Author: Stein Tree

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Spring Tree Stump Removal and Stump Grinding Aids Summer Safety

Written by Stein Tree on May 15, 2023. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Stump Removal and Grinding.

Tree stump removal and stump grinding are common requests in the spring and summer months. Whether because of heavy storms or snow (or even dead trees), many Delaware and Pennsylvania residents have experienced trees falling in their yards. Some have had to be removed immediately due to impacts with structures or blocking roads or walkways. However, others may have remained where they fell or been cut up by residents for firewood. Those trees have likely left unattractive hazards behind, namely, unsightly stumps. Now that spring is upon us, many homeowners are considering spending more time in their yards, and spring tree stump removal may be an essential factor.

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Why Do I Need Spring Tree Stump Removal?

As mentioned, tree stumps are unattractive, but beyond that, they can cause other issues. For example, tree stump removal can help you avoid the following.

Pest Havens

Tree stumps are ideal places for insects and fungi because stumps act as safe havens for these pests. Some insect species attracted to rotting wood are termites, carpenter ants, beetles, and other wood-boring insects. Having these pests on your property can lead to problems, even more so if these pests branch out and begin infesting other plants or trees, your home, or other nearby structures. In addition, certain fungi that grow on tree stumps can harm your plants, pets, and family by biting, stinging, or carrying and transmitting disease.

Trip Hazards

Tree stumps, and especially tree root systems, also pose tripping hazards. Stumps can hide behind clumps of overgrown grass or weedy areas. Children running around and playing may miss them and fall, leading to injuries. Individuals performing yard work may also miss the stumps and run into

them with mowers or other equipment. Depending on the stump’s location, tripping incidents could also subject homeowners to liability cases. Stumps may also have roots that continue to grow underneath your home’s sidewalks or foundation. Roots can even lift a sidewalk, which can be dangerous for bikers or people just walking by.

Irate Neighbors

Tree stumps can cause problems for you and your neighbors unless you have a substantial property. Spring is when many homeowners list their homes for sale, and any reduction in curb appeal can impact them financially. In addition, the pests that may be harboring in your tree stump could also infest your neighbors’ trees or homes.

Obstacles for Mowing & Landscaping

Another reason for spring tree stump removal is that stumps can be large, making mowing your lawn or other landscaping tasks more difficult. For example, if your property has a tree stump and you need to mow your yard, you will have to maneuver around the stump when cutting the grass. In addition, if the roots are prominently above the ground, you risk damaging your lawn mower if you run over them with it.

What Happens to the Stump?

A couple of options exist for disposing of tree stumps. Smaller tree stumps can be dug out, leaving relatively small holes in the landscape. Some tree service companies, including Stein, will remove the debris from the site for the homeowners’ convenience.

Larger trees may require heavy equipment for removal, or tree professionals may recommend stump grinding instead. Professional arborists will grind the stump down to the roots using a stump grinder so that no new growth occurs. In this case, the sawdust is often used to refill the hole so you can landscape over it.

Call Stein Tree Service for Timely and Professional Tree Stump Removal and Stump Grinding

Stein Tree Service has provided excellent tree care and spring tree stump removal services for nearly 40 years. Our arborists and tree care specialists will evaluate your unique situation and recommend the best course of action so that other vegetation remains undisturbed. Contact us today for a free consultation regarding tree stump removal and stump grinding, trimming and pruning, pest infestation, and other tree care services.

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Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Areas

Stein has a permit to work in spotted lanternfly quarantine areas in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Tree Service Companies have to be trained in proper moving and disposal of materials to avoid spread of the spotted lanternfly and Stein has completed the training courses.

Emerald Ash Borer Inspection

In the spring, destructive ash borer (EAB) adult beetles begin to emerge. These invasive pests can destroy your ash trees. Our specialists are certified to treat for EAB in Pennsylvania and Delaware. For A free consultation, contact us today.

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Stein Offers a Tree and Shrub Trimming and Pruning Guide

Written by Stein Tree on April 6, 2023. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Trimming Shrubs and Trees.

Spring is here again. In fact, you may have seen some buds on trees already. However, you may wonder if you have waited too late to get your trees trimmed and pruned. Though dormancy is generally the best time to trim and prune trees and shrubs to avoid wounding a growing tree, exceptions exist. And an arborist can tell you when is the best time for your particular trees and whether trimming outside that window will harm them. Most trees can handle light trimming at any time of year. However, significant tree and shrub trimming and pruning should be done with care. Below is a tree and shrub trimming and pruning guide.

