Watch Out for Common Tree Diseases!

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Arborists in Vancouver, BC, Canada offer information about common tree diseases

Tree Diseases to Look Out For

Many homeowners know that proper tree health is important, but not all homeowners understand the extent to which this is the case. Failure to carry out proper tree care and monitor plant health care can be detrimental considering the number of tree diseases out there that can wreak havoc on homeowners’ trees.

There are a number of different diseases that can affect all different parts of the trees, including the leaves, the stems, and the roots. These include fungal diseases, pine needle diseases (such as pine decline), and a number of other diseases that can result in wilting, rotting, and other nasty consequences. Homeowners should be sure to understand the main causes of the most common tree diseases and take action accordingly.

Main Causes of Tree Diseases

Tree diseases can result due to a number of different factors. One of the most common causes of tree diseases is drought. When trees do not get enough water, their overall health begins to deteriorate. As this happens, the tree gets more exposed to things like external pathogens. Overcrowding is another major cause of tree diseases.

Two areas where homeowners should be on the lookout for to help monitor tree health care are the stems and the roots. If there is damage to the stems, then this exposes the trees to infection. Root damage does the same, offering a ripe opportunity for pathogens to infect the trees. This also can impede water absorption, which can contribute to drought in trees and further expose the trees to diseases.

There are a number of other tree diseases, but these are some of the most common. Homeowners must take immediate action and consult a tree service company if they suspect their trees are diseased.

Tree Types that are Affected

Nearly any and all trees can be prone to disease at any point in time. As such, it is on homeowners to ensure that their trees are getting the care they need. Oak and pine trees are particularly susceptible to disease in Canada, so owners of those types of trees should be on the lookout even more so.

Key Times to Look Out for These Diseases

One of the best times to keep the eyes peeled for diseases is during the early spring, as this is when the symptoms usually occur if there is some sort of disease. The trees are coming out of a cold winter and as they grow and take on more foliage, it will become easier to spot the signs of potential diseases.

Some of the most common signs of tree disease include things like decaying, wilting, mildew, spotting, rusting, large cankers, and more. If these show up out of the blue or if homeowners notice any other unusual signs, they must take action.

Take Action if you Notice the Signs

If homeowners notice any of the signs listed previously, then they should call for professionals to conduct a tree risk assessment. From there, these arborists can decide the best plan of action. Tree removal may be required if the disease has progressed significantly, but it may also jut be a minor disease that can resolve itself in time.

Even if homeowners just need help with the basics like tree pruning or tree trimming, they should call professionals to make sure that the job is done right!

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service of Vancouver, BC, Canada believes in providing environmentally responsible tree services and has been doing so since 1990. With 50 years of combined experience, their team of skilled arborists offers free estimates, honest pricing, efficient solutions, and responsible safety measures for all their clients. Call them for tree help today!

Determining Whether a Tree is Dead or Dormant

Expert tree service in Vancouver, BC, Canada teaches tree owners about tree dormancy. 

Defining “Dormancy”

Deciduous trees are marked by periods of rapid growth over the summer and periods of dormancy in the winter. Dormancy is the time of the year where the tree rests and prepares for another vigorous growing season next year. 

Dormancy is displayed in all trees, both evergreen and deciduous but it is more obvious in deciduous trees. Dormant deciduous trees will lose their leaves and look nearly identical to dead trees while dormant evergreen trees simply stop growing over the winter. 

Staying dormant over the winter is a tree’s natural defence against the ravages of winter. Deciduous trees are not adapted to harsh winter conditions like evergreens so instead of staying metabolically active they go dormant until growth conditions are more favourable. 

Signs That a Tree is Dormant

Despite all appearances, trees that are dormant are not dead. In fact, there are some quick ways to distinguish between dead and dormant trees. Some of these signs are:

  • Flexibility: Bend a branch 90 degrees perpendicular to itself. If it breaks then that section of the tree is dead. If it bends and whips back into place it is living. 
  • Scratch Test: Make a thin scratch in the bark with a knife or fingernail. If the bark yields easily then the tree is alive. Also, there will be moisture and a greenish colour in the wood. 
  • Healthy Bark: Trees that are dead will have bark that is flaky and may show signs of fungus or insect infestation. Just like skin, when a section of tree is unhealthy, the bark will look different. 

Being able to distinguish between dead and dormant trees is important when it comes to seasonal trimming that takes place in the winter while the tree is dormant. If it is intended that only dead limbs are removed then being able to tell the difference is vital. 

