What Is a Certified Arborist?

When seeking professional tree care, you may come across arborists—and certified arborists.

And naturally, you may wonder: What’s the difference? Does it even matter?

Though arborists are certainly experts, nothing beats the skill and expertise of certified arborists. Here, we explain what a certified arborist is and why you should always work with one.

What is an Arborist?

An arborist is a person who specializes in the planting and caring of trees. They’re knowledgeable about tree pruning, removal, and other aspects of tree maintenance. Arborists also focus on tree health, including pest management and disease control.

In fact, an arborist is also known as a tree surgeon. And when you consider how a skilled arborist can diagnose tree problems and help “mend” issues, this alternative title certainly makes sense.

An arborist can also be called an arboriculturist, or a person who is an expert in arboriculture. This is a study of trees and how they interact with their environment and cultural techniques (like tree planting or fertilization).

What About a Certified Arborist?

If an arborist is certified, it means they have worked in the tree care industry for at least three years. It also means that they have passed a comprehensive examination, which includes 200 questions on topics like:

• Tree care methods
• Work safety
• Pruning techniques
• Disease management

However, even with three years of experience and professional certification, a certified arborist is required to complete continuing education units throughout their career. This involves learning about the latest tree care methods and techniques.

Ultimately, a certified arborist is the most knowledgeable professional in the tree care field.

Why You Should Always Choose a Certified Arborist

Working with a certified arborist means that you will get the best tree service possible.

That’s because they are up to date with the most recent tree care procedures, thanks to their continuing education. In turn, they will perform these techniques in a way that’s safe for your property and the environment.

Call the Certified Arborists at Friendly Tree

If you’re looking for expert tree care, contact a certified arborist. What is most important, though, is that you choose one who is familiar with your climate and environment.

Enter the certified arborists at Friendly Tree. Since 1989, we have offered tree service in northern New Jersey. We are highly experienced in planting and maintaining trees in our region.

Call Friendly Tree at (973) 678-8888. You can also fill out our online form.

What Is a Tree Inspection? (And Why You Need One)

When it comes to living a safe and comfortable life, inspections are essential. Think about it. From buying a home to maintaining a car, inspections are a standard and widespread practice. Even restaurants, aircraft, and your own teeth require routine inspections.

While these things are extremely different, they all need regular checkups to stay safe. That’s because inspections are designed to detect existing and potential issues before they turn into bigger problems.

Your trees are no exception. Yes, that’s right: Trees need inspections, too. When performed by a professional tree expert, a tree inspection will help your trees thrive in the best way possible.

What is a Tree Inspection?

A tree inspection involves a careful examination of your trees. It’s done by arborists, like the ones at Friendly Tree.

During the inspection, your arborist will evaluate the tree’s structure and surrounding soil. They’ll also determine the tree’s overall health by inspecting its bark, branches, and more.

Why You Need Tree Inspections

A tree inspection is like a routine checkup with the doctor. It measures the most basic aspects of health, which can indicate bigger problems or risks. Specifically, a tree inspection can:

1. Diagnose Tree Infections Early

Like an annual doctor’s appointment, inspections look for signs of disease. This includes infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or insects.

A certified arborist knows precisely what to look for. They’ll consider regional diseases and pests, which can help them diagnose issues sooner rather than later.

2. Identify Structural Damage

Physical damage due to construction, storms, or incorrect tree pruning can be identified during an inspection. This is crucial for the tree’s health, as structural problems can make it difficult for the tree to take in oxygen and water.

3. Improve Safety

By identifying disease and damage, a tree inspection protects both humans and pets. A damaged tree, after all, is more likely to break or fall. This poses a hazard to residents and buildings alike.

4.Determine Watering Needs

If you’ve never consulted a tree arborist, or if you recently planted a new tree, a tree inspection will help you plan a proper watering routine.

An arborist can create a personalized watering guide based on the type of tree, its age, and upcoming seasons. Depending on your previous watering habits, this might involve more or less water, or a specific schedule.

4.Establish Soil Requirements

Likewise, a tree inspection helps you determine the best soil for your trees. Good soil is vital for healthy and happy trees. The examination can also shed light on the ideal fertilizer and mulch for your trees.

