Should You Hire an Arborist or a Landscaper?

1/12/2021

To the average Utah homeowner, there’s little difference between arborists and landscapers. Both handle various types of yard work, so it doesn’t matter which professional you hire. Right?

Wrong. Arboriculture and landscaping are unique professions – and specialists in one are not qualified in the other. To determine whether you need to hire an arborist or a landscaper, take a look at the following.

Professional Landscapers

Landscapers complete a range of yard work tasks with the goal of ensuring plant health while creating an attractive outdoor environment. You can call on a local landscaping company for expert assistance in:

Lawn care
Lawn irrigation
Garden bed preparation
Planting flowers and shrubs
Hardscape installation

As you may have noticed, tree care isn’t on that list. For that, you’ll need to hire a local certified arborist.

Certified Arborists

Arborists are licensed professionals who have earned certification from the International Society of Arboriculture. As such, they’re experts in tree care. A local certified arborist has the training, knowledge and skill necessary to keep your trees healthy and beautiful.

If you’re in need of any of the following services, hiring an arborist is the right move:

Emergency tree care
Tree planting
Pruning and trimming
Cabling and bracing
Tree removal
Stump grinding

Local certified arborists have not only expertise in tree care, but also the equipment and tools to perform tasks safely and in the proper manner. When you hire an arborist for tree care services, you can feel confident that you’re preserving the health and beauty of your outdoor environment without risking the safety of your family or your property.

Who Should You Hire?

When it comes to deciding between a landscaper and an arborist, consider the scope of work that needs to be done. If your lawn and gardens are in need of attention, call a landscaping company. And if you need an expert to care for your trees, hire an arborist.

Is your home located in northern Utah? For professional tree care at an affordable price, turn to Rivendell Tree Experts. Our ISA-certified arborists are licensed and fully insured, and we have what it takes to handle any tree care task.

The Rivendell team has served thousands of homeowners and businesses in northern Utah, and you can count on us to care for your trees as if they were our own. We always complete our work in a careful, professional manner, and our arborists are happy to answer questions and offer advice.

Would you like to learn more about our affordable tree care services? Or are you looking to hire an experienced local certified arborist? For information on Rivendell Tree Experts or to schedule a free, no-obligation Utah arborist consultation, contact our Lehi office today.

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Tree Removal Costs & Strategies for Saving Money

12/8/2020

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Tree removal, while typically a last resort, is sometimes necessary. And if one of your trees has to go, you’ll want to know how much to budget for the project.

We’d love to tell you the cost right here, but without seeing the specimen ourselves, that’s not possible. We can, however, give you an idea of what to expect in terms of price and share strategies for saving money on tree removal.

What Tree Removal Typically Costs

The cost of professional removal varies widely, and Utah homeowners may pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. Height plays a large role in determining the price, with shorter specimens being less expensive to remove. But the overall cost is also based upon the following factors:

Trunk diameter: The wider the trunk, the higher the price of removing the tree, as the process takes more time and effort.
Condition: Trees that are leaning, dead or severely decayed are costlier to remove due to the additional safety equipment required.
Location: The complications of removing a tree that’s near a building, close to utility lines or otherwise difficult to access drive up the project cost.

Extra work – such as log splitting, limb chipping and stump grinding – generally add to the total project costs. Most Utah arborists don’t include these services in estimates for the removal of a tree, so be sure to ask.

How to Save Money on Tree Removal

You can’t do anything about the size, condition or location of the tree you need to have removed. But, by taking any or all of these steps, you may be able to bring down your out-of-pocket costs:

Get advice from a certified arborist. Instead of removal, you might only need strategic pruning or treatment for pests or disease, which are less expensive.
Plan the project during the off-season, when Utah arborists are more likely to offer reduced rates. As a general rule, avoid spring, summer and early fall.

Handle part of the project yourself. If you’re willing to tackle the cleanup and woodcutting, your arborist may be willing to drop the price of removal.

Leave Tree Removal to a Certified Utah Arborist

Removing a tree isn’t a task you should attempt on your own. The work is hazardous – and watching a few videos isn’t enough to learn the proper techniques to ensure everyone’s safety and prevent property damage.

