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Stein Discusses New Invasive Species in the U.S., the Murder Hornet

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Pests & Diseases, Stein Tree Service Blog.

Invasive species in the U.S. have caused immense damage to our environment, industries, and communities. Emerald ash borer, for instance, has destroyed millions of ash trees. A species of hornet, nicknamed “murder hornet,” is a new invasive species that has recently been found in the United States. This hornet could cause significant problems for our honeybee populations, which would disrupt local ecosystems. Stein Tree provides you with the information you need to know about “the murder hornet.”

What Is The Murder Hornet?

 

Photo of Asian giant hornet | invasive species in US | Stein Tree Service

The Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia), or “murder hornet,” is a species of hornet from Asia and is the largest species of hornet in the world. Although native to Asia, the murder hornet recently appeared on the west coast, making it a potential new invasive species in the U.S. These hornets are approximately 1.8 inches in body length and have orange heads and bodies, with black bands around the body. Their behavior is similar to other hornets: these hornets are highly protective of their hives, but mostly ignore humans or other animals, unless said humans or animals are aggressive. Although the murder hornets look and behave similarly to other hornets, this species is more dangerous.

The dangers of murder hornets are twofold: the dangers inherent with any hornet, wasp, or bee, and the dangers presented by any invasive species. Murder hornets’ stingers are longer than those of honeybees and can pierce some thick clothing. Murder hornets feed on honeybees and could decimate honeybee populations if the hornets are great enough. Honeybees are responsible for plant growth, food sources, and many more products people buy every day. The biggest risk of murder hornets is the potential damage that honeybee populations, and therefore our environment, could suffer.

The Threat of Invasive Species in the U.S.

Thankfully, murder hornets have yet to migrate or expand to the east coast of North America and we have other invasive species that are already impacting our area. As previously mentioned, emerald ash borer is prevalent all across the U.S. This pest has caused immense and expensive damage in many states since its discovery in 2002. The spotted lanternfly is another threat to our trees, targeting fruit trees and other plants. Because of the risks these species possess to our environment, we encourage you to take action, be watchful for evidence of emerald ash borer and spotted lanternfly, and contact a certified arborist to inspect and treat the affected trees.

Contact Stein Tree for Invasive Pest Services

If your trees have any issues with invasive species, including emerald ash borer or spotted lanternfly, call Stein Tree for solutions. Our certified arborists are licensed to treat invasive species in Delaware and Pennsylvania and have years of experience in tree pest control as well as other tree and plant health services. For more information on invasive species in the U.S. or our other services, contact Stein Tree Service today.

galleries are one of the signs of emerald-ash-borer-infestation - stein tree service

Emerald Ash Borer FAQs

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Stein Tree Service Blog.

The emerald ash borer (EAB) continues to be a significant problem for Pennsylvania and Delaware, and residents should be more aware to help protect their trees. To educate our customers and community about the dangers the emerald ash borer presents, Stein Tree has gathered some Emerald Ash Borer FAQs.

How Does EAB Kill Trees?

Emerald ash borer up-close view | Emerald Ash Borer FAQs | Stein Tree Service

An adult beetle lays eggs within the bark of an ash tree, which hatches about two weeks later. Once hatched, the larvae begin feeding on the bark, eating the inner tissue layers of the tree. The tissues that EAB larvae feed on are responsible for transporting nutrients and water. How long a tree takes to die after becoming infected depends on the size of the tree and the EAB population. Generally, infested small trees may die within 1-2 years, while large trees can be killed in 3-4 years.

Do All Ash Trees Get Emerald Ash Borer?

Almost all ash trees are at risk if the emerald ash borer continues to spread. American mountain-ash, or Sorbus americana, is one species of ash tree that has yet to be affected by emerald ash borer, as the species is not considered a true ash tree. EAB prefers ash trees that are stressed by disease or drought, but the pest will attack healthy trees as well.

Do Emerald Ash Borers Eat Other Trees?

Emerald ash borers almost exclusively feed on ash trees. In North America, the beetle has also been found to attack white fringetree, which is a non-ash species. However, the only widespread reports of trees damaged by EAB are about ash trees.