Friendly Tree Offers Comprehensive Tree Inspections in New Jersey

In a nutshell, tree inspections are essential for tree health and safety. It also doesn’t hurt that they’ll save you money in the long run, as each inspection allows you to fix issues while they’re still manageable.

After the inspection, the arborist will propose the next best steps. They can also provide guidelines for various tree care practices, such as pruning.

To schedule an inspection, contact Friendly Tree at (973) 678-8888. Our professional New Jersey tree service is available throughout Essex, Morris, Union, Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, Middlesex, and Somerset counties.

Winter Tree Care 101: How to Protect Your Trees This Winter

With the cold weather around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about winter tree care.

Now, that’s not to say trees aren’t resilient. They go dormant in the winter, much like hibernating animals. Even then, the icy temperatures and frosty conditions is still stressful for trees.

This is especially important for recently planted trees, which are not fully established. These trees are more susceptible to winter damage because they haven’t developed a solid root system.

Fortunately, with enough planning and preparation, you can help your beloved trees survive winter.

Add Mulch

Mulching isn’t just for landscaping projects during the warmer months. Come winter, mulch insulates your trees by increasing the temperature of the soil. This stops the soil from cracking, which protects the roots. Essentially, mulch is a blanket for trees.

Timing is everything, though. Mulch just before the ground freezes. Otherwise, pests and rodents will turn the mulch into their new winter home.

When you do mulch, add a two- or three-inch layer under your tree’s drip line. Avoid mulching too deep or up against the trunk. If you’re unsure how to mulch the right way, contact a professional tree company like Friendly Tree.

Water Throughout Fall

Again, preparation is key. During the fall season, make sure your trees are regularly watered. This is even more vital for newly planted trees.

Continue watering the trees until the ground freezes — around late October or November. From there, water them once or twice a month. You should also only water them under the following conditions:

• The temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
• There isn’t any ice or snow on the ground nearby
• It’s early in the day, which allows enough time for absorption

If you have evergreen trees, water them during winter droughts. Since they lose moisture through their needles, these trees need to store more water.

Fall Pruning

Winter tree branch care starts with smart fall pruning. Before the new season begins, remove weak and dying branches. This will minimize future breakage, especially during intense window and ice buildup.

Fall pruning not only improves the aesthetics of your tree, but it makes them safer too. As always, work with a certified arborist to ensure that your trees are properly pruned.

Wrap Tree Trunks

To protect your trees from the frigid winter nights, use winter tree wraps. These wraps will keep tree trunks warm during the chilly weather.

They’ll also prevent sunscald, a condition that damages the trunk. Sunscald happens when the tree trunk freezes at night, then thaws under the winter sun. When it freezes again at night, the cells in the bark can burst and cause cracking.

Tree wraps also stop rodents, rabbits, and other animals from chewing on your tree trunks.

It’s best to install the tree wraps in late fall or early winter, before the first freeze. You can leave them on until late winter or early spring.

Remove Snow

While you’re shoveling the driveway, don’t forget to remove the snow from tree branches. Otherwise, snow can build up and break branches.

Gently remove the snow with a soft broom. You can also carefully push the branch upward until the snow falls off. If the branch has ice, spray it with warm water through a garden hose. Never try to remove ice from a branch.

Friendly Tree Will Help You Weather The Winter Season

Although New Jersey winters can be brutal, it’s possible to protect your trees from seasonal damage. It comes down to proper winter tree care and being vigilant about tree maintenance.

If you’re not sure where to start, get in touch with Friendly Tree. Our experienced New Jersey arborists can examine your trees and offer winter survival tips according to their age, health, and species. With this personalized guidance, you can give your trees the best protection possible during the frosty weather.

To schedule a consultation, contact Friendly Tree at (973) 678-8888.

What Are Air Spade Services?

Root excavation is one of the most important components of tree care. The tree’s root system, after all, can’t be seen above ground level. An arborist needs to remove the soil around the roots in order to properly examine the root tissue.

