What to Do for Your Trees During a Drought

What to Do for Your Trees During a Drought

Unlike lightning strikes or hurricane-force winds, droughts don’t have immediately catastrophic effects on trees. But dry spells can still present a serious threat, and if enough time goes by without rainfall, even healthy trees may suffer.

In June 2024, more than half of Georgia experienced unusually dry conditions. With unpredictable weather patterns all over the country, there’s no way to tell whether we’ll be hit with another drought this year—but just in case, here’s what you should know about safeguarding your trees.

What Happens to Trees in a Drought?

Under normal circumstances, a tree’s root system absorbs moisture from rainfall and retains water in the surrounding soil. When soil dries out due to lack of precipitation, trees will eventually begin to show signs of stress. Early indicators include changes in leaf composition or color, such as curling edges or browning. If drought conditions persist, your trees may begin to exhibit other signs of poor health, such as early leaf drop or stunted growth.

Can a Tree Recover from a Drought?

Trees need water to take in airborne carbon, which they convert into food. While they can survive off reserved carbon stores for some time, these internal supplies won’t last indefinitely. We wish every tree could be hardy enough to outlast dry spells, but the truth is age, species, overall health, and other environmental conditions all factor into their post-drought fate. And unfortunately, any time a tree is stressed, they can also become more vulnerable to other issues, like disease and infestations.

With that in mind, some varieties are naturally inclined to survive in spite of their thirst. Here are some Georgia native species that tend to fare best in dry conditions:

How to Keep Trees Alive During a Drought

There’s no way to tell for sure that your trees will survive a drought—especially without knowing when the rains will finally come—but you can still help stave off dehydration in the meantime. Here are some steps to take:

Lay Some Mulch

If you haven’t already, apply mulch to your tree’s base at a thickness of about three inches, leaving a small gap against the trunk. This insulation will help lock in whatever moisture is left within the surrounding soil.

Provide Water

Large, mature trees can get drought relief from a deep soak every two to three weeks during dry spells, whereas younger trees may need more frequent watering sessions. Aim to deliver water six to eight inches deep. There are soil sensors that can help you track moisture levels, but a long stick or screwdriver works in a pinch.

Avoid Added Stress

Even if some branches are starting to look barren or there are other noticeable signs of damage, now isn’t the time for pruning. New cuts will only create added stress, so skip the shaping unless there’s an immediate risk to your property, and in that case, you can count on us for professional tree trimming or removal services.

Schedule an Assessment With Premier Tree Solutions

If you’re unsure about drought-related damage or you have any other tree concerns, Premier Tree Solutions is your trusted source for expert recommendations and comprehensive tree care. Turn to our experienced arborist for both routine and emergency services. For an assessment, call 404.252.6448 or reach out to us with a message online.

Why Your Tree Is Leaning, and What to Do About It

Much like us, trees rarely stand perfectly upright. From one trunk to the next, you’re likely to see at least a slight lean to one side, with variations in tilt among species, size, and other factors. But because a significant lean can indicate a problem, it’s important for homeowners to understand what’s normal and what’s not.

So, what does it mean if a tree is leaning, and what can be done about it? We’re here to answer those questions and more.

Why Is My Tree Leaning?

Oftentimes, a slight lean is simply a product of adaptation. Your tree might be seeking a sunnier spot to sustain growth, or lean in the direction of persistent wind patterns. Some species are also more inclined to naturally shift to one side: Cook pines, for instance, will lean towards the equator no matter where they’re planted!

In terms of local species, you might spot a slant in the trunk of your red maple, willow oak, sweetgum, or tulip poplar, while eastern redbuds have arching branches that can make it appear off-kilter. But leans can also indicate something that’s gone awry, from poor soil conditions to an imbalanced canopy, as well as root damage and competition with nearby foliage.

When Is a Leaning Tree Cause for Concern?

So, what’s the difference between a casual tilt and an angle that needs to be addressed? Here are some warning signs that your leaning tree needs a professional assessment.

