We come across this conversation often enough in the field and continues to be a point of controversy today. As we develop our understanding of tree biology and continually update our methods and application of these skills and knowledge our best practice is to better understand as much about the history of the site, the tree(s) in question, clients exception and overall health of the tree before ever exploring a “topping’’ cut. It is rare that our team would explore this type of action and it is only used in very specific circumstances usually where safety and retention of the tree (typically older and in decline) are principle concerns.

Jacob HolmsteadNovember 30, 2022

Tree inspections for new home buyers

When purchasing a home it is important to weight in the landscape and its current health trajectory when making a decision on buying. Your trees hold value to the home and neighborhood. Maintenance on these trees further help with the success of the trees health. Before buying reach out to one of our arborist to inspect the homes trees to better inform yourself with the current status and costs included with inheriting trees with the purchase of your home.

Jacob HolmsteadApril 23, 2022

Trees Suffer During Prolonged Drought

Water stress can reveal itself in several ways. Prolonged drought can diminish a tree or shrubs ability to adequately supply various vascular and structural systems with the nutrients they need to support a tree through the various challenges during long periods without rainfall or watering cycles. Take a look a few ways you can support your landscape trees as trends in weather lean towards warmer and dryer conditions.

Jacob HolmsteadApril 23, 2022

Some insight before you go cut on your neighbors tree

Before you go cutting on your neighbors tree take a moment to make sure you have the right to make those pruning cuts. Different municipalities have protocols to make when pruning your neighbors tree. Be sure you are operating within compliance with your local laws.

Jacob HolmsteadJanuary 17, 2022

Energized Trees

Homeowners can easily become injured – often fatally – while attempting to trim trees near overhead electrical wires. Though it is tempting to try to save money with this “do-it-yourself” approach, the potential for electrocution is not worth the risk.

Jacob HolmsteadNovember 9, 2021Wires, powerlines, arborist, Safety, Risk, Storm work

Mulching our trees and plants in the fall

“I know we’re supposed to do something to our trees in the fall, but what?”

Tree owners often feel compelled to spray, prune or apply something to their trees and landscape plants on a regular basis. But, unless there is a specific reason to spray, prune or apply things to landscape trees, the best thing to “do” to keep your trees healthy is apply a layer of composted mulch.

Jacob HolmsteadNovember 9, 2021

"Is that mossy stuff good for my tree?"

Moss and lichen are very special beneficial organisms. Both organism have adapted to survive all across the planet. From the Arctic to the oceans and from caves to jungles you will find bryophytes and epiphytes.

Jacob HolmsteadMarch 2, 2020

Portland Heritage Trees!

The first couple trees that were recognized were an American Elm and a London Plane Tree located in downtown Portland in the mid 1970s. It wasnt until the Urban Forestry Commission took over the Heritage Tree Program in the 90s did the program really take off and over the past several decades there are over 300 recognized trees within the program today.

Jacob HolmsteadFebruary 23, 2020