Fortunately, it’s possible to do this without injuring the roots. The answer is the Air Spade, a state-of-the-art tool that Friendly Tree is proud to use. Let’s look at how Air Spade services work and why they are so useful.

Air Spades for Root Excavation

The Air Spade is an excavation device that uses compressed air to remove soil. It’s powerful enough to handle heavy materials like hard clay or clumps of soil. At the same time, it’s gentle enough to safely use around sensitive roots.

The device is essentially a long stick, or wand, with an adjustable nozzle. The wand is connected to an air compressor, which sends high-pressure air through the wand. When the air is released from the nozzle, it breaks apart lumps of soil.

When is an Air Spade Used?

Air Spades are used for removing soil around the base of a tree. This exposes the tree’s complex root system, which is ideal for situations like:  

• Preparation for root inspection
• Diagnosis of tree concerns or diseases
• Removal of excess soil after construction projects  
• Preparation for various treatments (such as fungicides)
• Excavation of trees that were planted too deeply (a common occurrence)
• Digging trenches for gas, electric, utility, and sprinkler lines without cutting roots

How an Air Spade Protects a Tree

Since the root system is underground, it’s impossible to inspect or handle the roots without digging up the surrounding soil. This is traditionally done with a hand spade or another mechanical technique.

However, it can be a tedious process. It can also result in root damage and endanger the health of the tree.

Air Spades offer a safer, more efficient method. The high-pressure air breaks apart soil without harming the root tissue. As a bonus, the process is quick, so it saves time for both the arborist and property owner.

The only drawback is that the Air Spade is quite loud. The noise is caused by the air compressor and high-pressure air. Otherwise, an Air Spade will only benefit your tree in the long run.

Friendly Tree Offers Air Spade Services in New Jersey

If you’re in need of root excavation, contact Friendly Tree. Our New Jersey tree experts are skilled in professional Air Spade services. During the excavation process, we can also examine your tree’s health and diagnose any plant concerns.

Since 1989, Friendly Tree has offered tree services throughout northern New Jersey. Our team serves Essex, Morris, Union, Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, Middlesex, and Somerset counties. When you’re ready to schedule a consultation, contact Friendly Tree at (973) 678-8888.

Why Are My Tree’s Leaves Turning Yellow?

It goes without saying that New Jersey autumns are beautiful. It’s all thanks to the gorgeous medley of yellow, orange, and red leaves. You might even spot a few purple ones if you’re lucky.

While we adore these amazing colors, it can be concerning to see them off-season. This is especially true with yellow leaves, which typically indicate a problem. Naturally, if it isn’t fall quite yet, you might wonder why your leaves are turning yellow.

Here are potential causes of those yellow leaves:

1. Lack of Water

Insufficient water is a common cause of yellowing leaves. This is likely if you have automated water sprinklers, which may not reach all of your plants.

A dehydrated tree might have yellow leaves or leaves with brown tips. The leaves might also be dry, wilted, or curling.

To determine if a tree is underwatered, check the soil six to eight inches deep. It should be moist and somewhat cool. But if the soil is dry and crumbly, the tree is thirsty.

2. Too Much Water

Likewise, overwatering can make leaves turn yellow or pale green. Too much water deprives the roots of oxygen, which suffocates and kills them. As a result, the damaged roots are unable to deliver nutrients and oxygen to the leaves.

You can tell a tree is overwatered if the area around is frequently wet. To remedy the problem, take a break from watering your tree. If you have an automated sprinkler, make sure most of the water isn’t falling onto one plant. An environmental factor like a small hill or gutter might also be directing water toward a single tree.

3. Fungal, Bacterial, Viral Disease

A tree with yellow leaves might have an infection. You can identify the pathogen at play by observing other signs and symptoms.

Generally, fungal diseases cause yellow leaves and/or brown spots. There might also be a powdery mildew substance on the leaves. Bacterial diseases, on the other hand, typically cause dark spots with yellow “halos.” Viral diseases cause yellow and crinkly leaves.

If you think your plant is infected, ask an expert tree provider to diagnose the problem.

4. Pest Infestation

Yellow, hole-ridden leaves are likely caused by a pest infestation.

