Frequently Asked Questions

Rope-based climbing and the equipment we employ allow us to access and move throughout the tree canopy without relying on a bucket truck or other heavy equipment positioned beneath the tree. By keeping that weight off the property whenever possible, we can reduce soil compaction and the risk of damage to lawns, landscaping, root systems, underground utilities, and drainage systems. It also allows us to reach areas of the canopy that may be difficult or impossible to access with a bucket truck, giving us greater flexibility while keeping the physical footprint of the job as small as possible.

Choosing the right tree starts with assessing the chosen space, not simply one that grows well in our region. Sunlight, drainage, soil conditions, available growing space, and proximity to homes, utilities, sidewalks, and other trees should all be considered along with the tree's mature size and growth habits. Your goals matter too, whether you're looking for shade, privacy, seasonal color, or simply a tree you love. Taking these factors into account before planting can help prevent future conflicts and give your tree the best opportunity to thrive for years to come.

The best time to prune depends on the species. Oaks are best pruned during the dormant season when the insects that can spread oak wilt are less active. Maples can also be pruned while dormant, although pruning in late winter or early spring may cause sap to flow from fresh cuts. While this can look concerning, the sap loss generally does not harm the tree. If you prefer to avoid the sap flow, maples can instead be pruned in midsummer or late fall. Timing may also depend on the tree's condition and the reason for pruning, and damaged or hazardous branches may need to be addressed regardless of the season.

Some problems can be corrected through proper pruning, while others may indicate more serious structural or health concerns. Dead or broken limbs, crossing branches, excessive weight, and canopy imbalance may be manageable through pruning. Signs such as significant trunk damage, cavities or decay, root damage, fungal growth, severe lean, or major structural defects may require a closer evaluation. Vines growing throughout a tree can also conceal defects, add weight, compete with the tree for resources, and make its condition more difficult to assess. Every tree and situation is different, so we evaluate the tree as a whole before recommending pruning or removal.

We evaluate the tree from the ground, looking at its overall condition, canopy, trunk, visible root area, and surrounding property. We look for concerns such as dead or damaged limbs, cracks, cavities, decay, fungal growth, pest damage, abnormal growth, structural defects, and changes in the tree's lean or canopy. We also consider nearby structures and other potential targets when determining whether pruning or removal may be appropriate.

Not necessarily. A tree that begins leaning after a storm should be evaluated for signs that the root system or surrounding soil has shifted or failed. Visible root plate movement, soil upheaval, trunk cracks, broken limbs, and changes in the tree's position can help determine the severity of the damage. Some trees may remain stable, while others may pose an ongoing risk and require removal.