Tree Care Tips for Homeowners Who Want to Add an Inground Pool

Adding a pool to your property will certainly raise your home’s value; but be sure to take the proper measures to ensure your beautiful landscaping trees are not negatively affected by the construction and installation process. Trees add property value too! Continue reading to learn what you need to know about tree care before having an inground swimming pool installed.

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842

Preventative Maintenance Should Come Before Installation

Before construction begins for your inground swimming pool, be sure to talk to your contractor about their internal safety standards and practices in regards to landscape protection. You will want to know where they will need to enter your yard, which equipment will be driven on your lawn, which trees will need to be removed (if any), and much more. You will need to develop a plan together that will protect your trees during the construction process.

Tree Location

If trees are too close to a swimming pool, several inherent risks are posed. Not only can the leaves and pollen jeopardize the clarity of your pool water and add to the amount of manual maintenance you need to do, it can affect the tree root system. Trees that are too close are more likely to develop root stability problems, which can lead to tilting, tipping, and falling. This can subsequently cause the tree to experience health issues and eventual decline. As for your pool, the filter can be affected by all the falling tree debris, resulting in costly repair and replacement bills.

The general rule of thumb is to make sure trees are at least 2 ½ times the tree’s trunk diameter away from the lip of the swimming pool. Here’s an example on how to do the math:

Tree Trunk Diameter = 36 Inches
36 x 2.5 = 90 Inches
*This tree should be at least 90 inches (7.5 feet) away from the pool’s edge.

Pool Installation Crew

It is important to discuss how your pool company plans on installing your pool. That is because the impact of construction equipment and crew members can be highly detrimental to existing landscaping trees. Compaction of the critical root zones of trees can be easily prevented by simply discussing the concern upfront, and strategizing a way to avoid tree damage during the construction phase. Certain tree species are more resilient to this type of stimuli, such as live oaks. However, it is still important to take the necessary precautionary measures anyway. Other tree species are particularly vulnerable under such conditions, such as Hackberry trees. These will quickly split, rot, and decline if impacted negatively by pool construction.

Additional Tree Care Tips:

🌳 It is best to install pools in the fall or winter when trees are dormant. The stress of the construction and hot summer heat can take a large toll on landscaping trees.

🌳 Watch out for root damage when the pool installers begin to trench the ground. Roots should be cut cleanly, and never ripped or torn. This could cause uneven regeneration or root rot.

🌳 Contact an experienced Indianapolis tree service company for more advice on tree care.

Indianapolis Tree Care

Budget Tree Care

Budget Tree Care 317-590-1842

Call Budget Tree Care at 317-590-1842 for professional tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer residential and commercial tree work, as well as, free estimates, senior discounts, and the guaranteed lowest price in town! Request an estimate, today!

What is a Tree’s Critical Root Zone?

Taking care of your landscaping trees requires more than personal effort; it requires a little knowledge and understanding, too. A fundamental part of learning about tree care is knowing a tree’s critical root zone. A critical root zone, or CRZ, is essentially an imaginary boundary surrounding the base of a tree. Although the perimeter is imaginary, the meaning and importance is very real.

Measuring CRZ

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842

The imaginary boundary mentioned above should start at the drip line of a tree. This is where the water drips from the borders of the tree’s canopy. Imagine an open umbrella with water pouring on top. The circle of water created around the umbrella is similar to a tree’s drip line. For thinner trees, it is best to imagine the dripline a little farther out just to be sure all roots are taken into account.

Rather than locating (or guessing) a tree’s dripline, you can simply measure it yourself by hand. To measure your tree’s CRZ, start with some simple math. Measure the diameter of the tree trunk, and then multiply that number by 1.5. Here is an example:

Tree Trunk Diameter = 24 inches
Critical Root Zone = 1.5 ft2
MATH: 24 x 1.5 = 36
CRZ Radius = 36 feet

When measuring your tree trunk, start at an area that is 5 feet from the base. This is a more accurate measurement of the trunk diameter. Another way to find the tree trunk diameter is to measure the circumference of the tree trunk and multiply it by 3.14 (pi). Here is an example:

Trunk Circumference = 76.36 feet
Critical Root Zone = 1.5 ft2
MATH: 75.36/3.14 = 24
Tree Trunk Diameter = 24 inches

Indianapolis Tree Service

Budget Tree Care

Budget Tree Care 317-590-1842

Call Budget Tree Care at 317-590-1842 for professional and affordable Indianapolis tree service. We are experienced tree care contractors who provide residential and commercial tree services, including both routine and major tree work. As out company name suggests, we have the tree service solutions that will fit your BUDGET! Call 317-590-1842 to request a free estimate, today.