Insects like aphids and mealybugs are notorious for attacking trees. These bugs feed on nutrient-rich sap, making it difficult for a tree to produce enough chlorophyll.

Again, like pathogenic diseases, tree pest infestations are best handled by professionals. It’s the best way to properly control the invasion and prevent it from spreading.

5. Nutrient Deficiency

Trees, like humans, need enough minerals to stay healthy. Specifically, trees need nutrients like:

• Iron
• Zinc
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Boron

If a tree doesn’t get enough of these nutrients, it will have difficulty making chlorophyll, the pigment that makes leaves green. This causes a condition called chlorosis, which turns leaves yellow or yellow-white.

But this isn’t just a superficial issue. A plant needs chlorophyll to turn sunlight into energy and food. Without sufficient chlorophyll, the tree will starve and die.

To identify chlorosis, look at the leaves’ veins. The area between the veins typically turn yellow first, while the actual veins stay green. If the chlorosis is severe, the leaves will be completely yellow with brown spots.

You can reverse the issue by mixing supplements into the soil. An expert tree provider like Friendly Tree can determine which supplements are necessary.

6. Herbicides

Finally, some herbicides lead to yellowing. These weed killers contain chemicals that can disrupt chlorophyll production. Consequently, the leaves turn yellow and the plant is unable to continue photosynthesis.

The yellowing might appear in streaks or spots. In some cases, the veins may also turn pink or purple.

Let Friendly Tree Diagnose All Your Tree Problems

If you’re not sure why your leaves are turning yellow, consult the professionals at Friendly Tree. As you can see, there are many potential causes, so it’s important to work with an expert.

We can examine your tree and diagnose the problem before it progresses. Most importantly, our tree technicians can explain how to prevent the issue from coming back.

Friendly Tree offers tree services in New Jersey. Since 1989, we’ve proudly served customers throughout northern New Jersey, including Montclair, Madison, Union, Morristown, and more.

Contact Friendly Tree at (973) 678-8888 to get a quote or schedule a consultation.

Why Your Tree Company Should Have Insurance 2

When it comes to hiring a tree company, there are many things to look for. 

For starters, you should consider their experience and reviews of former customers. You’ll also want to learn about their specific services, like tree pruning or tree planting. And then, of course, you’ll want to consider the actual cost of their professional services.

But before you can move forward, there’s one more box that needs to be checked: insurance. 

After all, if you hire a tree company without full insurance coverage, you’ll simply create a recipe for disaster.

In this article, we’ll break down the reasons why your tree company should always have insurance.

The Nature of Working with Mother Nature

First, it helps to understand the liability that comes with tree service work.

The tree care field is one of the most dangerous industries in the country. From extreme heights to electrical lines, workers are regularly exposed to high-risk situations. Tree care employees are also required to operate sharp and heavy equipment.

The job is even more dangerous after storms, when conditions are more slippery than usual.

Most importantly, Mother Nature is unpredictable. A dying tree branch, for example, can fall without warning. This is why it’s crucial to work with an experienced and knowledgeable tree service company like Friendly Tree.

Insurance Protects Both You and the Tree Company  

Due to the dangerous nature of tree care, it’s critical to hire a company that has insurance. Specifically, they should have general liability insurance and workers’ compensation.

If a tree worker is injured on your property, workers’ compensation will cover their medical bills. But if they get hurt on your property and don’t have insurance, the company or worker can potentially sue you.

Plus, if you knowingly hire a company without insurance, your home insurance probably won’t pay the claim.

Insurance also protects against structural damages. For instance, if a tree worker prunes a tree and a heavy branch falls on your roof or car, their insurance will cover it.

Of course, no one wants accidents or injuries to happen. However, anything is possible, and it’s always best to be prepared.

Your Tree Company Should Also Have Certified Arborists and Tree Experts

In addition to insurance, your tree company should also have certified and licensed tree experts.

These experts have completed a high standard of training, licensing, and certifications. This ensures that they’ll get the job done — and do it right.

It also means that they have received proper safety training, thus reducing the risk of injuries and accidents.

Keep this in mind if another business, like a landscaping company, attempts to offer you tree services. While they might have insurance, their workers aren’t professional trained to handle the job.

Moreover, their insurance likely won’t cover the same scenarios tree workers encounter each day.

Call the Friendly Experts at Friendly Tree

As you can see, there are many reasons why your tree company should have insurance. It protects everyone involved, from the client to the business.

With Friendly Tree, you won’t have to wonder. We’re a fully insured tree company with years of professional experience. Since 1989, our team of certified arborists has proudly provided tree service in northern New Jersey.

We can’t wait to serve you, too. To learn more about our expert tree services, contact us at (973) 678-8888.

Why Your Tree Company Should Have Insurance

When it comes to hiring a tree company, there are many things to look for. 

For starters, you should consider their experience and reviews of former customers. You’ll also want to learn about their specific services, like tree pruning or tree planting. And then, of course, you’ll want to consider the actual cost of their professional services.

But before you can move forward, there’s one more box that needs to be checked: insurance. 

After all, if you hire a tree company without full insurance coverage, you’ll simply create a recipe for disaster.

In this article, we’ll break down the reasons why your tree company should always have insurance.

The Nature of Working with Mother Nature

First, it helps to understand the liability that comes with tree service work.

The tree care field is one of the most dangerous industries in the country. From extreme heights to electrical lines, workers are regularly exposed to high-risk situations. Tree care employees are also required to operate sharp and heavy equipment.

The job is even more dangerous after storms, when conditions are more slippery than usual.

Most importantly, Mother Nature is unpredictable. A dying tree branch, for example, can fall without warning. This is why it’s crucial to work with an experienced and knowledgeable tree service company like Friendly Tree.

Insurance Protects Both You and the Tree Company  

Due to the dangerous nature of tree care, it’s critical to hire a company that has insurance. Specifically, they should have general liability insurance and workers’ compensation.

If a tree worker is injured on your property, workers’ compensation will cover their medical bills. But if they get hurt on your property and don’t have insurance, the company or worker can potentially sue you.

Plus, if you knowingly hire a company without insurance, your home insurance probably won’t pay the claim.

Insurance also protects against structural damages. For instance, if a tree worker prunes a tree and a heavy branch falls on your roof or car, their insurance will cover it.

Of course, no one wants accidents or injuries to happen. However, anything is possible, and it’s always best to be prepared.

Your Tree Company Should Also Have Certified Arborists and Tree Experts

In addition to insurance, your tree company should also have certified and licensed tree experts.

These experts have completed a high standard of training, licensing, and certifications. This ensures that they’ll get the job done — and do it right.

It also means that they have received proper safety training, thus reducing the risk of injuries and accidents.

Keep this in mind if another business, like a landscaping company, attempts to offer you tree services. While they might have insurance, their workers aren’t professional trained to handle the job.

Moreover, their insurance likely won’t cover the same scenarios tree workers encounter each day.

Call the Friendly Experts at Friendly Tree

As you can see, there are many reasons why your tree company should have insurance. It protects everyone involved, from the client to the business.

With Friendly Tree, you won’t have to wonder. We’re a fully insured tree company with years of professional experience. Since 1989, our team of certified arborists has proudly provided tree service in northern New Jersey.

We can’t wait to serve you, too. To learn more about our expert tree services, contact us at (973) 678-8888.

Tree Stump Grinding: What It Is and Why You Might Need It

As a homeowner, you’ve likely heard all about tree planting, pruning, and removal. Planting new trees, after all, is one of the best ways to enhance the natural beauty of your property. Pruning is an essential part of tree care, while removal is crucial for getting rid of old or dead trees.

But what about tree stump grinding? Some homeowners aren’t aware that it’s even necessary. 

Let’s look at what tree stump grinding is and why you might need it.

Tree Stump Grinding 101

Tree stump grinding is a stump removal technique.

It involves a machine that grates the stump until it’s just below the soil. In some cases, the stump can be grinded as deep as 12 inches (or more) below the surface. This creates a discrete hole in the ground, letting you re-purpose the area.

The process of tree stump grinding takes just a few minutes. It also produces wood chip mulch, which is placed in the hole for 2 to 3 months. These wood chips steal nitrogen and other nutrients from the area before they start to decompose.

From there, you can spread the wood chips in areas like your garden, planting beds, and walkways. How’s that for resourcefulness?

While stump grinding leaves behind the roots, you won’t have to handle them. They’ll naturally break down in about 10 years.

Tree Stump Grinding Improves Aesthetics and Safety

Tree removal naturally leaves behind a stump. This leftover base can be visually unattractive, especially if your lawn is perfectly landscaped.

Mold, weeds, and insects could also grow on a tree stump and diminish your property’s curb appeal. Plus, if pests and diseases aren’t controlled, they can spread to other plants.

Most importantly, a tree stump is a safety hazard. Since most stumps are just a couple inches high, it’s easy to trip over one. This is dangerous for both kids and adults alike.

Tree stumps also make it difficult to properly mow the lawn. And even if a lawn mower makes it over the stump, there’s a major risk of machine damage.

Tree Stump Grinding vs. Tree Stump Removal

Tree stump grinding is just one technique for removing a tree stump. The other method is tree stump removal, which involves digging up the stump and its roots.

Compared to grinding, tree stump removal is more invasive. It takes more time, money, and powerful machines. Complete removal of a tree stump also leaves a bigger hole in the ground.

On the flipside, this hole offers more of a blank slate than stump grinding. It’s easier to “start over” if you totally remove the stump.

Call the Expert Tree Technicians at Friendly Tree

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach for dealing with a tree stump. The best choice depends on your property and what you plan to do with the area.

Luckily, with Friendly Tree, you’ll have personalized guidance every step of the way. Our professional tree technicians in New Jersey are ready to learn about your needs. We’ll also explain what tree stump grinding is and why you might need it.

When the time comes, we can also provide other tree services like tree trimming and tree planting.

For a friendly consultation with Friendly Tree, contact us at (973) 678-8888.

How Trees Help Retain (and Reduce) Stormwater Runoff

Trees offer countless environmental benefits. For example, they cleanse the air by producing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide. They also provide homes and food for animals like birds and squirrels. Needless to say, trees can bring immense value and advantages to a natural landscape.

But the benefits of trees don’t stop there. Trees also retain and reduce stormwater runoff, one of the biggest issues of urban and suburban areas. This means they can play a significant role in protecting the local environment.

Why Is Stormwater Runoff an Issue?

We all know rain is important. It replenishes our water sources, “feeds” rivers and lakes, and keeps our grass green and healthy. Rain also provides essential nutrients for agricultural crops and beautiful trees.

The problem is when rain becomes stormwater runoff. This happens when rainfall or melting snow flows over paved surfaces like roads, parking lots, and driveways. Since these surfaces are impermeable, they don’t soak up water. The result is a large volume of water flowing over ground surfaces.

Here’s why this can be bad news:

Flooding and Erosion

If rapid runoff flows into bodies of water, it can disrupt the natural flow and damage local animal habitats. It can also worsen the severity of flooding in urban and suburban neighborhoods.

Sewage Problems

Stormwater runoff can overwhelm local sewage systems, which are full of harmful pathogens and heavy metals. This presents serious public health concerns.

Pollution

When stormwater passes over paved surfaces, it picks up pollutants like pesticides, pet waste, lawn fertilizer, and byproducts from construction sites. The water then pushes these pollutants into local streams and rivers.

Excess Sediment

Similarly, fast-moving runoff forces sediment and residue into bodies of water. This can destroy natural habitats and block sunlight from underwater plant life.

Trees and Stormwater Runoff

While paved surfaces don’t mix well with rainfall, they’re essential components of developed neighborhoods. It’d be difficult to travel around town without surfaces like roads and sidewalks.

The solution? Plant new trees and take care of existing ones. Aside from beautifying our properties and streets, trees can manage stormwater runoff.

They can:

Retain Water

A tree provides a surface for rain to land on. Specifically, its leaves and bark can “intercept” and retain rainfall. This water will then evaporate or end up in the soil.