See Tree Trimming FAQs

Difference Between Trimming & Pruning

Understanding what these terms mean to determine whether your trees need trimming or pruning is essential. Pruning is removing dead or damaged branches and thinning out too thick or crowded branches. Trimming is a similar practice but involves cutting back stems to improve the appearance of a plant to encourage healthy growth.

When Should Your Trees Be Trimmed?

Some trees vary from the norm when optimal pruning times occur in the year. The recommended time to prune can also change based on why you are pruning. For example, if you want a tree pruned to encourage the flowering of the tree, you will want to wait until the flowers disappear.

On the other hand, if you have trees that produce flowers in the summer, you will want to do the pruning in winter or possibly early spring. Stein offers a guide that may help when you are trying to determine a pruning schedule.

Trees and Shrubs That Should Be Pruned During Dormancy

Some Pennsylvania and Delaware trees or shrubs that ideally one should prune during winter dormancy (so that the tree or shrub is not disturbed during the growing season) for best results are:

Walnut Trees bleed sap excessively during non-dormant periods.
Oak Trees can get a disease called oak wilt, which insects may carry into open tree wounds.
Maple Trees tend to bleed sap when their dormant period is over.
Fruit Trees can get a disease called fireblight, which is bacterial. Pruning in winter will make the problem less likely.
Hemlock should be pruned in late winter, but spring or early summer pruning may be necessary.

Trees and Shrubs That Should Be Pruned After Flowering

As mentioned, pruning certain trees and shrubs as soon as the flowering period is over, but no sooner, is ideal. If pruned too late, these species of trees and shrubs may fail to flower the following year. Some examples are:

Forsythia
Flowering Dogwood
Rhododendron
Lilac
Redbud

Holly, the Delaware state tree, is one shrub whose branches an arborist can prune in winter or spring. However, if having many berries is important to you, you will want to wait until the berries are already forming before pruning.

Some trees and shrubs that are ideal for spring pruning include:

Smooth hydrangea
Roses (non-climbing)
Wisteria
Clematis

Dead, Broken, & Diseased Branches

One of the most common reasons to prune trees is to remove tree branches that are dead, broken, or diseased. Dead branches have lost their leaves and appear brown or dry. In addition, dead branches are brittle and may snap off during strong winds. Broken branches also have this issue of snapping off and potentially injuring or damaging people and property.

On the other hand, diseased branches carry the risk of spreading a disease throughout the rest of the tree. As a result, removing dead or dying branches is vital, and properly pruning requires an arborist’s knowledge and experience.

Stein Tree Service Offers Residential and Commercial Tree and Shrub Trimming and Pruning

Home and business owners in Pennsylvania and Delaware often call Stein for annual tree and shrub trimming, pruning, and other tree care services. In addition, much of our business comes from word of mouth, and we strive to provide exemplary care for trees that residents can count on. To learn more, get expert insight on our tree and shrub trimming and pruning guide, or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

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Emerald Ash Borer Inspection

In the spring, destructive ash borer (EAB) adult beetles begin to emerge. These invasive pests can destroy your ash trees. Our specialists are certified to treat for EAP in Pennsylvania and Delaware. For A free consultation, contact us today.

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Stein Answers Frequently Asked Tree Removal Questions

Written by Stein Tree on March 6, 2023. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Removal.

Trees are beautiful, provide shade, clean the air and provide homes for all types of wildlife. In addition, trees can have a high sentimental value to us, having been a fixture in our great-grandparents’ homes or planted to commemorate a special event. In these types of cases, no one wants to consider tree removal. However, sometimes hiring a tree removal company is necessary to prevent damage to your property and residents’ safety.

Five Top Questions About Tree Removal

Stein answers some of our frequently asked questions about tree removal.

Do I Have to Get Rid of My Tree?

Sometimes you pass a yard and see wide-trunked and towering beauties in a yard that rise a hundred feet over a home or other structure. Though these trees are impressive, are they safe? Only an certified arborist or other tree care specialist can determine whether a tree is at risk for falling if no blatant signs exist. The specialist will evaluate the visible signs, like dead branches, fungal growth, dieback, or insect infestation. If necessary, they will perform other tests, like a resistograph test, to determine if the tree is still viable or if cavities within the tree create vulnerability.