Caring for Dormant Trees

Dormancy doesn’t mean that the tree isn’t biologically active. It just means that the normal outward signs of life like leaves and fruit aren’t there. A dormant tree can still benefit from good practices like watering and fertilization. Mulching is a great way to preserve moisture and protect its roots over the winter. 

For trees that are late to exit dormancy in the spring, most of the time simply waiting will be all it takes. Trees are subject to light cycles and ground temperatures. Often these two factors can contribute to a microclimate that makes the tree slower to come back to life in the spring. 

Signs a Tree is Dead

Dead trees can look like dormant trees to the untrained eye but there are few things to look out for that can tip an owner off that a tree is dead. The first thing is pests and fungus. As a tree dies, it usually takes a few years before it is obvious. This allows fungus and pests to start to decay dead sections in the tree. Even in the winter, the signs of infestation are an obvious sign that the tree is dead. 

The second sign a tree is dead is brittleness. Dead trees don’t hold moisture so their bark and twigs become brittle. Signs of brittleness usually litter the ground around the tree in the form of flaking bark and small broken limbs. 

Dealing with Dead Trees

If trees are already dead, there is nothing more that can be done. Removing a dead tree can prevent it from damaging property or causing injury. Dead portions of trees can break off and hit people or structures. Professional tree removal is a good option when scheduled from a reputable tree removal arborist. 

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service is the local Vancouver, BC tree service. With a team of over 80 professionals, they specialize in tree risk assessments and tree health care. Call (844) 884-8733 to schedule an assessment of the health and safety of the trees around a home or business. 

Is It Dangerous If Your Tree Is In Contact With Power Lines?

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Vancouver Tree Service Experts Share Important Information On What to Do If Your Tree Is In Contact With Power Lines

What Should You Do If Your Tree Is Touching Power Lines?

Power lines in residential neighbourhoods are heavily insulated to prevent accidental electrical fires. However, the electrical power generated by power lines is extremely strong and the insulation is not always enough to prevent the electric current from spreading to tree branches. 

Homeowners should take heed to prevent accidents by having a tree risk assessment done on trees they feel are too close to power lines. In the case of a tree that is dangerously close or touching power lines an arborist may recommend tree trimming or tree removal. This protects the safety of the homeowners from accidental electrocution or fire. 

Do Trees Conduct Electricity?

Trees are not great conductors of electricity, but in the cases of lightning strikes and electrical surges from power lines, they have been known to catch fire. A surge of electricity can reach down to the roots of the tree and light the entire tree on fire. During storms the chance of there being issues with a tree touching power lines increases. When a power line becomes damaged and sparks too closely to a tree it could cause a fire.

One of the factors that contribute to how well a tree carries electricity is how much water content is in the tree or beneath the tree. While wood itself is not the best conductor of energy, water is a powerful one. Homeowners should be aware of the fact that a reserve of groundwater beneath the tree could increase the danger of a power surge. 

Why It Is Dangerous For Trees to Touch Power Lines 

Trees that are close to the home are a risk for causing a house fire. In addition to the risk of loss of property, there is also the risk of a forest fire spreading which could cause widespread devastation to local ecosystems. Trees that are touching power lines could electrocute people who touch the tree or stand too close, similar to how people are more likely to be struck by lightning if standing next to a tree. 

Practicing Responsible Tree Health Care 

In some cases, the responsibility of tree pruning and other tree services falls upon the homeowner. Those who live in a neighbourhood with a homeowners association may want to double-check before doing any tree work to see if it is covered by them. 

Arborists are tree care experts which can assist homeowners in planting the right trees in the right place. In some cases, it may be beneficial to do tree removal for trees that are too close to power lines rather than keep up with regular tree trimming. A tree care specialist who offers tree risk assessment is the best resource for homeowners dealing with trees too close to power lines. They have the knowledge and experience to recommend solutions for any circumstance. 

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service is a Vancouver, BC Canada is the reliable tree service company homeowners have counted on for over 50 years. With environmentally responsible solutions and high-end solutions, including 70 ft scissor life bucket trucks, their expert staff can help remove any trees near power lines. 

