Roses are one of the most popular garden plants in the world. In caring for roses, it’s important to understand the best conditions for growing them. A working knowledge of the pests and diseases that commonly impact these plants will also help in maintaining healthy, beautiful roses. Growing Conditions Roses grow best in full, all-day …
Beech leaf disease (BLD) is an emerging disease caused by a nematode, or microscopic worm. We often don’t think of our trees as getting “sick.” However, just as people can contract diseases, trees can too. Some of these diseases have been present for centuries. Some are relatively new, or sometimes just new to a geographic …
Beech Leaf Disease – Tree Disease Update & Symptoms Read More »
A girdling root is a root that circles around at least one side of the main trunk. You’ll usually see them at or slightly below the soil surface. These roots wrap tightly around the trunk, putting pressure on it. As result, movement of water and nutrients to the leaves is restricted. What causes girdling roots? …
Plant the right tree in the right place is a common mantra in the tree care industry. However, how does a homeowner actually go about tree selection and why is it important anyway? Giving thought to the type of tree you’re planting and where it will live will ultimately make life easier for you — …
Tree borers and wood boring insects make their homes in the bark, trunks and branches of trees. Living up to their name, these larvae ‘bore’ in trees, laying eggs and feeding inside roots, trunks and branches and tunneling beneath the bark. As a result of their activity, trees sustain serious internal damage. Specifically, injuries restrict …
Every tree we plant makes a difference. That’s why we established the Bartlett Legacy Tree Program in 2014. Through this program, Bartlett Tree Experts arborists distribute seedlings in schools, at events, and for reforestation efforts. The busiest time of year for the program is April, when we celebrate both Earth Day and Arbor Day. 20,000+ …
When caring for trees, it’s easy to see fungi as the enemy since it often causes disease and decay. However, there are mycorrhizal fungi that help trees. Symbiotic associations between trees and soil fungi are absolutely critical for optimum tree health and growth. Benefits of Soil Fungi Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic relationship, a biological interaction …
Mites are tiny arachnids that feed on chlorophyll, the substance that gives plants their lovely green color. They are related to ticks and spiders, but feed on trees and shrubs. They are not picky and will infest many species of deciduous and evergreen trees. These pests use their small, sucking mouthparts to extract liquids from …
Winter is a good time to prune trees. With the leaves gone, a tree’s structure is clearly visible. This provides a direct sightline to the tree’s interior growth habits. As such, it is often easier for an arborist to identify issues and make sound pruning decisions. Since pruning alters both the form and growth of …
Poison hemlock has been found in nearly every U.S. state and across much of Canada. This plant is highly toxic. In fact, ingesting even small amounts of the plant tissue can be poisonous to people and animals. Touching any part can cause a severe skin reaction. Contact with or inhalation of plant debris can also …
Boxwoods are a staple in many landscapes. These ornamental, evergreen favorites make excellent hedges or edging, but can also serve as foundation plants. However, this popular plant is not without its issues. There are a number of common problems, which include insect pests and diseases. As with any plant in your landscape, it’s important to …
Baby it’s getting cold outside! You’re heading in to cozy up by the fire, but your trees are not! In most managed landscapes, those trees won’t even have the benefit of a layer of fallen leaves to act as a winter coat protecting the soil. With that in mind, winter is a good time to …
Being a leader in the tree care industry means continually focusing on learning and innovation. Bartlett’s Tree Topics blog follows in that tradition by offering a place to receive advice on trees, tree pests, tree preservation, and more.