Sudden Slant

When a lean occurs suddenly (such as after a storm), it could mean your tree’s roots or trunk have been compromised and it’s at risk of falling.

Noticeable Worsening

Does it seem like your tree is inching further to the side than it once did? Structural issues may be to blame—and call for a professional checkup.

Significantly Sideways

A big lean is usually a big deal. Look for an angle of 15 degrees or more (there are apps to measure this if you don’t have a protractor handy). The larger the lean, the greater the risk of collapse.

Nearby Structures

A sideways slant becomes more serious when structures like your home, driveway, or utilities are within reach. And leaning or not, any tree that’s encroaching on a nearby dwelling should be assessed, since both trunks and falling branches can cause damage.

Raising the Roots

Take a glimpse at your tree’s base. If the roots are visibly protruding from the ground, it might mean that its foundation is no longer offering adequate support.

How to Fix a Tree That’s Leaning

The remedy for a tree with a problematic lean will depend on factors like its age and overall health. Small, young trees with flexible trunks are good candidates for supportive straps and stakes, which you can place strategically to encourage a more perpendicular state. Mature trees might still straighten out with a gentle push from the professionals, either by using machinery, stakes, or both.

In the worst-case scenario, a significantly leaning tree may need to be trimmed significantly or removed entirely. No one likes having to part ways with friendly and healthy foliage, but fortunately, that’s a call you don’t have to make alone.

Request an Estimate With Premier Tree Solutions

Whether you’ve identified a problem tree or you need help deciding what might be a risk, Premier Tree Solutions is here to help. Our experienced arborists offer tailored advice, and through our professional pruning, trimming, and removal services, we’ll keep your property both safe and attractive. Request a free estimate by sending us a message online or by calling 404.252.6448.

Your Guide to Tree Watering Systems

A well-hydrated tree is a happy one, but when it comes to watering, many homeowners aren’t sure where to start. While most well-established trees can survive on annual rainfall alone, your shrubs and saplings may benefit from a moisture boost. But what is the best tree watering method, and what does the upkeep entail? Take a closer look at how you can tend to your thirsty trees below.

Tree Watering Systems 101

Manual Watering

Sometimes, simple is best when it comes to caring for your landscape. If you’ve only got a few trees or you’re dealing with a dry spell, manual watering with a good ol’ gardening hose is your go-to. It’s budget-friendly, low-tech, and doesn’t require digging up your yard.

Before you get going, though, here are a few quick answers to the most common watering questions we encounter:

  • How often should I water my trees? For new trees and shrubs, water right after planting, then daily or every other day for the first three months. After that, once a week should do the trick—just enough to keep the root zone moist (but not soggy).
  • How many minutes should I water my trees? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your tree’s age, soil type, and weather. Aim for a deep soak that reaches the roots rather than a surface splash. A general rule is to water slowly for about ten minutes per tree.
  • Is it better to overwater or underwater my trees? The short answer is neither, since both can cause damage. But if you’re concerned about whether you’re watering too much or not enough, it’s usually better to under-water than to overdo it. Too much water can suffocate roots, weaken your tree’s base, and invite all sorts of nasty fungal guests. 

Irrigation Systems

If dragging a hose around sounds like a hassle or you have long-term watering needs, an irrigation installation may be right for you. These systems can be tailored to your landscape, helping you save time, effort, and potentially even water. While it comes with an initial upfront investment for installation, the trade-off is having healthy trees with a “set it and forget it” solution.

What Is the Best Irrigation System for Trees?