Lowering the Chance of Oak Tree Decline

Arborists in Vancouver, BC, Canada offer a comprehensive overview of oak tree decline for homeowners

Basics of Oak Tree Decline

Oak tree decline is a pervasive issue among homeowners. While oak tree is an extremely popular species, it is also one that has suffered noticeably over the past few decades. But many homeowners struggle to figure out what to do or how to prevent this. Oftentimes, oak trees deteriorate or become diseased for a variety of different reasons. In fact, this decline often results from a combination of different factors, including changing soil conditions, root-related diseases, insect activity, and more.

In order to adequately counter oak tree decline, homeowners must employ adequate tree management. Simply put, they need to understand the basics of oak tree decline in order to maximize their tree health care because knowledge really is power. Below is a full rundown of the basics of oak tree decline: how to prevent it, how to identify it, and how to address it. Read on for all of this information and more!

Ways to Prevent Oak Tree Decline

The best way to counter oak tree decline is to take steps to prevent it in the first place. Oak tree disease often comes on due to a number of different factors, so if homeowners can take the right preventative steps, they can lower the probability of this ever becoming an issue. Some important key steps include:

  • Anti-disease and anti-insect measures, as necessary
  • Consistent irrigation
  • Mulching, as necessary
  • Soil assessments (analysis, testing, etc.)
  • Tree risk assessments

These are just some of the many ways that homeowners can begin to prevent oak tree decline. Just taking one or two of these steps consistently can make a drastic difference when it comes to improving tree care.

Identifying Oak Tree Decline

Sometimes oak tree decline is unavoidable, so homeowners should know how to identify it, as this will allow them to address this as early as possible. While there are a number of different signs that may indicate decline, there are some that are particularly common. The branch tips, for example, may start to die, and the leaves may drop prematurely. The leaves may also turn yellow, which could indicate disease and decline.

Additionally, some sprouts may start to protrude from the main stem, and this could also indicate decline. If homeowners notice even just one of these signs, they should consider that oak tree decline is to blame. They should also understand that they need to take action as soon as possible since this can be a real issue.

Addressing Oak Tree Decline

When it comes to actually addressing oak tree decline if it happens, there are a number of different things. Remember that any action taken should be done so as soon as possible:

  • Check irrigation frequency to ensure adequate watering (but not overwatering)
  • Prune or trim declining portions
  • Search for and remove invasive growths (e.g. vines)
  • Use a fungicide to help with diseased areas

Unless homeowners have a strong background in tree care, they should consider hiring a tree service company to perform the above actions and any other relevant ones. Professional arborists will be able to identify the issue, determine if the oak tree is in decline, and come up with a sound plan moving forward. These professionals not only perform basic services like tree pruning, tree trimming, and tree removal, but they also have the expertise to address a myriad of complex issues.

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service of Vancouver, BC, Canada is a full-service tree company that focuses on providing environmentally responsible tree services. With over 50 years of experience, their team of highly skilled experts provides free estimations, affordable pricing and extraordinary client care. Call them today for tree services in Vancouver Canada!

Mulch 101: The Basics of Mulching for Trees and Gardens

Vancouver, BC tree experts offer a crash course in all things mulch.

Everything you Wanted to Know About Mulching But Were Afraid to Ask

Yards are the perfect blend of nature and civilization. There is structure and order created by human hands using the plants and trees that might indeed flourish on their own, but also need tending because they are not in what might be considered their natural habitat. Landscaping and vegetation management tend to the needs of these plants and provide the best possible environment for them to grow in.  This is the point where the human must imitate the cycle that would normally happen in the natural world. This is part of the reason for mulching – because it mirrors the cycle of death and renewal present in wilder outdoors.  

The Dirt on Mulch: What is it?

Mulch in and of itself actually has a straightforward definition. It is merely something that covers dirt, or the top layer of the ground.  It can be organic or inorganic. It comes in small pieces and can be used for nourishment, or protection, or as a deterrent to unwanted plants and animals, or as all of the above. It can be used for both aesthetic and practical purposes. 

The Many Different Types of Mulch

Mulch comes in two basic types: organic and inorganic.  The discussion of inorganic mulch will be brief as that is not the focus of this particular article, but it is an important part of landscaping. Inorganic mulch is used for beautification and to mark paths, as well as functioning as a weed barrier and deterrent to digging. 

Examples of Inorganic Mulch:

  • Pebbles
  • Crush Dust
  • Recycled Rubber
  • Landscaping Plastic 

Organic mulch, on the other hand, covers all of the above list plus being a natural way to nourish the soil. 