The 5 Parts of Spring Tree Care

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842

Now that spring is on its way, it is helpful to review your seasonal do-to list. One of the most important chores to add on that list is tree care. Your landscaping trees are valuable assets on your property. They provide shade in the summer, insulation in the winter, privacy, and sound-proofing benefits. They also provide beauty and curb appeal. Spring tree care is particularly important because that is the start of the growing season, so it is important to take good care of your trees during this time.

There are 5 parts of good spring tree care, some of which you can do on your own, while others require the assistance of a professional tree service company. Continue reading to learn more about them!

5 Parts of Tree Care in the Spring:

Cleaning

On the brink of springtime, start clearing away debris and other clutter away from you landscaping trees. This may include winter burlap covers, Christmas lights, rotted fruit, pine cones, pine needles, leaves, and more.

Inspection

After your trees are cleared, you want to take a good long look at them. Check their branches, foliage, trunk, bark, and overall stability. Look for signs of pests, wildlife activity, winter damage, and possible disease. If you see cankers, blights, or blemishes, it could be a sign that your tree is ill or dying.

Mulching

If you do not know the proper way to mulch a tree, it is vital that you learn as soon as possible. That is because mulch is a highly-important part of tree care. It helps the soil retain water and nutrients, and it prevents weed growth. Lay mulch around the base of the tree, not exceeding more than 3 inches of material. Be sure to avoid laying mulch against the tree trunk.

Watering

Watering is arguably one of the most important aspects of tree care, especially during the spring and summer months. Just be sure to not over-water your trees. To prevent moss growth, water your trees less often, but more deeply at every round. If soil is frozen, it is not ready to be watered.

Pruning

Spring tree pruning is important because it promotes new branch growth and renders bigger, brighter, fuller canopies come summertime. Be sure to have trees pruned by an experienced Indianapolis tree care company. They have the proper tools and safety training needed to get the job done right.

Tree Care on a Budget!

Budget Tree Care

Budget Tree Care 317-590-1842

Call Budget Tree Care at 317-590-1842 for professional spring tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer full-service, residential and commercial tree care and tree removal, and we guarantee to fit your budget! Let our highly-trained and experienced tree care contractors show you how to get your trees looking beautiful and healthy this season! Call 317-590-1842 to request a free estimate, today.

Budget Tree Care Will Help You Build an Easy and Affordable Tree Service Plan for 2017!

Give your landscaping trees the gift of routine tree service for the New Year!

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842
Indianapolis Tree Removal 317-590-1842

If you want beautiful, healthy, and safe landscaping trees this spring and summer, now is the time to start making a plan. And Budget Tree Care wants to help you do just that! It is important to learn the status and condition of your current trees, as well as, their individual needs in terms of health and safety. Once you have this information, you can put together a strategy that will address these concerns and conditions. All this is part of our process for managing landscaping trees effectively.

Effective Tree Care. Affordable Tree Service.

Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842
Indianapolis Tree Care 317-590-1842

We are fully-licensed and equipped to undertake any and all tree service needs, regardless of size or scope. We provide tree trimming, tree pruning, tree removal, stump grinding, stump removal, tree transplanting, and much more! As licensed and experienced tree care contractors, you can trust us to develop the perfect plan for your landscaping trees. Not only do we provide a wide range of residential and commercial tree services, we also offer free estimates, senior discounts, and the LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEED! We aren’t called Budget Tree Care for no reason! We can work with you to create a tree care plan that both meets your needs and your budget!