Instead, turn to a local certified arborist. In Salt Lake City and the surrounding northern Utah area, homeowners trust Rivendell Tree Experts. With us, you can count on cost-effective solutions, friendly service, quality workmanship and affordable pricing.

For more information on the qualifications of our Utah arborists, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and estimate for tree removal, reach out to our Lehi office today.

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Benefits of Winter Tree Pruning

11/10/2020

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In the winter, tree pruning may not be on your mind at all. Many people plan landscape maintenance in the spring or summer – but giving your trees a prune during the cold weather months can be a smart decision.

Winter tree pruning is recommended for several reasons. Here’s a look at what you have to gain by getting pruning done at this time of year.

Better Results

Once all of the leaves have fallen, the frame of a tree is easier to see. The branches are in clear view, which puts any weak, damaged, diseased or vulnerable areas in the spotlight. As such, accurate pruning cuts can be made to promote tree structure.

Less Risky

Winter is not only the dormant season for trees, but also for destructive insects and infectious diseases. Since those die off when it gets cold outside, certain species are less likely to get infested or infected during their dormant periods.

Prevents Damage

Leaving branches that are fractured, diseased or dead in place over the winter can be dangerous. If your area gets a heavy snowstorm, the limbs could fall and cause significant property damage – and someone could even be seriously injured. At minimum, it is unsightly and can effect how the tree grows moving forward.

Why Hire an Arborist?

While you can take on the task of tree pruning yourself, hiring a certified arborist is in your best interests – and we aren’t just making the recommendation because we’re a tree service company. Experts advise on working with an arborist because:

Pruning can be difficult, hazardous work
Arborists have the proper tools to make the job safe
Poor pruning practices can seriously stunt growth
Certified arborists carry liability insurance to protect you and your assets

Above all, arborists know which species should be pruned during the dormant season.

At Rivendell Tree Experts, we don’t cut corners. But we do have extensive experience in pruning for hazards, structure and clearance. And in northern Utah, we’re a trusted industry leader, the company homeowners and businesses call for efficient and affordable tree care services.

Turn to us, and you can expect to have an outstanding customer experience. Our certified arborists are known for their honesty, integrity and dedication to professional service. For more information on winter tree pruning, or to schedule a free consultation with one of the best arborists in the greater Salt Lake City area, contact our Lehi, Utah, office today.

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Are Tree Removal Permits Required in Utah?

10/13/2020

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In all likelihood, you won't need to get a tree removal permit. In most cases, northern Utah homeowners can go ahead and take down a tree without getting anyone's permission.

But, we can't guarantee that the decision is completely yours to make. Utah state law protects certain species, and there's a chance that the location of your home or that of the tree could stop you from moving forward with removal.

Removing a Utah Heritage Species Requires a Permit

In 1975, the Utah Heritage Tree Act was approved by the legislature of the state. Under the law, some specimens are protected - which means you'll need a permit if the one you want to remove:

Has local, state or national historic significance
Is exceptionally large or well-formed for the species
Is quite old for a specimen of that particular species
May be one of the last representatives of the species

Not sure if your tree fits any of those descriptions? A local certified arborist can determine whether or not you need to get a tree removal permit.

Local Regulations May Interfere with Tree Removal

The last thing you want is to remove a tree that shouldn't be removed - and while your specimen may not be protected under Utah law, local codes and regulations could prohibit removal without a permit. For that reason, you'd be wise to check with local officials before you proceed.

In addition, tree removal may require permission from your homeowners' association. Often, HOAs must be consulted when making landscaping decisions, and yours may only agree to removal if the specimen in question is a liability.

Make Sure You Own a Tree Before Planning on Removal

Let's say you want to remove a tree that isn't a protected species, and you don't live in a HOA community. You can go ahead with the removal - if, that is, you're sure you don't need to get your neighbor's permission.

If any portion of the trunk is on the property line, you and your neighbor share ownership. And if you don't get their consent before removing it, you could be held financially liable in court.

Is Tree Removal Really Necessary?

Damaged, unhealthy and at-risk specimens aren't always beyond saving. Removal might not be the only course of action - so before making any decisions, have a local certified arborist come out to perform an in-person inspection.

