Tree Service Raritan

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Services

How do I know if my tree is diseased?

Look for these signs of tree disease:

• Leaf discoloration or spots: Yellowing, browning, or spotting on leaves can indicate fungal infections, nutrient deficiencies, or other problems.
• Premature leaf drop: Losing leaves earlier than usual or outside of the normal seasonal cycle can be a sign of stress or disease.
• Dieback of branches: Branches dying from the tips inward can indicate disease, insect infestation, or drought stress.
• Cankers or lesions: Sunken or discolored areas on the bark can indicate fungal or bacterial infections.
• Mushrooms or conks growing on the trunk or roots: These are often signs of decay fungi.
• Wilting or drooping leaves: Can indicate a lack of water, root damage, or vascular disease.

If you notice any of these signs, it's best to contact a certified arborist for a professional diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Is it OK to cut tree roots?

Cutting tree roots can be necessary in some situations, but it should always be done with caution and preferably under the guidance of a certified arborist.
**When it's OK to cut roots:**

• Small roots: Cutting small, superficial roots during landscaping or gardening is usually not a significant problem for the tree.
• Encroaching roots: Roots growing into sidewalks, driveways, or foundations may need to be cut back. However, it's essential to do this carefully to avoid damaging the tree's structural integrity.
• Root pruning for transplanting: Before transplanting a tree, root pruning is done to encourage new root growth within a smaller area, making the transplanting process more successful.

**Risks of cutting tree roots:**

• Tree instability: Cutting large structural roots can weaken the tree's support system, making it more susceptible to windthrow or breakage.
• Disease entry: Cuts create wounds that can serve as entry points for disease-causing organisms.
• Reduced nutrient and water uptake: Cutting roots can limit the tree's ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.

Before cutting any significant tree roots, consult with a certified arborist to assess the situation, determine the best course of action, and minimize the risk of damage to the tree.

What questions should I ask a tree service company?

Before hiring a tree service company, ask these questions:

• Experience and qualifications: 'How long have you been in business? Are your arborists certified? What experience do you have with similar projects?'
• Licensing and insurance: 'Are you licensed and insured? Can you provide proof of insurance?'
• Safety practices: 'What safety measures do you take to protect your workers and my property during the project?'
• Cleanup and disposal: 'What will you do with the tree debris after the job? Will you remove the stump and clean up the work area?'
• References: 'Can you provide references from previous clients?'
• Written estimates: 'Can you provide a detailed written estimate outlining the scope of work, costs, and timeframe?'

Asking these questions can help you find a reputable company that prioritizes safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

What are the different types of tree services offered?

Tree service companies offer a wide range of services to meet your tree care needs, including:

• Tree Removal: Complete removal of trees, often necessary for diseased, damaged, or hazardous trees.
• Tree Trimming & Pruning: Selective removal of branches to improve tree structure, health, and aesthetics. This includes crown lifting, crown thinning, and crown reduction.
• Stump Removal/Grinding: Removal of tree stumps using specialized grinding equipment, leaving the area level with the ground.
• Tree Planting: Selecting and planting new trees on your property, considering factors like soil type, climate, and available space.
• Tree Cabling & Bracing: Installing support systems for weak or structurally compromised branches to prevent breakage.
• Tree Health Care: Services focused on maintaining or improving the health of your trees, including fertilization, disease diagnosis and treatment, and pest control.
• Emergency Tree Service: Urgent tree care services for situations like storm damage, fallen trees, or hazardous tree removal.

The specific services offered may vary depending on the company's expertise and equipment.