves quickly and consistently through spring and into summer.

Follow these tips and help get your yard ready for the rising temperatures without compromising the health and wellbeing of your trees. If you’re unsure about how a tree is growing or want a professional opinion on the safety of a questionable branch, contact Arbor Garden today. Our dedicated team will help with all of your tree trimming needs from routine pruning to full removal of unhealthy growth. We understand that your trees are an important part of your property and we’ll work to save every tree we can. Call (303) 722-8820 to schedule a consultation.