Learn More About Tall Trees Near Homes

When is the Best Time for Tree Removal?

While tree removal can be done all year, late winter and early spring are ideal times for the tree removal process. One reason is that most trees will have bare branches, which makes it easier for a tree service company to inspect and remove them. That improved visibility is especially important if a tree is near other structures, like a house or power lines.

What Will Happen to The Stump?

Homeowners who have to get a tree removed from their yards are often concerned about the stump. Specifically, people are worried about the conditions of their landscape when a tree is removed. Of course, a homeowner can opt to leave the stump in the yard, but many reasons exist to have them removed.

Professional tree care companies use different methods to remove the stump. For example, Stein Tree Service uses a stump grinder to grind the tree stump into small chips. After stump grinding, our team can use these chips to fill the hole, or we can haul them away. Either way, we can entirely remove the tree in almost all cases.

Why Do You Need Stump Removal?

Can I Have a Tree Removed if The Space is Small?

Homeowners with small yards or homes close to other homes worry that felling a tree could endanger the property or people nearby. For an inexperienced person, this is a genuine concern. However, a professional should do the job whenever a tree is removed, especially a large one. And in a tight space, having the knowledge and skill to make the precise cuts necessary is even more vital. Stein Tree Service has the equipment and skill to remove trees from any area. We are also insured, so homeowners and specialists have protection if an accident should occur.

Can I Just Cut Off the Top?

If trees are planted in a space that is insufficient for their mature size, they may have to be removed to avoid contact with homes or power lines. Homeowners often ask if we can just cut down trees to fit the space. This practice is called tree topping and is very detrimental to the tree. The tree can be weakened, which, when combined with the many open wounds created by tree topping, can lead to disease, insect infestation, or premature death of the tree. A certified arborist or tree care professional can advise homeowners of the best action if a tree has outgrown its space.

Stein Tree Service Provides Skilled Tree Removal in Delaware and Pennsylvania

Stein’s arborists and skilled specialists are committed to excellent tree care. In addition, our company has liability insurance to protect you and your property.

If you have questions about your trees and their proper care, we can help. We will evaluate the trees in your landscape and recommend the best solution, which could be tree removal. On the other hand, your tree may only need careful trimming and pruning or other special care. Contact Stein for a free consultation.

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What Kind of Tree Care Can Be Done in the Winter?

Written by Stein Tree on December 9, 2022. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care Video, Tree Removal, Trimming Shrubs and Trees.

With bare-branched trees and frosty morning grass, you may think winter is a poor time for tree care. However, many tree care services can and should be performed in the winter. Stein Tree Service’s team is often very busy with winter tree care services, including tree trimming and tree removal.

Tree Removal

One example of tree work we have done during winter was removing a large red oak tree with an enormous cavity in the center. The trunk measured 27 feet in circumference. These are just a few pictures of the tree and a picture of the large chainsaw we needed to cut the trunk.

The tree had a large open wound and mushrooms, which made diagnosis easy. However, in some cases, the signs are more subtle. We have to use a resistograph (a device that drills into the tree to measure density or structural integrity) or other methods to determine the tree’s health. Some signs are more visible in the winter, and we can more easily determine them and other potential issues with trees.

Either way, with winter weather ahead, removing this large tree before heavy snow could cause the tree to fall and damage property or residents was a relief for the homeowners.

Right of Way Clearing

Right-of-way clearing is another one of the winter tree care services we provide. Roadways and access areas must be clear for traffic or repair crews, particularly if power is disrupted. We have the equipment needed and have performed right-of-way clearing and tree maintenance services for local municipalities, businesses, and even residents who have areas on their properties with trees that block access.

Tree Trimming and Pruning

Winter is a good time for trimming and pruning because the trees are dormant. As mentioned, the bare branches reveal more clearly if branches are dead, misshapen, or weak. These types of branches can cause damage if those branches break off during winter storms. Unfortunately, this scenario happens frequently in our area because heavy snow or ice accumulation weighs down the already struggling branches. As a result, the winter months are an excellent time to prune trees and shrubs to help make the surrounding area safer.