The highly experienced arborists at Rivendell Tree Experts, a local industry leader serving Salt Lake City and the surrounding northern Utah area, offer free, no-obligation consultations. To discuss tree removal with a member of the Rivendell team, reach out to our Lehi office today.

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Fall Tree Care Guide for Utah Homeowners

9/8/2020

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Utah arborists recommend fall tree maintenance

Summer may be over in Utah, but that doesn’t mean the time for tree care has come to an end.

Seasonal attention is important for ensuring year-round plant health. Utah homeowners who prepare their trees for the colder months are rewarded with abundant growth in the spring. In the fall, tree care professionals recommend taking the following actions.

Apply Mulch

Placing a layer of mulch around the base of each tree provides the roots with insulation against temperature extremes and helps the soil retain more moisture. A depth of about 2 to 4 inches is sufficient, but the mulch shouldn’t be piled up around the trunk – volcanoes of much can lead to root rot.

Fertilize

Fall is the ideal time for fertilization, as doing so provides trees with the nutrients they need to get through the winter. However, some species should be fertilized in the spring or summer instead – so, homeowners should consider asking a Utah arborist about fall fertilization before proceeding.

Keep Watering

When temperatures permit – meaning that the ground isn’t frozen – Utah tree care professionals advise homeowners to continue watering in order to avoid drought stress. For adequate hydration, it’s best to water the root zone deeply and thoroughly about once or twice per week.

Prune Branches

The structure of a tree is much easier to see when no leaves are on the branches. Because of this, fall can be an ideal time for tree pruning – which helps encourage healthy growth. But because not all species should be pruned at this time of year, homeowners may want to get advice from a certified Utah arborist.

Rake Leaves

Raking up fallen leaves may not be necessary if they only cover about 10 to 20 percent of the landscape. Homeowners who have excess of might need to grab a rake, however, as too much leaf matter on the lawn can inhibit springtime plant growth. As an alternative, the leaves can be mulched with a mower and used to insulate tree roots.

Plant Trees

Many Utah homeowners don’t think about planting trees in the fall, but doing so can be a great idea. The cooler temperature helps stimulate root growth in saplings, and putting them in the ground now provides plenty of time for the roots to become well-established before winter.

Would you like expert assistance with fall tree care? If you live in northern Utah, call on the professional team at Rivendell Tree Experts.

We offer a range of practical, cost-effective tree care services to homeowners in and around Salt Lake City and throughout Utah County. A regional industry leader, our company is known for honesty, integrity and a strong commitment to customer service. For more information, or to arrange for a free tree care consultation, contact our Lehi, Utah, office today.

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Do You Need to Contact an Arborist for Tree Disease Treatment?

7/14/2020

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What to do if you think your tree has a disease

If you have diseased trees, reaching out to a certified arborist is the best course of action. Diagnosing the problem and providing the appropriate tree disease treatment can be a challenge for anyone without expertise – particularly with the dozens of bacterial, viral and fungal infections that are common here in northern Utah.

But how do you know if your trees are affected by disease? We suggest giving them a good look whenever you’re out in the yard, scanning the foliage, branches and bark for irregularities. If you spot any of the following warning signs, contact a Utah certified arborist and schedule a consultation to discuss tree disease treatment.

Changes in the Foliage

As you look at your trees, examine the foliage. Are there variations in the coloration of the leaves? Do any have holes or visible damage? Or are the leaves dropping at the wrong time of year? If you answered yes to any of these questions, calling a local Utah arborist is a good idea, as you may be looking at the results of tree disease.

Dead or Decaying Branches

Next, examine the limbs of each of your trees. If any are dead or look dry and lifeless, a bacterial, fungal or viral infection is probably to blame. Branches that are decaying also point to the need for an arborist’s assistance, but you’ll only spot those by searching for outward symptoms of decay, like crumbly wood and mushroom growth.

Differences in the Bark

The effects of tree disease can frequently be seen in the bark. Discolorations appear in areas where the infection has weakened the bark, and deep cracks, splits and cankers, or dead areas of bark, can develop as time goes on. Check the bark carefully, and if you suspect a problem, call a Utah certified arborist for advice and expert treatment.