Indianapolis Tree Service

Budget Tree Care
Budget Tree Care 317-590-1842

Here at Budget Tree Care, we are committed to the utmost honest and professional business ethics. When you meet with us, you can expect us to show you the highest level of courtesy and respect by showing up on-time, neatly dressed, and ready to work. Give us a call today at 317-590-1842 to speak with a knowledgeable and friendly tree care contractor about planning out your 2017 schedule for tree care in Indianapolis, Indiana. Don’t forget to ask us about our tree service deals and discounts too!

5 Ways to Stop Moss Growth on Trees

In the right setting, moss can be very attractive: along streams, cascading down a mountain side, clinging to river rock, etc. But in the wrong place, such as trees, moss is actually a detriment, and even a nuisance. That is because moss grows abundantly and fast, taking over lawns, gardens, and anything else in its way.

Moss also requires a substantial amount of water to thrive; so when living on a tree, the moss takes most of the water needed for the tree to survive. The outcome: a distressed, thirsty tree on the brink of death. But the good news is that moss is easy to remove and prevent. Continue reading to learn about 5 effective ways to stop the growth of moss on your property.

Watering the Lawn

Water your lawn less frequently. But when you do water your lawn, water it deeply. This way, you can afford to water it less without the risk of your grass drying up and dying. And most importantly, when you water your lawn, be very careful to NOT get the trunks of your trees wet. This is the formula for moss growth.

Test pH Levels in the Soil

Knowing your lawn’s pH levels is helpful when it comes to preventing moss growth. Use a store-bought soil testing kit to determine the pH level of your soil. Acidic soils can be balanced out with lime treatments. This will create unfavorable conditions for moss, preventing it from growing.

Aerate the Lawn

On the topic of soil, it is wise to aerate the lawn to prevent moss growth. If you do not want to aerate the soil, you can introduce new organic topsoil to your existing lawn soil. This will improve drainage, thus preventing standing water and moss growth.

Remove By Hand

If you have loads of moss growing on one or more of your landscaping trees, you can instantly get rid of it by picking it off manually. Just be gentle doing so as to not jeopardize the integrity of the tree bark. In the winter time during their dormant stage, you can also use a power washer to remove moss from trees.

Hire a Tree Care Company for Tree Thinning Service

A licensed tree care company can provide tree thinning services to help with moss control. Thinning the branches of your landscaping trees will be beneficial for the trees because it lets in more sunlight to your property. Not only does this promote more food production in the tree, it prevents the cold, wet conditions that can lead to moss growth. Keeping your tree trunk dry is critical to moss prevention.

Indianapolis Tree Service

Budget Tree Care

Budget Tree Care 317-590-1842

Call Budget Tree Care at 317-590-1842 for professional tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding areas. Owner Curt Scott is a licensed tree care specialist that offers a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at the most competitive prices in town. After all, we are called BUDGET Tree Care! Call 317-590-1842 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis tree service, today.

Why is Tree Topping Harmful to Trees?

Many people believe that tree topping is an effective form of pruning. The truth is, it is not an acceptable technique at all. In fact, tree topping is the most harmful tree care practice used for pruning trees. Somehow, it has remained a common means to prune trees despite the tedious warnings from tree care experts. But there are times when trees can be topped.

Tree topping is an acceptable practice when performed on dead trees for the purpose of aesthetics or hindered views. If you want the best for your landscaping trees, continue reading to learn more about tree topping and its harmful effects on trees.

Unselective Branch Removal

Topping trees involves cutting most or all branches and limbs down to short stubs. Essentially, it is the process of removing tree branches and limbs without being selective or concerned. Tree topping also goes by the names, “tipping”, “hat-racking”, “heading”, and “rounding over.” The most common reason people choose to top a tree is to shorten it or reduce its size. Unless the tree is already dead, this is highly-detrimental to its survival. That is because tree topping is not an effective method for reducing the height or span of a tree. Homeowners also have trees topped when they feel that their tree is too large and may pose a danger in the future. But this is not an effective method for reducing tree hazards either. What topping will do is increase the risk of tree hazards and problems.

