Q) When should I trim my trees?

A) Most trees can be safely trimmed at any time of the year. Trees especially benefit from being trimmed prior to the summer monsoons. The thinning of the trees at this time allows more wind to pass through the tree and helps reduce the risk of damage to the trees.

An exception would apply to trees with thinner bark: i.e. citrus, carob, and newly planted trees (within the last few years). These trees can still be trimmed year around, but greater care should be taken in the hot months to not overexpose the sensitive trunks to the full force of the sun in the heat of the day.

Indiana's climate and tree types leave little concern for timing. The colder northern climates, however, should be more mindful while performing more substantial pruning of the deciduous tree varieties, or those that lose their leaves in the winter, to do so when the trees are dormant.

Q) If my trees are getting too tall to be safe, why not top them?

A) Some of the most compelling reasons are:

1. Starvation - Topping removes so much of the leaves, it can starve the tree of its ability to produce food
2. Shock - Suddenly shaded trunk becomes exposed to the suns rays where scalding can happen
3. Insects & disease - The natural defense system breaks down with large stubs vulnerable to insect invasion and spores of decay fungi. If disease is already present, this speeds its movement
4. Weak limbs - New limbs that sprout at the stub will not attach securely
5. Rapid new growth - The new sprouts are far more numerous and grow more aggressively than the original limbs and quickly grow to its original height with a thicker crown
6. Ugly - A topped tree is disfigured and will never regain the grace and character it originally had
7. Cost - The increased cost of future maintenance, lost property value and the potential removal and replacement costs if the tree dies

Q) What is the best way to plan my tree work?

A) Some tree care must be addressed annually and immediate problems are evident if they aren't scheduled. This would apply to trimming palm trees in the summer and spraying olive trees in the spring. The more proactive nature of your tree plan should include:

1. Immediate liability. Clearing buildings and lifting limbs over sidewalks. Dangerous limbs or trees should be removed.
2. Poorly placed trees should be removed. These trees will be lifting sidewalks, growing under the canopies of adjacent trees, potentially large trees in too limiting of spaces.
3. Aesthetic considerations in priority areas. Trim for attractive appearance in higher profile locations like street side trees and model walkways.
4. Aesthetic considerations elsewhere. Improving the appearance of trees in the rest of the property.

Q) When is the best time to plant new trees?

A) Trees planted in the early fall or early spring will do better than trees planted in the extreme conditions of winter or summer. This will allow the new tree to take root in to the native soil and develop new growth before the harsh cold or heat demands more of the developing roots and leaves.

Q) What is the best way to get a good tree company?

A) A recent Gallup poll reported the reasons consumers choose a professional company. The top six were as follows:

1. Good references and reputation
2. A satisfaction guarantee
3. Provide free estimates
4. In business for years
5. Locally owned and operated
6. Insured and bonded