Uneven Tree Growth

Finally, consider the overall appearance of each tree. Do any have a serious lean? Are the limbs growing too close together? Does the growth pattern look abnormal? Tree disease is the most likely culprit, though other variables – including sunlight, weather patterns, pests and environmental disturbances – could be involved. In any case, you should contact a local arborist if you notice uneven tree growth.

The professional team at Rivendell Tree Experts, based in Lehi, offers free, no-obligation tree disease treatment consultations to homeowners and businesses in Utah County and throughout the greater Salt Lake City area. Our ISA-certified arborists can meet all of your tree care needs, and we’re known for providing quality services at affordable prices.

For more information on tree disease treatment, or to make an appointment to meet with one of our friendly and knowledgeable arborists, contact us today.

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Tree Fertilization – Answers to Your Questions

6/9/2020

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You likely already know tree fertilization can be beneficial. Fertilizing can boost the health of the trees on your property and, therefore, give them an increased ability to fight off disease, pest infestation and environmental stresses.

Understanding why experts recommend fertilizing is one thing, but figuring out how to get the job done right is quite another. And if you’re not sure what approach to take, you’re certainly not alone – here at Rivendell Tree Experts, we get a lot of questions from northern Utah homeowners. Below, we provide answers to the most common questions people have about tree fertilization.

When Should You Fertilize Your Trees?

The answer to this question depends upon species you have planted. For some, spring is the best time for tree fertilization. For others, summer, fall or multi-season application is ideal. An online search can help you identify the species, or you can get expert assistance from a local tree service company.

How Do You Know You Need to Fertilize?

Looking around the landscape, you may notice signs that it’s time for tree fertilization. Dead branches and branch tips are a clue, as are leaves with veins that are darker than their margins. Less twig growth and fewer undersized leaves than you normally see each year are other warning signs that your trees are lacking nutrients.

Where Do You Apply the Fertilizer?

For tree fertilization to be effective, the nutrients need to reach the roots. But, making that happen doesn’t require the removal of your mulch – organic fertilizers come in the form of granules or pellets, which you simply spread evenly under the drip zone, steering clear of the trunk area. After the application, water thoroughly and the nutrients will soak down into the soil.

Why Should You Hire a Tree Service Company?

Fertilizing can stimulate robust, vigorous growth – if, that is, the product used corrects deficiencies in the soil. The wrong fertilizer can have the opposite effect, as can applying too much, fertilizing too often and fertilizing during the incorrect season.

Every species has unique needs, and certified arborists know how to plan effective fertilization programs. And if necessary, they can apply soil amendments and use specialized equipment for deep root fertilization.

Our soils in Utah have a pH of around 8 which make the Iron much less available to trees than it is in most other parts of the country. We actually have plenty of iron here for the most part, it’s just not as available to many species or varieties like red maples, red oaks, many fruit/ornamental fruit trees. At Rivendell Tree, we use a Chelated Iron (EDDHA) that provides iron in an available form.

For these reasons, many homeowners prefer to leave the work to a tree service company – and those in northern Utah rely on the professional team at Rivendell Tree Experts.

A longtime local industry leader, we offer a range of affordably priced arborist services. For more information, or to schedule a consultation to discuss tree fertilization, contact our Lehi, Utah, office today.

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Tree Planting Tips from Professional Arborists

5/12/2020

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Spring is a great time for tree planting! Saplings that are put in the ground now have a chance to establish roots before the seasonal rains and summer heat encourage new top growth.

Planting trees on your northern Utah property can increase its value, which makes the project a smart investment. But to get your saplings off to a good start and give them the best chance at growing healthy and strong, you’ll need to follow the proper tree planting steps. Here, the professional arborists at Rivendell Tree Experts explain what you need to do.

Choose the Right Saplings

Different tree species have different needs. Consider the soil and sunlight conditions at the tree planting sites, and make sure you select saplings that are capable of thriving on your property.

Locate Your Underground Utility Lines

Hitting a utility line when you’re working on a tree planting project could knock out the power – and it could even cause serious injury or death. To avoid this, find out the locations of your lines before you begin.