Our mini lift, affectionately nicknamed “the Spider,” (shown above) makes these services quicker, safer, and more efficient. View our video above to see how we can trim and remove trees from tight areas with homes nearby.

Winter Desiccation Treatment

Winter desiccation is a type of injury that trees and shrubs can experience during winter. This injury occurs when a tree loses more water than the tree absorbs from the roots. As the ground freezes during winter, tree roots have a more challenging time absorbing water from the frozen ground while losing water due to transpiration.

Desiccation primarily affects evergreen trees, more so than deciduous trees, because evergreens transpire (give off water vapor) at a higher rate than deciduous trees.

The solution for this type of tree care is anti-desiccant sprays to help reduce moisture loss, which must be applied at specific times of the year and require careful application.

Emergency Storm Clean Up

Stein Tree quickly responds when trees or branches fail in winter storms. For these concerns, we are available 24/7 and can reach most homes to evaluate within two hours. Quick response and clean-up are essential to someone whose house has just been struck by a tree.

Call Stein Tree for Winter Tree Care Services

Winter can be difficult for young trees and mature trees, presenting new issues for homeowners. Hire a professional tree care service company to keep your trees healthy and your property safe during winter. Stein Tree Service is fully insured, and our tree care specialists are passionate about providing exceptional winter tree care services. For any tree care concerns you have this winter, contact us to schedule a free consultation.

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Fall and Winter are The Best Times For Tree Trimming

Written by Stein Tree on November 4, 2022. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Trimming Shrubs and Trees.

The warm, sunny days of spring and summer are behind us, and cooler days are here. Seeing the beautiful leaves from summer change color and fall off the trees is one great thing about fall, and those leaves falling is a good reminder that fall and winter are the best times of the year for tree trimming and shrub pruning. You may have heard this before and wondered why, so today we discuss why late fall and winter are the best times for trimming and pruning.

What Makes Fall and Winter the Best Times for Tree Trimming and Pruning

As everyone knows, deciduous trees lose their leaves in the winter, revealing all of the branches previously hidden under the foliage. Seeing the beautiful, colorful leaves fall off might make some people sad. However, bare tree branches do make the task of diagnosing issues and trimming trees much more manageable. In addition, the bare canopies of the trees make the tree structure much easier to see. As a result, arborists can more easily remove dead or vulnerable branches.

The frozen, snow-covered ground also helps arborists by allowing us to reach areas near the tree or shrubs that are usually inaccessible with our equipment. As much as we love leaves in the spring and early summer, having them out of the way makes our trimming and pruning easier. In addition, when the ground is frozen the equipment is less likely to compact the soil near the trees and shrubs.

Promoting Tree and Shrub Health

Trees and shrubs are dormant during winter, which halts growth until the following spring growing season. This inactivity means that wounds from trimming and pruning during late fall and winter will heal more quickly since the tree is not expending energy on new growth.

Another reason that fall and winter are the best times for tree trimming and shrub pruning is because disease and insect damage are less likely. Trimming and pruning during the late spring and summer can expose the trees and shrubs to diseases. When decay occurs, the decay attracts insects to the tree and causes more damage.

Knowing your area’s trees, shrubs, insects, and diseases can be very helpful. A certified arborist or other tree specialist can advise you on the best practices for your space and your specific trees. Trimming and pruning in late winter, when insects are the least active, will help keep your trees and shrubs healthy.

Special Tree Trimming and Pruning Concerns

Though late fall and winter through early spring are generally the best times for tree trimming, some exceptions apply.

Flowering Trees

As we have mentioned in a previous article, spring flowering trees should be pruned after they have flowered. This practice allows for the most blooms in the following year. More blooms lead to better aesthetic appeal and also aid in pollination.

Damaged Trees

If a tree is damaged and at risk of falling or losing branches, a delay in action may lead to injury or property damage. Knowing what to look for is essential. Here is a short list of issues to look out for that could cause mean “now is the best time to prune” ANY time of year.

Weak, damaged, broken, or diseased branches and shrubs
Branches and shrubs hanging over or making contact with power lines, roofs, sheds, or other structures
Trees that lean at dangerous angles

Contact Stein Tree for Quality Tree Trimming and Shrub Pruning Services

The fall and winter make for the best times for tree trimming and shrub pruning. However, whenever you need professional tree care, you can count on an experienced arborist from Stein Tree Service. Since 1983, Stein Tree Service has provided the residents of Delaware and Pennsylvania with tree services, including regular tree trimming, removal, and emergency services. For a free consultation, contact us today.