Cost of Treating Trees for Emerald Ash Borer

The cost of treating trees for emerald ash borer varies depending on how early the treatment begins and the severity of the damage. Price also depends on the size and the number of trees that need treatment.

How Can I Detect EAB?

The signs of an infestation can take a significant amount of time to be visible but can be spotted with diligence. Below are some of the main signs used to determine an EAB infestation:

  • Unexplained die-off on the upper canopy
  • Small tufted shoots on the trunk, called epicormic branching
  • Distinctive D-shaped holes left by emerging larvae
  • Vertical bark splits
  • Excessive woodpecker damage, from woodpeckers eating larvae

How Can We Get Rid of EAB?

The best method of getting rid of EAB is to be diligent of any signs or symptoms in your area and call a professional arborist to take care of the problem. First, professional arborists will be able to identify infestations accurately. Professional arborists who are certified to treat for EAB also have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to properly control and get rid of emerald ash borer while maintaining tree health.

Call Stein for Answers to Emerald Ash Borer FAQs, Inspection and Treatment

If you are concerned about emerald ash borer damaging your trees, contact Stein Tree Service. Our arborists, certified in Delaware and Pennsylvania for the treatment of EAB, know the best and safest preventive methods to help keep your trees safe. If you would like a free consultation or have any other emerald ash borer FAQs, contact Stein Tree Service.

Tree care specialist using spider lift to trim large tree - Stein Tree Service

Tree Pruning is Important But When Is Tree Pruning Essential?

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

Pruning shears up-close view | tree pruning | Stein Tree Service

Tree pruning is important for tree care, but some homeowners may wonder why pruning could be considered an essential service. Tree pruning is essential because this process makes your trees safer, in addition to making them healthier and more beautiful.

Why Tree Pruning Is Important

Tree pruning involves removing certain parts of a tree, such as branches or roots. Pruning can be performed on any plant and may be done for several reasons:

Aesthetics, space, reducing competition, and safety.

  • Aesthetics – Homeowners may wish to nurture a tree so that a certain shape or size is maintained. In addition, removing dying or damaged branches enhances the visual beauty of a tree, even allowing the tree to fit a given space better. The improved beauty and appearance of the tree also help increase property values and create a positive impression for potential customers.
  • Space – Different types of trees require different size areas to grow in, but sometimes a tree can safely be maintained within a space if the pruning begins early and is done regularly.
  • Reducing Competition – When trees are growing closely together, they may have to fight to get enough sunlight. Trimming to remove some of the branches allows more sunlight to the remaining branches and allows better airflow.
  • Safety – Safety is one of the essential reasons for trimming and pruning. This pruning is done to protect nearby people, structures or power lines.

When Is Tree Pruning Essential?

Tree Pruning is Essential - Stein Tree Service Infographic

Tree pruning is important, but sometimes pruning is also essential. Trimming and pruning in fall also reduce the risk of damage during winter snows.

Tree Disease or Death

If your trees have dead, decaying branches, those trees should be pruned. These branches pose a safety hazard to nearby buildings or people. Of course the important thing is to protect people and property, but also, if branch from your tree injures a person or personal property, you could be financially liable. If you are wondering if your trees need pruning, contact a certified arborist to perform an inspection.

Pest Infestation

Pests like emerald ash borer can infest your trees. When this happens, treatment varies based on the pest. Sometimes, trimming only the affected branches can take care of the problem and your tree can become healthy again. Failure to get proper treatment can cause valuable trees to die, and pests can spread to other trees or property.

Insufficient Air Flow

If branches are too close together, air flow is impeded. When strong storms come, the wind may be unable to pass through and may cause the tree to break and fall. Pruning to thin out the branches can reduce the chance of trees or branches falling onto people or structures.