Tree Stress

Trees are living organisms, which means they too can experience a decline in health and well-being. And when they are treated improperly, they can become stressed, which can result in tree health decline and more. Stress is a common side effect a tree can experience as a result of tree topping. Most of a tree’s life-bearing crown is removed during the tree topping process, which inhibits their ability to obtain sufficient food. And when they cannot get enough food, they starve, thus triggering various other survival instincts and mechanisms.

For instance, it can trigger dormant buds to activate, which then prompts epicormic shoots to grow rapidly from every cut. This is the tree’s attempt to re-grow foliage as quickly as possible in order to survive. Unfortunately, topped trees often weaken and die because they cannot grow enough leaves back to sufficiently feed themselves.

Other Negative Effects of Tree Topping:

🌳 Decay occurs because the tree cannot close or heal its large cuts.
🌳 Exposed trees are prone to sunburn.
🌳 Epicormic sprouts can fall and damage property or injure people and pets.
🌳 Unhealthy trees attract pests and diseases.

Indianapolis Tree Pruning

Budget Tree Care

Budget Tree Care 317-590-1842

Call Budget Tree Care at 317-590-1842 for professional tree pruning services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner Curt Scott has decades of experience in the tree care industry, and provides a wide range of residential and commercial tree services, including tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, stump removal, lot clearing, and much more. Call 317-590-1842 to request an estimate for Indianapolis tree pruning, today.

The Proper Way to Mulch a Tree

Did you know that mulching is one of the most effective and beneficial method of tree care? In fact, properly mulching your landscaping trees can promote healthier, longer-lasting trees. Mulch is a man-made product generally composed of organic materials like wood chips, pine needles, manure, and other types of compost. But it can also be made from non-organic materials like rock, stone, Geo-textile fabrics, and pulverized rubber. When applied properly, mulch allows soil to retain sufficient levels of moisture. This not only improves the condition of the soil, it does so much more!

Benefits of Tree Mulching:

• Promotes overall tree health
• Controls weed growth
• Insulates soil
• Protects tree roots from extreme temperatures
• Prevents certain plant diseases
• Improves soil aeration and drainage
• Gives landscaping a well-groomed look
• Mulch decomposition improves soil fertility
• And much more!

When applied improperly, mulch can have negative effects on a tree’s health. For this reason, proper mulching methods are important, and should be practiced every spring. And since spring is here, it is time to start thinking about your seasonal tree care needs, including new mulch! Continue reading to learn how to properly mulch a tree.

Tree Mulching Tips

When it comes to mulching your trees, it is recommended to use organic mulch. Although inorganic mulch is tempting since it doesn’t need to be replenished as often, the benefits derived from organic materials and decomposition outweigh the benefits of using inorganic mulch. In fact, most arborists prefer to use an organic product.

When mulching your trees, keep in mind that using too much can actually be detrimental. Over-mulching can lead to tree stress, excessive ground moisture, root rot, tree and bark diseases, insect and rodent infestations, tree girdling, reduced air penetration, unbalanced soil pH, and more. To be safe, keep mulch depths between 2 and 4 inches.

Be sure to check the project area for adequate water drainage before applying mulch. If the water drainage is poor, then too much mulch may lead to many of the above-mentioned tree problems.

Before applying new mulch over existing mulch, first measure the depth to prevent over-mulching. If the depth is still 2 to 4 inches, do not apply new mulch. Instead, use a rake to release the top matted layers and refresh the look of the mulch. If faded, visit your local gardening store for a spray-on, water-soluble, vegetable-based dye to brighten up the color. Also, be sure to also spread out any piles that may have built-up against the tree trunk. The base of the tree should be exposed.

Budget Tree Care

Call Budget Tree Care at 317-590-1842 when you need professional tree service in Indianapolis or throughout Central Indiana. Owner, Curt Scott, has more than 30 years of experience in the tree care industry and offers a wide range of affordable tree services for residential and commercial properties.

Budget Tree Care

Budget Tree Care 317-590-1842

From tree removal and stump grinding, to tree trimming, pruning, lot clearing and more, our team is fully equipped to manage any size job. As a locally owned and operated business, we guarantee the lowest prices in town! Call 317-590-1842 to schedule routine tree service in Indianapolis, IN today.