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Advantages of Residential Tree Clearing Around Power Lines and Other Areas

Written by Stein Tree on October 3, 2022. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Removal, Tree Service.

Stein Tree Service performs residential and commercial brush clearing and tree removal in Wilmington, DE, and surrounding areas. You may think that this type of service is only needed by developers when building new residences or other construction projects. However, the practice is beneficial for residences as well: when trees grow too close to your electrical wires or when overgrown tree limbs become unstable, for example. A broken tree branch could easily lead to an accident that costs thousands of dollars in damages. So, tree clearing around power lines when a risk of contact is present is essential for you and others living near you.

3 Advantages of Tree Clearing

For residents and local businesses, some land clearing or tree removal can be for aesthetic or space reasons. Others opt for this type of tree work to maintain their properties and trees. But, of course, perhaps the most significant grounds for removing trees near power lines are safety and accessibility

1. Aesthetics and Space

While a property with many trees is appealing, brush and trees that grow too close together or in the wrong areas can detract from the value. On the other hand, when you clear out weeds, brush, or a large group of trees, you create a more usable property for you and your family that allows you to enjoy nature and a more appealing landscape. In addition, outdoor living spaces, gardens, pools, and spas can be added for a homeowner’s enjoyment when overgrown areas are cleared out.

2. Maintenance

Even if you leave brushy areas on your property, those areas must be maintained, especially in a community or city. Maintaining trees on your property involves having them trimmed or removed. That level of maintenance requires owning or renting special machines or equipment, like bush hogs, for periodically cutting back the growth.

Regular maintenance and tree clearing around power lines will help keep your power lines in good shape and reduce risk of damage. However, trees that are too close to power lines can cause interruption in electricity service if they touch the lines, so a professional must remove the trees from time to time. Removing nearby trees also helps prevent fires from starting near high-voltage equipment. Weedy areas also tend to spread into other areas typically manicured for family or public foot traffic.

3. Safety and Health

Another primary reason for tree clearing around power lines is safety and health. Tree branches and limbs can fall onto power lines, causing the electric lines to break. Broken electrical service wires will cause outages, costing businesses money and presenting physical danger to people nearby.

In addition, brushy or weedy areas are havens for snakes, rodents, and large animals like deer. These animals can cause driver hazards and carry unwanted diseases to your clients, family members, or pets. Clearing the areas and removing undesirable or unsound trees around your dwelling or business offers a safer environment.

Our Tree Clearing Services

If you have many trees on your property that pose danger to power lines or electrical access areas, or if you just want to clear trees to provide a better landscape with more usable property, hire professionals such as Stein Tree Service who have experience doing this work

safely. Our team has specialized training and equipment to safely trim trees and remove them without damaging power lines or other structures while minimizing injury risks for anyone nearby.

Some tree care companies find residential tree clearing around power lines too dangerous or too small of a job. However, we can help with this critical task. Stein knows how to help residents get power line areas cleared of trees and brush and contact the electric company to get the power turned off. In addition, we can provide tree trimming, pruning, or removal services to prevent these issues from occurring in the future.

Stein Tree is a Trusted Name for Tree Care and Tree Removal in Wilmington, DE

Our staff of tree care experts has hundreds of years of combined experience. We have you covered with our arborists and tree care specialists! In addition, Stein Tree offers many other tree care services, including right-of-way clearing and clearing around power lines. Our emergency tree removal service is available 24/7, and we can respond to most areas within two hours. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!

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Was Your Tree Removed Without Stump Grinding Service?

Written by Stein Tree on September 3, 2022. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care Video.

Did your tree removal company leave the stump? Some smaller companies can remove a tree but lack the equipment to remove or grind the stump and thus leave the area potentially unsafe and unattractive for the homeowner. Stein offers stump grinding services that can include hauling away of chips/sawdust, addition of topsoil, and reseeding of the area upon request (Cost varies depending on these requests).

Watch to Learn 5 Reasons To Get Tree Stump Removal Service

What is Stump Grinding?

