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?… Read More What causes girdling roots?
What causes girdling roots? Read More »
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 —… Read More Tree selection for your landscape
Tree selection for your landscape Read More »
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… Read More Tree borers: Destructive insect pests
Tree borers: Destructive insect pests Read More »
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+… Read More Tree seedlings for a greener tomorrow
Tree seedlings for a greener tomorrow Read More »
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… Read More Trees and soil fungi
Trees and soil fungi Read More »
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… Read More Small mites cause sizable tree damage
Small mites cause sizable tree damage Read More »
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… Read More Winter pruning: When and why
Winter pruning: When and why Read More »
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… Read More Managing poison hemlock
Managing poison hemlock Read More »
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… Read More Common problems of boxwood
Common problems of boxwood Read More »
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… Read More Mulching in winter
Mulching in winter Read More »
It’s the time of year for conifers to shine! Most trees have lost their leaves by now so there’s nothing like a conifer for landscape color in late autumn and winter. Conifers are a favorite for the many benefits they provide. These trees are great for year-round screening, act as windbreaks and serve as ideal… Read More Care for conifers
We often think of spring and summer as prime time for insects — and it is. But, you know Mother Nature. She never follows the rules completely. With that, there are a few unwanted surprises even as the weather cools. Some caterpillar pests, like fall cankerworm and winter moth, emerge in fall and winter and… Read More Some caterpillar pests emerge in fall and winter
Some caterpillar pests emerge in fall and winter Read More »
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.
