http://treeservicesdenver.co/ Arbor Garden - Blog RSS Feed 2.0 en-us Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:18:32 GMT Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:18:32 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/userfiles/1175/images/wood%2D1146640%5F640%2Ejpg http://treeservicesdenver.co/ http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/18666/Denver-Tree-Service-Firewood-Factors.htm blog The heart of winter has arrived and keeping warm, as always, is a priority. When outside, dressing in layers is always important but have you ever considered that there is a similar process that can be incorporated to heat your home? Everyone seems to know that layers and covering the body’s extremities - head, hands, and feet are important, especially when the wind is howling and cold weather approaches but what steps are needed to ensure the firewood you have collected is ready to produce a sufficient heat source for the particular area needed. Even for homeowners who have central heating and air, an alternative heat source can be extremely beneficial. Not only will having the capability to provide heat via a wood fire benefit your pocketbook by lowering the electric bill but it can also provide warmth should the power ever be out, or just allow for a different feel - one that is warm and inviting - inside the home throughout the winter months. A fireplace or wood stove can be a significant heat source and depending on where it is located inside the home could be used solely as a serviceable source of warmth, replacing electricity. However, did you know that there is a process to ensuring that the wood you burn is top quality and a significant heat producer? Yes, there are steps you can take to make certain your fireplace is working to the best of its ability, keeping you and your family warm and cozy throughout the entire winter season. One of the first things to consider is the type of wood that is being burned. Some of the best burning woods for your fires include hardwoods like oak and walnut, among others.    These hardwoods burn longer while providing a significant source of heat as opposed to softer woods which will not burn as long or produce the same amount of energy. Regardless, the key to getting a fire to ignite and provide warmth is to have wood which has been seasoned for some time prior to being lit. Seasoned wood, that which has been allowed to dry out for a given period of time - a year is recommended for most hardwoods - will be most beneficial.  “Green” wood, that which hasn’t seasoned or is freshly harvested will typically not burn or provide good fuel for a fire. The newness inhibits the wood’s ability to ignite and if lit can cause issues through sut production and build up inside a chimney after repeated use. While green wood and softwoods, like pine, can be suitable for outdoor fires and bonfires, they are definitely not an adequate material for your indoor fireplace or wood stove. Time The passage of time allows for the wood in question to continue drying after having been cut and separated thoroughly. While finding a good amount of wood that can be used as a heat source is important, preparing in advance for the onset of adverse weather is the key to enjoying what all a natural fireplace and wooden heat source can provide. Depending on the time of year that a tree was removed or cut for firewood, or any other reason, knowing that the wood has cured for about an average of a year is vital to enjoying a heat producing, long-lasting solution. Knowing how to season lumber can be an artform and beneficial to not only the person for whom it is intended but also a provider - if you’re in the business of firewood production.  Stacking Almost as important, where you decide the stack of wood in relation to your home and ease of accessibility can be important. There are obviously a number of factors to take into consideration when looking at where to pile firewood - proximity, ease of access, etc. - but the ability to keep an entire stack dry is critically important. If the stack is exposed to the weather, then drying can be infiltrated by the elements leading to an extended period of time needed prior to use. Arguably, the ability to find a suitable location for the fuel source is one of the most important features. Building a foundation can also help to establish a stacking method which can be used well into the future. By eliminating the wood’s exposure to the ground, both the risk for infestation and rot significantly decreases during a vitally important role in the burning process for homeowners.  Planning and Patience Finally, coinciding with the first few examples of how to dry your firewood before use - is the ability to patiently wait while nature takes its course. Planning for this interval of time from when wood can be obtained until it is ready to be burned is a critical step in the process and one that many homeowners, unfortunately, forget. Once they have harvested some wood which they believe to be immediately able to provide a good heat source, they rush to place it in a wood stove or fireplace only to find out that their fire will not light - or requires a significant amount of effort in order to do so. With properly seasoned wood, the ignition process time is significantly reduced and you, along with your family, will be enjoying a nice warm fire in no time at all. For this reason, if you are planning to use wood already available on your own property via tree removal, then gaining access to some dry wood for this season is important. Remember, the wood needs to dry for at least one year after being cut down and a good supply source for the interim is needed. 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.   Wed, 06 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/18666/Denver-Tree-Service-Firewood-Factors.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17902/Denver-Tree-Service-Warning-Signs-of-Falling.htm blog Trees are one of the most resilient plants in all of nature but even these study structures can sometimes fall and create unwanted damage to a person or their property. Millions of dollars in damage is created every year as trees topple onto fences, cars, and sometimes even homes. Whether by natural causes due to decay or a dying root system, in addition to being forced over by Mother Nature and the elements of weather, trees sometimes become unsteady and have the potential to come crashing down.  Weather elements like high wind, ice, and the weight of snow in a tree top can bring one down to the ground in an instant. Even heavy rain may loosen the soil surrounding a tree’s root system and cause it to become unsteady when the wind blows, even if it is not exceedingly strong. Anytime there are trees that have the potential to land on valuable property - a home, garage, fence, car or other structure - ensuring they are properly maintained and do not present a liability is increasingly important. While no one can predict precisely when or even if a tree may fall, there are a few signs that something may be wrong. Periodic checks of the trees on your property can provide some reassurance and potentially highlight any issues. Once noticed, appropriate actions should be taken in order to ensure that the tree or trees do not become a bigger problem. A professional evaluation can determine the measures that need to be taken to remedy any areas of concern. This could be from simply removing a few branches, to topping the tree, or a complete removal.  Following are some danger signs that point to a tree being in jeopardy of causing damage by falling. Leaning The idea is to keep trees upright and in good condition. If you notice any that are already leaning or perhaps growing on a slope and extending outward instead of upward then these need to be given special consideration. A leaning tree already has a strike against it even if completely healthy otherwise. By already moving over, gravity is not the friend of this type of tree. Leaning trees occur for different reasons, but light, soil composition, and steady winds all are common impacts. One way to evaluate a leaning tree is through photography. Older pictures may display the degree to which a tree has leaned over time and if it is getting worse, then appropriate action needs to be taken immediately. Holes Trees that have open cavities within their trunk structure could also be prone to falling. These holes reduce the amount of support a tree has in their trunk and then create an area where breaking would occur. Typically forming near the base of a tree, these openings can make for a dangerous combination with a tall tree that has so much weight pressing down on an unsteady foundation. There are a variety of different causes for holes in trees from insects, to animals, and even the tree itself removing branches can create cavities and space. While not every tree that has some evidence of a hole is going to topple over, it should peak interest and serve as a warning sign for further inspection to assure a tree is safe. Cracks Similar to holes, cracks may not mean falling is inevitable but they should be examined to determine the cause and if any measures should be taken to alleviate the potential danger of coming down. Depending on where the cracks are developing and cause, an assessment can me made on the overall health of the tree and steps put in place to either remedy the danger or remove the tree entirely. Cracks near the base of a tree create issues for the entire thing to come down whereas those occurring at higher points could lead to branches or limbs falling. A natural occurrence, cracks begin to develop if a tree is not getting appropriate nourishment and may be the result of weather as well. High winds can cause limbs to sustain an abundance of stress and begin to peel away from the trunk. These are the first warning signs and something that should be taken into consideration when overlooking the health of any trees that could fall on a property. Root Damage Tree roots are important elements anchoring the tree to the ground. They typically grow into the ground but can also be visible on top of the surface. Depending on the surroundings and soil quality, examining any root damage can be difficult to ascertain.  Tree roots can also cause structural damage depending on the location of a tree and while attempting to combat a tree from falling, realizing their root systems are also a potential damage causing entity is something to consider when evaluating a property for potential dangers or warning signs regarding the health of its trees. Similar to holes beginning to show up in trees, root damage can be caused by a variety of sources. The key is to determine if this damage is going to weaken the base of a tree enough to potentially result in it falling to the ground. Having a professional examine a tree with potential signs of root damage or decay is important because much of the damage will typically not be noticeable to the naked eye. A thorough investigation is needed to ensure that the tree is safe and should not cause any potential dangers to the people or property below. 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. Wed, 23 Jan 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17902/Denver-Tree-Service-Warning-Signs-of-Falling.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17901/Denver-Tree-Service-Highlights-the-Five-Fastest-Growing-Trees-in-Colorado.htm blog There are a number of different factors to consider when deciding to add trees into a landscape design or onto your own property, regardless of the intended use. Not only is the developmental time frame for which type of tree you decide to plant and the saplings impending care also something to consider but knowing each individual plant will eventually grow into towering objects, then placement becomes extremely important.  No trees of any species should ever be planted too close to a home or any other structure where they may fall and damage something but this isn’t the only concern. Trees grow outwards both above and below the surface and, depending on the type, especially near the peak of their trunk. Any objects that may interfere with this growth, development, and a maturing root system or branches should be given consideration before planting takes place. It is also important to understand how the tree will look 10 or 20-plus years down the line into the future. Obviously it will be mature at that point but if the species loses leaves in the fall then yearly cleanup should be added to the amount of work homeowners are willing to put into the upkeep of a planted tree before putting it into the ground. Trees have many benefits ranging beyond their environmental effects and extending to personal, social, and even community impacts. A tree is also one of the least expensive, sometimes flowering plants, an individual can add to their landscape given the minimal amount of upkeep and resilience compared to many of the other available options for decoration or functionality. Specific to Colorado, and depending on the desired results from planting, there are five types of trees that have been scientifically proven to grow the fastest. A decades long study identified the best trees for varying growth rates across the state was conducted and following is a look at the five fastest growing trees, complete with the characteristics and special considerations of each. Cottonwood Trees Cottonwood trees are one of the fastest growing species, not only in Colorado but across all of North America, rapidly increasing in height after being planted. They can add upwards of six-feet annually and when mature reach well over 100 feet up into the sky. Their sheer size makes them an amazing shade tree but one that does not work well in most groomed landscapes or residential environments. Growing quickly creates a weaker wood substance and the cottonwood is subject to easily breaking, which can cause other dangerous issues. One of these in your yard, even if not in an area where falling onto the house or losing limbs which may cause damage could be a concern, still creates a headache by the natural breaking that can occur. Having to routinely pick up unsightly limbs from your lawn would grow tiring extremely fast - almost at the same rate of the tree. Catalpa Trees Another rapidly growing tree, catalpas don’t reach near the same height as cottonwoods and, as a result, are more suited for the everyday landscape. Catalpa tree planting and future care are both relatively easy so that you can receive a tree that will not only provide an abundance of shade, a home for birds and natural wildlife, or a significant wind barrier but also an aesthetically pleasing purpose to your lawn. Catalpa trees have flowers that appear in the spring and typically last well into the summer months. These flowering trees are great for enhancing the look of your landscape in a relatively short time period due to their overall growth rate. Silver Maple Trees One of the most common trees across the United States, the silver maple is another fast growing tree option readily available to homeowners. A happy medium between the flowering catalpa and extremely tall cottonwood, the silver maple can provide excellent shade but other factors must be considered when planting next to a home or any other structure. Faster growing trees don’t develop the hardwoods needed to provide a steady composition and maple trees can be damaged or break easily under the weight of heavy snow or ice. Depending on where the tree is located and the reach of its canopy, special care should be given to any existing trees or where new ones are going to be located. Blue Spruce Trees The official state tree of Colorado, blue spruces can be used for a variety of purposes in landscaping, including residential areas. Privacy, wind break, and to serve as a focal point in a greater concept are just some of the multiple benefits associated with this special species. The healthy Colorado blue spruce presents a perfectly symmetrical, triangular shape most commonly associated with Christmas trees. These wonderful trees hail from the evergreen family. keeping their distinct coloring throughout the entire year. White Oak Trees A slower developing tree then its predecessors, the white oak creates a hardwood for a sturdy presence either in the yard, pasture, or on the border of a property. A significant shade tree, white oaks are extremely durable and can survive in a variety of conditions. Their stronger branches also accomodate the ice and snow associated with Colorado winters. White oak trees prefer a fair amount of sunlight but if planting new samplings, then consideration for the future development of each must be considered. These grow to approximately 60-70 feet and will create a leaf canopy of almost similar comparison. 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. Wed, 09 Jan 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17901/Denver-Tree-Service-Highlights-the-Five-Fastest-Growing-Trees-in-Colorado.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17651/Denver-Tree-Service-Reveals-Signs-A-Tree-Is-Dead-or-Dying.htm blog Many home or business owners keep close watch over the landscape of their property in terms of flowering plants, mulch beds, and lawn areas. These different places are an outward representation of the occupant and curb-appeal definitely exists. Whether or not your place of business or residence is currently on the market matters not - people will draw significant conclusions about the type of person you are or the business you run, simply from their impression diagnosed by the outside representation of your property. Right or wrong, this is a fact and could influence any potential interactions - whether business or personal, between you as the homeowner and anyone who has taken notice of your landscape. However, one of the forgotten areas for people to consider when keeping a constant check on their plant life is the trees which oversee the land beneath them. Thought to be strong and sturdy, many of them are, the damage a dead or dying tree could cause needs to be given swift attention. For this reason, routinely checking the health of trees on your property and quickly analyzing any potential issues can literally save you money. Damaged, dying, or dead trees exhibit signs and in some cases the tree may be subject for treatment to prevent any potential condition from advancing. The good news is that a saved tree will continue to provide either a specific look, shade, or other benefit to your property where a damaged tree may have an unsightly leaf fall during the spring or summer of the year, leave branches laying around on the ground, or worse - fall entirely. The latter poses a serious threat to anything underneath which may be damaged by the tree when it lands. Buildings, automobiles, equipment, and other plant life are all in danger once a tree begins to topple over on its own. Also, the landowner will be left with both a downed tree which needs to be removed, an unsightly stump, or an entire area which may need to be repaired should the trunk and root system be pulled out of the ground together. Regardless, none are issues that people wish to deal with on a daily basis and all create even more problems than just the downed tree. Following are signs to look for when observing the trees on your property to ensure they are healthy and not going to pose any unexpected issues. Keep in mind, these are indications of a problem and while Mother Nature may periodically cause damage with her high winds, excessive rain, or a combination of the two, even healthy trees are subject to potential damage when constantly exposed to these elements. After any severe weather, trees should be checked for any of the following signs in addition to potential broken limbs or branches which could fall that may have been caused by the storm. ROOT SYSTEM SIGNS Starting from the ground up - tree roots, like those of any plant, are the base of the plant which are located underground although depending on the tree type and condition may be viewable above the surface to some extent. Tree roots essentially perform two very important jobs for the overall health of a tree. Growing down deep into the ground the root system both anchors the entire plant and also serves to provide nutrition for the tree.  Tree roots may extend beyond the canopy of a full grown tree and are subject to damage from a variety of different factors. Excess water could cause rot around the base of a tree and exposed root systems could be damaged by routine lawn maintenance. Also, any digging, even when you believe you are away from the a tree’s root system, could potentially damage the root system putting the entire tree at jeopardy. Signs of root damage are often visible to the naked eye and include any cuts, scrapes, or other indicators of damage to roots which are above ground. Underground root damage typically comes in the form of an entire break. TRUNK SIGNS Tree trunks are typically covered in bark and the health of this substance can be a significant indicator of the overall health of a tree. Consider the bark to be the “skin” of a tree and any missing or bald spots indicate a closer examination is needed.  Another telltale sign of a sick, damaged, or dying tree is a hollow section or hole in the trunk itself. These cavities indicate internal decay which can be a serious issue leading to a tree quickly becoming a potential fall hazard. A hollow section within the trunk of a sizeable tree doesn’t leave much reliability in the sturdiness and ability to withstand any potential high winds should they occur. BRANCH SIGNS Continuing the observation of a tree by moving up into the branch and canopy portions, any branches which are not leaf producing are potentially damaged. Trees with any sign of these type branches should immediately be given special attention to determine the cause behind what is occurring. Fallen branches and limbs can also be examined to see if there is any sign of another issue, such as rot or damage caused by insects. Especially when there have been no recent weather patterns which may cause limbs to fall or in the spring or summer when a tree should be at its healthiest, if branches begin to litter the landscape it could be a sign of something potentially more significant. LEAF SIGNS Any discoloration or dropping of leaves that doesn’t correlate to the season is an immediate sign of a tree in distress. By quickly having a tree examined, steps can be made to potentially save the tree but if ignored for too long, then the damage may be too severe for any help. Leaves foliage problems can be caused by a variety of different factors, including insects, heat, or a deficiency in nutrients. Depending on the culprit, an appropriate plan can be derived to keep your tree from becoming a serious threat as a fall hazard should any damage progress. 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.  Wed, 26 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17651/Denver-Tree-Service-Reveals-Signs-A-Tree-Is-Dead-or-Dying.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17650/Denver-Landscaping-Companies-Show-Fallen-Leaves-Can-Be-Useful.htm blog The changing seasons throughout a calendar year all have different feelings associated with their presence but none may be more enjoyable than the changes associated with the fall season. Long gone is the heat of summer as the air begins to cool and mother nature lets it be known that winter will be approaching soon. During this transition, the leaves begin to change colors creating a scene of natural beauty around all of Colorado and many of the surrounding areas. The different leaf colors consisting of yellows, reds, and browns combine with the remaining evergreens to create an awe inspiring scene of natural beauty. However, once this phenomenon takes place these same leaves then fall from the trees and create a headache for property owners once on the ground. Covering lawns, driveways, and road ways, the leaves can be a nuisance to people by covering their landscape and creating numerous issues around any home or place of business. Unattended leaves will eventually clog gutter systems, forcing considerable drainage issues - create trip and slip hazards on walkways - or simply cover a yard and choke out the grass underneath by blocking necessary sunlight and keeping moisture from reaching the soil level. These issues are the result of one of the most beautiful times of the year but also one that must be given special attention in order to ensure your lawn and landscape is ready for winter and the following spring’s growth season. Faced with the downed leaves, fortunately, there are multiple options for homeowners to handle their current situations. Each of these different uses provides a beneficial solution to what could seemingly be a hazard if left alone. Bag Raking and bagging leaves is a common solution for many individuals for pickup by their local town or municipality, if provided as an available service in your specific area. However, instead of simply having these leaves hauled off of your property as a waste material, there are a few uses for the bags which can benefit you during both the upcoming winter and spring seasons.  