Basic stump grinding service includes removing tree stumps from your yard with a stump grinder. Stump grinders are heavy-duty machines that use rotating teeth, chains, or blades to grind down tree stumps to a small size that prohibits regrowth of the tree. Stein’s professionals grind the stump until the remainder is 6-10″ below ground level.

Stump Grinders

A stump grinder is an engine with a blade that rotates to chip away at the tree stump. Stein uses a large self-propelled stump grinder that has “turf-friendly” rubber tracks. We bring the grinder to the job site on a trailer, unload, and then steer to the stump. The grinder can fit through a 36” wide gate, making the process relatively easy on most landscapes.

Stump Grinding vs. Removal

At first glance, tree stump grinding services may seem to be the same as stump removal. Stump removal can simply involve pulling the stump from the ground. However, this method is mostly for trees with small-diameter trunks. A common estimate is that the roots of a tree could spread out one foot for every inch in tree trunk diameter, and tree professionals would more likely choose stump grinding as the method of removal. Tree stump grinding involves using a machine with a spinning blade to grind away at the stump.

What to Do With the Sawdust or Chips From Stump Grinding

Tree stump chips or sawdust are byproducts of the stump grinding process and can be used as a soil amendment for your lawn or garden. An arborist or tree removal professional may refill the hole left by the stump or take them away if requested.

Benefits of a Stump Grinding Service

Removing your tree stump has several benefits.

Improved Aesthetics: Tree stumps are unattractive unless the homeowner is able to use them in specific landscaping plans.
Increased Safety: Tree stumps are trip hazards to residents and visitors.
Convenience: Stumps can act as obstacles for lawn maintenance tasks like mowing. Keeping the stump makes lawn maintenance more difficult and could result in damaged mower blades.
Pest Prevention: Stumps can also attract pests like termites, carpenter ants, cockroaches, and even mice during colder seasons when food sources are scarce. If the stump becomes infested, the pests could eventually end up in your home.

Call Stein for Stump Grinding Services

Activities involving tree care can be dangerous and require the use of expensive equipment. Our tree care specialists know the proper, safe procedures for stump grinding services and other tree care services. We own and are trained to use the necessary vehicles, machinery, and tools. In addition, we are fully licensed and insured, so you will be protected from liability in the unlikely event of injury. Contact Stein Tree Service for a free consultation.

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Stein Tree Service Discusses When Tree Removal May Be Necessary

Written by Stein Tree on August 1, 2022. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care, Tree Removal.

Homeowners love their trees for many reasons: trees are beautiful, provide shade, add interest, and so much more. Tree care is essential to maintaining healthy trees, but any tree can have cause to struggle. At Stein Tree Service, we are passionate about trees and do what we can to promote or restore tree health. However, sometimes tree removal may be necessary or the only option.

Learn About Tree Removal Services

Insect Infestation

You need to be aware of several threats from the insect world in order to keep your trees safe. In the last decade, homeowners in Delaware and Pennsylvania have dealt with several, including bagworms, emerald ash borer, and the spotted lanternfly. Knowing your trees’ general health and regularly inspecting them can help you identify these infestations early. Then, an arborist may be able to treat them. In some cases, tree removal may be necessary for the health of the surrounding trees.

Learn About Emerald Ash Borer

Major Weaknesses

Some trees develop disease, are damaged, or fail to thrive due to other issues. These problems can cause weak branches or trunks, which could result in damage to your property or people nearby if they fail. For example, trees that have survived storms can end up with large branches vulnerable to breaking. So be vigilant with your tree care and do your best to spot any problems early.

Fungus growing on the tree, dead branches, or early leaf fall can indicate more serious issues. If you act quickly, a tree care specialist may be able to take remedial action in time to save the tree. An arborist can safely remove the tree for you if necessary.

Overgrowth

Overgrowth is one of the more common reasons tree removal may be necessary, as overgrown trees can pose a danger to your property or residents of the home. If a tree is the wrong size for a given area, tree pruning may be insufficient to mitigate the risk of damage to sidewalks, structures, or contact with power lines. In that case, tree removal will be necessary.