Branches Overhang Power Lines

If a branch falls onto a power line, you could lose power. You could also get a fire or electrical damage or shock. None of these options is desirable, so if you see branches getting too close to power lines, call a certified arborist to trim them safely back.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Residential and Commercial Tree Pruning

Home and business owners in Pennsylvania and Delaware often call Stein for their annual tree pruning and shrub trimming, as well as a variety of other tree and plant care services. Our certified, experienced arborists strive to provide reliable, exemplary tree care for our clients. To learn more about why tree pruning is important or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

tree inspection can identify dangerous trees - tree cavity - stein tree service

What Causes Tree Stress and How to Prevent Stressing Trees

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Many societies and cultures throughout human history have associated trees with resilience, sturdiness, and longevity. While trees are undoubtedly resilient, they are still vulnerable to harmful factors that can cause stress or damage. Tree stress is can result from certain adverse factors, and if left untreated, that stress can eventually lead to the tree’s death. Fortunately, many organizations, such as state departments of natural resources or conservation, are studying trees to help determine and alleviate current threats.

Current Threats to Trees and Factors of Tree Stress

Tree stress can result from several different factors. Biological elements such as insects, pests, and diseases can cause stress, as well as mechanical or human-caused factors such as improper planting, chemical use or construction.

Insects and Diseases

Fungus on tree trunk | Tree stress | Stein Tree Service

One of the more severe threats to trees is insects and diseases. Specific insects and diseases can have genuinely devastating impacts on the health and sustainability of trees in both forest landscapes and urban areas. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) monitors Pennsylvania’s forests for insects and diseases, protecting trees when necessary.

Current insect and disease threats to Pennsylvania trees include the following:

  • Emerald ash borer
  • Spotted lanternfly
  • Gypsy moth
  • Hemlock woolly adelgid
  • Beech bark disease
  • Oak wilt

Emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, gypsy moth, and hemlock woolly adelgid are all invasive species, and have caused severe damage to Pennsylvania trees. Diseases such as oak wilt and beech bark disease each threaten specific species of trees.

Natural and Environmental Factors

Tree damaged by storm, aftermath | Tree stress | Stein Tree Service

In addition to insects and diseases, other natural occurrences and environmental properties can cause tree stress. One of the significant issues with environmentally-caused stress is that affected trees, even young and healthy ones, are more susceptible to diseases and invasive insects.

  • External factors that can stress trees include:
  • Drought
  • Excessive moisture
  • Pollution
  • Abnormal or extreme temperatures
  • Wind damage

New trees can replace those that are stressed by these environmental factors. However, invasive species such as the emerald ash borer and spotted lanternfly alter the natural reforestation cycle.

Improper Planting and Maintenance

Human-made causes of stress can be attributed to improper planting and poor or neglectful maintenance. Improper planting can range from picking the wrong tree for the local soil conditions, to planting a tree too close to a road, to having too little mulch. Poor maintenance includes inadequate watering or pruning techniques.

Another factor is injuries caused by mechanical means, such as construction or lawn-related damage. A lawnmower or trimmer cutting the bark or compacting the soil can cause tree stress. Heavy construction equipment can also stress trees, with most of the damage occurring in the root system due to soil compaction and disruption.

How to Prevent Tree Stress

One of the ways to effectively prevent stress is to be watchful for pests and other signs of stress. Look for bark dieback, wilting leaves, tree cavities, and other symptoms that a tree is injured or damaged to some extent. Insects can be hard to see, so you have to look at the overall tree health. can blend into trees. Check your trees, outdoor equipment and furniture, gardens, and similar areas for invasive species such as emerald ash borer and spotted lanternfly.

If you are unsure whether a tree is stressed or damaged, contact a certified arborist. Arborists and tree care specialists have the knowledge and experience to identify threats to a tree’s health and know what measure to take for proper care. The most effective method to treat for tree stress is to stop whatever is causing harm as soon as possible.

Call Stein for Quality and Reliable Tree Care Services

Stein Tree Service has been in business since 1983 and has a long history of serving the Pennsylvania area. Our experienced staff and state-of-the-art equipment are ready for immediate response for emergency tree care services. If you want to learn more about tree stress, or how your landscape could benefit from tree care services, contact us today for a free consultation.

West Chester Certified Arborist

The History of Arbor Day And How You Can Celebrate

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog.

