Bartlett’s Tree Topics Blog

Mistletoe – Festive Décor or Problematic Parasite?

Posted on February 18, 2021 by Bartlett Tree Experts

Druids believed it had the power to protect loved ones from evil. Ancient Greeks used it is a medicinal cure for a myriad of disorders. And, even today, this plant is one of great tradition and symbolism. In fact, if you stand underneath it at Christmas time, you might just get a kiss! That’s right, we’re talking about mistletoe. This plant certainly has a notable history, but that’s not the only interesting thing about it. You might be surprised to learn that mistletoe is actually a parasite.

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Mistletoe forms shrubby clumps that steal water and nutrients from the host tree.

Posted in Environmental Issues, Tree Advice

Ghosts in the Forest – Albino Redwoods

Posted on February 4, 2021 by Bartlett Tree Experts

A shrub that looks like a white Christmas tree grows at the foot of some redwoods in several old-growth forests in California. Like albino animals, these plants lack pigmentation and have white needles instead of green. Scientists are not sure what the function of these “albino redwoods” is, but they are intrigued.
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Posted in Tree Species

Deicing Salts and Trees Don’t Mix

Posted on January 25, 2021 by Bartlett Tree Experts

When winter is in full force, salt deicers remove ice on walkways, driveways and roads for safety. It’s important to know, however, that these salt deicing products can damage trees and shrubs.

Sodium chloride (rock salt) is one of the most common deicing products. Runoff of melted ice and snow may cause residual material to splash onto foliage or seep directly into the soil, causing wilting and other injuries to plants.

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Deicing salts applied to walkways and roads can damage nearby trees and shrubs

Posted in Environmental Issues, Tree Advice, Uncategorized

Evergreens and Winter Injury

Posted on January 13, 2021 by Bartlett Tree Experts

Signs of winter burn on evergreens.

Winds are fierce. Storms can break branches. But winter weather may bring other tree and shrub issues. Cold weather and fluctuating temperatures often result in damage called winter injury or winter burn.

Posted in Environmental Issues, Tree Advice

Quick Tips for Checking the Health of Your Trees

Posted on January 5, 2021 by Bartlett Tree Experts

It’s always good to take a walk around your property and notice what’s happening with your trees and shrubs. You may spot something not quite right that could signify an underlying issue with the health of your landscape plants. If you do, it’s important to contact a Certified Arborist to determine what’s causing the problem.