These bagged leaves can provide a method for naturally insulating your home and help to reduce the cost of heating in the winter. By stacking the bags around your basement, garage, or other cold prone areas of your home, the bagged leaves can go to work for you and then be used as compost in the next spring. Mulch While leaves left to lay on your lawn may create issues for the grass underneath, the covering can be beneficial for other plants and some crops. Instead of bagging the leaves, simply moving them to an area where they can serve a better purpose eliminates one of the hardest ways to handle their presence. Leaves can benefit certain other plants by providing a mulch like material which can help protect the plants or crops where it is moved to assist.  Perennial vegetables benefit from this mulch material created by leaves which help to protect the plants underneath during the harsh winters. By providing a natural ground cover and keeping the heat and warmth located inside and close to the ground, these plants will benefit from the leafy mulch layer and the good news is there is little effort required, since no bagging or breaking down of the individual leaves is needed. Mold Another idea for removing leaves from your property and then letting them go back to work for you is to create leaf mold. Either by creating a container bin, using wire or another material, somewhere on your property or simply bagging the leaves and letting them decompose naturally, once a pile has been created it will be ready for use in just a few years.  The leaf mold mixture is almost like a natural fertilizer for your lawn or garden and has many benefits - including being virtually weed free. By naturally recycling the leaves found on property, one can put their leaves to use for them yearly after establishing a leaf mold cycle. Shred One of the easiest and most convenient methods for disposing of the leaf problem is to shred them where they lie. If not, the covering will eliminate light, other necessary minerals, and especially water from reaching the soil and grass underneath which can create even more issues for any natural landscape. By continuing to run a lawn mower over the yard after the leaves have fallen, the break down allows the leaves to immediately begin to decompose in the yard providing their own essential minerals and removing the cover so water can reach the surface. One of the easiest and least exhaustive methods of handling fallen leaves, shredding is a useful option. Fun Before utilizing any of these methods there are a few activities for putting leaves to use prior to selecting which method will work best for you. Leaves can be heaped into a pile used for jumping or running through which can be fun for kids of all ages, in addition to the many crafts which can be created from individual leaves or a collection of astonishing fall colors. There are plenty of fall leaf crafts to choose from which can aid in providing decoration for your home on both the inside or outside. These colors will help get any home or family into the spirit of fall and ready for the fast approaching holidays before they arrive. 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.  Wed, 12 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17650/Denver-Landscaping-Companies-Show-Fallen-Leaves-Can-Be-Useful.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17151/Denver-Tree-Service--Are-Your-Trees-Prepared-for-Winter-.htm blog Winter is fast approaching and for the Denver area that means, heavy snows, harsh winds and bitter cold. There are a number of items individuals check off their lists in order to ensure they are prepared for one of Mother Nature’s harshest seasons but their trees are often not apart of these lists. Homeowners typically ensure their heating systems - either natural or otherwise - are fully stocked or ready to run and that their vehicles are ready to endure the freezing temperatures and travel in wintry conditions. While those who have plants and enjoy gardening will pay attention to their household potted plants which may be on display outside during the spring and summer, bringing them in to keep them alive and ensure they are properly maintained, those plants (especially trees) which remain outside must be given special attention as well. People often consider trees to be self serving, taking care of their needs alone and not necessarily in need of outside attention but this is just not true. For those that surround your home, providing shade in the summer and protection from straight line winds and other weather elements, homeowners should return the favor with a little extra protection and added care prior to the harsh winter conditions. Trees must be able to withstand the winter time temperature fluctuations, bitter cold and no real protection from the elements so a little attention prior to winter’s arrival can be extremely beneficial. Following are a few key factors to consider when deciding to help your trees get ready for their dormant season. PRUNE Pruning your trees requires special considerations to ensure that you do not damage the tree or stunt its growth. For most larger trees, pruning occurs in the fall as the dormant season approaches and helps to prepare the tree for an increase in growth once spring returns and the growing season begins. By having professionals prune your trees, you can make certain that your trees are receiving the best care possible and will be fully prepared for the upcoming winter season. Not only will pruning help the health of a tree but it can also aid in the safety of your home or the area surrounding where the pruned trees occupy. Winter weather is often associated with harsh winds and snow falls which can accumulate on branches and cause natural damage to a tree. The home or any other structures should be protected if any of the trees or their limbs were to fall as a result of these windy conditions or under the weight of heavy, wet, snow. A proper pruning can ensure that any damaged limbs, branches, or any dead sections of an otherwise potentially healthy tree are removed prior to it becoming an issue. Once trees lose their leaves, these problem areas can easily be detected and reached to establish a proper pruning of any trees around a property. In addition, a precise pruning can be accomplished because the sight lines are clearly established providing another reason to prune during the dormant season. These steps and the timing of the year make sure your trees are fully prepared for the winter months and will also be ready once spring rolls back around. WRAP Tree trunks need to be wrapped in order to help them be protected from the elements, including sunshine. Surprisingly, sun is one of the more damaging elements that trees and plants have to deal with during the winter. Normally a positive, providing light, warmth, and growth, during the winter months sun can create sunscald. Sunscald on plants and trees is caused by the warming of the trunk and then freezing temperatures at night. A trunk awakens due to the tree warming in the sun but once the heat source is removed at night the trunk then freezes and the constant thawing and refreezing cycle can create irreparable damage to the trees.  A wrap can help protect against this issue in much the same way insulation provides warmth to the areas that it surrounds. By using a protective tree wrap, especially on younger saplings and those trees which have not established themselves or have recently been moved or planted, a homeowner can help to aid against sunscald and any other trunk damaging elements. MULCH There are a number of benefits to mulching plants and trees of which one of the most important is protection. Much like the tree wrap insulates and protects the tree’s base, mulch can help to insulate the soil around a tree and give an added extra layer of protection to the root system. By regulating the soil temperature, mulch keeps the area underneath along a relative few degrees of change instead of the heating up and then freezing conditions which fluctuate during much of the winter months and can cause damage to not only the tree trunk but roots as well. Mulch also conserves moisture and improves the soil conditions. During a time of year when these areas are not as active in providing the necessary nutrients and elements for growth as the spring, the extra layer of protection and improved quality are both significant improvements which assists any tree to which mulch is correctly added. WATER Before the steady string of freezing temperatures set in over the winter an ample amount of watering should take place. Yes, there will be snow, ice and even rain over the course of the winter to provide some natural intake but once the tree enters its dormant phase the consumption dramatically decreases. For this reason, watering your trees in the fall of the year is almost as important as the steps you take to ensure these plants are well taken care of in the spring. A proper administration of watering trees in the fall not only aids in the protection of trees but also allow the soil around them to be winter-time ready.  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 with a number of employees who are ready and willing to assist. Our locally owned and operated company is proud to serve the 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 ISA 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. Wed, 28 Nov 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17151/Denver-Tree-Service--Are-Your-Trees-Prepared-for-Winter-.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17150/Got-Mulch--Denver-Tree-Service-Recommendations-for-Your-Lawn.htm blog There is plenty to think about when it comes to the health of your plants and shrubs surrounding your home or located in a garden but do you ever consider the same for trees? Often appearing tall, solid, and strong, far too often trees are forgot about in terms of needing an appropriate amount of water, sunlight, and protection in order to survive. While this may be due to their ability to naturally withstand many of the harsh weather elements that may face and sustain a suitable nature without much human care - it doesn’t mean they should be completely ignored. Especially when first planted or moved, trees require almost an identical approach to their care pattern and maintenance as any other plants. In order to fully reap their benefits and ensure trees live a long, healthy life the same approach should be given. However, for many homeowners that inherit trees on their property, the livelihood of these natural plants is often never given a second thought unless it presents some type of hazard. When a tree falls, grows to a height where it could be a danger to property should it come down, or begins to lose limbs and leaves causing a clean-up headache - then it becomes an issue. Often before that point, many homeowners don’t even notice these giants living among us and rarely take into consideration their needs as a plant on an equal playing field with flowers and grasses. Tree care is important and one of the most beneficial things you can do for all located in your yard or on property is to provide an appropriate amount of mulch in the needed locations around one. But what is the correct amount and where should it be administered? These are important questions which must be determined in order to not harm a tree while intending to do good. Mulch Benefits There are many benefits of mulching that help both the trees and homeowner. For humans, created a barrier around areas that others shouldn’t track through can be achieved by adding mulch beds. Often individuals walking through or around a property will avoid any mulched areas and instead stay solely on paths or walkways created by other methods. This helps to keep people out of unwanted areas and ensure that your plants and trees should not be damaged either intentionally or unintentionally but anyone. Mulch also helps trees in a variety of ways including retaining moisture and nutrients in the ground which can be accessed by the root system. This layer of protection on the surface underneath a tree and located near the trunk serves to retain water while being breathable and allowing the air to circulate around the base of a tree. Pest control benefits are also available to individuals who appropriately manage their mulch administration around the bases of their trees. Utilizing a certain material for your mulch can also serve as a deterrent for insects moving into an area, keeping your trees alive and from becoming the harbor of dangerous infestations from pests lurking just outside your home. Mulch Amounts The amount of mulch necessary will vary depending on the coverage area needed and amount of plants that will be impacted from the application. Once the area has been surveyed then a better understanding of how much it will take for a specific job can be determined. For one tree, the mulch around it should typically be anywhere from two to four inches deep with close attention given to how much is being applied. Too much mulch can be detrimental to a tree’s health and must be avoided to ensure the plant is receiving all of the benefits instead of being harmed. When you do mulch too much the airflow can be restricted in addition to keeping water and other necessary nutrients from reaching the tree. One common mistake is simply applying new mulch over an already mulched area, adding to the depth instead of allowing it to decompose at its own rate and using another application when necessary.  Mulch Location Additionally, where the mulch is added can be just as important as putting the mulch down to start. Mulch should not be simply piled around a tree trunk from base out over the ground but should be placed specifically within a certain diameter around each tree. The mulch should extend from just outside the trunk (preferably about six inches) to the dripline - area of the ground where excess water from the canopy would fall. This area ensures that a majority of the most beneficial root zone is covered and protected. It also helps to ensure that each tree area is receiving the best protection and benefits derived from using mulch on the area.  By not piling mulch directly onto a tree’s trunk, individuals can avoid inviting pests to enter and cause potential damage to the tree or its root system. Mulch that has been pushed directly onto the trunk can suffocate plant from receiving essential minerals while restricting the airflow capabilities. While serving as a weed deterrent, appropriately applied mulch also protects a tree’s trunk from receiving damage that may be caused from routine lawn maintenance, including mowing grass and weed trimming. This protective barrier and application a few inches from the base ensures that each of the plants and trees located on a property are given the appropriate amount of care and consideration. 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 ISA 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. Wed, 14 Nov 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17150/Got-Mulch--Denver-Tree-Service-Recommendations-for-Your-Lawn.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17149/Certified-Arborist-Regulations-in-Denver-Tree-Service.htm blog There are a number of factors to consider when choosing someone to complete any type of work on or around your home or place of business. Obviously you don’t want just anyone off the street coming onto the property but then come the finer points of an evaluation regarding qualifications, care, skill, and professionalism in the workplace. All areas of importance and worth investigating before enlisting the help of any individual or company within the service industry. There is nothing worse then having to spend hard earned money for someone to come in and then not be pleased with either how they are handling their specific job or the care to which they treat your property as their own. For many of these situations, home or business owners are reaching out to a professional service to complete something they themselves cannot or choose not to handle. Often people are referred by word of mouth to an established company based on previous experiences with individuals that the current subject either knows or has seen the selected individual complete work for in the past. One thing that sets individuals apart from their counterparts in the broad world of service related activities are education and specific qualifications. Professionally trained personnel with a history of experience typically perform respectable work and can ensure that your property will be well taken care of in the process. The tree service and landscaping industry is no different. Following is a brief overview for what to expect from those who hold the highest possible licenses within the arbor and landscaping branch of services. Governing Body The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is the leading standard for those involved in the tree care and landscaping industry. Nearly forty years ago their Western Chapter created a specific certification program for those involved in arbor care across the country wanting to establish their role as professionals.  Creating a general and level playing field while allowing communication from those within the industry on a common subject across the country, this step served to unite the world of those involved in caring for the trees and plant life that surrounds us daily and has such an impact on our environment, now and into the future. The ISA is located in Champaign, Illinois but has individual chapters scattered throughout the United States and even offers online resources for its members. By distributing educational material to all of those who have sought an ISA certification, the governing body for arborists can ensure that everyone throughout America and the world is operating under the same general principles and set of guidelines, regardless of their specific environment correlating to precisely where they are located. Requirements An ISA Certified Arborist has successfully completed a specific line of testing and shown experience within the industry for a minimum of three years. Other offerings, including collegiate coursework may allow the title of Arborist to be bestowed upon an individual but only those who have completed these specific requirements and regulations can claim the distinction of an “ISA Certified Arborist” - often a step above any other title. Those who earned the ISA classification have taken a 200-question test related to a number of factors associated with tree care and must also show full-time experience in work related field within the industry. Upon completion, the earned certification is good for a time period of three years and bust be renewed accordingly to maintain in good standing with the ISA office. In order to successfully renew an individual’s ISA Certified Arborist certification the person must complete at minimum, 30 continuing education credits attained through a variety of measures.  Those wishing to renew can either complete college classes, attend seminars, or find other approved methods for staying current on the latest topics and issues surrounding the arbor care industry. Levels of Expertise There are varying levels of certification extending beyond an ISA Certified Arborist into even higher categories based on an individual’s experience, expertise and desire to seek an elevated distinction. These include: Board Certified Master Arborists, Registered Consulting Arborist (Qualified Supervisor) and Tree Worker Certifications for those wishing to be professionally recognized for their work trimming and knowledge of overall tree care on a different level from the arborist category. Board Certified Master Arborists is the pinnacle for certification requirements administered by the ISA group. Those holding this specific certification not only have been ISA Certified Arborist but upon renewing their level over the years have also elected to undergo even more testing for a higher grade achievement. These are the best of the best when dealing with any type of tree issue, often having multiple years of experience working with trees, plants, and in the arbor care industry. Registered Consulting Arborist offer opinions on any particular situation and can assist with helping home or business owners in what the best possible method is for handling whatever issue may arise. Benefits As with any job in the service industry or otherwise, these professional titles and classifications allow consumers to know exactly who is performing the work for them and that these people have been trained, tested, and are staying current with all of the newest technology and science associated with whatever the case may be for their particular situation. In the arbor industry, this involves not only a full understanding of the national principles and practices associated with tree services throughout the country but also the specifics associated for whatever region, climate, or area of the country an individual is working. 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 ISA 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.    Wed, 31 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/17149/Certified-Arborist-Regulations-in-Denver-Tree-Service.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16748/Landscaping-Denver-Benefits-to-Fall-Planting.htm blog Spring is the season many associate with new beginnings, growth, and warming temperatures. Nature waking from a cold winter as the air begins to warm, days get longer and plants begin to bloom - but is it the right time for planting? Many experts would agree but there are some major advantages to planting trees and shrubs in the fall. In fact, many of these factors play such an important role that fall planting is gaining momentum and can actually allow for a greater abundance in plant growth and life once the spring season arrives. Fall planting should be given some consideration, especially when dealing with certain climates and general seasonal conditions. These different impacts of weather obviously can have an effect on plant growth but by taking into account the potential for what each season has in store, once analyzed, fall of the year is actually an ideal time for sprucing up your landscape. Especially when considering to add trees around your home or business, consulting the opinion of an expert is suggested. While flowers and other plants may be more easily moved, changed, or relocated, adding trees is an entirely different process and one that, if properly cared for, will last well into the future. These steps need to be given thought before the process begins and fall provides a good time for the application. Following are five significant benefits to fall planting and why it’s becoming the new “spring”. Soil Temperatures While soil and ground temperatures are increasing in the spring, awakening from the cold and frozen winter, they are already nice and plenty warm in the fall. Think about getting out of a hot bath or shower in the winter versus during the summertime. In winter, your body has been heated by the water, then is extremely cold when exposed to the air. Eventually you warm back up but at first it is a bit shocking and uncomfortable - this is springtime planting.  