At a time when more of us are appreciating the beauty of the trees and our landscape, we would like to examine the history of Arbor Day. Celebrated this year on April 24, 2020, Arbor Day is a national holiday where people all across the country celebrate the role of trees in our world. As a tree care service company, we are passionate about tree care and promote the observance of this holiday.

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COVID-19 Update for Stein Tree Service Customers

COVID-19 Update for Stein Tree Service Customers

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in News & Announcements, Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

With the order mandating shelter in place restrictions until May 15th in Delaware and until further notice in Pennsylvania, many businesses considered non-essential are closed during the COVID-19 crisis. Stein Tree Service has been classified as essential due to some of the types of tree care work that we do.

These essential tree care services fall under the following categories.

  1. Infrastructure Protection
  2. Public Safety
  3. Protection Against Spread of Invasive and/or Injurious Pests

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Tree and plant roots | Tree Root Health | Stein Tree Service

How to Ensure Tree Root Health

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

The roots of a tree serve many vital functions. Roots are responsible for anchoring the tree in place, absorbing and distributing water and nutrients, and even acting as a storehouse for essential food reserves during winter. The importance of tree root systems is what makes good tree root health critical to ensuring the overall health of the tree. We will teach you what causes root problems, how to identify these symptoms, and how to keep both the roots and tree healthy.

How Tree Roots Become Unhealthy

Problems caused by poor tree root health are generally due to either injury or disease.

Root Injury

Tree trunk with roots | Tree Root Health | Stein Tree Service

For trees in urban areas, a common cause of root injury is heavy clay subsoil and soil compaction. The reduced pore space from heavy clay and soil compaction reduces the amount of water and oxygen that the tree roots can uptake. Compacted soil may be caused by construction, foot traffic, car and other machine traffic, soil preparation, and more.

Improper watering is another cause for poor tree root health. Overwatering restricts oxygen uptake while underwatering provides inadequate root development. Improper fertilization can also damage tree roots, and those roots may face competition from other plants such as bushes, grass, and other trees.

Root Diseases

Injury is just one way for tree roots to become less healthy. Disease from fungi is another threat to the overall health of the roots. Fungal diseases will generally affect one of the 2 types of roots in a tree. Most diseases will affect the feeder roots, the small, thin roots responsible for absorbing water and minerals from the soil surface. Other fungal diseases will affect the woody roots, the large roots responsible for anchoring the tree.

Some of the symptoms of tree root disease include the following:

  • Small, yellow, foliage
  • Reduced growth
  • Leaf scorch
  • Tufted leaves at the end of branches
  • Branch dieback

While all of these symptoms may indicate root disease, a direct examination by a certified arborist or plant health care specialist will confirm the condition of the roots.

How to Keep Tree Roots Healthy

Tree with large roots above ground | Tree Root Health | Stein Tree Service

The best way to ensure tree root health is to prevent the roots from being damaged or diseased. A tree needs a space that is both deep and wide enough for adequate root growth. Proper fertilization and the right amount of watering also keep the roots healthy. Add a layer of mulch, preferably mulch made of organic matter. For mature trees, the mulch layer should be a maximum of 3 to 4 inches.

Maintain the right soil conditions by avoiding soil compaction, changing the soil depth as little as possible, and keeping the tree’s root zone free from competing plant life. Pruning and trimming injured tree limbs is another way to ensure roots remain healthy by reducing the risk of infection.

Once a tree becomes infected and the roots become diseased, restoring the health of the tree can be difficult. Calling an arborist to provide an in-depth examination and analysis of the tree health will give you a better understanding of what the issue is and how to improve the tree’s health.

Contact Stein Tree for Tree and Plant Health Care Services

Stein Tree has provided the Wilmington and Philadelphia areas with high-quality, reliable tree care services for decades. We have state-of-the-art equipment that is ready for immediate and emergency responses. Our certified and insured arborists have the passion, knowledge, and experience to ensure tree root health for any landscape, from residential to municipal.