Can Cold Temperatures Effect Tree Health?

Right now, home and property owners are considering the potential effects these cold temperatures can have on our landscaping trees. They wonder if all this snow and cold weather can harm a tree’s health, or worse, kill it before warm weather emerges once again. The short answer to this question is yes; trees can be affected by cold temperatures; especially ones that tend to last longer than usual.

Fortunately, there are several remedies and preventative care that can be implemented in order to protect landscaping trees from extreme cold and harsh winter climates. Continue reading to learn how trees are affected by cold temperatures and severe climate conditions, and who to call for expert advice and information about protecting trees in the winter.

Harsh Winter Elements Can Harm Trees

Several environmental elements, climates, and weather conditions can affect the overall health and well-being of a tree. Many problems can arise from these harsh winter temperatures and weather. Trees can lose their water and nutrient supply during these seasons; eventually causing them to dry up from malnourishment and water deficiency. This is because the ground freezes, prohibiting tree roots from absorbing water. Also, too much snow accumulation can cause trees to bend and eventually break. Of course a large tree that is also unstable is a hazard. Weak and vulnerable trees can fall on people, houses, cars, and buildings; causing costly repairs, or worse, injury and death. It is wise to prevent large amounts of snow from accumulating at the base of your trees for the above two examples. Not only will lack of snow prevent a weakening tree trunk, it will reduce the ground temperature, thus preventing the ground from freezing and the trees not being able to absorb water.

In order to protect trees in the winter time and in colder climates is to prepare and commit. Be sure your trees are healthy before the winter approaches, so that they are in good condition to face harsh weather and cold temperatures. Keep critters and pests away from your trees and be sure to prune and trim them regularly. Even a late winter pruning can be beneficial to your trees; providing extra protection against cold weather and snow.

Indianapolis Winter Tree Care

If you are concerned about the health of your landscaping trees this winter, call Budget Tree Care and talk to a professional in the Indianapolis tree care industry. We are among one of the most trusted and reputable tree service companies in Indianapolis, IN. Owner, Curt Scott, and his team of licensed and insured tree service technicians, have decades of experience in residential and commercial tree care. We are highly trained and qualified to repair, replace, remove, and treat all types of Indiana trees. We offer free estimates, consultations, coupons, DIY advice, discounts, and more! Call us today at 317-590-1842 for more information or advice about Indianapolis winter tree care services and more in Indiana.

Wooded Lot? Consider Professional Lot Clearing Services

Homeowners and property owners everywhere are dissatisfied with their wooded lots. In order to make room for new construction, building, and excavation projects, trees, shrubbery, hills, and more need to be leveled and removed. So who can provide this type of service? The answer is a professional tree removal and service company.

Licensed and experienced companies that retain the proper equipment, training, and qualifications, can offer lot clearing services for residential or commercial construction. Lot clearing involves a comprehensive agenda and specialized tools and training to facilitate safely within a timely fashion. If you need to get rid of a wooded lot, call a professional tree service company in your city. Continue reading to learn more about lot clearing and the process it involves; as well as, where to find reputable service you can trust.

Commercial and Residential Lot Clearing

Lot clearing is not just for new construction; or for homeowners that wish to remove a selection of trees in order to install a new backyard swimming pool. Lot clearing can also be a service for storm damage victims. An abundance of trees, bushes, shrubbery, dirt, branches, and storm debris can be quite overwhelming at first site. Fortunately, there is a professional service that provides assistance with cleanups such as these. Not all tree service companies provide lot clearing services. These services are usually offered by more seasoned and experienced tree service companies.

Removing a large number of trees and landscaping can be strenuous and complex. It is never recommended for a novice or amateur to attempt tree removal on their own. It can be very dangerous and a person can get face potential injury or death. Always outsource a professional tree removal company for lot clearing service and storm damage cleanup and repair.

Professionals are highly trained, licensed, and certified to use the equipment necessary for proper lot clearing and tree removal. These instruments include high powered chain saws, timber jack tools, heavy-duty chains, cranes, tractors, excavators, bulldozers, more. These machines, tools, and equipment require expert training and certification for safe and proper operation.