There are several irrigation systems available, each with their own unique benefits:

  • Drip Irrigation: Ideal for precision hydration, these systems can be programmed to deliver water slowly over time to the base of your trees through tubes with emitters. Because water reaches the roots directly, there’s minimal waste. But drip irrigation often requires professional installation, and sometimes, significant lawn disruption.
  • Soaker Hoses: Perfect for DIYers and temporary watering needs, soaker hoses are drip irrigation’s low-tech cousins. These devices have tiny pores that allow water to seep out gradually. You can snake them around the base of your trees, plug them into a timer, and walk away. Choose this option as a solid middle ground between manual watering and full-on irrigation.
  • Sprinkler Systems: If you have large areas to cover, such as shrubs, plant beds, or grassy patches, sprinklers may be the way to go. They mimic natural rainfall and cover a lot of ground, but they’re not the most water-efficient. Since they spray over a large area, some water will inevitably go to waste (hello, sidewalk puddles).

Schedule a Consultation With Premier Tree Solutions

Whether you’re watering by hose or going high-tech with irrigation, keeping your trees and shrubs happily hydrated is an important part of lawn maintenance. For the rest of your tree care needs, turn to Premier Tree Solutions. From pruning to storm damage cleanup and removals, our tree experts are here to help. Reach out to us online for an estimate, or call us at 404.252.6448.

Buying a Home with Trees? Here’s How to Factor in Long-Term Tree Care Costs

House hunting is exciting, but as you’re weighing floor plans and reno options, don’t forget to look outside, specifically, at the trees.

Whether you’re smitten with a shady backyard or wowed by a street lined with mature oaks, there’s a bit more to consider than how pretty those leafy giants look. Here’s what you should know before sealing the deal on a tree-heavy property.

How Much Do Trees Affect Property Value?

With perks like noise control, soothing shade, and natural privacy, it’s no surprise that trees can drive up the price of your property compared to similar homes with sparse landscapes. But, depending on the age, type, and location of your leafy lawn enhancements, you could be looking at additional costs for maintenance down the road. 

Estimating tree-related costs before you buy a home can save you from major surprises down the road. Let’s break it down.

How to Estimate for Tree Service

Do a Quick Count

How many trees are on the property in question? A dozen young saplings will have different care needs (and costs) compared to five towering, decades-old pines. In general, more trees will mean more upkeep.

Consider Type and Condition

Different species carry unique needs, too. Willows, elms, and silver maples are notorious for weak limbs and fast growth (meaning more pruning). Oaks and pines tend to be lower maintenance, but will still need occasional checkups.

And then there’s the health factor: Are the trees lush and lively, or are there signs of rot, fungal growth, or dead limbs? If you’re unsure, consider scheduling a professional assessment during the home inspection process.

Prepare for Pruning

Pruning isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s essential for safety and tree health. Expect to pay for this service for each tree every one to three years, and note that costs will vary based on size and accessibility. With a ladder and some know-how, you might be able to DIY smaller trees, but call the pros for anything overhead or near structures.

Plan for Tree Removal

If a tree is diseased, damaged, or dangerously close to your home, removal may be inevitable. Like pruning, costs vary by the size and location, but consultation with our experts will provide a thorough estimate.

Set Aside Funds for Storm Damage

Even healthy trees can sustain damage in severe storms. Having an emergency tree service budget (and knowing who to call) is a smart move.  

Think About Yard Work

Everyone loves the look of a leafy canopy, but not so much the mess it makes. Deciduous trees may gift you with golden fall foliage… and then dump it all over your lawn. If you’re not up for weekend rake-a-thons, be sure to budget for leaf removal.

Should You Buy a House with Trees?

Ultimately, only you can decide if the benefits of trees outweigh the costs of care for your future home. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

  • Is there enough wiggle room in your budget to comfortably cover routine tree care?
  • Do the trees on this property offer benefits like shade, privacy, or curb appeal?
  • Are there any problem trees that will need to be addressed soon?
  • Are the trees likely to create extra yard work?
  • How close are the trees to structural units or utilities?

Schedule a Consultation With Premier Tree Solutions

Of course, we’re partial to residences rich with trees, and whether you’ve just moved in or you’re a seasoned homeowner, we can help with all of your maintenance and removal needs. Premier Tree Solutions is your source for tree expertise and services to keep your property safe and beautiful. To request an estimate, send us a message online or call 404.252.6448.