Examples of Organic Mulch:

  • Wood Chips or Nuggets
  • Straw
  • Grass clippings
  • Compost
  • Shredded newspaper

Is Mulching Really That Important?

In the natural order of the wilderness, fallen leaves, sticks, and excrement fall on the ground and are reabsorbed into the soil. This process of decay nourishes the dirt and feeds the plants that grow out of it. There are, however, many other reasons for mulching.

  • Moisture: Water is protected from the sun and heat and thereby evaporation by the layer of mulch. This gives plants and trees the chance to absorb the water for themselves.
  • Temperature Regulation: Mulching provides protection against the extremes of weather. The soil stays cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
  • Weed Barriers: Weeds are less likely to germinate because they cannot get direct sunlight. Any weeds that do grow can be easily plucked from the loose mulch.
  • Protects Soil Quality: Not only does the mulch nourish the soil, but it also protects the soil from being compacted which makes it difficult for roots to grow and for water to filter through.

Technique: Mulching Properly

The main thing about mulch is that there is a careful balance between what is helpful and what can do harm. There can be too much of a good thing and there can be so little that it makes no impact. Too much mulch can lead to rotting roots and trunks and infestations of pests and plant disease. Too little can lead to dry crumbly soil and plants that are undernourished and struggle to grow. 

In general, mulch should be between 2 and 4 inches in depth. Tree care requires leaving the mulch in a doughnut shape around the tree, leaving the trunk and root flare open to the air.  

About VI Tree Service

We at VI Tree Service have been providing excellent customer service and reasonable prices since the start of the company in 1990. With over 50 years of experience, we know how to do a job right the first time. Satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.

Best Summer Tree Care Practices

Tree Care Experts in Vancouver, BC, Canada, Share Tips For Summer Tree Care

Essentials for Proper Summer Tree Care

Each season brings with it a unique set of problems for tree care. The high temperatures of summer can affect trees much like they can affect humans. Too much heat can make them sick and put them in danger. When combined with limited water, the problems can only grow. So it’s so important to practice proper tree care in the hot summer months! Read on to find out how. 

The Magic of Mulch

Strategic mulching does a lot for a tree’s health and it’s an essential part of summer tree care. But there are certain places where mulch should not be placed, like directly around the base of the tree. Instead, the ring of organic mulch around a tree should start a couple of inches from the trunk and extend out a bit from the tree. Usually, a couple of feet is ideal. This creates a nice donut of mulch around the tree that helps to protect the roots and provides key nutrients for soil maintenance.   

Watering and Irrigation are Key

Trees can pull a lot of water from the soil in the summer. The hotter it gets, the more water trees need. This proper watering is so important for summer tree care. Many people water trees with a simple garden hose set to dribble for a couple of hours. Others have irrigation systems set up that water trees automatically on a timer. Either way is fine, but those with irrigation systems should make sure to check them for leaks, clogs, and other issues that could affect proper watering. Those who use hoses should set a time so they don’t overwater the trees.

The soil should never be muddy. In fact, it’s okay for some areas of the soil around the tree to be dry while others are moist. Watering should be kept to the area under the tree branches and a little bit further out. Watering the foliage and the tree trunk can be detrimental. 

Inspecting Trees for Pests

One vital aspect of tree health care is a pest inspection. Early summer is a great time for pest inspections performed by an arborist. Of course, it’s possible for homeowners to do some research and inspect their trees themselves, but a professional tree service company will often catch things that homeowners won’t. These inspections can keep trees happy and healthy for many seasons to come. 

How to Handle Weak Limbs

During the heat of summer, previously struggling limbs can become weak. These limbs are often discoloured, their leaves a darker colour than those around them. Luckily, when caught early, a tree service company can often do cabling or bracing to prevent the branch from dying or posing a falling hazard. 

Of course, weak branches can become dead branches if they’re not caught early on. If this happens, tree trimming is often required. Removing dead branches in the summer is a last resort, and should only be done when absolutely necessary for the health of the tree. 

Pruning and Tree Removal

Sometimes the only course of action to keep a tree healthy is by pruning it. Tree pruning, especially in the summer, is best done by a professional. Removing branches from a tree can stress it during the hot summer months. This is why pruning is best done in the fall when most trees are dormant. An arborist can perform a tree risk assessment to determine if pruning should be done immediately or if there’s another course of action to take. 