Indianapolis Lot Clearing Services

If you are looking to remove a large number of trees and landscaping from your residential or commercial property, trust Budget Tree Care for safe and affordable Indianapolis lot clearing services and tree removal. Owner, Curt Scott, and his team of highly trained, experienced, and licensed tree care technicians provide exceptional tree services at prices home and business owners can afford. We retain the latest technologies and state of the art equipment that allows us to facilitate a wide range of Indianapolis tree services, including lot clearing and more. Call us today at 317-590-1842 for a free estimate or information about tree removal or lot clearing services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties.

How to Protect your Landscaping Trees when Shoveling Snow

If you live in Indiana, or a region of the country where snow is likely come wintertime, then you may face a separate agenda for landscaping care then the rest of the nation. Snow fall can bring beautiful ambiance and family fun; however, when it comes to your beloved landscaping and trees, snow can be a faint threat unless confronted properly. It is important as a home or property owner to know how to take care of landscaping and trees.

Your trees reduce outside noise, allow privacy, encourage wind flow for cool breezes in summer, and much more. Be sure to protect your investments and sustain an aesthetically pleasing outdoor ambiance by learning about proper winter tree and landscaping care. Continue reading to learn, specifically, how to shovel snow without harming trees and landscaping on your property this winter.

Snow and Ice Removal Products Can Cause Landscaping and Tree Damages

When the snow comes down, we begin our wintertime rituals. This includes sprinkling our de-icing products, salting our driveways, and of course, shoveling snow. Unfortunately, some products on the market today may contain ingredients that are harmful to our trees and landscaping. Materials like rock salt and other de-icers can contain elements like sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and magnesium chloride; all of which can be harmful to vegetation if over applied. Urea, a plant fertilizer is another strategy used to melt snow and ice; but it can also harm plants and trees if over applied. Common damages are dead grass and plants, scald pots, burn marks, cracked bark, peeling tree bark, and many more.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to using harsh products with high salt amounts. For example, many property owners are discovering that environmentally friendly options work well. Materials like sand, sawdust, wood shavings, granite dust, and even cat litter are safe for pets and the environment. They are also cheaper and can potentially save a person hundreds of dollars each year!

Proper Snow Shoveling Can Eliminate Tree Damages

When it comes to actually shoveling snow, it is important to take your time. Improper use of a shovel can damage plants, roots, and trees. It can be difficult determining where a plant lies, or tree roots begin beneath five inches of snow; but use these guidelines and tips next time you need to shovel your walkways, patios, porches, and driveway:

Safely Shovel Snow around Trees and Landscaping:

• Use a broom to gently sweep the first two layers of snow away from tree bases, plants, and garden perimeters. Sweep gently until base or perimeter is virtually exposed.

• Shovel slowly and in small amounts.

• In heavily covered areas away from trees and landscaping, use the shovel to push the snow rather than lift the snow.

• Use a plastic shovel near trees and foliage rather than aluminum or other metallic shovels. Plastic is less harmful to trees and plants.

• Do not attempt to remove ice from tree limbs. It can cause branches to break off or become damaged.

• Wait until snow and ice are melting to clear covered tree limbs and plants.

Always protect yourself when shoveling snow near covered trees and landscaping. You can easily become injured if a large chunk of ice or snow falls on top of you. Be sure to let a friend or loved one know you are shoveling snow near tall or heavily snow-covered trees before you leave. It is recommended to hire professional snow removal companies to assist you in difficult or dangerous snow removal jobs. For easier tasks, be sure to still protect yourself from falling ice, snow, and branches.

Indianapolis Tree Care Professionals

Ask our Indianapolis tree care professionals about removing snow and ice safely this winter. Call 317-590-1842 and speak directly with Curt Scott, owner and operator of Budget Tree Care, or one of our other licensed and experienced tree technicians. We are among the leading tree removal and maintenance companies in Indianapolis and can offer you the most proficient and accurate advice or service for tree care, tree removal, tree diseases, landscaping advice, snow removal, and much more! We service all counties and cities in Indiana! Call 317-590-1842 for any questions or a free estimate for winter tree care in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties.