What is the green stuff growing on my trees?

Most of the time, in damp, shady areas you will spot a substance on the branches or trunk of a seemingly declining tree. This substance can be either lichen or moss.

What’s the difference between lichen and moss on trees?

Lichen

• A combination of fungi and algae

• Can be a range of colors including blue, green gray etc.

• Appears in thin flaky patches

Moss

• Always dark green

• Coarse texture

Does moss or lichen harm my tree?

Lichen does not harm trees, though it might seem that way because they are usually found on declining specimen. Actually, lichen just tends to thrive on unhealthy trees because when they are under stress, there are usually less leaves and branches, allowing more light to shine on the trunk and creating the perfect environment for lichen to take over.

How can I get rid of moss or lichen on my trees?

There is no pressing need to rid the tree of moss or lichen as it does no harm to your trees and actually can be beneficial to the environment by providing a food source for many birds and other animals. However, if you would still like to get rid of it, a fungicide called copper sulfate can be applied by an ISA certified Arborist to kill it.

If you have moss or lichen on your trees, it is best to have them assessed properly by one of our ISA certified Arborists to rule out any potential tree disease, tree decay or pests that could be causing stress on the tree to begin with. Use the link below to be connected with an ISA certified arborist today!

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Why Is Topping Your Trees Deadly?

Sometimes, due to improper planting or planning, the trees we once loved outgrow them selves and become a problem. It may seem easiest to just chop them at the top to shorten them back down to a reasonable size. However, doing so could put your trees at major risk for decline.

Why is tree topping bad for my trees?

• Improper pruning leaves the tree open for pests and decay to take over

• It triggers response growth, a trees natural reaction to grow a large amount of smaller weaker branches in place of what was lost. This can be very unsightly and dangerous in heavy storms

• The tree struggles to repair the large amount of leaves and branches lost, its main food source

Topping your trees can end up being much more costly than just removing them al together and replanting and specimen that fits your style.

If you have trees that have outgrown their space and need some recommendations on how to fix them, our Arborists in Monroe are always available at the link below!

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Why Are My Shrubs Dying?

Some of the most common types of shrubs to plant around suburban houses are azaleas, boxwoods and holly’s. But sometimes, due to a number of reasons, these shrubs don’t last long before turning brown and dying off little by little.

But what’s causing my shrubs to die?

Many factors come into play when determining cause for decline in shrubs.

Environmental factors. Georgia heat can be a lot to handle, especially for certain specimen who prefer partly shaded areas or thrive in cooler environments. Before planting your desired shrub, be sure to do some research on where and how you should plant it to ensure it isn’t getting too much or too little sun.

Pests/diseases. Small insects such as borers or different types of diseases can cause your shrubs to turn brown or die. Be sure to have your property inspected by a certified Arborist to be sure that those diseases or pests don’t spread to your other trees or plants.

Soil moisture. In summertime, your shrubs will need a little extra TLC. Especially when it comes to water. The most vital thing to your plants health is ensuring they are getting enough water in extreme heat temperatures. However, it is also possible to over water your shrubs and trees as well so it is important to establish a schedule that fits.

Fertilizer overload. This can be tricky because unless a soil test has been performed, the proper amount or type of fertilizer you may need can be a guessing game. By applying too much of the wrong type of fertilizer to your shrubs, you can actually burn your shrubs by increasing the salt levels in the soil.

How can I stop my shrubs from dying?

If your shrubs are suffering from something simple like leaf scorch or drought, getting them in a shaded area by replanting or putting another species nearby to provide them with more shade could do the trick. Establishing a proper watering schedule especially in extreme heat situations is important to keep them healthy and happy as well. But if you are concerned about diseases or pests that could have infected your shrubs, be sure to contact your local ISA certified Arborist to schedule a free consultation on your landscape!

Call an arborist.

Top 5 Tree Pests During Summer In Georgia

Summer has arrived in Georgia and we are all enjoying the pollen lessening and the weather getting warmer. However, we aren’t the only ones who are enjoying the great outdoors. With summer, brings a whole new world of places for pests to thrive. We have gotten together a list of the top 5 most common tree pests in Watkinsville we see in Georgia in the summer.

Bagworms

• Feed mostly on juniper, arborvitae, cedar, spruce, honeylocust, linden, willow, maple, oak, birch, elm and poplar

• Consume tree leaves

• Must be controlled at first sight of infestation to avoid tree decline

Tent Caterpillars

• Most noticeable with large spider webs and leaf loss

• Affects mostly black cherry, ash, birch, sweetgum, willow, maple and oak

• Certified Arborist must apple a treatment to control the larvae in winter from reproducing

Aphids

• Affects all specimens

• Feeds on tree leaves and stems causing leaf drop.

• Can usually be found on the trunk of the tree or the underside of the leaves

• Call Certified Arborist for treatment plan at first notice of the infestation

Canker worms

• Eats away at the leaves of your trees leaving behind ragged, choppy leaves

• Mostly affected specimen are elm, oak, apple, maple, linden, beech, cherry, hickory and ash

• Pesticide must be applied in spring by a certified Arborist to remove them

Japanese Beetle

• Most commonly seen on crape myrtle, birch, littleleaf linden, crabapple, purple leaf plum, Japanese maple and Norway maple

• Chew through the veins of the leaves on your trees leaving behind only a brown skeleton

• Pesticide must be applied by a certified Arborist during peak growing season, mid June-August

If you have noticed leaf drop, yellowing of the leaves or other concerning issues with the health of your trees, our certified Arborists in Watkinsville can provide you with a free assesment! Click the link below to get in touch!

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How To Get Rid Of Spider Mites

Have you noticed small yellow or brown spots on the leaves of your trees or plants this year? Maybe even small spider webs on the leaves with little to no sign of actual pest presence?

Your landscape might have become victim to pesky spider mites.

What are spider mites?

Spider mites are a pesky pests that are rarely able to be seen with the naked eye and live on the underside of the leaves of your trees and plants spinning webs that can ultimately lead to the death of those specimen. They are only about one millimetre big and have different shades of red, yellow, black or brown.

What do they feed on?

Spider mites are not picky eaters. They will feed on just about any type of tree or plant you have in your garden without complaint. They ultimately feed on the bottom of your tree leaves, leaving the signs of damage on the top portions.

How can I get rid of them?

Depending on the severity of your infestation, it is always best to consult with a certified arborist in Athens before making any decisions that could ultimately affect the overall health of your trees. However, there are a couple quick fixes you can use to minimize the damage until an arborist can come to your property.

• Spray the tree or plant with water to dislodge any webbing and release as many mites as possible making sure to get the underside of the leaves.

• Many retail stores carry insecticidal soap that you can spray early in the morning or in the evening every 7-10 days to kill further eggs from hatching.

• Neem oil is an organic remedy used by a large amount of gardeners as an all natural way to rid your trees and plants from a large number of pests.

If you have done all of these steps and are still having any issues with your trees dropping leaves, browning or yellowing, please give us a call using the link below to be connected with a certified Arborist in Athens to assist you with any tree pest issues you might be having.

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Is My Sprinkler System Damaging My Trees?

Irrigation systems are great for low maintenance landscaping. Essentially you just set it , forget it, and watch everything bloom. However, if these irrigation systems are not properly placed, they can cause a problem for your trees and plants.

In the strong Georgia heat, we rarely think of overwatering posing any threats to our gardens. In the heat of the summer especially, it is very important to provide a substantial amount of water to keep your trees, plants and grass thriving.

When you decide to have your sprinkler system installed its important to make sure the location is ideal. Too much water can do just as much harm as too little. Overwatering with trees can be a dangerous situation as excessive moisture provides a perfect breeding ground for pathogens and fungus to develop, essentially leading to the weakening of your trees. If you notice any fungus or mushrooms growing at the base or the trunks of your trees, call a certified Arborist as soon as possible to have your trees properly assessed for decline.

Some signs your plants/trees are getting too much water are:

• root rot

• bark falling off the trunk

• trunk damage

• saturated soils

• fungus (mushrooms, etc.)

Some signs your plants/trees aren’t getting enough water are:

• wilted or curling leaves

• smaller leaves than normal

• leaf drop

• yellowing or burning of the leaves

After installation, walk around to different spots checking the soil after a run to ensure it is getting proper moisture. If the soil is heavily saturated you know your trees and plants are being overwatered and visa versa.

If you would like an ISA Certified Arborist to come assess the health of your trees, click the link below to be connected!

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What Can I Do About Woodpecker Damage On My Trees?

We all love the spring time, being able to sit outside and enjoy the weather, and of course all the beautiful varieties of birds and their songs. Until you hear the repetitive an consistent drilling of a nearby woodpecker looking for food and leaving large open wounds in our trees as they leave. This damage can leave your trees open for insects, disease and affect the overall health of your trees.

What does woodpecker damage look like?

Luckily, it doesn’t take a certified Arborist in Bethlehem to identify the damage left behind from those pesky woodpeckers. Woodpeckers aren’t generally picky eaters but they do tend to stick to a select few species such as maple, pine, fruit trees, spruce and birch. They leave behind a very distinct trail of precise horizontal and vertical rows of holes at about 2-8” in diameter. Just big enough to suck some sap right out of your trees. If your tree doesn’t resemble the picture below, you might have a different intruder that can be identified by a certified Arborist.

How can I prevent any further damage?

It might be too late to mend up the damage that the sapsuckers have caused on your trees, however, you can try and prevent future attacks by using some of the following tips:

• Use a woodpecker feeder as a decoy

• Plant fruit bushes away from your house and trees for them to feed on

• Use burlap or bird netting over the affected trees

• Use a woodpecker sound deterrent

• Set up decoys as a scare tactic

• Call a tree care professional

IF YOU HAVE HOLES IN YOUR TREES THAT NEED ATTENTION, CALL A TREE CARE PROFESSIONAL TODAY!

What Is A Certified Arborist & Why Do I Need One?

If you are in the search for tree care professionals in Athens, you have probably heard the term “Arborist” pop up once or twice.

So what is a certified arborist?

Properly caring for your trees requires a professional that has knowledge and expertise in arboriculture. Arboriculture is essentially the cultivation, management, and study of trees and other woody plants.

Becoming a certified Arborist in Athens is done so through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and requires a number of years of experience as well as extensive testing. Most ISA Certified Arborists will attend a 2-4 year college in order to obtain the knowledge to pass the lengthy exams.

After the exams are over, ISA Certified Arborists are required to maintain their status and certification by taking classes, participating in labs, etc. As our environments evolve, so do the trees and the plants around us, which is why it is important that Davey Certified Arborists stay up to date on current diseases, pests and problems in order to properly assess your trees.

Hiring a certified Arborist from Davey will ensure your trees are getting the correct attention they need in order to survive and thrive in your specific environmental conditions.

Why do I need a Certified Arborist?

Some tree services do not have certified Arborists on staff with them which leaves you wondering why you really need one in the first place.

Taking proper care of your trees requires an extensive knowledge and background on tree care that only a certified Arborist will carry. By hiring a tree service that does not have proper knowledge or expertise in tree care, your trees could be in danger of improper pruning, unnecessary removals, and more!

An ISA Certified Arborist in Athens will always try to save your dead and dying trees before offering a simple removal. There are a number of treatments given to kill and prevent certain pests and diseases from taking over your trees before it is too late. Our certified Arborists will always recommend tree care over tree removals.

Last but not least, safety is the number one concern of an ISA Certified Arborist. When you hire an ISA Certified Arborist, you can rest assured you will not be putting your self or your trees in danger.

If you would like more information on how you can receive a free estimate from one of our certified Arborists, click the link below to be connected!

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