Many homeowners call for tree removal services in the summer, as well. It’s the time of year when yard work and home projects are in full swing, and getting rid of that old tree stump is often on the list. So whether there’s a dead tree that needs to be removed or a stump that needs to be taken out, it’s always a good idea to let a professional company handle it. This prevents both safety hazards, and the headaches involved with tree removal!

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service has been serving Vancouver, BC, Canada, since 1990. They offer fantastic client care and affordable pricing. They also provide free estimates and always guarantee their work. 

Debunking Common Tree Myths

Arborists in Vancouver, BC, Canada address common misconceptions about trees and tree care

Don’t Fall Victim to Common Tree Myths

These days, there is an overabundance of resources that claim to offer homeowners best practices and advice when it comes to caring for their homes. Sometimes this information is true, and sometimes this information is completely and utterly false.

Homeowners who have trees around their house or who are interested in growing trees will likely find conflicting information online that can make the tree care process quite confusing. But fret not! Here is a rundown of 3 of the most common myths and why homeowners should hire an expert to handle all of their immediate and future tree needs.

Myth 1: Trees are Dangerous

One of the most common tree myths is that trees are dangerous. That is, many people think trees can cause significant damage, particularly when there are falling tree branches that can harm homes, sidewalks, or even people! The fact of the matter is that in most cases, trees are only dangerous when not properly cared for.

If homeowners are simply dealing with tree stumps, then safety is less of a concern. However, if they are dealing with fully-grown trees, then they need to ensure those trees are properly cared for. This is where tree pruning and tree trimming become very important and, in severe cases, full tree removal if necessary. This will prevent any dangers that would otherwise occur with improper care.

Myth 2: Tree Wounds Can Heal

Another tree myth is that trees are self-healing. That is, if there are wounds or various abrasions, the affected areas can return to a normal and healthy state. In reality, trees perform compartmentalization, a process in which they isolate the injured tissue and separate it from the rest of the healthy tree.

As such, it is very important to avoid damage to any healthy part of a tree since this will have permanent implications. Likewise, pruning to control dead branches and other affected areas can help with overall tree health care.

Myth 3: Trees Are Easy to Plant – Anyone Can Do It!

Last but not least, one of the final myths is that trees are easy to plant. Yes, technically anyone can plant a tree, but it is false to say that anyone can plant a tree correctly. The fact of the matter is that successful tree planting requires careful planning and execution.

There are a number of factors that go into planting and caring for a tree. Some examples include:

  • Location
  • Timing
  • Watering frequency
  • Treatments

The gist here is that tree planting is no easy business, and if homeowners truly want to successfully plant a tree in the long term, they should seek the help of professional arborists who know how to plan and execute properly.

Hire Experts to Avoid These Altogether!

At the end of the day, the best way to avoid these myths altogether (and the pitfalls that come along with believing them) is to hire a professional tree service company to handle any and all tree needs. If homeowners are in need of planting, tree service companies can handle that. If homeowners are in need of tree maintenance, then these companies can also perform tree risk assessments to determine where help is most needed!

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service of Vancouver, BC, Canada has been providing environmentally responsible tree services since 1990. With 50 years of combined experience, their team of highly skilled arborists offers free estimations, affordable pricing, efficient solutions, and responsible safety measures for each of their clients. Call them for tree help today!

Keep the Planet Green with These Sustainability Changes!

Arborists in Vancouver, BC, Canadashare ways that homeowners can improve their sustainability

Eco-Friendly Changes for Homeowners

With Earth Day just around the corner, many homeowners are wondering how they can be more sustainable. Well, there are many ways! People may often think sustainability is a daunting task, but in reality, small changes in behaviour can make a huge positive impact on the environment. Here are 5 ways for homeowners to improve sustainability.

1. Limit Water Consumption and Energy Use

Homeowners can drastically decrease their water consumption and energy use related to home appliances and technologies. This will not only help the environment, but it will also help to lower monthly energy bills!

Some easy ways to control water and energy consumption include:

  • Avoid half loads of laundry
  • Avoid pre-rinsing dishes
  • Hang clothes up instead of using a dryer
  • Limit A/C and heat usage by adjusting thermostat settings
  • Shorten shower time
  • Turn off lights when not in use
  • Use energy efficiency lights

These changes require minimal additional costs and time, but they can make a huge difference in homeowners’ energy consumption.

2. Limit Paper Waste to Save Trees

Homeowners can save millions of trees by controlling their paper usage.
Some easy ways to limit paper waste include:

  • Cancelling paper bills and bank statements
  • Saving unused paper napkins
  • Unsubscribing to junk mail listings
  • Using e-tickets instead of printed ones
  • Using spare / old paper as scrap paper

One of the greatest benefits of technology is that it easily allows homeowners to go paper-free, so many of these changes (like cancelling bills or junk mail) can be made within a matter of minutes!

3. Reuse and Recycle

Reusing whenever possible is extremely helpful for the environment because it requires absolutely no energy! Homeowners can incorporate reuse techniques easily by purchasing reusable containers, utensils, and travel cups – all of these will help to decrease plastic waste.

If reuse is not possible, homeowners should be sure to recycle, particularly when it comes to aluminum, glass, and paper. Recycling greatly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, waste accumulation, and overall energy use. The amount of energy it takes to recycle aluminum and glass is considerably lower than the energy required to create new products from scratch. And recycling paper saves a significant amount of trees!

4. Plant New Trees and Maintain Existing Ones

Planting and maintaining trees is one of the most significant ways homeowners can improve sustainability. Trees play a very important positive role in the environment because they control air quality and oxygen levels, prevent flooding and pollution, house different wildlife species, and more. This is why tree planting is one of the most popular Earth Day activities!

Homeowners should maintain existing trees by checking in on tree health care. One of the easiest ways is to handle maintenance is to hire a professional tree service company.

Arborists will not only perform tree risk assessments, but they will also provide a variety of helpful maintenance services:

  • Tree trimming
  • Tree pruning
  • Tree removal

Planting and maintenance of trees, whether done alone or by a professional, is one of the most tangible and direct ways for homeowners to help the environment.

5. Encourage Others!

Encouraging other homeowners to also make sustainable changes can multiply homeowners’ impacts on the environment. So start spreading the word to grow sustainability efforts even more!

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service of Vancouver, BC, Canada has been providing residential and commercial tree services since 1990. With over 50 years of combined experience, their team of arborists uses organized, safe, and environmentally conscious practices to serve customers. They offer free, transparent estimations and guaranteed client satisfaction. Give them a call for tree service help today!

Cutting Trees Down-Knowing When The Time is Right

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Tree Service Professionals in the Vancouver area share some helpful information about tree trimming services

Are The Trees Ill?

Homeowners aren’t always aware that they have a problem with their trees. Knowing when the right time to cut them down can help prevent the spread of illness through all of the trees on the property. Professional tree trimmers can help resolve this issue. 

It’s not always easy to determine whether or not a tree is ill. There may not be any immediate signs. However, if it’s not treated in a timely manner, it could lead to the sickness and death of other trees and shrubs on the property. 

Common Signs of Trouble

Dead trees are an eyesore, so when homeowners see that they are sick, it’s time to cut them down. They may not always have the means to do it on their own, so this is when they should contact a professional tree trimming company. They will provide the best tree care that a homeowner could get. 

So how can you tell whether or not a tree is sick? Here are some common signs and symptoms: 

  • Dead branches
  • Weak V-shaped branch unions
  • Thick and dense canopies that break easily
  • Deformed leaves
  • Dead sections of bark on limbs or branches
  • Branches and limbs that lean
  • Fungus growth

Is There Fungus Growing?

Fungus growth in garden soil, woodpiles, and healthy landscapes are perfectly normal, but when homeowners see them growing on their tree trunks, this is a sign of an ill tree. Mushroom conks are a clear sign that a tree needs to be removed. This means there’s rot somewhere within the tree if they’re growing on the trunk. If they’re growing on the root flare or on the surface of the roots, this means there’s root rot. 

There is actually more than one type of fungus that can be found on a tree such as: 

  • Lichens
  • Powdery mildew
  • Polyporus alveolaris
  • Ganoderma applanatum
  • Ganoderma Lucidum
  • Armillaria
  • Laetiporus Sulphurous

When the tree fungus begins to spread, it can affect the trees around it. It is spread through spores that are released by wind, rain, and splashing water. 

The tree fungus can be treated by simply preventing the fungal infection. Once they are infected, there’s nothing else to do but have an arborist chop the tree down. 

How About Invasive Roots?

Invasive roots are another issue that can create problems for homeowners. They are a common problem in both residential and commercial settings. These roots can make their way into streets, sidewalks, and even septic lines. They cause a variety of hazards and the only way to resolve the issue is to call a tree service company that specializes in tree removal, tree trimming, and tree health care. 

Why do they need to be cut down though? Well, the answer is simple. Exposed roots make it harder for homeowners to cut the grass around the tree and they pose a walking hazard, especially to children and the elderly. If homeowners are unsure whether or not it’s a hazard, they can contact the professionals to do a tree risk assessment. 

Overplanting & Tight Spaces

Some people may believe that there’s no such thing as too many plants. However, this is actually an issue for trees. When planting a tree, it’s important that it has room to grow and spread its roots. If trees are planted too close together, they may not receive the proper nutrients and can die. 

Air circulation is a crucial part of tree care. If the tree doesn’t have enough air circulation, it can lead to an increase in fungal diseases, which can cause tree and root rot. This will lead to cutting down a tree or multiple trees. 

Other Reasons For Illness

Storm damage is a very common reason why a tree would die. When strong winds come through, it breaks limbs and uproots trees. Additionally, extreme temperature fluctuation can cause illness in trees. 

If a tree is ill from damage to it, these are the signs to look out for: 

  • Dead leaves
  • Black leaves
  • Branch damage
  • Salt damage
  • Cracks from frost
  • Disease
  • Insect invasion

About VI Tree Service

VI Tree Service is a professional tree company based out of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. They are a smaller company that has been quickly growing. They have over 50 years of experience, give free estimates, have a 100% satisfaction guarantee, 24-hour storm and emergency response, and affordable pricing. 

Things To Know About Evergreen Care in the Winter

Vancouver, BC, Canada locals should know these tips for proper evergreen care. 

Don’t Miss These Maintenance Tips For the Evergreen

It might not be a home appliance, but that evergreen out front requires maintenance just like anything else in and around the home. Evergreen trees are beautiful creatures with the ability to withstand brutal weather conditions when they are properly cared for. The only time brown spots tend to show up on an evergreen is when the tree is in serious need of a little TLC. depending on how much brown the tree has determines whether or not professional assistance is necessary. Fortunately, local professionals have tips to help homeowners maintain their evergreen trees and to know when to call for help!

Continue reading to learn more about how to properly care for evergreens. 

About the Evergreen and Its Response to Weather

Evergreen trees are durable creatures. They don’t require a lot of attention throughout the year and even manage to keep green leaves year-round no matter where they’re planted. Typically, they can adapt to weather changes quickly and effortlessly. This is the main reason they are so durable.

During the winter, they hit a dormant season where not much growth happens. It is recommended that homeowners not prune their evergreens during this time as well. Pruning the tree might seem like the right thing for it, but it actually exposes the tree to the elements. It’s almost as if their coat is taken off their back. They will get too stressed out and could potentially die because of it. 

Another good thing to note is that watering is crucial. If homeowners water too much or too little in the winter, the tree will respond negatively by turning brown. Yes, it’s possible for evergreens to turn brown during the winter. 

Common Reasons They Turn Brown

For the most part, evergreens understand the elements. That said, sometimes evergreens still turn brown. There are ways homeowners can try to prevent this as much as possible, but first, the homeowner has to understand why the problem happens in the first place. 

A few reasons evergreens turn brown during the winter are:

  • Old age
  • Overwatering
  • Underwatering
  • The homeowner didn’t protect the tree before the season began

Adult evergreen trees should only be watered twice a month during the winter, but it’s important to ensure that the water is 2 feet in depth at each watering. 

One great way to protect an evergreen tree during the winter is to lay down a fresh layer of winter mulch. This should give the tree the protection it needs to stay green all winter, but if this doesn’t help, homeowners can also try wrapping the tree. 

How to Fix it

The last thing anyone wants to do is deal with the inconvenience of a tree emergency. Tree servicing professionals understand this, which is why homeowners can first try to restore the green to their evergreen without professionals. 

If the tree only has a small number of brown leaves, the homeowner can try to water the tree or reduce the amount they are watering. If the tree continues to get worse, a professional should be called. 

Usually, this isn’t considered an emergency unless the entire tree is dead. Either way, it is better safe than sorry and professionals may even be able to help the homeowner over the phone depending on the circumstance. 

There’s No Place Like VI Tree Service

They work hard and always make sure their customers are satisfied. The experts at VI Tree Service love the tree care industry. They understand trees in a way most people don’t. Regardless of the questions, they are there to ensure their customers are educated and keep families safe in the process. Call today to schedule service!