Opposite, is exiting a hot shower in the summertime when air temperatures are considerably warmer. Almost immediately your body adapts to the warmer air because you have been hot and remain so when finished. A much quicker and more comfortable scenario correlating to fall planting. Ground temperatures are high and remain warm enough to generate growth well into the winter. This allows for plants, especially trees, to have a smooth transition from nursery to being installed at your residence. Less Watering Required When planting in the spring plants require an enormous amount of care and water. Due to the increasing heat and intensity of the sun, water must be utilized effectively and often multiple times during the day in order to achieve success. Fall planting occurs during a cooler period of the year with less direct sunlight leading to a reduction in the amount of water required to achieve similar results. Established Root Growth For already established plants and trees, the fall presents a time for them to focus on growing the root system instead of outward and upward above the soil. What you can see is a tree losing its leaves and beginning to grow dormant as the winter approaches, but underground all of the nutrients are being utilized to continually strengthen the root system. In the spring, plants are concerned about blooming and growing on the outside or producing fruit. These factors can strip away nutrients and other beneficial applications from a root system. If initially planted in the spring, a roots system can be less developed than that of a fall counterpart. Although tree roots grow the most in early summer, the growth spurt seen in fall of the year can be more helpful to a newly planted tree. Air Temperatures Cooler air temperatures and shortening days can help both the gardner and their trees or shrubs. In similar comparison to ground and soil temperatures, the air temperatures can have an impact on newly planted trees. Spring sees the air temperatures increasing exposing new life almost immediately to harsh conditions in some circumstances. The cooler fall days allow a new plant or tree to more comfortably acclimate to their new environment. In addition, the work of planting and general yard maintenance for individuals is less strenuous than battling the increasing temperatures of spring so not only is this one helpful to the plants but people as well. Spring Growth Increase An already existing plant will see a boost in growth once the first spring arrives after having been planted in the fall. These trees, plants and shrubs get acclimated to the climate, enjoy the benefits of root growth establishment, and are ready for a sizeable spurt once winter passes.  When the growing season arrives and air temperatures begin to increase then the plant will flourish above the surface. Once the soil temperatures catch up then both the root system and portion of any tree or plant in view will expand.  Also, instead of having to immediately care for a tree or plant that has just been planted in the spring and in need of water and protection from extremes, a fall planted item has already established a bit of history and resistance so it can focus on growth only and not survival.  Ready to plant new trees and shrubs in your yard? The addition of trees to your landscaping adds a wonderful aesthetic while providing shade and shelter for wildlife and other critters. It is important to understand the specifics of planting new trees before you dive into it yourself. How deep to dig, what size tree to purchase, the growth pattern of the new tree, and so on. We provide planting services throughout the Denver metro area including, Aurora, Castle Pines, Centennial, Cherry Hills, Denver, Englewood, Lakewood & Littleton. When you're ready to get started, contact Arbor Garden and let us do the dirty work.  In addition to planting new trees & shrubs in the Denver area, we can advise on how to make sure your new additions thrive. Getting your trees on a consistent watering schedule until the roots take hold is vital to their success. With full-service planting and landscaping capabilities in Denver, Arbor Garden is proud to offer a 1-year guarantee on all newly planted trees and shrubs. Our plant health care experts hand-select all trees and shrubs from Alameda Wholesale Nursery, a family-owned nursery in the South Denver area for over 72 years.  Let Arbor Garden recommend appropriate trees and shrubs specifically for your property and lifestyle. Contact Pete Evers at Arbor Garden for a personal consultation at 303-722-8820 or simply Inquire Online Here.   Wed, 17 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16748/Landscaping-Denver-Benefits-to-Fall-Planting.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16527/Landscaping-Denver-Pest-Control-Benefits.htm blog Is there anything worse than spending hard earned money and time you will never get back on landscaping and improving the look of your home or business with flowers and plants to only have them decimated by insects and other pests? You work tirelessly to select the right arrangement of colors, orchestrating the perfect placement, and ensuring each plant is properly cared for only to later notice your shrubs and plants now serve as a home with a built in food supply to an assortment of different bugs. Instead of your work going to enhance the curb appeal of a property, you’ve spent time and money ensuring these pests now have a happy and sustainable home - something no one wants. The quickest solution attempt is to cover everything in a toxic pesticide but this approach can have an extremely adverse effect on not only your plants but other members of the household, including pets and children. Also, the “spray everything and hope for the best” approach may not target the specific insects which are causing the headache to begin with and if there is something worse than the above situation it’s spending even more money for a solution that fails to remedy the issue. Fortunately, there is a productive and comprehensive approach which can serve to eliminate pests and bugs causing harm or issues to your property. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses a step-by-step approach to not only identify the culprit(s) but utilize a safe an effective means of eradication that is environmentally friendly and specific to each unique scenario. Depending on a variety of factors, pesticide application may still be a useful tool in helping to regain control of your landscape but the process and final conclusion far outweigh a general spray everything approach. Each of the following characteristics of IPM serves to give individuals an outline of their special approach when it comes to extermination services. Correct Identification The first step in the IPM process is to correctly identify the subject matter in question. Damage to plants and foliage can be caused by pests who have inhabited a garden or landscape but there are other outside factors to consider as well. Rain, wind, sun, and extreme hot or cold temperatures can all have an effect on the growth cycle of a plant or cause damage to their leaves and flowers. This should not be identified as an issue with a specific pest if no insect or other culprit has not been observed within the damaged area. If beetles, spiders, or other bugs have been seen causing any damage to the scene then correctly identifying their specific type is vital to the treatment process moving forward. Also, those responsible for implementing the IPM steps should also be aware of what stage in the life cycle these pests are at, their regeneration periods, and if multiplication is a possibility. By first getting a positive identification on the cause and reason behind an issue, then an appropriate plan for managing the problem appropriately can be formulated. Monitor and Determination After correctly identifying the presence of pests in an area then a comprehensive monitoring plan should be initiated. By monitoring the insects in action and using IPM a determination can be made as to whether the insects are causing a significant amount of damage to the plant life in question. IPM insect monitoring can use a variety of different methods including: visual, sweep nets, traps, and other means of observation. These steps help to determine if there are any natural pest predators also in the current environment and the shear number of potential problems for an area. Once these two factors are considered, the potential damage that could be caused by the number of pests in question can be properly calculated. If there are natural causes for extermination already at play and only a small number of potential pests then nothing extra may need to be administered to the landscape for protection. Application The best method for pest control is to think ahead and not unintentionally create an inviting atmosphere for pests to thrive. Eliminating potential food sources or creating natural barriers to keep insects from invading is a positive first-step during any installation but if the problem is at hand, then application of a necessary deterrent is needed. Before immediately reaching for a pesticide, even one that targets the specific pests in question, determining if any non-chemical methods of extermination are available is an important step in the IPM process which serves in the best interest of all involved parties - including the environment. A handful of cultural, physical and biological controls exist that serve to alleviate the problem without relying on any chemicals. These methods are typically extremely effective without requiring a spray to be used. Finally, if the IPM process has run its course and no other means of eradication is available then the implementation of a pesticide may be considered. Used only as a last ditch effort to fix the problem, the application of a pesticide targeting the specific issue may also be applied with one of the non-toxic controls above to help reduce the amount of pesticide needed to eliminate the issue. The IPM approach of Arbor Garden Tree & Landscaping replaces needless spraying with more targeted injections to control insects and plant disease. Arbor Garden feels strongly that MORE pesticides are not the answer. Arbor Garden uses the IPM approach to control insects whenever possible. IPM is a highly effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices and extremely well-researched measures. Our IPM programs use current, extensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. Combining this information with available pest control methods allows us to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. Our overall goal is to bring the best possible health and well-being to plants and the area around them. Start preventing and fighting insects and plant diseases on your property by contacting us today! Wed, 03 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16527/Landscaping-Denver-Pest-Control-Benefits.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16408/Tree-Trimming-Issues-Every-Denver-Homeowner-Should-Be-Aware-of.htm blog Winter has arrived, and with it some tree trimming projects. If you are considering having your Denver home’s trees trimmed this winter, either due to to dormancy period or otherwise, there are a few issues to be aware of when taking on such projects. Your trees are your constant wooded companions, providing shade and ornamental properties to your landscape, and you want to take the utmost care in maintaining their health. Knowing when to prune The timing of any pruning project can be critical to its success, and it is essential for anyone interested in having their tree’s prune to carefully consider what is best for the plant. Certain trees can be pruned any time of the year, while others require pruning to be done during dormant periods. If you are unsure of what your tree requires, it is important to research the best method depending on the type of species. For many deciduous plants, pruning in the late winter to early spring can be the ideal time, as it promotes vigorous growth during the spring. Mild, dry days are the best time to take on a pruning project. By pruning, you provide the plant with additional rote and energy reserves, which is invigorating for the growth of the organism.  Pruning in the winter gives you the added benefit of being able to see the branches more clearly, as the foliage is not present to provide any visual obstacles.    Knowing which plants to prune As stated earlier, it is important to know which plants require winter pruning and which do not. Winter is not always the most ideal to prune for all plants, but there are a number of plants where winter pruning is recommended. Here is a short list of plants to prune, courtesy of Rodale’s Organic Life: Shrubs: Barberries Glossy abelia Beauty berries Camellias (after they finish blooming) European hornbeam Euonymous Mallow Hydrangeas Trees: Bradford and Callory pears Crabapples Poplar Spruce Junipers Sumacs Bald cypress Cherries Plums Honey locust How to Prune If you are considering a more intensive pruning project, we recommend you seek out the services of one of our qualified arborists. But if you are considering taking on the task of pruning your plants yourself, there are a few things to be aware of. With any pruning project, it is important to remove dead or dying branches and limbs, as these are unnecessarily depleting your plant of nutrients that could be better served elsewhere. You want to make sure to prune out diseased limbs immediately, as this could spread to other areas of the plant if not addressed.  In these instances you will want to cut well below the diseased area to ensure that the disease is fully cut out. You will want to prune a diseased plant on a dry day, as water can spread the disease. For those that want to be extra cautious, a ten percent bleach solution can be utilized on all of your cutting tools to ensure none of the disease remains after you have finished pruning it. It is important to cut branches that can be an obstacle to you in your daily life or for other landscaping activities, such as mowing the lawn. If branches interfere with these activities, pruning them back is important, not just for functional reasons but to avoid the inevitable situation where you damage the branch due to such activity. If you see branches crossing, this is a likely candidate for pruning, as further growth may lead to a plant that is stressed and overgrown. In this scenario, prune the smaller branch. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind sunlight and oxygen exposure for your trees and shrubs when pruning. Prune plants so the middle of the organism is exposed to some amount of sunlight, as this allow light and air to enter to the center of your plant.   Take advantage of winter pruning benefits Winter time is a beneficial period to consider having your tree or shrub pruned. Much like the plants themselves, diseases and pests also go through a dormancy period, which can decrease the likelihood that pruning will lead to any type of infestation or disease. Pruning exposes the plant to these elements, so cutting back your tree or shrub during this time can be a great way to add protection in this regard. As mentioned earlier, the prospect of pruning any plant becomes less of a challenge when the leaves have fallen. A lack of foliage can provide any arborist a better idea of what cuts to make and also gives easier access to make any of these desired cuts. Often times, diseased or damaged branches can be hiding within the foliage of a plant, and engaging in pruning during the winter will greatly improve your ability to witness such issues. Pruning in the late summer or fall can often times stimulate growth that may not be hardened prior to a cold front hitting. This can mean that the plant is more vulnerable to damage and disease as a result. During the winter time, this is not a concern, and properly time pruning projects can stimulate growth during the spring time, which is more ideal for the organism.   Have a plan before you prune When engaging in a pruning project in the winter, it is important to have a clear idea of how you want to go about pruning your plant. Take into account the desired shape of the canopy and overall plant shape when thinking about pruning. There are two types of pruning techniques that are used with woody plants. Thinning is when you entirely remove the branch back to another branch or the trunk of the tree. This method promotes better form and health for the plant, as it completely removes weaker parts of the plant and can allow for increased air penetration. Heading back is when you shorten a branch back to a bud or side branch. This type of cut should be done without leaving behind a stub, which will eventually rot and fall off. Make a pruning cut at an angle slightly above the bud or side branch when employing this technique. If you are interested in having your tree pruned this winter, or are simply curious to find out more about the health of your plants, contact Arbor Garden today to speak with one of our qualified professionals. Wed, 19 Sep 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16408/Tree-Trimming-Issues-Every-Denver-Homeowner-Should-Be-Aware-of.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16407/Denver-Tree-Service-Shares-What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Drip-Irrigation.htm blog When it comes to keeping your yard and landscaping properly watered, you have a few options to choose from. You can hand water each plant, rely on sprinklers, or install a simple drip irrigation system to keep your landscaping in good condition. Though each option has its benefits, many Denver landscaping companies have seen great success when clients implement drip irrigation systems throughout their yard. If you’re looking for a simple way to streamline your watering process, but aren’t sure what to expect from a drip irrigation system, you’re not alone. Here’s what you need to know about drip irrigation, its installation process, and how it can help keep your trees growing strong year after year. Drip Irrigation is Not Right For Every Home Though effective, drip irrigation is not the best option for every home and landscape. Before installing a system, it’s important to look at your yard, the types of beds and plants you have, and decide just what you want the irrigation system to accomplish. The hoses deliver water to concentrated areas and are thus not ideal for irrigating a lawn or yard with minimal groundcover. However, if you have multiple trees, carefully crafted garden beds, and even a vegetable garden in the back yard, a drip system may work. These Systems Work With Other Irrigation Methods Even though drip irrigation systems are not ideal for every type of yard or landscape design, they can be installed and used in conjunction with other irrigation systems. Install sprinklers for a large lawn and focus the spray to cover the grass only. For other plants and flower beds, the drip irrigation system will be sufficient enough to properly hydrate the roots and keep the plants growing efficiently throughout the year. The soaker hoses emit enough water to keep even established trees hydrated and happy.   Installation Requires the Right Timing Installing a new irrigation system of any kind requires digging up at least a portion of your yard. While drip systems won’t require you to completely destroy the garden bed just to install new lines, it will disturb the soil. Instead of waiting until the middle of summer to install a new system, wait until the end of the growing season to schedule an installation. This way, the garden will already be fading and any disturbance in the soil will not impact the way your plants flower or produce fruit. Most Denver residents see great results installing new systems in early spring or early fall, depending on the type of plants they have in the yard. An experienced landscaping team will be able to determine which season is the best for your yard. The Lines Need Filters It should come as no surprise that filtered water is better for your plants and landscaping. When installing a drip system, make sure the water intake is filtered properly. All you need are small hose-sized filters to collect unwanted sediment and contaminants. Without the filters, the drip lines and soaker holes can easily become clogged. If the lines get clogged, they can’t keep your landscaping properly watered and your plants will suffer. Water Pressure Makes All the Difference Drip systems, more so than any other type of irrigation system, require the proper water pressure to work. If the water pressure is too low, the hoses won’t distribute the water your plants need. If it’s too high, the ground will become rapidly saturated and lead to root rot and fungal growth in the garden bed. Before installing the system, have an experienced landscaping company check your water pressure to ensure that it’s strong enough to deliver the right amount of water to your plants. Watering Schedules Still Matter As with any type of irrigation system, you’ll still want to institute a watering schedule with a drip system. Leaving the unit running 24/7 will only flood the landscaping and running it too infrequently will cause your plants to wilt. Instead, work with an experienced landscaping company to determine the proper watering schedule for your new system. This way, you’ll be able to set the timer accordingly and trust that your plants will get the water they need when they need it. Remember, the schedule might differ from the one you used when relying on sprinklers alone as less water evaporates each time the system is running. You’ll Save Money Water is expensive and the more that evaporates before it reaches the plants’ roots, the more you’ll need to use to keep the landscaping looking its best. By investing in a drip system, you’ll reduce the amount of water used to keep the plants hydrated. Over time, the system will reduce water consumption and, thus, lower your water bills month after month. If they start to increase, you’ll know that the system has a leak and needs to be repaired by an experienced contractor. Drip Systems Still Need Maintenance Drip irrigation systems, like any other system, requires regular maintenance in order to ensure that the unit works properly. During the winter, the lines need to be blown out to remove any excess moisture that could freeze and cause underground water leaks. The filters and screens installed must be periodically inspected and cleaned to prevent sediment buildup and system interference and the lines must be flushed at least once a year to maintain water quality for the beds. While most of the maintenance can be done on your own, it’s best to leave it to an experienced landscaping company.   No matter what type of yard or landscaping you have, the right irrigation system can make all the difference in the health and wellbeing of your trees and plants. Whether you’re looking for advice on the best watering schedule for your trees or need to remove a dead tree that suffered from root rot, Arbor Garden is here to help. Our experienced tree care team can help with everything from routine pruning to full tree removal to clear up your yard and get rid of pests. Call (303) 722-8820 for a free estimate today.   Wed, 05 Sep 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16407/Denver-Tree-Service-Shares-What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Drip-Irrigation.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16406/Denver-Tree-Service-Explains-Great-Grass-Free-Groundcover-Options-For-Your-Yard.htm blog When it comes to creating a beautiful landscape for a front or backyard, many people opt to plant a lush lawn on the property. However nice a thick carpet of grass might be, it’s not the only groundcover option. Grass is incredibly high maintenance, requires a lot of water to thrive, and can be a source of annoyance for many homeowners. As a solution to the problem,, many Denver landscaping companies opt for more versatile and unique groundcover options. Here are a few popular grass alternatives to breathe new life into your yard without dramatically increasing your weekly yardwork tasks. Creeping Thyme Creeping thyme is a relative of the commonly used cooking herb. Though it’s not edible, it does make fantastic groundcover, especially for yards with dry soil. The plant spreads quickly, is easily controlled and directed, and requires virtually no mowing. Under ideal conditions, creeping thyme only reaches a maximum height of six inches, but when homeowners are conservative with water, it typically stands at three inches tall. The leaves form a thick carpet, making it ideal for homeowners with small children. Best of all, the roots won’t choke out other plants, and it’s fine to incorporate the groundcover in heavily landscaped areas or garden beds. You’ll even be able to enjoy the bright red flowers during the summer, adding color to your yard. Clover If you’ve ever thought of clover as a weed, you’re not alone. While many homeowners choose to remove this plant from their yards, you don’t have to. In fact, clover is an ideal groundcover for most Denver homes as it grows naturally, requires minimal water, and creates a lush green bed throughout the yard. Though clover can diminish the appearance of a grassy lawn, when left to its own devices, it creates a beautiful grass alternative for your yard. Best of all, the plant requires minimal mowing and no fertilizer as it adapts quickly to the soil conditions in your yard. Keep in mind you will want to mow occasionally to keep the plant from blooming. However, if you’re not opposed to small white flowers or the pollinators they attract, you’re free to let it grow with abandon. English Ivy Ivy is an incredibly hardy plant, but it does carry with it a few risks. The roots run deep and can be difficult to remove should you decide to use it as groundcover. However, ivy is also cold weather resistant and comes back year after year. If you have a yard with soil that’s difficult for grass to thrive in or heavily shaded, ivy can be the perfect option. You will need to prune the plant back if it starts spreading to the house or clinging to trees and structures around the yard. Letting it grow unchecked can cause your yard to quickly get overrun. Lamb’s Ear Lamb’s ear may not be the best ground covering for a full yard, but it’s a wonderful addition to garden beds, walkways, and even around the base of your trees. These plants are well-known for their soft and fuzzy green leaves. Unlike decorative grasses, they require minimal maintenance and are completely safe for pets and kids alike. The leaves are soft enough that they won’t cause skin irritation, even if your little one decides to play with them for hours on end. The plant thrives in full sun, but requires minimal maintenance and is relatively drought-tolerant making it ideal for most Denver homes. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about mowing or pruning them as they rarely grow more than six inches tall. Gravel IF water conservation is your priority, gravel may be the right option for your yard. Gravel is available in different sizes, textures, and colors, giving you the ultimate control over the way your yard looks. The material is easy to spread and the only maintenance you need to do is periodically remove weeds and sweep any stray chunks of rock back into place. Many homeowners looking to create a low-maintenance play area for small children see great success with gravel, especially rounded pea gravel. Regardless of the type of gravel you choose, you’ll never have to worry about mowing or watering the surface. Keep in mind that you may need to work with an experienced landscaper to spread the gravel properly and replace material that goes missing after a few years. Artificial Turf Artificial turf has come a long way from the fake grass of the 1970s. Modern artificial turf looks remarkably like real grass and feels great under bare feet. Just like regular grass, it can be placed anywhere in your yard. Unlike normal grass, it requires absolutely no maintenance and will last for many years even after exposure to the high levels of sunshine common to the Denver area. If mud or dust collects on the surface, all you need to do is spray it away with a high-pressure nozzle or hose. The material can’t become infested with weeds, is naturally mold and mildew resistant, and will give you years of comfortable maintenance-free landscape design. Mulch When you’re looking for groundcover for a garden bed or even a play area, nothing works better than mulch. This all-natural groundcover adds nutrients to the soil, improves plant growth, and adds a unique and beautiful pop of color to any yard. Mulch has the added benefit of being an affordable groundcover choice and requires minimal maintenance. Keep in mind that any area you mulch will eventually need to be refreshed with new material as the old mulch will break down over time. The right groundcover can lead to happy landscaping and trees throughout your property. If you’re looking for help finding the right groundcover to keep your trees healthy year-round, contact Arbor Garden today. Our dedicated tree care experts will help you maintain your existing trees or help new additions thrive in your Denver yard. Schedule a routine tree trimming appointment today and set your yard up for success before the growing season is over. Wed, 22 Aug 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16406/Denver-Tree-Service-Explains-Great-Grass-Free-Groundcover-Options-For-Your-Yard.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16346/Uses-for-a-Fallen-Tree-After-Tree-Removal-in-Denver.htm blog Having shade provided to your yard by fully mature trees can often create a nice atmosphere outside your home or business. However, with these benefits also arise issues which can cause problems should a large limb or even the full tree fall onto your own or a surrounding property. Not only can these trees cause tremendous damage to personal property, such as a vehicle or residence, but they also create more than a handful of problematic issues when reaching the ground uninhibited by any other objects. Once down, it becomes the responsibility of the landowner on which the tree is lying to provide for the removal if he or she so desires. For example, two neighbors who may or may not get along for any number of reasons have a fully grown tree (between 40 to 70 feet on average) which falls after a heavy rain and high winds. It appears the saturated ground became way to unsteady and winds blew the tree over, root system and all. The tree, originally located on property owned by Neighbor A falls onto land owned by Neighbor B. Now, where 100-percent of the tree was once entirely the responsibility of Neighbor A, only 10-percent resides on Property A and the remaining 90-percent has landed on the ground, fortunately not causing any other damage to anything else, owned by Neighbor B. Whose problem is it now and who will bear the responsibility of removal? According to most, if a tree falls into another person’s yard, the land owner of the property where the tree has fallen is now responsible for cleanup. In the scenario above, Neighbor B would be charged with incurring both the cost and execution of clean up (if so desired). Fortunately, there are a number of options available for the tree in question including, but not limited to, each of the below. Firewood If optimistic and you have a wood burning stove, fireplace, or simply an outdoor fire pit - a fallen tree can essentially provide free wood. While the owner will obviously take time cutting the tree into useable pieces, the wood provided from such an act can be extremely beneficial. Depending on the tree type in question, the wood may be used shortly after falling, and should be capable of providing significant heat or hours of entertainment if elected to be used in a fire pit. Should the landowner not have an immediate need for any firewood, there are often individuals who will gladly pay for the wood and may cover the cost of removal if granted possession of the entire tree. These individuals will then potentially use the wood themselves or attempt to sell it elsewhere for a profit. Decoration There have been many useful tree stump ideas for the remnants of a removed tree but often these are only available when a mature tree has been removed professionally. If a storm or high winds fell a tree, often the results are splintered trunks or entire root systems which have been unearthed, instead of a clean-cut stump which can be easily converted into a decorative planter or table top. Regardless, the entire trunk can be utilized as a decorative piece in addition to shaping the branches and limbs into something more aesthetically pleasing once a tree has fallen. Natural Habitat Hollowed out trunks can be inviting homes for a number of wildlife creatures and leaving a fallen tree, if located in an inconspicuous location, could have lasting benefits for those animals in their natural habitat. This life in dead trees provides a suitable home or nesting spot for many animals, birds and even insects to flourish. The cover provided by a hollowed out trunk from a cracking fall can be one of the most natural habitats in all of the woods and may provide an owner with a unique opportunity to somewhat foster the growth of an ecosystem by opting to stick with the natural occurrence instead of attempting to reverse a natural cause. While providing both an economical and ecosystem friendly solution, inviting these animals and insects into an area within close proximity to your home can also be a risky situation. An owner must weigh the benefits and rewards if choosing to let a fallen tree lie where it lays for any extended amount of time. Mulch/Chipping On the opposite end of the spectrum, is complete removal but a repurpose of the tree itself - at least the branches and many of the limbs. Chipping these into mulch can provide a healthy layer of protection around your garden, plant beds, or other trees themselves. These wood chipped mulch pieces will help to keep a steady soil temperature for the plants at which it is utilized in addition to helping combat the effects of erosion around other plants. Boundary Marker A final option, if both parties involved in the outcome of a felled tree are extremely lucky is to have the fallen tree serve as a boundary marker for the future. Should the tree fall precisely on the line or somewhat close, then both parties may determine that non-removal is the best option and instead utilize the presence of a now somewhat permanent and definitely visible representation of the property line. While unlikely, this option could serve as a benefit to both those neighbors who get along great and in the same situation for those who may not see eye-to-eye. 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. Wed, 08 Aug 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16346/Uses-for-a-Fallen-Tree-After-Tree-Removal-in-Denver.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16265/What-to-Keep-In-Mind-When-Landscaping-For-Backyard-Playsets.htm blog Summer is the perfect time for enjoying the outdoors, but keeping the kids entertained with the same old toys can prove to be difficult at best. Taking them to the park day after day is not always possible. This leaves many parents searching for a way to bring the playground to their house and nothing helps more than a backyard playset. However, before you can start building out the perfect playset, you need to make sure your yard and landscaping are ready and able to accommodate the structure. Your local Denver landscaping companies want to help you get your yard ready. Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind when installing a playset in your backyard. Figure Out Where It Needs to Go Play structures take up a lot of space and finding the right place to build them can be a challenge. Think about the parts of the yard you use most already and decide how you want the playset to fit with your current use. Ideally, the structure will be close to the house and visible from inside so you can keep an eye on the kids while working inside. Regardless of where you choose to build, the site needs to be level and clear of debris. Keep in mind, you may need to remove some features of your landscaping in order to accommodate the structure. There are more safety hazards in the yard than you might imagine. Before you start preparing the area, you’ll need to make sure the chosen spot is far enough away from obstructions. Putting the structure too close to the fence puts your kids at risk for injuries while swinging. Installing it too close to a tree with low-hanging limbs puts the structure at risk for damage during storms and heavy snows. Whenever possible, pick a spot that’s far away from these hazards. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least six feet of free space around each side of the playset. This will give your kids the freedom to run around without getting hurt. Make Sure the Space Is Level Once you find the right space, you’ll need to make sure the ground is as close to level as possible. Building a playset on an unleveled piece of land will make the playset unbalanced and unsafe for kids. The last thing you want is for the playset to wobble when your kids are sliding or climbing on the equipment. Some homeowners will find that they’re lucky and have an almost completely level area in the yard without any prep work. However, most will have to remove grass, rocks, and debris, compact the dirt, and level the area by hand before starting to assemble the playset. Your landscaping team may be able to help you with this. Protect the Landscaping You Love Like it or not, a backyard playset means your kids will be running around the yard even more than they did before it was installed. While this is great for their health and your mental wellbeing, it can take a heavy toll on your landscaping and garden beds. Before you start work on the playset itself, you’ll want to take steps to protect the plants you love most. Install fencing around the beds your kids shouldn’t have access to and consider letting your landscaper install raised beds to keep the flowers out from beneath the feet of your kids’ rambunctious friends. The harder it is to access those areas, the less likely it is that your plants will be damaged. Pick the Right Groundcover Leaving the ground cover around the playset as hard-packed dirt is just as dangerous as building it on unlevel ground. Instead, give your kids something softer to land on that won’t impact the rest of your landscaping. Rubber mulch is ideal for younger kids that are more prone to falls and scrapes as the material cushions the impact when they trip. However, for older kids or homeowners that are especially concerned about maintaining a manicured and natural look in the yard, wood mulch is ideal. If you love the look of grass and want to regain the feel of a plush lawn throughout the yard, have your landscaping company lay sod around the playset. Once it’s established, your kids will have a plush carpet of grass to roll in. Frame It Out If you’re worried about keeping your kids out of the landscaping and away from potentially hazardous areas of the yard, build a border around the playset. This will give them a visual marker for where they’re allowed to play and where they need to show a bit of caution and spatial awareness. If you’ve filled the playset area with mulch, the border will also help keep the mulch in place. However, if you’ve opted to put grass back in, you’ll want to choose the right border material. Raised edges are great, but they can be a tripping hazard for younger kids as they run around. Instead, consider flat paving stones around the perimeter. This way, they’ll be less likely to trip over the border as they play. Keep Up With Tree Trimming The more time your kids spend outside, the more likely you are to notice the little details around your yard. Schedule pruning appointments with your landscaping company throughout the year to keep bushes from becoming overgrown and hire a tree trimming expert to periodically assess the health of the trees in the backyard. Low-hanging limbs can be dangerous, but catching diseased or dying areas of the trees is just as important when looking for ways to keep your kids safe. Diseased and damaged limbs often fall unexpectedly. When your kids are out in the yard, that falling branch can cause severe injuries. The sooner an experienced arborist can inspect the health of your tree, the faster they’ll be able to isolate the damage and help maintain that shade cover you worked so hard to cultivate. Need help restoring your landscaping to its former glory after building a playset? Don’t panic. Let the team at Arbor Garden help. Our dedicated staff will work to get your trees and landscaping back in shape for a fun summer outdoors. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Wed, 25 Jul 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/16265/What-to-Keep-In-Mind-When-Landscaping-For-Backyard-Playsets.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15451/Stump-Removal-Denver--Benefits-for-Your-Yard.htm blog 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. Wed, 11 Jul 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15451/Stump-Removal-Denver--Benefits-for-Your-Yard.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15302/All-You-Need-to-Know-About-Tree-Trimming-Denver-in-Summer.htm blog 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. Wed, 27 Jun 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15302/All-You-Need-to-Know-About-Tree-Trimming-Denver-in-Summer.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15220/7-Weeds-to-Watch-For-When-Landscaping-Denver-Yards.htm blog 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. Wed, 13 Jun 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15220/7-Weeds-to-Watch-For-When-Landscaping-Denver-Yards.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15128/How-to-Make-Your-Backyard-Childproof---Arbor-Garden-Tree-Service.htm blog 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. Wed, 30 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15128/How-to-Make-Your-Backyard-Childproof---Arbor-Garden-Tree-Service.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15036/A-Brief-Guide-to-Drought-Time-Tree-Care-From-Denver-Landscaping-Companies-.htm blog 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 treesâ€"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. Wed, 16 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/15036/A-Brief-Guide-to-Drought-Time-Tree-Care-From-Denver-Landscaping-Companies-.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14946/Denver-Landscaping-Companies-Share-Innovative-Ways-to-Make-the-Most-of-Your-Backyard-Space.htm blog Your yard is more than just a nicely landscaped areaâ€"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.   Wed, 02 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14946/Denver-Landscaping-Companies-Share-Innovative-Ways-to-Make-the-Most-of-Your-Backyard-Space.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14788/Denver-Landscaping-Companies-Share-Tips-for-Successfully-Watering-Your-Trees.htm blog 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 niceâ€"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. Wed, 18 Apr 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14788/Denver-Landscaping-Companies-Share-Tips-for-Successfully-Watering-Your-Trees.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14531/Denver-Tree-Service-Calendar-For-Pests-and-Diseases.htm blog 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. Wed, 04 Apr 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14531/Denver-Tree-Service-Calendar-For-Pests-and-Diseases.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14414/Common-Tree-Care-Mistakes-to-be-Aware-of-in-Denver.htm blog 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. Wed, 21 Mar 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14414/Common-Tree-Care-Mistakes-to-be-Aware-of-in-Denver.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14307/Your-Denver-Tree-Service-Shares-a-Few-Simple-Ways-to-Prepare-Your-Trees-for-Spring.htm blog 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 itâ€"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. Wed, 07 Mar 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14307/Your-Denver-Tree-Service-Shares-a-Few-Simple-Ways-to-Prepare-Your-Trees-for-Spring.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14206/Reason-to-Have-Your-Stump-Removed-in-Denver.htm blog When you have a tree removed, you are left with a stump, and unless you seek professional stump removal services, it will remain there for a very long time. There are a variety of reasons to consider having your stump removed in Denver, and many of them aren’t as apparently obvious as others in the grand scheme of things. Appearance Let’s be honest: stumps are not very pretty. They are the last vestige of your wooded companion that is no more. They are the remnants of a once thriving organism that may have been with you and your family for generations. But beyond any nostalgia for the tree that once was, they also happen to be ugly and unsightly. The beauty potential of your yard is greatly reduced when you have a leftover stump. Many people decide to leave the stump of their tree in place, as they don’t want to spend the extra money necessary to remove it. As a result, they are left with a slowly decaying piece of wood that restricts any landscaping projects in the future, and is generally a major eyesore, especially if the tree was in your front yard. Removing the stump from your property can allow you to beautify your landscape, and opens up more possibilities for gardening projects or future tree plantings. Stumps Can Create New Tree Growth If you decide to leave the remnants of your old tree behind by not removing the stump, you may open yourself up to having a new tree sprout up in its place. Stumps that are not removed can allow new tree sprouts to grow up in their place. These sprouts can grow up around the stump, which can look unsightly and can eventually create the need for these to also be removed. New sprouts often times continue to come back, which can necessitate the use of chemical sprays to ensure that the sprouts do not continue to come back. This can be an added cost that is undesirable for any homeowner to have to undertake. These new trees can leach nutrients from nearby plants, ultimately doing harm to your surrounding landscape. This is a step that you do not want to have to take, and can be avoided with the removal of the stump. Stumps are Hazardous and a Pain to Maneuver Around Stumps are not only a pain in your side when it comes to their affect on your landscape, they can also create a hazard for you if you have small children or if anyone is not carely when navigating around them. By leaving your stump instead of removing it, children that are playing in your yard will have to avoid tripping over it. Additionally, if a neighbor trips over your stump and is injured, this can create a liability for you as a homeowner. Stumps are also a pain to maneuver around in the course of maintaining your yard. Regardless of if you or your landscaper is the one responsible for cutting the grass and maintaining the property, having a stump in the ground will create an inconvenient obstacle to steer around. If you are weeding or mowing, you will constantly have to steer clear of your stump, which can make the chore of cutting the grass a bigger headache than it needs to be. By removing a stump out of the picture, you will not only reduce your headache, but you will save time by not having to constantly avoid the stump. Stumps Take up Yard Space that can be Reserved for Other Projects The presence of a stump can be a burden and a nuisance to a homeowner, specifically regarding the potential of future landscaping projects. By having a stump that is not removed, you are restricting your ability to take on new landscaping projects. If you are someone who sees their yard as a canvas to paint your personalized touch onto, having a stump in the ground will greatly reduce your ability to take on any project. If you are gardening or want to improve your land through other landscaping projects, you will constantly have to factor in the placement of your stump when taking on any design. Having a stump in the middle of a flower or vegetable garden can not only look silly, but it can also be detrimental to the health of any plant you intend to grow nearby. By removing your stump, you will free up precious yard space to take on that new project for your Denver home. It can open up your landscape in ways you didn’t think were possible prior to removing the stump, which can allow for your own landscaping renaissance. It may cost you a bit more in the short term to have a stump removed and ground down, but by doing so you give yourself greater wiggle room to unleash your creative mind onto your yard. Stumps Attract Insects By leaving a stump in your yard, you open yourself up to attracting insects and pests. Certain critters will see your rotting and decaying stump as their next meal. Termites, beetles, ants, and other wood-boring insects will dive right into your decaying stump. By attracting these pests, you may end up dealing with their presence inside of your home as well. This can lead to costly repairs and expenses far beyond the cost of removing the stump itself. It can take many years before a stump is fully decayed and can be removed with a shovel and simple household tools. This means that for years to come, your yard may be a target of pests and other undesirable organisms. On this fact alone, it may be advisable to consider having your stump removed from your yard before it becomes a bigger problem. If you are in need of having a stump removed from your yard, contact Arbor Garden today to speak with one of our qualified professionals. We are happy to answer any questions regarding stump removal or any other concern related to the health of your trees. Wed, 21 Feb 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14206/Reason-to-Have-Your-Stump-Removed-in-Denver.