Decrease Erosion

Likewise, tree canopies intercept rainfall and reduce the risk of erosion.

Absorb Moisture

Water can also collect on fallen leaves. Eventually, the moisture will permeate the soil instead of flowing over paved surfaces.

Roots also absorb the water and aerate the soil, which soaks up moisture. This reduces the accumulation of runoff after a storm.

Plant New Trees and Reduce Stormwater Runoff

You can’t control the weather, but you can control how your property handles heavy rainfall. That’s why it’s important to plant trees to retain and reduce stormwater runoff.

However, managing runoff doesn’t stop at planting new trees. It also involves taking care of the trees you already have. By keeping your existing trees healthy, you can do your part in reducing stormwater runoff.

Friendly Tree is here to help. As a team of certified arborists, we offer professional tree planting services in New Jersey. We also know what it takes to help trees thrive and flourish.

To get a quote or schedule a consultation, contact Friendly Tree at (973) 678-8888.

How to Avoid Damaging Your Tree’s Roots

When you look at a tree, it’s easy to find something to admire: the robust trunk, the rustling leaves, and maybe even some dainty flowers. In the fall, the leaves morph into a spectacle of warm colors. In the winter, the branches become home to freshly fallen snow.

Needless to say, there’s a lot to appreciate when you look at a majestic tree.

But what about the roots?

While you can’t always see them, the roots are as admirable as the rest of the tree. The root system, which anchors the tree to the ground, supplies the tree with nutrients and water. It also helps drain and aerate the surrounding soil.

So, take the time to learn how to avoid damaging your tree’s roots. By following these safety precautions, you can help your beloved tree thrive for years to come.

Don’t Overwater

When it comes to watering, it can be tempting to literally “shower” a tree with love. After all, as a crucial component of tree care, water is essential for healthy roots.

Yet, it’s possible to overdo it. If a tree is overwatered, the roots will suffocate and fail to take up nutrients. The excess water can also promote the growth of dangerous microorganisms and cause root rot.

Overwatering is especially detrimental within the first two years of planting a tree. During this time, the root system is still establishing itself in the soil, so it’s important to go easy on the water.

If you’re not sure how often you should water your trees, talk to a certified arborist at Friendly Tree.

Add Mulch Properly

Mulch can do so much more than “prettify” your landscape. When used properly, mulch can insulate the soil and lock in root moisture. It also prevents soil compaction, ensuring that roots can efficiently absorb nutrients and water.

But like watering, there’s a wrong and right way to mulch. For example, piling a “mulch volcano” against the trunk will rob the bark and roots of oxygen. It also encourages the growth of disease-causing fungi and bacteria.

Instead, you should apply mulch from the tree’s root flare. Apply the mulch in a 3 to 10-foot circle around the base and use a rake to spread it out. Additionally, the layer of mulch should be no more than 2 to 4 inches deep.

Never Cut Roots Yourself

Whether you’re adding more plants or building near trees, you might consider snipping roots to make more space. However, much like pruning leaves, trimming roots should be left to the professionals.

Some roots are necessary for the tree’s water flow, nutrient delivery, and stability. If these roots are cut away, the tree can die or fall over.

A certified arborist can determine which roots are safe to trim. They can also consider other important factors, such as the best time of the year to cut roots. (Yes, it matters!)

Avoid Pouring Concrete

If you’re building a new structure or sprucing up your landscape, you might want to add concrete or stone near a tree. Unfortunately, this can severely damage your tree’s root system, even if it’s already established.

Concrete and stone will suffocate the roots, making it impossible to absorb oxygen, water, and nutrients.

If you must add concrete or stone, talk to a professional concrete company. They can work with an arborist to figure out the best way to add concrete without harming the roots.

Treat Your Roots Well with Friendly Tree

While every tree and property are different, these tips will help you avoid damaging your tree’s roots. If you have questions — or if you want personalized guidance — don’t hesitate to contact Friendly Tree.

Our New Jersey certified arborists can provide root safety tips based on the specific trees you own. We also offer a range of professional tree services, including tree pruning and tree planting.

To schedule a consultation or get a quote, contact Friendly Tree at (973) 678-8888.