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 […]
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+
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Some Caterpillar Pests Emerge in Fall and Winter Read More »
A tree’s root collar is the transition area from the roots to the trunk. It is usually noticeable because of the prominent flare leading to the major buttress roots. Trees should have this visible flare where the roots curve out of the ground. On the other hand, trees that seem to grow straight from the
Tree Root Collar Disorders Read More »
Many geographies had an extremely dry summer. How does drought impact trees? The lack of water adversely affects nearly all plant processes. Plants are unable to to produce food, which results in weakness and limits growth. Drought stress also increases the chance of harmful insect and disease infestation. Long-term drought can eventually lead to branch
Helping Trees Recover from Drought 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.