Dig a Properly-Sized Planting Hole

Professional arborists recommend digging a hole that’s about two to three times as wide as the sapling’s root ball. The hole should be shallow, only as deep as it needs to be to accommodate the root ball.

Prepare the Sapling for Placement

Before placing a sapling in the hole you’ve dug, remove the container or wire basket, if it has one. Then, use your fingers to gently pull apart the root ball, as doing so helps encourage healthy root development after tree planting.

Place the Sapling and Fill with Soil

Set the sapling in the hole, making sure the trunk is straight. Add soil to the fill the space, lightly packing it in to eliminate any air pockets – too much air can dry out the roots and lead to growth problems.

Support the Sapling with Stakes

If the sapling is struggling to stand tall on its own, you can use tree stakes to hold it in place. Pound the stakes into the ground, though the root ball, and loosely tie them to the trunk. You should only stake as needed and in general, stakes shouldn’t be left there longer than 6-12 months. Stakes left longer can cause other negative issues.

Apply Mulch at the Base of the Tree

Mulching is beneficial for young saplings, as it helps keep more moisture in the soil. Professional arborists advise on applying a layer of mulch that’s about two to four inches deep around the base – but be sure to leave space around the trunk. Also, be sure you don’t "volcano" the mulch up against the tree as that encourages disease and root issues. Make sure the top of the root flare is visible above the mulch.

Provide Follow-Up Tree Care

Once your saplings are solidly planted, they’ll need ongoing care to keep growing strong and healthy. Water them once a week, or frequently enough to keep the soil moist without water-logging the roots.

Are You Thinking About Planting Trees?

If you want to make sure your tree planting project is completely trouble-free, consider hiring a professional arborist.

Rivendell Tree Experts, based in Lehi, serves homeowners and businesses in the greater Salt Lake and Utah County areas. Our experienced arborists provide free, no-obligation consultations and estimates – and we don’t charge an arm and a leg to plant trees. For more information on our tree planting service, contact us today!

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Complete Guide to Tree Stump Grinding

4/14/2020

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Are you familiar with tree stump grinding?

When you contact a local tree care services company to discuss stump removal, there’s a good chance they may recommend grinding as the means of accomplishing the task. There are other techniques, but grinding is typically the best way to safely and efficiently remove an entire tree stump. Here, we explain the process and everything else you need to know to make an informed decision on stump removal.

How is Tree Stump Grinding Done?

The process involves the use of a stump grinder, which is a high-powered piece of machinery that cuts through the tree base and the visible lateral roots. Grinding turns all of this into wood chips, and once complete, nothing is left above the soil line. As such, the site can be replanted or repurposed.

What are the Alternatives to Stump Grinding?

The remaining trunk and root ball can be dug out of the ground with a backhoe or excavator. Or, property owners can douse the wood with chemical products designed to speed up the rotting process. Burning it out after applying a stump killer is another option. All three can be dangerous, and removing anything other than a small- to medium-sized stump through any of these methods can be difficult.

Why is Stump Grinding Recommended?

Grinding effectively eliminates the remaining trunk and roots, without damaging the surrounding landscape or leaving a gaping hole behind. It’s a zero-waste technique, as the wood chips created can be used to fill in the area or elsewhere on your property. Plus, grinding projects can usually be completed in about an hour or two.

Why Leave the Task to a Professional?

Anyone can rent a tree stump grinder, but knowing how to use it properly requires special training. Furthermore, without an expert analysis of the immediate area, the project could be hazardous – contact with the underground utility or plumbing lines could result in injury and significant damage.

How Much Does Tree Stump Grinding Cost?

According to HomeAdvisor.com, the online information marketplace, the average cost for professional grinding is $200. Extra-large stumps and those in locations that are difficult to access can cost more, but that’s to be expected. In comparison, renting a grinder may run anywhere from $150 to $365 per day.

Do You Need Stump Grinding Service in Northern Utah?

If you want to get rid of a tree stump on your northern Utah home or business property, Rivendell Tree Experts is the company to call. We offer free professional consultations and estimates for projects in Salt Lake City and the greater Utah County area, and we’re known for affordable pricing, top-notch workmanship and a superior customer experience.

To schedule an appointment, or to get answers to your questions about tree stump grinding, contact Rivendell Tree Experts in Lehi, Utah, today.

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Utah Tree Care Tips: When to Call an Arborist

2/11/2020

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Certified Utah arborists – like the team at Rivendell Tree Experts – are the professionals to call in the event of an emergency, such as a downed trunk or a branch growing near a utility line. But crisis situations aren’t the only times when contacting an arborists makes good sense.

Here, we share several scenarios that warrant the attention of a certified Utah arborist.

When You Notice Storm Damage

Heavy storms can wreak havoc on your trees, but don’t address the damage by reaching for the chainsaw. Sure, that’s what many Utah homeowners do, but going that route is risking sick trees. Instead, contact a certified arborist, as they’ll know how to properly prune and treat each specimen to ensure future health.

When Branches Don’t Look Stable

Have you noticed a limb that looks to be in danger of falling? Don’t wait for it to happen, as any branch wider than two inches has the potential to cause significant damage – and if someone is standing underneath when the limb falls, you’ll be liable. If you suspect a branch might come crashing down, call a certified Utah arborist as soon as possible.

When You Can See Tree Roots

Experts say that up to 80 percent of the issues that occur with Utah trees have their origin in the root system. Check the specimens on your property regularly, and if you see any with exposed roots, schedule a consultation with a Utah arborist. By addressing the situation early on, the problem won’t grow to threaten health or stability.

When Your Trees Look Unhealthy

As you inspect your trees, look for signs of declining health. Differences in the coloration of the foliage, leaves dropping in the wrong season, dying branches, visible changes in the bark and uneven growth can indicate disease or pest infestation – and both require the attention of a certified Utah arborist with experience in tree diagnosis and treatment.

When You Want to Plant New Trees

If you’re ready to add some new saplings to your Utah property, getting expert advice from a certified arborist is wise. Certain species aren’t well-suited to our climate, and those that are have specific sunlight, soil and watering needs. Plus, the planting spots require careful consideration, as your new trees must have sufficient room to grow without affecting other specimens or nearby structures.

Whenever you require the attention of a certified Utah arborist, call on the professional team at Rivendell Tree Experts. We offer 24-hour emergency services, and we’re ready to handle all of your tree care needs.

Rivendell Tree Experts provides free consultations and estimates to homeowners and businesses throughout Salt Lake City and the surrounding northern Utah area. To meet with one of our highly experienced Utah arborists, contact our Lehi office today.

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<<Previous

Professional Landscapers

Certified Arborists

Who Should You Hire?

What Tree Removal Typically Costs

How to Save Money on Tree Removal

Leave Tree Removal to a Certified Utah Arborist

Better Results

Less Risky

Prevents Damage

Why Hire an Arborist?

Removing a Utah Heritage Species Requires a Permit

​Local Regulations May Interfere with Tree Removal

​Make Sure You Own a Tree Before Planning on Removal

​Is Tree Removal Really Necessary?

Apply Mulch

Fertilize

Keep Watering

Prune Branches

Rake Leaves

Plant Trees

Changes in the Foliage

Dead or Decaying Branches

Differences in the Bark

Uneven Tree Growth

When Should You Fertilize Your Trees?

How Do You Know You Need to Fertilize?

Where Do You Apply the Fertilizer?

Why Should You Hire a Tree Service Company?

Choose the Right Saplings

Locate Your Underground Utility Lines

Dig a Properly-Sized Planting Hole

Prepare the Sapling for Placement

Place the Sapling and Fill with Soil

Support the Sapling with Stakes

Apply Mulch at the Base of the Tree

Provide Follow-Up Tree Care

Are You Thinking About Planting Trees?

How is Tree Stump Grinding Done?

What are the Alternatives to Stump Grinding?

Why is Stump Grinding Recommended?

Why Leave the Task to a Professional?

How Much Does Tree Stump Grinding Cost?

Do You Need Stump Grinding Service in Northern Utah?

When You Notice Storm Damage

When Branches Don’t Look Stable

When You Can See Tree Roots

When Your Trees Look Unhealthy

When You Want to Plant New Trees

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Local Regulations May Interfere with Tree Removal

Make Sure You Own a Tree Before Planning on Removal

Is Tree Removal Really Necessary?