Root Defects

Roots are a tree’s lifeline, and when roots are damaged or diseased, a tree will have trouble maintaining health for long. Root defects can affect the health and well-being of your trees if left untreated. Here are some common ones:

Root Rot

Rot is caused by fungi that invade the root system and can kill portions of the plant above and below ground. Rot often affects one side of a tree’s root mass or one part of its system. So even if you do not see any signs on top, root rot could lurk beneath the ground.

Girdling Roots

Girdling roots occur when the root system of a tree is constricted and cannot grow outwards away from the tree, cutting off a tree’s vascular system and preventing the flow of water and nutrients. A tree with girdling roots may look like a telephone pole instead of having the base flair outwards. You may also see roots sticking out of the ground, late leaf development, small yellow leaves or needles, early leaf drop, and dieback.

Learn 6 Signs of Tree Problems

Structural Problems

Structural problems can present significant issues for a tree, as the following issues can lead to future problems such as branches of the tree breaking or falling off.

Leaning or falling over
Splitting or cracking
Visible rotting
Growing in the wrong direction

Stein Tree Offers Professional and Safe Tree Removal

We love trees, but sometimes we have situations where tree removal may be necessary. In such a case, Stein’s tree care professionals have the experience and equipment to perform the job safely. Our compact spider lift offers little impact on your landscape. The spider lift allows us to easily remove even tall, large trees from a confined space. Contact us today for tree removal services or a free consultation!

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Do You Need to Worry About Tree Cavities?

Written by Stein Tree on June 3, 2022. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care, Tree Care Video.

Trees commonly have knots, splits, hollows, and even cavities in their trunks or branches. These features are part of the visual interest trees provide and are produced during growth that follows some sort of injury to the tree. Battle scars, you might say, often result from the tree growing around or over a wound to heal and strengthen the area. But do you need to worry about tree cavities?

The answer depends on numerous factors, such as the location and size of the cavities.

Location of Tree Cavities

One of the significant factors for whether you need to worry about your trees having cavities is the location of the cavities. Trees with cavities are often just as strong as ever, but certain areas can indicate significant risks.

If the cavity is near the tree’s base, then the tree may be at risk of falling over.
If the cavity is at a branch attachment (where the branch is connected to the trunk) the branch could fall in severe winds or when carrying extra weight, such as ice or snow.

If you see a tree cavity in these areas of your tree, call a professional arborist to examine them.

Size of Tree Cavities

Another issue that can signify the risk of cavities in trees is their size. If a cavity is small, you may be able to leave the tree alone as the cavity is too small to compromise the tree’s structural integrity. On the other hand, a large cavity is a cause for concern. For example, if the diameter of the tree cavity is too big in relation to the trunk’s girth, the cavity may cause weakness resulting in the tree falling. To ensure that your home and its occupants are safe, have any worrisome tree cavities or splits checked out by a tree care professional.

Tree Care for Abnormalities

Some tree abnormalities need no special attention. The tree has healed and compensated for the weakness from the injury. Other abnormalities require treatment to ensure the tree’s continued stability and health. Some trees with abnormalities need to be removed for the safety of surrounding property or people.

Tree Cavities and Hollows

Tree cavities and hollows are sunken or open areas in a tree that typically occur when the tree has suffered some injury, followed by decay. In some cases, the decay goes too far, and the tree is unable to survive. However, the healthy tree tissue surrounding the decay is protected in most cases. As a result, the tree survives, leaving a hollow area or hole.

Some sources estimate that a tree can lose up to 70% of a cross-section of wood and still safely support itself. This is because the tree tends to heal itself, and the buildup of the tree trunk around the wounded area reinforces the stability. However, if the wood is weak, or other factors exist, such as insects attracted to the decay and spreading out, the tree could be at risk of falling. A certified arborist or other tree care specialist can assess the risk and advise you if the tree has a moderate or significant chance of failing.

If the tree is stable, no treatment is necessary. However, some homeowners choose to have the tree filled, either for aesthetic purposes, to keep young children from playing in the tree, or keep animals from nesting inside. If you choose to fill the tree, use a foam filler. Concrete was a standard filler in the past. However, trees move with the wind and continue to grow, so the unyielding concrete acts as an irritant that can cause even more damage to the tree.

Forks or Splits

Sometimes branches fork off from the tree trunk at sharp angles. As the tree matures, the branches get thicker and heavier and are more prone to breaking off. If the fork occurs in the early formation of the tree, two main tree branches can seem like separate trunks of the tree.