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14099/Denver-Tree-Service-Shares-Common-Pests-to-Watch-for-This-Spring.htm blog Spring is just around the corner and before you know it, your trees will start blooming like mad. While their leaves and blossoms offer plenty of shade and beauty for your landscaping, they can be damaged relatively easily. After a long winter, pests, diseases, and fungi all start getting active and these hazards can quickly turn the foliage from green to brown. Once the damage starts, correcting the issue can be difficult at best, but the sooner you notice anything amiss, the better. Here are a few of the most common issues Denver landscaping companies see in trees during the spring. Scale Insects Scale insects are a lot like the aphids you see on flower bushes and in houseplants, but they prefer trees. These little green insects eat through the leaves and buds of trees entering their main growing season, leaving small holes and slimy trails behind. In addition to sticky and slimy leaves, scale insects also deposit harmful a harmful fungus on the bark and leaves which can spread to the rest of the tree if left unchecked. Unlike aphids, scale insects are much easier to see often before the infestation reaches extreme levels. Look for colorful patches on the trunk and in the branches as scale insects like to gather in groups. If you notice a large number of insects, don’t panicâ€"there may not be a full infestation. However, you will want to schedule an inspection with an arborist to assess the damage and develop a treatment plan. The longer these insects stay in the tree, the more likely it is that the tree will rapidly deteriorate. Aphids Though more commonly associated with roses and other flowering bushes, aphids have been known to make a home in the trees. Like scale insects, they eat the leaves and blossoms on your trees and leave behind a sticky sap-like substance after digesting the plant material. Once the leaves become coated in the substance, they start to wither and decay. Over time, the decay can result in trunk mold and lead to severe damage to the tree’s vascular system. Surprisingly, there are many different types of aphids that can infest trees, and since they’re small and difficult to see, identifying them can be difficult. Once you recognize the symptoms as an aphid infestation, you’ll need to have the condition assessed to better develop a treatment plan. Different species of aphids respond to different pesticides, and using a generic treatment may not be enough to get rid of the infestation. Bark Beetle Bark beetles have been a problem for the last decade, especially among Colorado’s pine and juniper population. These insects burrow into the trunk and slowly eat away at the wood, killing the tree’s circulatory system. Damage often starts to manifest as discolored needles, typically beginning at the top of the tree. However, unlike other pests, bark beetle damage cannot be repaired once an infestation is found. Instead, you’ll need to remove the infested tree from the property and either spray the tree with a chemical treatment or burn the wood. Luckily, removing the tree is often enough to prevent the spread of beetles on your property. If you’ve noticed bark beetle damage on nearby properties, you may want to use preventative treatments and sprays to protect the pines in your yard. Termites While termites are more commonly associated with structural damage to buildings, they can also wreak havoc on your home’s landscaping. When left unchecked and untreated, termites can slowly kill the tree, eating away at the cellulose inside the wood and weakening the supportive structure of the trunk and roots. Termite damage is relatively easy to spot even in the early stages of an infestation. Look around the trunk of the tree. If you see wood dust mixed with the dirt or notice mud tubes climbing the base of the tree, there may be termites nearby. Take a stick or shovel and gently dig up a small amount of soil around the tree. If termites are infesting the tree, they’ll likely be crawling in the soil. Though they spread slowly, you’ll still want to schedule treatment as soon as possible. Putting off a termite extermination not only puts the rest of your landscaping at risk, but also increases the likelihood of a colony taking up residence in your house. Emerald Ash Borer The emerald ash borer is a relatively new addition to Colorado’s pest list, with the first known infestation being detected in 2013. These troublesome pests do most of their damage in the larval state when they burrow into the trunk, consuming the wood pulp and cellulose of the trunk. When a large enough population of borers takes up residence in a tree, it can compromise the health of the tree, killing it slowly from the inside. The easiest way to prevent damage from emerald ash borers is to make sure the trees are properly cared for and can firmly establish themselves in your yard. Most severe damage only happens when the trees do not have an established root system or have experienced other infestations that compromise their health. Root Rot Though not an insect, root rot can be just as deadly even for otherwise healthy trees. This condition is most common during the spring and is caused by moist wet soil that does not have adequate drainage. Soil naturally traps moisture and water around the roots of living trees, helping them receive the nutrients they need. However, when the water can’t evaporate, it can cause the material to break down while also encouraging mold and fungus growth in the soil. Often, the fungus will spread throughout the root system, preventing the roots from getting the nutrients they need to thrive. While it can occur in yards with poorly timed irrigation systems, it can also result from natural weather patterns like frequent heavy rain or slow snowmelt. If the ground seems saturated, avoid watering the area until the first few inches of soil dry out. The last thing you’ll want to do is add water to the soil. Unfortunately, root rot can only be prevented rather than cured. Work with a landscaping team to ensure that your space has the proper drainage to keep moisture from being a problem. Whether you think you have a pest problem or simply want to set your trees up for a successful growing season our crew is ready to help. At Arbor Garden, we believe that every homeowner deserves a beautiful yard filled with healthy trees. Contact us today and let our team keep your trees happy, healthy, and thriving. Wed, 07 Feb 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/14099/Denver-Tree-Service-Shares-Common-Pests-to-Watch-for-This-Spring.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13817/7-Reasons-to-Schedule-Winter-Tree-Trimming-with-a-Denver-Tree-Service.htm blog For most homeowners, the last thing on their minds in the winter is their landscaping. After all, the cold and snow often means you’re seeking warmth indoors rather than spending time outside enjoying nature. You’re far more likely to be worried about the condition of the roads or finding the snow shovel to clear off your walkway and sidewalk once the snows start to fall. However, even when you’re spending less time in your yard, the trees and large shrubs still need care and attention during the winter months. Here are a few reasons to trust Denver landscaping companies to prune and trim your trees in the winter rather than waiting for the warmth of spring. Easier to Access Large trees require heavy equipment and machinery in order to be safely trimmed, pruned, or even removed if the tree is damaged. During the warmer months, the ground around the tree is soft and compresses easily under heavy weight. This can lead to damage to your lawn while also extending the time the Denver tree service needs to spend working on each tree. When the temperatures drop in the winter, the ground temperature drops as well, making areas that are almost inaccessible to heavy equipment easy to get to. Remember, frozen ground can support more weight without compressing the root systems of the rest of your landscaping. This means the tree service will be in and out more quickly, saving you both time and money on your home’s landscaping maintenance. Faster Recovery During the growing season, trees devote most of their energy towards producing leaves and flowers. When a limb breaks or is trimmed during this time, the tree has fewer resources to devote to healing the damaged area. This means those simple cuts can take far longer to heal, leaving the tree open to damage from disease, insects, and even the elements. Since trees are dormant in the winter and not actively producing new growth, their energy can be directed towards healing the trimmed area. Ultimately, these cuts heal more quickly, exposing the tree to fewer diseases and helping reduce the risk of insect infestations that could manifest when the weather warms up. Damage is Visible Lush leaves are great for shading your property, but they can make assessing the condition of the tree difficult. The more of the tree that’s covered by vegetation, the more difficult it is for the tree service to assess insect damage or look for signs of disease. When the tree drops its leaves in the winter, it makes spotting damage far easier. An arborist will have an unobstructed view of the entire canopy and can more accurately inspect the entire tree for problems. The sooner damage is caught, the better off the tree will be and the more proactive the landscaping service can be in developing a treatment plan during the growing season. Reduces the Risk of Property Damage Heavy snows may be unpredictable, but when they come, they often do significant damage to trees. When these trees are located close to a house, weak or damaged limbs can snap, falling onto your roof or scraping along your siding. While it may not do damage, many homeowners face extensive roof repairs when limbs break under heavy snow. By trimming in the winter, an arborist can better assess which branches are potentially problematic and which ones can safely weather a severe storm. This will help reduce the risk of property damage and ensures that your home and family stay safe and dry despite the rough weather outside. Sets Landscaping Up for Success in Spring During the growing season, trees actively try to support growth and healing on all of their branches. Even areas with damaged limbs receive nutrients to help stimulate healing and growth, diverting resources from the healthy parts of the tree. By trimming these damaged areas off in the winter, your landscaping team sets the tree up for a successful and vibrant growing season. All the tree’s resources can go to living branches rather than struggling to support damaged or dying areas. Furthermore, when limbs are trimmed during the growing season, the tree’s growth potential in those areas me be limited. After all, if a limb is already blooming when its pruned, the area may not recover enough to produce a second round of blooms before the season passes. Precision Cuts Are Easier to Make Even the best arborists can make mistakes when the tree is covered in foliage. This means some trimming may be done too close to the healthy part of the tree. During the winter, it’s easier for the crews to see what they’re doing, where the cut needs to be made, and precisely where to place the sheers or saw. The more precise they can be, the less risk there is that the limb will be damaged and the faster the area can heal after the trimming. Stimulates New Growth When left unchecked, a tree’s growth can get a bit out of control. During the spring and summer, the limbs stretch and produce new offshoots that can shade existing landscaping or get dangerously close to your home and powerlines. Without the foliage, you’ll be able to see the actual shape of the tree and decide how the branches need to grow once the seasons change. With careful trimming, a landscaping team will be able to shape the tree, encouraging the limbs to grow where you want them rather than where nature would otherwise dictate.   No amount of springtime fertilization and maintenance can make up for preventative pruning during the dormant season. Winter tree maintenance is key to setting your home’s landscaping up for success in the spring. While you may be able to prune and trim shrubs and low-lying branches on your own, it’s best to leave the major trimming to the professionals. Let the team at Arbor Garden keep your trees growing well year after year. Our experienced staff will assess each tree before making a single cut so you can rest assured that your landscaping will look great come spring. Don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Wed, 24 Jan 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13817/7-Reasons-to-Schedule-Winter-Tree-Trimming-with-a-Denver-Tree-Service.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13685/Signs-Your-Tree-in-Denver-Needs-to-be-Trimmed-or-Removed.htm blog The decision to trim or remove a tree in Denver is an important one. Trimming a tree is critical for maintaining the health of your constant, wooded companion. It is essential to know the proper methods and appropriate timing for cutting back your tree’s limbs. It is always recommended to seek the advice of a qualified arborist to ensure that you make the right decision. Trees are one of the most prominent features of your landscape. They provide shade to cool your home in the summer, and add a touch of nature to your property that balances out the surrounding features of a city environment. It is for this reason that making the decision to trim or remove a tree can be incredibly difficult for homeowners. Trimming, if done incorrectly, can severely damage the health of your tree, and may eventually require it to be removed completely. The act of removing a tree can be heartbreaking, as it has become such a staple of your home that it can be akin to losing a family member. The sight of an empty front yard is not ideal, especially if you’ve gotten used to the sight of that maple tree. Signs your tree needs to be trimmed Your tree will require some level of pruning throughout its lifespan, and it is important to know when that pruning will be required. If you are wondering whether your tree requires pruning in the near future, there are several things to take into account. The most obvious sign that a tree requires trimming is the presence of broken branches. This often results from stormy weather, whether from lightning strikes or excessive wind and snow. In addition to broken branches, the existence of large amounts of deadwood is another sign that your tree needs to be pruned. Crossing branches are another indicator that your tree requires some degree of pruning. If left unattended, crossing branches can damage the bark of your tree, which can lead to further health issues for the plant. Wandering branches are also a factor to look for when deciding whether your tree needs pruning. This is when branches jet out and grow towards things such as power lines, which can not only damage the tree but can also lead to expensive repairs to your home’s electrical lines. If your tree’s canopy has become misshapen due to a lack of pruning, it is likely a good time to consider trimming it. When a tree’s canopy is not shaped through correct and appropriate pruning, it can often end up looking unsightly and undesirable. While tree’s provide a wide variety of utilitarian functions, they also contribute to your property’s overall aesthetic. Awkwardly shaped trees can give the appearance of a neglected landscape. An additional sign that your tree requires trimming is when you have uninhibited tree growth. This is when a tree has ample room to grow due to a lack of other trees or structures nearby, and it grows outward instead of upward. This can lead to branches that create an imbalance in the weight distribution of the tree, leading to further damage to the rest of the organism. The existence of cankers in your tree is another sign that your tree is in need of pruning. Cankers are when the bark of the tree is either sunken in or is completely missing. If not pruned, this can lead to further disease, rotting, and decay of the entire plant. Signs it may be time to remove your tree There are some factors to look out for that may indicate your tree is beyond repair and is in need of being completely removed. As with the tree itself, the best starting point in determining a tree’s overall health can be found at the roots. Examining the health of your tree’s roots is important, as this is where many issues begin. The soil a tree is rooted in may contain fungi that is contributing to the decay of the plant. If root health is beyond remediation, it is inevitable that the entire health of the plant will soon be as well, meaning removal will be required. Another warning sign to be on the lookout for are large cavities in the trunk or in larger scaffold branches. This is indicative of decay that resulted from injury, according to the University of Florida. This injury may have happened years ago, whether from a pruning cut made too close to the trunk, cutting or removing part of the root system, or topping the trunk or branches. The presence of dead limbs or hanging branches in the upper crown of the tree may also be a sign that your tree is in need of removal. While a small amount of dieback in the crown is normal, an excessive amount of crown dieback is a sign that the health of your tree is suffering and that it is under stress. Chipped or peeling bark is yet another signal that your tree’s health may be declining to the point that it may need to be cut down. Chipped or peeling bark can be due to any number of factors, such as lack of water over an extended period of time. It may also be the result of cold winter nights that causes the trunk to crack, which is often referred to as frost crack. While having peeling, chipped, or cracked bark can be normal, the degree to which the tree’s bark is damaged can play in part in the process of determining whether a tree is in need of removal. At Arbor Garden, we take pride in our vast and extensive knowledge of tree health and the proper methods for caring for your constant wooded companions. We understand the importance of having trees that not only look their best, but are also in the best health. WE are happy to speak to you regarding any questions you may have regarding your tree. If you are seeking answers regarding the possibility of trimming or removing your tree, contact Arbor Garden today. Wed, 10 Jan 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13685/Signs-Your-Tree-in-Denver-Needs-to-be-Trimmed-or-Removed.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13374/The-Importance-of-Working-With-Denver-Landscaping-Companies-That-Employ-Qualified-Arborists-.htm blog There are countless Denver landscaping companies, so it can be difficult to figure out which one you should do business with. A great way to narrow down your options is to look for companies that employ arborists. An arborist is a professional who is trained to care for trees and shrubs. Why is it so important to choose a company that has an arborist on staff? Here are some of the many reasons: Spot Signs of Trouble Landscapers can completely transform your property and make it much more visually appealing using flowers, plants, and shrubs. But, caring for a tree involves far more than making sure it looks good. Arborists are trained to inspect trees and identify potential issues before they become major problems. Arborists will be able to spot the signs of diseased or decaying trees, pest infestations, and other problems that could seriously damage the trees in your yard. However, landscapers are not trained to look for these problems. Therefore, they may not recognize these signs until it is too late to do anything about them. If these problems are not addressed, the tree could become so weak that it topples over, which could damage your home or even worse, hurt someone who is on your property. Specialized Equipment Landscapers have to use a wide variety of tools, such as lawn mowers, edge trimmers, and clippers. But, arborists use far more advanced and dangerous tools that landscapers may or may not be familiar with. For example, landscapers only need a hand held set of clippers to trim a small shrub on the ground. On the other hand, arborists need climbing and rigging equipment in order to climb up a tree to trim branches or remove sections that could be a hazard. Landscapers most likely do not have experience working with the equipment needed to do this task, which is why you should never ask them to do it unless they have a certified arborist on staff. Special Services Arborists perform a wide variety of services that landscapers do not. For example, landscapers may suggest that you remove unsightly tree stumps in your yard, but unless they have an arborist on staff, there’s no way for them to remove it for you. Arborists are also trained in how to properly prune trees to keep them healthy and strong. Landscapers may offer this service, but they often don’t understand the science behind when and how to prune a tree. For instance, landscapers may not know when it is time to prune a tree or how much should be trimmed off of the tree to promote growth. Many landscapers may even make the mistake of suggesting tree topping, which is a method of pruning that could do irreversible harm to the trees in your yard. An arborist can also assist with planting trees, which is another service that most landscapers do not offer. It is much more difficult to plant a tree than it is to plant a small shrub or flower garden. Arborists have to take a number of factors into consideration when planting a tree, including the future growth pattern of the tree, the amount of sunlight and shade the tree will receive, and the type of soil the tree needs to thrive. These are just some of the many special services that are offered by arborists in the community. If you hire a landscaper that does not employ an arborist, you will not have access to these valuable services. Emergency Help A landscaper cannot respond in the event of an emergency, but an arborist can. This means if a tree falls over or starts tilting to one side after a windstorm, you should contact an arborist for assistance. An arborist will come to your property as soon as possible and either remove or trim the tree back to reduce the risk of property damage or injury. Arborists are even trained to handle situations where a tree could fall on top of a power line. This can be extremely dangerous, which is why it’s absolutely imperative to let a professional handle it instead of trusting a landscaper who is not a certified arborist. How to Choose An Arborist As you can see, it’s incredibly important to hire a landscaping company that employs an arborist. But, how do you know when you’ve found the right arborist for the job? First, ask if the arborist belongs to any professional organizations. The best arborists are involved with the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). You should also make sure the arborist is certified by the ISA. Arborists with this certification have gone through extensive training, so they are able to handle many different types of challenges. Once you’ve narrowed down the list of potential arborists, don’t be afraid to ask for references. If the arborist is not able to give you a list of potential clients that you can contact, ask if you can have a list of addresses that he has worked on in the past. Instead of speaking directly to the client, simply drive by the property to check the quality of the arborist’s work. You should also ask a handful of different arborists for estimates, but keep in mind that the price should not be the only factor that you consider when choosing an arborist. An arborist that charges much less than other professionals in the industry may be doing so in order to make up for the fact that he does not provide the same quality of work. Learn more about how to hire an arborist. Are you ready to take the next step and work with a team of certified arborists? 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. Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13374/The-Importance-of-Working-With-Denver-Landscaping-Companies-That-Employ-Qualified-Arborists-.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13274/Denver-Tree-Service--Common-Mistakes-Made-on-Commercial-Properties.htm blog Many commercial property owners plant trees on their properties in order to make it more visually appealing for their customers. But unfortunately, they often don’t know how to properly care for the trees once they’re in the ground. According to the experts at our Denver tree service company, here are some of the common mistakes that owners make when caring for trees on commercial properties: Irrigation Issues Most commercial properties have irrigation systems that are preset to turn on and off at certain times. This certainly makes remembering to water the trees more convenient for property owners, however it could cause more harm than good. Ideally, the irrigation schedule should be adjusted depending on the weather and the condition of the trees. For example, if it has rained a lot over the last several days, there’s no need to let the irrigation system run. In fact, letting it run when the trees have already received enough water can affect their ability to grow. On the other hand, if the weather has been dry, the irrigation schedule may need to be adjusted so the trees are watered more frequently. Watering trees too much or too little is one of the major mistakes that almost every commercial property owner makes. Equipment Damage Commercial properties are typically maintained by landscaping companies that are responsible for trimming the grass and making sure the area looks presentable. However, these landscaping companies often don’t pay much attention to the trees. As a result, they aren’t careful when using equipment such as lawnmowers and edge trimmers around trees. Bumping into a tree with an edge trimmer may not seem like a big deal, but it can actually cause a great deal of damage. Edge trimmers and lawnmowers are powerful enough to remove pieces of bark from the tree. In some cases, they can do enough damage to interrupt the transfer of nutrients within the tree. The tree will also become more vulnerable to pests and diseases if its bark is wounded by a lawnmower or edge trimmer. To prevent this problem, it’s important for commercial property owners to work with Denver tree service companies as opposed to landscape companies that have little experience caring for trees. Planting the Tree Incorrectly People can trip over exposed tree roots and seriously injure themselves, which is why many commercial property owners do not want them growing aboveground. But, tree roots are somewhat uncontrollable. As the tree grows, the roots will grow in every direction where there is space. Some commercial property owners try to keep the tree roots completely hidden by planting the tree deeper in the ground than it needs to be. They assume that by keeping the tree deep in the ground, the roots will have more space to grow underground so they don’t ever grow aboveground. However, planting a tree deep within the ground is not recommended. The top layers of soil contain nutrients and water that the tree roots need in order to keep the tree healthy and strong. If the tree roots are buried deep within the soil, they won’t have access to these nutrients, and the tree will suffer as a result. Take a look at the trees on your property. Are there any that do not have any visible roots? If so, it’s probably best to call a tree service company to examine the situation. A professional may need to remove some of the soil around the base of the tree in order to give the roots access to the shallow soil they need to survive. Using the Wrong Fertilizer All fertilizers are not created equal. Each type of fertilizer contains a unique combination of nutrients, so it’s important to figure out which nutrients your soil needs before fertilizing it. To do this, purchase a soil testing kit at a local home and garden store or contact a professional to perform the test instead. The soil test will tell you the nutrient content of the soil, which is information that you will need in order to pick the right fertilizer. For example, if the test shows that the soil is low in potassium or phosphorus, you would know to use a fertilizer that contained these minerals. Learn how to test your soil. By using the wrong fertilizer, property owners are often creating a poor growing environment for their trees that could result in irregular growth or unstable trees. For instance, if the soil on the property is already rich in nitrogen, there’s no need to use a fertilizer that contains nitrogen. If you do, leaves may grow uncontrollably on the tree, but the tree’s flowers will not bloom.   Using Too Much Mulch Adding a layer of mulch around the base of a tree is a great way to hide unsightly roots and keep the property looking neat and orderly. However, many property owners make the mistake of using way too much mulch around their trees. If too much mulch is applied around the base of the tree, the roots will not be able to absorb oxygen they need to keep the tree alive. It’s also important to remember that mulch absorbs moisture. If mulch is piled high against the base of a tree, the moisture absorbed by the mulch will slowly seep into the tree trunk. This creates the perfect environment for pests, mold, and mildew, which can all cause serious damage to the tree. Even though a property owner may think a high pile of mulch looks good, it could lead to a diseased or dead tree. For more information on caring for trees on commercial properties, 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. We work with both residential and commercial property owners, so we would be more than happy to help you care for the trees on your commercial property. Contact us today to learn more about our tree and integrated pest management services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 15 Nov 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13274/Denver-Tree-Service--Common-Mistakes-Made-on-Commercial-Properties.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13181/Tree-Trimming-in-Denver--Why-Topping-Isn---t-Recommended.htm blog Landscaping professionals often discuss the importance of tree trimming in Denver, but it’s important to understand that tree topping is not an effective method of tree trimming. Tree topping is the process of cutting large branches down to stubs in order to reduce the overall size of the tree. Basically, topping removes the entire crown of the tree. Topping can do much more harm than good, which is why this practice must be avoided at all costs. Here are some of the many reasons why tree topping is not recommended: Causes Starvation No more than one-third of the tree’s leaves are removed when the tree is trimmed properly. However, tree topping typically removes 100% of the leaves. This creates a problem since the leaves are responsible for producing food that the tree needs to survive. As a result, the tree will temporarily starve until it is able to grow new branches and leaves that are capable of producing food. Learn how trees make food for themselves. Rapid Growth Many people top their trees because the trees are too large and need to be trimmed down so they don’t brush against a home or power lines. But, a tree that has been topped will go through a stage of rapid growth, which defeats the whole purpose of topping the tree in the first place. In addition, the new branches that grow after a tree has been topped are not anywhere near as strong as normal tree branches. This means that not only will the tree be back to the size it once was fairly quickly, but it will also be much weaker than it was before it was topped. A strong windstorm could be enough to break these branches, which could then fall on top of power lines, your car, or home. Therefore, it is a mistake to think that topping a tree is a good way to deal with a tree that is too large or branches that could be a safety hazard. Produces Unattractive Trees Lush, green trees can completely transform the look of a yard, but unfortunately, tree topping rips away a tree’s beauty. Topping leaves only the trunk and the short stubs of the tree’s branches behind, so the tree is no longer attractive. Having trees with short and stubby branches can make the rest of your home look more unattractive as a result. The branches and leaves will eventually start to grow back on trees that have been topped. But, this does not mean that the tree will regain its original beauty. A topped tree’s shape will never return to what it once was, so even when the leaves and branches have grown back, the tree will not be as beautiful as it was before it was topped. To protect the curb appeal of your home, choose tree trimming instead of tree topping. Sun Damage The leaves on a tree typically act as a shield to protect the tree from the sun. When the tree is topped, the leaves are removed and the tree is exposed to direct sunlight for the first time. Depending on the amount and intensity of sunlight, it’s possible that this direct exposure could damage the tree’s tissues similarly to how sunlight damages our skin. If the sunburn is severe, the tree’s bark could start to split.   Vulnerable to Decay, Pests, and Disease Tree trimming creates small wounds that the tree can typically repair on its own. But, tree topping creates a lot of large wounds that are often difficult for the tree to close on its own. The inner bark that is exposed due to these wounds will eventually start to decay, which will affect the overall health and stability of the tree. That’s not all. The large wounds that are created through tree topping can also make the tree vulnerable to pests and disease. Pests and diseases can easily make their way inside the tree these wounds, and because the tree is in a weakened state, it will not have the ability to fight off an infestation. If this happens, the decision to top a tree could lead to the complete loss of the tree. Once this tree has been infested, the pests or disease could spread to other trees in your yard as well. High Costs Even if tree topping did not cause significant damage to a tree, it would still not be recommended because of the high costs associated with this practice. Why is it so expensive? As previously mentioned, topped trees are unattractive. Having these trees in your yard could reduce the value of your home, which is important to know if you are thinking of selling in the near future. It’s also more expensive to maintain a topped tree than it is to trim trees on a regular basis. As soon as a topped tree begins to grow out, it will need to be trimmed in order to undo some of the damage caused by topping. However, some trees will never make it to this stage because they are too weak to survive after topping. If the tree dies because it was topped, it is your responsibility to pay to have the tree removed. Topped trees can also be expensive because they are liability risks. The weakened branches that grow on a topped tree could fall at any moment. If one of these branches falls on a person, car, or home, you will be liable for any damage that it causes. As you can see, there are many issues that may arise if the trees in your yard are topped instead of trimmed. To learn more about proper tree trimming techniques, 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. We will be happy to help you plant new trees in your lawn. Contact us today to learn more about our tree and integrated pest management services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 01 Nov 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13181/Tree-Trimming-in-Denver--Why-Topping-Isn---t-Recommended.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13071/Denver-Landscaping-Companies--A-Guide-to-Planting-New-Trees.htm blog Planting trees in your yard is a great way to improve the curb appeal of your home, create more shade, and help the environment. But, this isn’t something that you should do without consulting one of the best Denver landscaping companies first. Why? Planting a tree isn’t necessarily difficult, but it does require more planning than planting flowers or shrubs. Here’s everything that you need to know about planting new trees: Choosing the Right Location The first step to planting a new tree is finding the perfect location for it in your yard. Do you live in a HOA community? If so, take a look at the HOA agreement to see if there are any rules about trees. Some HOA communities limit the areas where new trees can be planted and the types of new trees that can be planted. To avoid a costly fine imposed by the HOA, read through your contract before you go any further in this process. Next, think about how big the tree will be when it is fully grown. Many people make the mistake of planting a tree in a spot that it will soon outgrow. For example, a tree that is planted too close to a house will need to be moved if it starts to brush against the house once it is fully grown. You should also pay attention to how close the tree will be to outdoor sheds, fences, pools, and driveways. Prevent a problem in the future by researching how big the tree will be ahead of time so you can find an appropriate spot for it. Finally, research whether the tree needs to be in the sun or the shade in order to grow. To find this information, either look online or talk to a landscaping professional. Knowing what type of environment a tree needs to survive will help you narrow down potential locations in your yard. Learn how to plant a tree or shrub. Planting the Tree Begin by digging a hole that is about twice the width of the tree. Place the container that holds the tree inside the hole to make sure it is the right size. Next, loosen the soil within the hole. Many people skip over this step, but it’s important that you do not make this mistake. It is much easier for roots to grow into loose soil, so if you forget to do this, the roots may never be able to branch out. If the tree is in a container, carefully cut the container off to free the tree’s roots. Then, pick up the root ball of your tree and slowly place it inside the hole. Make sure your hand is covering the majority of the root ball to ensure that the roots stay intact. Once the roots are in the ground, gently loosen them with your fingers so they can easily start to grow into the surrounding soil. Do one last check to make sure that the hole is the appropriate size by looking at the top of the tree’s roots. If the top of the tree’s roots are sticking out over the edge of the hole, it is not deep enough. The top of the roots should be level with the ground. Now, begin filling the hole with soil to hold the tree in place. As you fill the hole, keep an eye on the trunk of the tree. The trunk should remain straight at all times, so if you notice it leaning to one side, the roots may need to be adjusted within the hole. The soil should look somewhat flat once you’re done, so make sure that you haven’t accidentally created little mounds of soil around the base of the tree. Caring For the New Tree The work isn’t over once the new tree is in the ground. New trees must be cared for to ensure they have everything they need to grow. Start by placing mulch around the base of the tree, but be sure to leave about 4 inches between the trunk and the mulch. The layer of mulch should be about 4 inches thick so it can protect the roots of your new tree. You may be eager to see the tree grow, but that doesn’t mean you should overdo it with the fertilizer. Using too much fertilizer on a new tree can severely damage the tree’s roots. Talk to your landscaping professional to determine if you should use any fertilizer at all. If he suggests skipping it for now, then start fertilizing once the tree is in its second year of growth instead. Finally, take a step back and look for any dead or diseased branches. These should be pruned immediately after the tree is in the ground. But, this is the only pruning that you should do on a new tree. If there are no dead or diseased branches or limbs, hold off on pruning a new tree until it is well into its first growing season. Hiring A Professional It’s best to let a professional plant trees instead of trying to do it on your own. It may seem easy to plant and care for new trees, but there’s a lot of work involved. A professional can make sure that you choose the right type of tree, find an appropriate spot for it, and plant it correctly. Professionals can also care for the new tree, which is incredibly important in the early stages of the tree’s life. Let a professional handle the dirty work while you enjoy the beauty of your growing trees. Do you want to plant new trees in your yard? If so, contact the professionals to discuss your needs. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. We will be happy to help you plant new trees in your lawn. Contact us today to learn more about our tree and integrated pest management services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 18 Oct 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/13071/Denver-Landscaping-Companies--A-Guide-to-Planting-New-Trees.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12895/Denver-Tree-Service-Tips-For-Caring-For-Your-Trees-in-the-Winter.htm blog The trees in your yard must be cared for throughout the year, but their needs change as the seasons come and go. Now that winter is right around the corner, it’s a good idea to learn how to care for your trees during the coldest season of the year. Here are some tips from a Denver tree service company to keep your trees healthy in the winter: Remove Snow Snow may look light and fluffy, but it can actually be quite heavy especially when it comes during early fall or spring. If too much snow accumulates on a tree’s branches, the weight of the snow could cause the branches to snap. Prevent this problem by clearing snow off of tree branches throughout the winter instead of waiting for the snow to melt on its own. Use a broom to gently nudge the branches that are covered in snow upwards. Do not use a shovel or another heavy object that may harm the tree in the process of removing the snow. Also, be sure that you are not directly underneath the branches as you try to remove the snow. Make contact with the tree at an angle so if the branch is more brittle than you anticipated, it will not hit you when it snaps and falls to the ground. Ice is another environmental element that could harm the trees in your yard. If the branches are covered in a layer of ice, do not try to shake them. Branches that are covered in ice are extremely brittle and may snap if they are jerked back and forth. Instead, try spraying warm water onto the ice so that it melts and frees your branch from its grip. Learn more about snow cover on trees and shrubs: when and how to remove it. Avoid Rock Salt People often use rock salt to melt patches of ice around their home. But if you want to keep your trees healthy, don’t use rock salt on any ice patches that are located near your trees. Rock salt can damage the tree’s roots and prevent them from absorbing the nutrients that the tree needs to survive. If you need to melt ice around a tree, choose an ice melting product that is made with magnesium chloride, potassium, or calcium instead. Keep Animals Away Small animals may start to eat the outer layer of bark on the trees in your yard, leaving the vulnerable inner bark exposed to the harsh environmental elements. Trees can survive after losing a small amount of outer bark, but if the animal makes its way around the entire trunk, it could cause serious damage. To protect your tree, put some type of barrier in place before the winter season begins. It’s recommended that you use either a plastic barrier or chicken wire that wraps around the truck of the tree. This will keep small animals away and ensure that your tree makes it to the spring. Add Fresh Mulch Prepare for the upcoming winter by putting a fresh layer of mulch around the base of your trees. The mulch will act as an insulator and protect the tree’s roots from exposure to extremely cold temperatures. Mulch can also prevent winter drought, which is a common problem that affects trees when the ground freezes and the roots are unable to absorb enough water. In order for mulch to do its job, it has to be laid down properly. Do not apply the mulch directly at the base of the treeâ€"start a few inches away and move all the way out to the drip line. Be sure to choose an organic mulch instead of an inorganic mulch that is harmful to the environment. The layer should be around two inches thick at the very most. If the mulch is too thick, it may attract mice and other rodents that are looking for a warm spot to burrow in for the winter. Remove Potentially Dangerous Branches Being exposed to snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures can put a lot of stress on tree branches and cause them to suddenly break. Any branch may be damaged by the stresses of winter, but dead and diseased branches are especially at risk. During the late fall, walk around your property and try to spot any branches that appear to be dead or diseased. You should also look for branches that are hanging too close to your home or your car. It’s recommended that you have these removed before they branches fall and hurt someone or something. But, don’t attempt to remove branches on your property on your own. This is a dangerous job that should be handled by experienced professionals with the proper safety gear and equipment. Start Early Don’t wait until the ground is frozen and covered in snow to start thinking about your trees. At this point, it may be too late to prevent some of the winter-related problems that could affect your trees. The earlier that you plan for winter, the better off your trees will be. Care For Trees Year-Round It’s hard to keep a tree healthy in the winter if it has been neglected for most of the year. The best way to grow a yard full of healthy and strong trees is to care for them on a regular basis. Enlist the help of a professional so you know exactly what needs to be done and when. By working with a tree service company, you won’t have to commit as much time and effort to taking care of your trees. Do you want to learn more about caring for your trees throughout the year? If so, contact the professionals to discuss your needs. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. We will be more than happy to assist you with caring for your trees all year round. Contact us today to learn more about our tree and integrated pest management services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 04 Oct 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12895/Denver-Tree-Service-Tips-For-Caring-For-Your-Trees-in-the-Winter.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12638/What-You-Need-to-Know-About-the-Emerald-Ash-Borer.htm blog The emerald ash borer is a beetle that feeds off of the inner bark of ash trees, which affects the tree’s ability to transport nutrients. This pesky little beetle is responsible for killing hundreds of millions of ash trees in North America, and in 2013, it was spotted in Boulder, Colorado. Since one in six trees in Denver are ash trees, it is crucial that these pests do not make their way into the city. The city launched a campaign last year to try to keep the emerald ash borer out of Denver, however Denver landscaping companies have already been treating ash trees for these pests. Learn more about the emerald ash borer and prevention. Therefore, it’s important to learn about the emerald ash borer so you can spot the warning signs and take action quickly if you happen to spot an infested tree. Here’s what you need to know: Vulnerable Trees The emerald ash borer feeds on all species of ash treesâ€"including both those that are in woodlands and landscaped areas. Some of these beetles have been found within white fringetrees in Ohio, however it is believed that this was an isolated incident and that the beetle does not typically feed on this type of tree. The beetle typically targets trees that are already stressed, however that does not mean healthy trees are safe from this pest. Healthy trees are often targeted and can die within three to four years after they become infested. Identifying Ash Trees Knowing that emerald ash borers attack ash trees doesn’t help unless you know what an ash tree looks like. There are three things you should look for to determine if you have ash trees in your yard. First, look for a distinct diamond pattern in the bark of the tree. The bark does not form perfect diamonds, but it should be fairly obvious that the bark is creating a diamond-like shape if it is truly an ash tree. The second indication that you have an ash tree is the presence of compound leaves. This means that each stem growing off of the branches has multiple leaflets as opposed to one single leaf. There are usually between five to nine leaflets per stem on an ash tree. Finally, look for opposite branch growth on the tree’s limbs. The branches of ash trees grow in pairs, meaning that for every branch stemming from an ash tree limb, there will be another similar branch growing on the exact opposite side of that limb. If a tree has all three of these characteristics, it is definitely an ash tree. Remember, ash trees are incredibly common in the Denver metro area, so it is very likely that you have at least one somewhere near your home. How to Spot Emerald Ash Borers There are certain signs that indicate your tree could be infested with emerald ash borers. First, look for small, d-shaped holes in the bark of your tree. These small holes are created when the adult beetles emerge from the inside of the tree. If you suspect that the tree is infected, you can also remove a small portion of the outer bark so the inner bark is visible. Larvae feeds on the inner bark, and as they do, they create very noticeable s-shaped patterns in the bark. The outer bark conceals these marks, which is why spotting an infestation can be so challenging. You can also look for the actual beetle itself, although this may be hard to spot. Adult emerald ash borers are metallic green and about the same size as a grain of rice. The larvae, which hide in the inner bark, are lightly colored and less than two inches in length. Trees that are infested will have a hard time transporting nutrients and water to the top branches. As a result, the canopy of the tree may start to lose its leaves as the branches slowly die. Infested trees will also start to sprout new branchesâ€"usually right near where the larvae are feedingâ€"so keep your eyes peeled for new and unusual branch growth. Another sign that your trees could be infested is the presence of woodpeckers, which feed on emerald ash borer larvae. Of course, seeing a woodpecker does not mean that your tree is definitely infested. However, if you begin to see woodpeckers along with other signs of infestation, this indicates there could be emerald ash borers inside your trees. Similar Looking Beetles Don’t panic if you happen to spot a metallic green beetle on one of your trees. The emerald ash borer is known for its bright color, but it’s not the only beetle with this coloring. Blister beetles are also green, however they are typically found on the ground or on short plants and flowers. Japanese beetles are green, but they also have white spots around their body and copper-colored wings. Another green-colored pest is the tiger beetle, which is just as shiny and metallic as the emerald ash borer, but not nearly as destructive. If you spot a green-colored beetle, contact a tree service company right away so they can determine if you have emerald ash borers. Be Defensive Ideally, you should put a plan in place to protect your trees from the emerald ash borer instead of waiting to call for help when you spot the signs of an infestation. If you have ash trees in your yard, it’s best to contact a tree service company to discuss your options even if you do not believe they are infested. Many people decide to replace their trees with other species that aren’t targeted by the emerald ash borer, however this is not the only defense plan that is available. Do you want to learn more about pest management? If so, contact the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Contact us today to learn more about our tree and integrated pest management services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 20 Sep 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12638/What-You-Need-to-Know-About-the-Emerald-Ash-Borer.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12444/The-Importance-of-Tree-Stump-Removal-in-Denver.htm blog When you hire a tree service professional to cut down dead trees in your lawn, you will need to tell him whether or not he should remove the stumps as well. Many people don’t see the need for tree stump removal in Denver. But, before you make this decision, make sure you understand why experts recommend that you remove tree stumps instead of leaving them in your lawn. Appearance The most obvious reason why professionals recommend that you remove tree stumps is because of their unattractive appearance. Having a tree stump in your lawn could drastically affect how the rest of your landscaping looks. In fact, it could even impact how others see your home. If you spend a lot of time on your landscaping, don’t let it all go to waste by leaving a giant tree stump in your lawn. Have it removed to keep the pristine look of your landscaping intact. You should also keep this in mind if you are planning on selling your home in the near future. The curb appeal of a home is important to potential buyers. Some buyers may not even be interested in looking inside a home that has an unsightly tree stump out front. Trip and Fall Hazard It’s easy to avoid running into a tree when you’re walking through your lawn, but you may forget about the stumps that are hiding in your grass. Anyone can accidentally run into a tree stumpâ€"especially kids who are too busy playing to look for obstacles in their path. Tripping over a tree stump could lead to scrapes, bruises, and even broken bones if it knocks you off of your feet. Even worse, if someone else trips on a tree stump that is on your property, you could be liable in the event that this person suffers injuries. Protect yourselfâ€"and your loved onesâ€"by removing tree stumps in your lawn as soon as possible. Attracts Pests Tree stumps can also attract pests, which can be incredibly difficult to get rid of once they’ve invaded your lawn. Some species of ants are known to nest in decaying tree stumps. If the tree stump is located close to your home, the ants could eventually make their way inside looking for food. Learn more about the infestation of ants in a tree stump.   But, ants aren’t the only pests you have to worry about if you have tree stumps in your lawn. Tree stumps can attract a number of different pests, including wood boring beetles and termites. These pests can easily move from tree to tree, attacking and destroying the healthy trees in your lawn just because you did not remove a tree stump. Similar to the ants, these pests can also make their way into your home and cause structural damage. Diseases and Fungi Why did you have to cut the tree? In many cases, trees need to be cut because they are infected with a disease or fungus. Cutting the tree down is not enough to completely eradicate the problem. The fungus or disease could remain in the tree stump, which means it still poses a threat to the rest of your trees. Most diseases and fungi can easily spread to other healthy trees in your lawn, which will cause a great deal of damage that could have been avoided by simply removing the tree stump. Lawn Maintenance It can be very difficult to mow your lawn if there are tree stumps scattered everywhere. Pushing or riding a lawn mower around a stump is challenging, so you may end up with grass that looks uneven. Plus, if you accidentally get too close to the stump when cutting your grass, the stump could damage the mower. Space Most homeowners want to make good use out of every inch of their lawns. But, a tree stump does nothing but take up space that could be used for a garden, a sitting area, or even a kids’ swing set. Maximize the space in your lawn by removing all of the tree stumps that don’t provide any value. Regrowth Even when a tree is cut down, it can generate regrowth. The tree stumps in your lawn could start to sprout branches, known as suckers, which will start to appear around the base of the stump. Letting these suckers grow freely could make your lawn look unkempt. In addition, these suckers will absorb some of the nutrients in the soil, which means other plants in your lawn may not get as many nutrients. Suckers can be difficult to remove, but it’s important that you hire someone for the job as soon as possible. If you let them grow for too long, they can become a safety hazard since they are attached to a rotting tree stump that does not offer much support. Even if you hire someone to get rid of them, they may continue to grow back until the tree stump has been completely removed. Hiring A Professional There are many articles and how-to videos online that show you how to remove a tree stump on your own. But, it’s never a good idea to try this by yourself. Removing a tree stump requires special equipment and safety gear that you probably don’t have at home. If you try to remove a stump on your own, it’s possible that you could damage the landscaping around the stump. In some cases, a tree stump could be located near pipes or electrical systems, which further complicates the matter. Performing this task without the right equipment and safety gear can also be dangerous. For these reasons, it’s in your best interest to let a professional handle this task instead of attempting to do it on your own. Do you have tree stumps or dead trees that need to be removed? If so, contact the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 06 Sep 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12444/The-Importance-of-Tree-Stump-Removal-in-Denver.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12385/Seasonal-Shrub-Pruning-at-Arbor-Garden---Your-Premier-Denver-Tree-Service.htm blog Pruning is the process of trimming a shrub in order to remove badly damaged or diseased branches and maintain the shrub’s shape and size. Pruning can keep the shrubs in your lawn beautiful and healthy, but only if it’s done at the right time. When should you contact a Denver tree service company to prune the shrubs in your lawn? Here’s a helpful guide to pruning through the seasons: Summer Pruning Pruning in the summer is necessary in certain situations. First, summer pruning may be required to maintain the neat and orderly look of manicured hedges. It’s recommended that you prune these manicured hedges before they grow six to eight inches from the last time they were pruned. If you have any shrubs that are not manicured, it’s best to prune these once during the winter and again in the middle of the summer. There are also certain flowering shrubs that should be pruned in the summer. Avoid pruning any shrubs that flower during the summer. If you prune summer-flowering shrubs, it’s very possible that you will accidentally remove the buds that are about to open up. However, it is safe to prune spring-flowering shrubs as long as you do so in the early summer. Why does it matter? The forsythia is one of many spring-flowering bushes that may be planted in your yard. This plant blooms in the beginning of spring, then forms new buds during the summer that will open during the following spring. In order to safely prune these plants, wait until the flowers that bloomed in the spring have faded. Do it as soon as possible after these flowers have faded so you can prune before the new buds that will open next year begin to grow. Pruning in the early summer also gives plants like these enough time to heal before winter hits. Be mindful of the weather if you decide to prune your shrubs during the summer. Ideally, you should avoid pruning shrubs during a heat wave since extreme temperatures can put stress on a plant. Wait until temperatures have leveled off before you begin to trim the shrubs in your lawn. Has it been raining? If so, do not prune your shrubs until at least 48 hours has passed. Pruning wet landscaping can leave your plants vulnerable to fungal diseases. Fall Pruning Many experts recommend that you do not prune during the fall because it can do more harm than good during this season. Why? Pruning stimulates growth, but it also injures the shrub. When a plant is trimmed, it immediately begins to use its energy to create new tissue to heal the wound created by pruning. But during the fall, plants are using their energy to prepare to go dormant during the winter. If you prune during the fall, you are basically asking the plant to allocate some of its precious energy to healing the wound. As a result, the plant may wind up severely weakened and unprepared for winter. Read more about why it’s important to stop pruning in the fall. Winter Pruning Winter is the most popular season for pruning. Many shrubs are dormant during the winter, so pruning them during this season will ensure that they experience fast regrowth once spring rolls around. It’s also much easier to prune deciduous shrubs during the winter because all of their leaves are gone, which allows you to get a clear view of the shape of the plant. Pruning in the winter is also a smart choice if you’re worried about pest infestations. Pests are not nearly as active in the winter as they are in the warmer seasons, so you won’t have to worry about them being attracted to your freshly pruned shrubs. To maximize the benefits of pruning during the winter, it’s best to wait until the coldest part of the season has passed. Take a look at historical temperatures to see which parts of winter are the coldest to determine when you should begin pruning. Spring Pruning If you didn’t get a chance to prune your shrubs during the winter season, then do so in the early spring when the shrubs are still dormant. The leaves should still be off of deciduous shrubs in the early stages of spring, so you should find it fairly easy to identify areas that need to be pruned. If you want to prune a shrub that blooms during the spring, it’s imperative to research whether the flower is produced on old or new growth. If flowers bloom from buds that were formed during the previous year, then you should not prune them at this time. However, if the flowers bloom from new buds that form in the spring, it’s safe to prune these shrubs while they are still dormant in early spring. Before pruning summer blooming shrubs, make sure that there is no frost in the forecast. Frost can stress shrubs, which makes it harder for them to heal after being trimmed. Be sure to wait until the weather has slightly warmed up before trimming any summer blooming shrubs. The Benefits of Calling A Professional Pruning may seem simple, but as you can see, there are many rules that must be followed in order to keep the shrubs in your yard in good shape. For this reason, it’s best to call a professional instead of pruning on your own. A professional will know the best times to prune each of the shrubs in your yard so you don’t have to worry about accidentally cutting off buds or weakening your plants by trimming them at the wrong time. Are you interested in learning more about seasonal shrub pruning? If so, contact the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Our team will be able to answer your questions and determine how we can help preserve the beauty of your greenery. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 23 Aug 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12385/Seasonal-Shrub-Pruning-at-Arbor-Garden---Your-Premier-Denver-Tree-Service.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12239/Denver-Tree-Service--An-Introduction-to-Integrated-Pest-Management.htm blog Every gardener will have to deal with pest problems at some point, regardless of how well they care for their lawns. There are many different ways to handle pests, but it’s recommended that you use an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to solve your pest problem. What is IPM? How can a Denver tree service company help? Here’s everything that you need to know to protect your lawn: Defining Integrated Pest Management IPM is a strategy that uses a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, physical, and chemical controls to prevent pests and the damage that they cause. Many tree homeowners immediately turn to chemical pesticides when they spot an infestation in their lawn. However, chemical pesticides are not always the best option. People who choose to take an IPM approach will always consider each and every option available before deciding how to treat the problem. When making this decision, they will consider which option poses the least amount of risk to humans’ health, the environment, and other non-harmful organisms that reside on the lawn.   But, IPM is not just about resolving pest problems as they arise. Another goal of IPM is to be proactive and prevent pest problems before they begin. This can be done by planting trees that have a high resistance to pests and keeping plants healthy so they are strong enough to fight off pests on their own. Now that you understand what IPM is, it’s time to take a look at the different pest controls that can be used when implementing this strategy. Cultural Controls What kind of culture have you created in your lawn? In this context, “culture” refers to everything from the plants that you choose to the time that you water your lawn. In order to prevent pests from damaging your lawn, here are some of the cultural controls that you should consider:   Water in the morning instead of the evening. If you turn the sprinklers on in the evening, water droplets will cling to your lawn and create an ideal environment for fungus and pests. If you water your lawn in the morning, these water droplets will evaporate as temperatures rise in the afternoon. Learn the smarter way to water your lawn. Give your plants the chance to thrive by researching where they grow best. If a plant needs to be placed in a sunny spot, don’t make the mistake of putting it in the shade. Likewise, plants that are not resistant to droughts should not be planted in your lawn if you live in a very dry region. Plants that are not placed in their ideal environments are more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Research pest-resistant plants. Find out what plants are resistant to pests and diseases and choose as many of these as possible for your lawn. Some good choices are chrysanthemums, lavender, scented marigolds, and borage. Water the base of the plants instead of the tops. Watering the leaves of your plants could leave them vulnerable to certain fungal diseases that thrive in this type of environment. Instead of letting water spray all over the plant, direct the water right at the roots. It may take a little extra effort to control the culture of your lawn, but it’s definitely worth it to ensure that your plants are protected from harm. If you aren’t sure where to start to implement cultural controls in your lawn, contact a landscaping professional for some pointers. Biological Controls Every organism has a natural enemyâ€"even pests. Implementing biological controls involves identifying natural enemies of pests and diseases and ensuring these enemies are present in your lawn. For example, there are parasitic insects that will lay their eggs on or inside pests, so when the eggs hatch, the parasites feed on and destroy the pests. Here are some of the natural enemies that are often used as biological controls:   Lady beetles are enemies to aphids, giant whiteflies, and spider mites. Lace wings are enemies to aphids, caterpillars, lace bugs, mealy bugs, and spider mites. Parasitic wasps are enemies to carpenter worms, elm leaf beetles, thrips, and psyllids. Parasitic flies are enemies to cottony cushion scales, elm leaf beetles, slugs, and snails. Of course, you should never introduce any new organisms in your lawn without first consulting with a professional. Mechanical and Physical Controls Mechanical and physical controls are designed to kill pests that are already present in the lawn, prevent pests from invading the lawn, or make the environment unpleasant so pests have no interest in infesting the area. An example of a mechanical control would be a trap that catches rats or other small rodents. On the other hand, examples of physical controls would be a layer of mulch that prevents weeds from growing or physical barriers to prevent animals from entering a certain area of your lawn. Pesticide Controls Finally, there are pesticide controls, which are often thought of as a last resort and usually used along with a combination of the other three types of controls. There are several different types of pesticides, so it’s important to talk to a professional to determine which is the best choice for your lawn. For example, fungicides should be used to treat fungal diseases, so if you use this type of chemical to fight off insects, it probably won’t be effective. When using chemical controls, it’s imperative that you always choose the option that will cause the least amount of harm to people, the environment, and any other organisms or plants that you are not trying to target. A professional can help you select an appropriate strategy for your needs. Are you interested in learning more about IPM and how this strategy can be implemented to protect your lawn? If so, contact the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Our team will be able to answer your questions and determine how we can help protect your trees. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 09 Aug 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12239/Denver-Tree-Service--An-Introduction-to-Integrated-Pest-Management.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12156/Storm-Damage-and-How-Denver-Tree-Trimming-Companies-Can-Help.htm blog Trees can withstand a lot, but they’re not indestructible. It’s possible that the trees in your yard could be damaged after a bad storm with strong winds and heavy rainfall. This type of storm damage needs to be addressed right away to protect your family and home. Fortunately, Denver landscaping companies can help you handle the destruction caused by storms so you can keep your property and family safe from harm. Types of Storm Damage in Trees There are several types of damage that you may spot after a storm. Some are much more subtle than others, so it’s important to learn about each of these types so you know what to look for when inspecting your yard. Learn more about trees and storms. The first type, which is known as windthrow damage, is the easiest to spot because the entire tree will be uprooted and blown over on its side. It takes a great deal of force to uproot a tree, so this type of damage typically only occurs after extremely strong storms. Older or diseased trees are far more likely to sustain this type of damage because their root systems are already weak.   Crown twist damage occurs when the crown of the tree, which consists of the branches and leaves, is not symmetrical. If the crown is uneven, the force of high-speed winds may cause the trunk of the tree to twist or crack under pressure. Branch failure can also occur during a storm. This type of damage is characterized by branches that have either completely fallen off of the tree or have weakened to the point where they look as if they will fall at any second. If your tree has suffered branch failure, some of the branches may need to be removed, but the base of the tree is hardly ever affected. Stem failure is a more serious type of damage that occurs when the tree trunk is not strong enough to withstand high-speed winds. A tree with stem failure will either split or completely snap during a windstorm and will most likely need to be removed as soon as possible after the storm. Stem failure is most common among trees that already have weakened trunks, for example, trees that are diseased or decaying. What to Do After A Storm Inspect your yard as soon as possible after a storm, but be mindful of where you are standing. You should avoid standing directly under any branches or trees that look as if they have been weakened as a result of the storm. You also need to keep an eye out for power lines, which can be very dangerous after a storm. If you spot any signs of damage, contact a professional right away so he can perform an assessment. The professional will examine the trees in your yard to determine which can be saved and which need to be removed. Any branches that look as if they have been weakened by the storm will be removed before they fall on someone or something. Even if a tree has some damage, a professional may be able to prune it back to health instead of having to remove it. Smaller trees that have been slightly uprooted may be saved if the tree professional can straighten them and stake them into the ground. However, it is recommended that you remove the tree if more than 30% of the root system is above ground. The professional may also be able to repair torn bark. If part of a tree’s bark has been torn away, pesky insects may use this as a hiding spot, which can damage the tree even further. A tree professional can use special tools to remove the rough edges of the bark that was ripped off during the storm and improve the appearance of the tree. You may be tempted to try to repair some of the storm damage on your own, but don’t make this mistake. It can be incredibly dangerous to attempt to remove branches or inspect a tree without the help of a professional. Remember, these professionals have special equipment, safety gear, and of course, years of experience that give them an advantage. How to Prevent Storm Damage in the Future To avoid having to deal with these issues after a storm, be proactive and work with a landscaping company to prevent storm damage. First and foremost, have your trees pruned on a regular basis so the weak branches are removed before they cause damage. A tree professional can also prune your trees in a way that creates more resistance to the wind. Trees that have lopsided branches, meaning they are heavier on one side, are vulnerable in windstorms. By pruning the trees, you can create symmetry and ensure that the distribution of the branches’ weight is even so the tree can withstand windstorms. To prevent damage, you should also get in the habit of frequently inspecting your trees for signs of disease or pest infestations. These trees are the most vulnerable in storms, so removing or treating them ahead of time could save you a lot of trouble during storm season. Many people believe that topping a tree is an effective way to prevent storm damage, but this is not the case. Topping is the process of cutting off the top of the tree, which turns the lush and leafy top branches of a tree into bare stubs. Topped trees are at a higher risk of developing diseases, which makes the trunk less stable and more likely to blow over during a storm. Have your trees been damaged by a recent storm? Do you want to storm proof your yard? If so, talk to the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specialize in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Our team will be able to answer your questions and determine how we can help protect your trees. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 26 Jul 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/12156/Storm-Damage-and-How-Denver-Tree-Trimming-Companies-Can-Help.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/11974/The-Importance-of-Using-Mulch-to-Protect-Tree-Landscaping-in-Denver.htm blog Tree trimming and pest management is crucial, but mulch is another one of the most important components of tree landscaping in Denver. Unfortunately, it’s often overlooked by people who don’t understand the many ways that mulch benefits their trees. Why should you apply mulch around your trees? How should you apply it? Here’s what you need to know about using mulch to protect the trees in your yard: Acts as Insulation Tree roots are sensitive to temperature changes, and may begin to die off if they are exposed to extremely cold or hot temperatures. However, mulch acts as insulation and protects your tree roots from experiencing fluctuating temperatures. A fresh layer of mulch will keep the soil around your tree’s roots warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, thus keeping the tree roots healthy and thriving. Conserves Moisture Tree roots need water to survive, however they may not be getting enough water if you don’t already have mulch in your yard. Why? Soil heats up when temperatures begin to rise in the summer. At a certain point, temperatures will be high enough to cause evaporation, which means the soil will start to lose its moisture and tree roots won’t get the water that they need to survive. This can be prevented by applying a layer of mulch on top of the soil. The mulch will prevent sunlight from reaching the soil and thus drastically slow down evaporation so the tree roots have more time to absorb moisture before it’s gone. Lawnmower Protection If tree roots are exposed or near the surface of the soil, they can easily be damaged by a lawnmower’s blades. Whoever mows your lawn should know that areas with mulch do not need to be mowed, so applying a layer of mulch around your trees should be enough to prevent this problem. But, even if the person who mows your lawn does go over the area, mulch adds another layer of protection and prevents the blades from reaching the roots. Soil Erosion Without mulch, soil may begin to erode during a heavy rainstorm. The water can cause the layer of topsoil to break apart and slowly disperse. Since the topsoil contains organic matter that is beneficial to your trees, you should take action to prevent soil erosion. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to do so. Simply apply a layer of mulch around your trees to keep the soil in place so your trees can continue to absorb nutrients. Reduces Competition Tree roots compete with other plant roots underground for the nutrients and moisture that they need to survive. If you have recently planted new trees in your yard, it’s imperative that you reduce competition to ensure that the new tree roots receive enough nutrients to grow. To do so, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree that is about four inches deep. This is enough to prevent weeds and other unwanted grasses from sprouting up around the tree and competing with its roots for nutrients. Appearance Besides keeping trees healthy, mulch also improves the overall appearance of your tree landscaping. The right type of mulch can make your entire yard look neater, healthier, and more vibrant. In fact, real estate agents often advise sellers to put down a fresh layer of mulch before listing their homes to improve the curb appeal. How to Apply Mulch Around Trees As you can see, mulch plays an important role in keeping trees healthy and strong. But, it must be applied properly or your trees won’t reap these rewards. You may think that putting down a layer of mulch is simple, but it’s actually more complicated than it may appear. First, choose the right type of mulch. There are several different types, but it’s recommended that you stick to hardwood bark, which comes in small or large chips. This type of mulch is safe, attractive, and long lasting, so it’s viewed as one of the best options. If you don’t choose hardwood, the very least you should do is make sure that the type you choose is organic. Organic mulches will break down and provide nutrients to the soil, but inorganic mulches won’t.   One of the biggest mistakes that you can make with mulch is applying it in the shape of a mound around the base of your tree, so it starts very thick and then becomes thinner as you move further away from the tree. Mulch should not actually come in contact with the base of your tree or it will cause moisture to accumulate on the trunk, which leads to pest infestations. Instead, leave a distance of a few inches between the tree trunk and the mulch. Then, apply the mulch all the way out to the drip line of the branches. The mulch should never be more than four inches deep. Learn more about mulching trees and shrubs. Once mulch has been applied, make sure you check it frequently to see if it needs to be replenished. Hardwood mulch should only need to be replaced a few times every year, so this isn’t shouldn’t be much of a hassle. You should also check to ensure the mulch has not become matted. If it has, take a rake and gently run it over the mulch, otherwise the roots may be deprived of water and other nutrients. Many people only use mulch during certain times of the year, but it’s best to use it year-round. Therefore, if you ever remove old mulch from around your trees, be sure to replace it quickly so tree roots don’t have to adjust to new conditions. For more tips on how to protect the trees in your yard, talk to the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Our team will be able to answer your questions and determine how we can help protect your trees. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 12 Jul 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/11974/The-Importance-of-Using-Mulch-to-Protect-Tree-Landscaping-in-Denver.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/11855/Denver-Tree-Services-and-What-to-Know-About-the-Japanese-Beetle.htm blog There are a number of different pests that may harm the trees and shrubs in your lawn, but there are few that are as destructive as the Japanese beetle. This pest originates from Japan, however it has natural predators in Japan that keep the population in check. Unfortunately, these natural predators are not in the U.S., so Japanese beetles are free to destroy greenery. It’s important that you learn about this pest so you know how to spot an infestation and when to call a Denver tree services company for help. What Does A Japanese Beetle Look Like? Japanese beetles are very smallâ€"around ½ of an inchâ€"but they are brightly colored, which makes them easier to spot despite their size. These bugs have metallic bluish green heads, copper colored bodies, and white hairs on their abdomen. It’s possible that you will spot one of these beetles before seeing any signs of damage, so keep an eye out for bugs that match this description.   Adult beetles lay eggs in the soil that will soon turn into grubs, which are beetles that are still in the larvae stage. Grubs are small and white with six legs and brown bodies. It’s unlikely that you will see them as they stay in the soil over the winter and only emerge when they are adults. What Plants Do Japanese Beetles Destroy? It’s estimated that adult Japanese beetles feed off of 300 different kinds of plants, so it’s very likely that you will have at least one plant in your yard that interests these bugs. Some of the most common plants that Japanese beetles feed off of are roses, beans, grapes, and raspberries. However, they also are attracted to black walnut trees, cherry trees, dahlias, elm trees, chestnut trees, and mountain ash trees, among many others.   It may seem like this beetle will eat anything, but that’s not the case. Certain plants, such as dogwood, juniper, green beans, and holly, are not appealing to Japanese beetles. If possible, try to mix these plants into your landscaping so beetles aren’t as attracted to your yard. Learn more about Japanese beetles. How Can You Spot Damage Caused by Japanese Beetles? Japanese beetles quickly devour foliage, leaving only skeletonized leaves behind. If you see leaves that just have the veins left, this is a sign that your yard is infested with Japanese beetles. Signs of an infestation will be different if the bugs are attacking the trees in your yard. Trees that have been attacked by these bugs will look almost as if they have been burned by fire.   It’s also common for Japanese beetles to begin at the top of the tree or plant and work their way down to the bottom. Therefore, if you notice damage on the top of your plants, this could be a sign that your plants are currently being attacked by Japanese beetles.   Although adult Japanese beetles begin feeding in June, grubs start to feed on grass roots in the winter. How to Prevent Japanese Beetle Infestations There are a few things you can do to prevent Japanese beetles from taking over your yard. As previously mentioned, it helps to place plants that are not attractive to Japanese beetles next to those that are. This may reduce the amount of damage that the beetles do if they do make it to your yard.   If you’ve had a Japanese beetle problem in the past, be proactive by spraying your yard with a solution of two tablespoons of soap diluted in one gallon of water. Do this during the late spring or fall, which is when the beetles are still in the larvae stage.   Pest management experts also recommend keeping your landscaping as healthy as possible to prevent an infestation. This means removing dead or diseased trees and fruits that are ripening prematurely as soon as possible.   Even if you follow all of these steps, it’s still possible for Japanese beetles to creep into your yard. Fortunately, there are ways to control an infestation with the help of a professional. What Should You Do If You Suspect A Japanese Beetle Infestation? If you have reason to believe that your yard is being infested by Japanese beetles, contact a tree services company as soon as possible. There are several steps that a professional may follow to remove Japanese beetles from your yard. First, he may remove all of the adult Japanese beetles that he can find by hand and destroy them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This is typically done in the early morning when Japanese beetles tend to be the most active. This step of the process is only recommended in cases where the tree service professional suspects that there are not many bugs in your yard yet.   Second, the tree service professional may recommend weeding your yard and keeping it tidy. Japanese beetles are attracted to weeds, so keeping these out of your yard may help with the infestation problem.   Finally, a pesticide will be applied to the areas of your yard that have been affected. The tree service professional may need to use special tools to ensure he has thoroughly sprayed the tops of tall trees that are being destroyed by Japanese beetles. The bugs will make contact with the pesticide when they land on a plant to feed, so this should be effective in destroying large populations of Japanese beetles.   Getting rid of these bugs may seem simple, but it’s no easy feat. Once the bugs have been removed from your yard, it’s possible that they will come back if your neighbor’s yard is also infected. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional who can work one-on-one with you to manage your pest problem.   Is your lawn infested with Japanese beetles or other harmful bugs? If so, talk to the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 28 Jun 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/11855/Denver-Tree-Services-and-What-to-Know-About-the-Japanese-Beetle.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/11679/Tree-Services-in-Denver-For-the-Summer.htm blog As the seasons change, so do the needs of the trees in your yard. Now that summer is right around the corner, it’s important to learn what tree services in Denver you will need to properly care for your trees. Here’s a look at how you can keep your trees healthy all summer long: Lay down fresh mulch. One of the easiest ways to keep your trees healthy during the summer is by putting down a fresh layer of mulch around the bases of the trees. Mulch is important because it prevents weed growth and controls the soil temperature. More importantly, it helps the soil retain water. This means that less water will be lost to evaporation, which becomes very important as the temperatures start to rise. The roots of your trees will be able to absorb water from the soil before it evaporates into thin air if you apply a fresh layer of mulch.   You can find bags of mulch at any hardware or gardening store. There are many different options, but it’s recommended that you look for shredded hardwood mulch. Once you bring the bags home, apply a circle of mulch around the base of the tree. Make sure that the layer of mulch is about three to four inches thick so your trees can reap all of the benefits listed above. Turn on the sprinklers. Summer weather can be brutal on trees, especially if they are young or recently planted. It’s estimated that trees need about one inch of water every week, so if you don’t feel your trees are getting this, you may need to water your trees during the summer to keep them healthy.   It’s best to water your lawn in the morning as opposed to the afternoon or evening. In the morning, there usually isn’t any wind to blow away the water droplets before your trees get a chance to absorb them. Temperatures are also cooler in the morning, so you don’t have to worry about the water evaporating before your trees can absorb it. Temperatures are lower in the evening as well, but it’s not wise to water your lawn during this time. If you turn on your sprinklers in the evening, the water that is not absorbed will cling onto your plants and could cause fungus growth. Learn the smarter way to water your lawn. Look for pest problems. Many pests, including the magnolia scale, Japanese beetle, and spider mites, are more common in the summer, which means they could slowly begin to infect your trees in the next few months. Get into the habit of frequently inspecting your trees for signs of pest infestations so you can contact a tree service professional as soon as possible.   Of course, you will need to learn the signs of pest infestations if you want to be able to catch them early. Sometimes, you can spot the pests right on your tree. This is true of scale insects, which tend to travel in large packs and leave colorful spots on the barks of trees. You may also notice a sticky substance on your tree or the presence of mold. These are both signs of pest infestations, so if you spot them, contact a tree company within your community right away. Be prepared for the storms. Summer is typically a fairly stormy season in Colorado, so it’s smart to work with a tree company to determine if any of your trees need to be trimmed before the storms hit. A tree trimming professional can inspect your trees to identify any weak or dead limbs that need to be removed. He can also ensure that your trees are not leaning too close to your home or any other structure on your property. If you don’t do this, it’s possible that your trees could damage your home or car during a heavy storm with high winds. Fertilize your trees. Give your tree fertilizer so it can fight off pest infestations and remain strong during the summer season. There are a few different types of fertilizers, but it’s recommended that you use granulated fertilizer if you are applying it yourself because it’s the easiest one to use. Be sure that you don’t apply the fertilizer on the trunk of the tree. Instead, move about one foot away from the trunk and begin applying the fertilizer on the ground. You should stop once you have reached the area beneath the outermost tips of the tree’s branches.   It’s best to water the area that you just fertilized as soon as you are done. This will ensure that the fertilizer is quickly dissolved so the tree’s roots can absorb the nutrients right away. Prune your trees. Most tree trimming does not take place in the summer, but there are a few reasons why you will need to prune your trees during this season. First, pruning can remove any dead or weakened limbs on your trees so they don’t hurt anyone or damage your property if they fall. You will also need to prune any trees that flower during the spring, such as lilacs and magnolias. These trees will need to be pruned in the first part of summer, preferably right after they have finished blooming.   Remember, it’s best to leave pruning up to the professionals instead of trying to handle this task on your own. You will need special equipment so you don’t injure yourself or the tree, and it’s likely that you don’t have the equipment at home. It can also be dangerous to prune large trees if you’re not properly trained to do so. Don’t spend your summer vacation healing from an injury that you sustained while pruning a tree in your yardâ€"let the professionals help.   Are you in need of tree services for summer? If so, talk to the professionals. Arbor Garden is a locally owned and operated tree services company that specializes in tree pruning, removing, stump removal, planting, and pest management. Contact us today to learn more about our services and receive a free estimate. Wed, 14 Jun 2017 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/11679/Tree-Services-in-Denver-For-the-Summer.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10965/BBB-Accredited-Business-Since-2013.htm blog As the most reliable tree service in Denver, Arbor Garden takes responsibility for our reputation and the service we provide. Arbor Garden is a BBB Accredited Business since 2013 â€" with an A+ rating. Count on us to provide absolute satisfaction in the projects we take on and allow us to show you how our experience can’t be matched. As a full service tree care company, we can offer everything from maintenance to preventative care â€" especially with the recent storm damage. With over 20 years in the business, we take pride in our team’s work and strive for excellence in each project. Mon, 18 May 2015 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10965/BBB-Accredited-Business-Since-2013.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10964/Meet-the-Head-of-Our-Trim-Department--Rob-Springer.htm blog Rob Springer is in charge of our Trim Department and hails from New Jersey (but we won't hold that against him). As a seasoned climber of over 19 years, Rob has conquered many mountains, including routes in the lower 48 states, Alaska, the Himalaya, Mount Everest, and K2 â€" a feat that less than 300 people can claim. We figure if he can climb Mount Everest and K2, he can climb a 60 ft American Elm! He has been in the tree business for six years and a welcome addition to Arbor Garden for the past 2 years. Tue, 10 Feb 2015 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10964/Meet-the-Head-of-Our-Trim-Department--Rob-Springer.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10963/Celebrating-20-Years-in-Business.htm blog We are celebrating 20 years of commitment to the care of trees in Denver and beyond! We thank you for your patronage throughout the years and look foward to continuing to serve you for all of your Denver tree care needs. Call us today to get your Denver trees and lawn in shape for the upcoming season. (303) 722-8820. Mon, 28 Apr 2014 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10963/Celebrating-20-Years-in-Business.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10962/Destructive-emerald-ash-borer-beetle-discovered-in-Boulder-County---Beyond.htm blog Breaking news from the Denver Post: A very damaging beetle from Asia that was responsible for immense damage in forests throughout the Midwest and East Coast has made its way to Colorado and was located in Boulder County on Monday. This beetle is known as the emerald ash borer beetle - pictures to the left, and could threaten hundreds of thousands of ash trees here in Colorado.  Ash trees are abound here in the Denver Metro area, provide immense shade, and withstand harsh weather changes. However, the emerald ash borer beetle is said to be nearly impossible to eradicate once an ash tree has been infected.  Please keep an eye out for the emerald ash borer beetle. If you suspect you have seen one of these beetles in an ash tree here in Denver, or would like to have your Denver trees inspected, please call us today at Arbor Garden: (303) 722-8820. Photo courtesy of the Colorado State Forest Service. Read the full Denver Post Article > Wed, 02 Oct 2013 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10962/Destructive-emerald-ash-borer-beetle-discovered-in-Boulder-County---Beyond.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10961/Drought-Watering-Times-from-Denver-Water.htm blog Mon, 06 May 2013 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10961/Drought-Watering-Times-from-Denver-Water.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10960/Arbor-Garden-offers-full-service-tree-care-in-the-Denver-area.htm blog Arbor Garden Tree and Landscape Service offers tree services in Denver.  We are fully licensed and insured.  We specialize in pruning, new trees and shrubs, pest management, and stump removal.  With over 20 years of experience in the tree care business, we have all the tools needed for any size job! Give us a call today! 303-722-8820 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 06:00:00 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/blog/10960/Arbor-Garden-offers-full-service-tree-care-in-the-Denver-area.htm http://treeservicesdenver.co/events/2765/Arbor-Garden-has-a-brand-new-website-.htm events Tue, 28 Mar 2017 04:28:28 GMT http://treeservicesdenver.co/events/2765/Arbor-Garden-has-a-brand-new-website-.htm