For a free consultation, contact us at (302) 478-3511 today!

adult spotted lanternfly - stein tree service offers tree care services in all spotted lanternfly quarantine areas

Stein Discusses Invasive Species in Delaware

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), Pests & Diseases, Stein Tree Service Blog.

One threat that the Delaware environment faces is damage by invasive species. An invasive species is a non-native plant, insect or animal that is introduced into a region and causes some harm. That harm can affect plants or humans, and the damage can be economic or environmental. Many people have likely heard of some invasive species in their regions, but may be unaware of the harm caused by these species. Stein discusses a few of the invasive species in Delaware.

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Adult Emerald Ash Borer and Spotted Lanternfly-Invasive Species Awareness- Stein Tree Service

Stein Tree Encourages Action during Invasive Species Awareness Week

Written by Stein Tree on . Posted in Pests & Diseases, Stein Tree Service Blog.

Emerald Ash Borer on a branch | Invasive Species Awareness | Stein Tree Service
spotted lanternfly on a tree with egg mass

Many people have heard of the dangers of invasive species. An invasive species is introduced to a region rather than being native and damages the environment or human health. As a result of these invasive species, National Invasive Species Week has emerged to spread invasive species awareness and encourage people to stay vigilant. National Invasive Species Week 2020 is February 24 through February 28. Events take place all week in different locations to help increase awareness of invasive species. Notably this year, a webinar presented by NAISMA (North American Invasive Species Management Association) on the 25th includes the manager of “Don’t Move Firewood,” LeighGreenwood, and she will discuss the possible deregulation of EAB Quarantines.

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Man in compact spider lift using arborist saw on a tall tree - tree removal and tree trimming and pruning - Stein Tree Service

Stein Tree Discusses How to Safely Trim Tall Trees

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

Tall trees on your residential or business property add much value: shade, aesthetics, property value, and even reduced heating and cooling costs. But the size of these trees makes maintaining them more difficult and dangerous. Experienced arborists have the training and knowledge to keep you and your property safe. Here are the risks associated with tall tree trimming and pruning, and how to safely trim tall trees.

Why and How an Arborist Should Trim Tall Trees

We want to emphasize that the best method to trim tall trees is to contact a certified arborist. The safest methods and techniques of cutting tall trees involve specialized training and equipment that most people lack. Climbing up the tree and trimming branches should be left to certified and licensed professionals for the best results.

Climbing a Tall Tree

Lift truck with tall tree | trim tall trees | Stein Tree Service

The first risk that comes with trimming tall trees is reaching the top. Pruning the branches of tall trees involves a much greater falling risk, and the chance of serious injury becomes more significant. The climbing method also needs to be safe, and any climbing equipment needs to be secure and stable. Experienced arborists know how to safely tether themselves to prevent a fall.

Equipment such as pruning shears or chainsaws are brought up to cut the branches. Careful cuts that ensure the safety of the trimmer, the people below, the property, and the health of a tree, need to be performed. The method arborists use to cut branches allows the tree to heal correctly and makes the actual cutting safer for the arborist. Numerous tree branches, larger branches, and other interfering objects such as power lines, create awkward and uncomfortable working angles.

Professional arborists will have access to specialized equipment and the proper training and certification to safely trim a tall tree. Stein Tree Service professionals use a spider lift or a lift truck to safely reach high branches.

Arbor Pro Mini Lift | trim tall trees | Stein Tree Service

A spider lift allows the arborist to work safely and access the tree from different angles. For close pruning, professionals use cordless top handle chainsaws, also called arborist chainsaws. These tools are lighter and easier to control than a standard chainsaw.

For trimming and shaping, tree care professionals often use powered long-handled or telescoping hedge trimmers. These tools, along with blowers, vehicles, lifts, and chippers, allow arborists to effectively and safely trim tall trees.

Call Stein for Quality and Reliable Tree Trimming Services

Stein Tree Service has been in business since 1983 and has a long history of crew, property, and tree safety. Our staff and state-of-the-art equipment are ready for immediate response. We have provided tree care services to thousands of customers throughout Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. If you need to trim tall trees or have other tree care needs, contact us today for a free consultation.