Either way, forks such as this can cause tree branches to break off under pressure. V-shaped forks are the riskiest and should be monitored if a large tree is near power lines or structures. A certified arborist can fortify the connection by cabling and bracing the tree in many cases. This service utilizes cable lines and bracing rods to redistribute structural stress and help prevent structural damage.

Contact Stein Tree for Tree Care

Stein Tree Service strives to provide excellent service to homeowners in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Our services include tree inspection, insect infestation prevention and treatment for emerald ash borer, tree trimming and pruning, tree removal, and cabling or bracing. In addition, we are available 24/7 for emergency tree services, and we offer free consultations. For information about tree care, visit our website, or contact us at 302-478-3511.

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Tree Trimming and Pruning in Wilmington, DE

Prepare Trees for Summer Thunderstorms and Adverse Weather

Written by Stein Tree on May 10, 2022. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care Video, Trimming Shrubs and Trees.

May brings plenty of summer thunderstorms and adverse weather to Delaware and Pennsylvania. Those thunderstorms, in turn, bring plenty of risks to properties that have trees, especially fully-grown ones or nearby structures or vehicles. As a result, homeowners need to practice proper tree trimming and pruning in their landscapes to reduce the risks of damage to their homes and other areas of their properties. Below are tips on how to prepare trees for summer thunderstorms.

3 Tips To Prepare Trees for Summer Thunderstorms

1. Consider Tree Risks & Get Your Trees Inspected

The first thing you should do to prepare your trees for summer thunderstorms is evaluate potential risks. Your trees provide many benefit, but can also become a liability if they receive inadequate care and maintenance. Some of these risks may be difficult for the average homeowner to spot and may require a trained professional to recognize.

As you prepare trees for summer thunderstorms, work with an arborist to help identify potential risks during high winds and storms. To ensure you can enjoy a safe environment on your property, your arborist may recommend various treatments after completing a tree risk assessment. These may include:

Tree trimming and pruning
Cabling and bracing
Tree removal

Check the health of your trees regularly, inspecting them for signs of decay, pest infestations, and other problematic issues. If your trees are located near a structure, like your home or garage, remove any overhanging limbs that may cause damage during a summer thunderstorm or adverse weather. A professional tree care service company can help you evaluate the health of your trees and resolve issues such as overhanging branches.

2. Get Your Trees Pruned or Trimmed

Having trees pruned to remove dead or weak branches is especially important for two reasons. First, keeping a tree pruned regularly can significantly cut down on wind resistance or drag on trees and prevent damage in intense storms. However, over-thinning is a risk, so work with a tree specialist or arborist to ensure proper results from tree trimming and pruning of landscapes.

Second, the strong winds during a thunderstorm can cause weak or dead branches to break and fall, damaging nearby property or injuring people. So, pruning and trimming can be an effective aid to prepare trees for summer thunderstorms.

3. Get Preventive Tree Care

Summer storms and adverse weather can bring lightning in addition to strong winds and heavy rain. Lightning poses many risks and dangers to trees, and the proper preventive measures can minimize the risk of lightning strikes to preserve your tree’s health. Preventive care such as tree lightning protection plans can help keep your trees safe, healthy, and protected. A lightning strike to your Delaware trees can cause immediate death for trees or severe damage that leaves them vulnerable to insect invaders.

For example, If a tree is located less than 10 feet from a structure and is struck by lightning, the strike can jump, or side-flash, to conductive materials on your house, like downspouts and gutter systems. So by taking preventive measures to protect your tree from lightning, you can reduce the risk of damaging your home at the same time.

What to Do After a Summer Storm

If you prepare trees for summer thunderstorms, you should take a look to see the effects of your preparation afterward. After storms, take a survey of your property to ensure your trees have safely weathered them. If you see any damage, minor or severe, work with an arborist in Wilmington, DE, for clean-up measures.

Call Stein Tree Service for Skilled Tree Trimming and Pruning in Wilmington, DE, and Nearby Areas

Stein Tree Service can help with all tree trimming and pruning on your Wilmington, DE property. Prepare trees for summer thunderstorms and adverse weather with professional trimming and pruning. Contact us today for a free consultation or to learn about our TreeFall program, which could save you thousands of dollars in the event of storm damage.

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