The Dos and Don’ts of Composting Your Trees

Whether you have a small sapling that succumbed to a storm or you’ve had a large problem tree removed from your property, there’s almost always a way to repurpose bark, leaves, and branches from a tree that’s no longer thriving in your yard. One practical option for reusing a tree that has been removed or uprooted is to turn it into compost: an all-natural fertilizer that can nourish your healthy foliage. Let’s explore the ins and outs of this sustainable practice to give your trees a second life.

How to Compost Trees: Best Practices to Follow and Avoid

Don’t: Pick the wrong tree type.

There are countless plants that can enrich your soil when turned into compost, but a handful of species should be avoided.

What tree leaves should not be composted? Here’s a quick list:

  • Black walnut: This species secretes a chemical called juglone, which can hinder plant growth as it breaks down into the soil.
  • Poison ivy, oak, or sumac: Urushiol, the oil that fuels these notorious irritants, can remain active even after these leaves decompose. It’s best to remove these plants from your property completely (while fully covered in protective gear), then bag it up for disposal.
  • Oak, holly, and beech: While you don’t have to avoid these species altogether, know that their leaves are rich in lignin, an organic polymer that can slow the decomposition process. If you choose to include them, do so sparingly if you want your compost to be ready by next planting season.

Do: Break it down.

The purpose of composting is to break down organic materials to create sustenance for your garden, flower bed, trees, or shrubs. To expedite the process, you’ll want to start with small pieces —twigs will break down more quickly than trunks, for example. If you’re working with a large tree, professionally processing it through a wood chipper might be the most efficient method to turn it into useful compost material. Smaller stems, branches, and leaves can often be broken down manually using shears, axes, or even gloved hands.

Do: Mix it up.

There’s a scientific approach to creating an effective compost pile. It calls for the right a balance of:

  • Carbon-rich, “brown” materials, such as untreated wood chips, dry leaves, and twigs.
  • Nitrogen-rich “green” materials, like scraps of fruits and vegetables, coffee grounds, egg shells, and grass clippings. (But make sure to avoid other animal products such as cheese or meat bones.)

Your pile should comprise a four- to six-inch layer of browns at the base to absorb moisture. Then, add a combination of browns and greens, making sure you have at least twice as much brown material as green scraps. Cover each new layer of green content with four to eight more inches of brown material.

Don’t: Neglect your pile.

Oxygen is essential to the decomposition process, so you’ll need to introduce air by turning your pile from time to time. The rule of thumb is to move things around every three to four days. Set up a reminder to come back and turn the materials using a pitchfork, shovel, or any other gardening tool you have handy in order to facilitate healthy oxygen flow.

Do: Check the moisture levels.

A compost pile that’s too dry won’t decompose. The pile should be damp but not sodden—similar to the consistency of a wrung-out sponge. If it’s on the dry side, add in some freshly cut grass or other damp greens, or water it lightly to reach your target moisture level.

Schedule a Consultation With Premier Tree Solutions

While composting is an excellent do-it-yourself gardening project, trimming mature trees is safest when handled by our experts. From precise pruning to efficient removals, our tree care services can keep your property well-maintained through every season. Message us online or call us at 404.252.6448 to set up an estimate.

 

 

How to Prepare Your Trees When Selling Your Home

When it comes to selling your home, curb appeal matters. Whether viewing your listing online or driving through your neighborhood, prospective buyers will notice your exterior before anything else, and this is one first impression essential to get right.

The good news? Most outdoor projects won’t cost much, and even if you do put some money out, landscape upgrades have among the highest potential for return on investment (ROI). Standard lawn care can yield a whopping 217% cost recovery!

As some of the most prominent features on your property, trees are a great place to start. Here, we walk you through some simple tree care tips for selling your home.

How Do Trees Help Sell a House?

We’ve shared our appreciation for trees in the past, and it turns out we’re not alone. Prospective homebuyers also find our leafy friends appealing for reasons such as:

  • Environmental benefits: Trees release oxygen to help offset carbon emissions and provide shelter and nourishment for local wildlife.
  • Boosted mental health: Being among trees can benefit your mood and cognition.
  • Reduced energy consumption: Trees’ cooling effects can reduce the need for air conditioning
  • Aesthetic benefits: From pastel spring blooms to lush summer greens and fiery autumn oranges, trees deliver year-round visual appeal.

What Tree Adds the Most Value to Your Home?

Serving as a majestic backdrop for any home, it’s no surprise that mature trees are coveted by homebuyers and have the potential to drive the value of a home as much as 10% (compared to properties without them). Not only are they striking in appearance, but many are already self-sufficient, requiring minimal maintenance outside of routine pruning. Plus, tall, leafy trees already offer the cooling (and hammock-hanging!) benefits homeowners seek.

The precise species that will fetch you the greatest return all depends on your location. Homebuyers in Southern Florida might gravitate towards citrus trees, for example, while residents of cooler climates might fawn over maples and oaks. In Georgia, you can’t go wrong with the Southern Magnolia, beloved for its fragrant blooms and broad, glossy leaves.

The Top Tree Care Tips for Selling Your Home

No matter the types of trees your yard is home to, there are some important steps to take when preparing your home for sale.

Troublesome Tree Removal

A tree that’s encroaching on structures or utilities will be a red flag for discerning buyers, as will dead or decaying branches. Assess your property for any at-risk trees or branches and schedule to have them removed before listing.

Picture-Perfect Pruning

Healthy trees and shrubs are an attractive selling feature, and you can boost their appeal even more with a little extra care. Professional pruning will accentuate your trees’ best features by shaping branches strategically, allowing prospective buyers to see the full potential of your landscape.

Mulch, the Finishing Touch

If there’s one final care tip to consider for your trees, it’s mulching. Along with trimmed trees and a neatly maintained lawn, this last detail helps your yard appear extra polished. Bonus points: Your trees will continue to thrive thanks to the insulation mulch provides — something new homeowners will appreciate long after the sale is finalized.

Schedule a Consultation With Premier Tree Solutions

Whether you’re preparing to list your home or you’re simply sprucing up your yard this season, Premier Tree Solutions is here to help. With state-of-the-art equipment and proven processes, our tree experts are prepared to get your property looking its best. Schedule an estimate by calling 404.252.6448, or contact us by sending a message online.

 

Essential Spring Tree Maintenance for a Healthy Growing Season

Watching your trees come to life after a season of slumber is an energizing sight. But to ensure they stay as vibrant as possible through the coming months, it’s important to treat them to a little TLC. Here, we share our top spring tree care tips to encourage healthy growth.

How to Care for Trees in Spring

Prune Like a Pro

Should trees be pruned in the spring? It’s a question we encounter often, so we’ve touched on it before. As a reminder, early spring pruning is ideal for most tree species since it allows you to eliminate dead or damaged branches affected by winter’s wrath. Prune your trees to thin out crowded branches or control its shape and watch its growth take off — or call in expert help if you’re feeling unsure.

Serve Up Some Sustenance

After a season of dormancy, your trees are hungry. Deliver nourishment via an all-natural fertilizer: trash! Collect organic waste like eggshells, coffee grounds, vegetable trimmings and fruit peels (no meat, dairy or shellfish products though) and pile them together to create your own compost. Spread a layer at the base of your tree, but avoid placing it directly against the trunk. With nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, the blend will give your trees beneficial sustenance to support healthy root development.

Quench Their Thirst

While many mature trees can survive on rainfall alone, most shrubs and younger trees will appreciate added hydration to help fuel their growth. Manual watering is one way to get the job done, but irrigation is a shortcut worth considering. For a DIY method, place drip lines around the base of your tree, about as far out as its canopy extends. Set your system to deliver at least three weekly watering sessions during the growth season, but check back to make sure the surrounding soil isn’t flooding. If so, cut back until it’s damp but not saturated.

Mulch for a Magic Touch

We’ve sung the praises of mulch in the past, but as one of the most effective spring tree care activities you can do, it bears repeating. Mulch locks moisture in, keeps weeds out, and keeps your yard looking polished at the same time. Spread a layer two to four inches thick around your tree’s base, taking care to avoid the area directly against the bark.

Make It Fun

Trees benefit your property in many ways, from improving air quality and energy costs to assisting in stormwater management. Caring for them is work, but we believe having trees can be rewarding in other ways, too. Here are just a few ideas for making the most of your trees through the springtime and beyond:

  • Set up feeders to invite Georgia’s backyard bird populations for a visit. From sparrows and finches, to mockingbirds and cardinals, you never know who might show up.
  • String lights around or between your trees to enjoy an ethereal outdoor glow after the sun sets. Just be sure to avoid using nails, which could injure your trees’ bark tissue — tree straps or electrical tape are safer alternatives.
  • Hang a hammock to get ready for warm afternoons spent swaying in the breeze.

Schedule a Service With Premier Tree Solutions

Getting your yard spring-ready can be a major endeavor. From stump grinding to tree trimming, our professional tree care services can set you up for a smooth and successful growth season. To request an estimate, call 404.252.6448 or send us a message online.

Spring Cleaning Your Pruning Toolkit

As buds turn into blooms and the buzz of spring draws nearer, you might find yourself growing eager to get back into the swing of yard work. But before you start your first trims of the season, take some time to assess your pruning toolkit. From the handheld essentials you’ll need for pruning flowering trees to maintenance tips to keep them in top condition, we’re covering all the basics of pruning hardware here.

Your Spring Pruning Tool Checklist

Hand Pruners

Also known as pruning shears, pruners, clippers, or secateurs if you’re feeling fancy, these tools allow you to snip branches up to ¾ of an inch in diameter with ease. They feature handles and blades that move on a fixed axis and come in several styles:

  • Bypass: Scissor-like pruners that are ideal for trimming live branches
  • Anvil Pruners: Tools with a straight blade that can split dry branches or stems
  • Ratchet Pruners: Similar to anvil pruners, but with an added mechanism that allows you to cut in stages to prevent wrist strain

Reach for hand pruners when you’re deadheading flowers, shaping small shrubs, trimming back perennials, or making any other small, precise cuts on delicate plants.

Loppers

Think of loppers as the next step above hand pruners. Like their smaller cousins, they’re available in bypass, anvil, and ratchet styles, but come with extended handles for a broader reach. With their added size, they can make their way through branches of up to two and a half inches in diameter, such as those found on fruit and nut trees, as well as thick vines. Some even have telescopic handles, granting you access to especially hard-to-reach places when you’re pruning flowering trees this spring.

Pruning Saws

For thicker branches or vines that can’t easily squeeze between the blades of loppers, call in the pruning saw. With a serrated blade and either a fixed or folding handle, these tools should get through branches up to five inches thick.  

Pole Pruners

For even harder-to-reach branches at extended heights, pole pruners allow you to make cuts with your feet planted safely on the ground. Many are battery or gas-operated, so they’ll do the sawing work all on their own.

How to Care for Your Pruning Tools This Spring

If you’re retrieving pruning tools from a shed or garage for their first use of the season, sharpen their blades first for easier, more precise cuts. Here’s how:

  • Clean the blades using warm water and dish soap, scrubbing away any debris with a wire brush. If needed, disassemble the tool to clean between the blades.
  • Dry the tool thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
  • Use gentle motions to stroke the blade against a sharpening tool, such as a diamond file or carbide sharpener, maintaining a consistent angle. If you feel uncertain, there are professionals who can do the job for you. 

Once your blades are sharp, you’re ready to get pruning. Just be mindful to clean them when moving between different plants: Wiping them down with an alcohol-soaked cotton pad will eliminate bacteria that could otherwise spread between trees, potentially transferring diseases.

Lastly, make sure your tools are free of any sap, wood, or other debris before putting them away. Prevent rust by storing them in a dry place.  

Schedule a Tree Pruning With Premier Tree Solutions

While small plants may be no match for your pruning tools, mature trees need large-scale equipment and expertise for safe and proper pruning. And if you’re scratching your head wondering, “When should flowering trees be pruned?” let alone how to do it or what tools to use, allow Premier Tree Solutions to assist you with all of your tree pruning needs through the springtime and beyond. We can take care of your trees, shrubs, and bushes with our professional hand pruning services easily arranged by an appointment scheduled online or by calling us at 404.252.6448.  

Five Ways to Show Your Trees Some Love This Valentine’s Season

Unless you’re a squirrel, bird, or beaver, trees may not be the first thing that leap to mind when you think of love, but they’ve certainly been the subject of adoration among many poets, painters, and other artists throughout history. And while we may be biased, we think English artist Reverend William Gilpin was onto something when he said, “It is no exaggerated praise to call a tree the grandest, and most beautiful of all products of the earth.”

From shade to sustenance, fresh air to flowering canopies, trees shower us with love in their own ways year-round. As Valentine’s Day approaches, here’s how we can return the favor.

Five Tree Care Tips for Valentine’s Day 

Check for Pests

No, we’re not talking about love bugs (they’re unlikely to cause tree damage). Now is the time of year to look for signs of pests that can cause bark damage, stunted growth, and defoliated branches. Beetles, borers, and other insects may not be active this season, but they’ll leave behind hints like pinholes and egg masses. Break up with any bad bugs before spring arrives with a targeted treatment, such as a dormant oil spray.

Watch for Winter Damage

Don’t let the cold, harsh winter break your heart — or damage your beloved trees. Ahead of a particularly harsh cold snap, protect young saplings by wrapping them in breathable fabric. Burlap works best, but even a set of old sheets will do in a pinch. Just be sure coverings are loose enough to allow air to pass through, and remove them once warm weather returns.

Make Use of Mulch

Surround your trees with a layer of love by mulching a three- to ten-foot radius around their base. Not only does it serve as a layer of insulation to protect root systems, but it also hinders weed growth and locks in moisture. Feel free to lay it on thick: A covering that’s two to four inches deep will work best.

Treat Them to a Drink

Before toasting to your loved one and clinking glasses this V-Day, check to see if your trees need a drink, too. Especially young or newly planted trees may need water during dry spells. You can assess moisture levels in the surrounding area using a soil probe, but a screwdriver or stake will work, too. If the tool slides in easily, there’s likely adequate moisture. If the soil is dry, water near the tree’s base until the ground is damp, but not flooded.

Prune to Prime for Spring

If there’s only one act of TLC you can show your trees this season, make this your priority. Pruning eliminates dead, diseased, or damaged branches before they create more issues. It also allows for shaping to encourage a desired growth pattern just in time for spring. And although we’ve said it before, just like “I love you,” it bears repeating: Winter is the best time of year for pruning. Dormant trees are better able to withstand cuts, and having little to no leaf coverage makes for a cleaner workspace.  

While you may find pruning small trees and shrubs manageable enough to handle on your own, be sure to call in the pros for mature trees. Not only is there a precise science to proper pruning, but larger trees introduce safety hazards.

Schedule a Service With Premier Tree Solutions 

Allow our team of arborists to help give your trees all the love they need to thrive for years to come.  From tree pruning to trimming, Premier Tree Solutions is well-equipped to handle all of your tree care needs. Request an estimate online or by calling 404.252.6448.  

Preventing Storm Damage: Why Late-Winter Pruning Is Key

Each year, Georgia sees its share of severe storms bringing damaging winds, large hail, and sometimes, even tornadoes. While bad weather can happen any time of year, the most severe storms tend to take place in the spring. And though we can’t control the frequency or intensity of these weather events, we can prepare our properties to better withstand their impact.

One of the most important ways to safeguard your home against storm damage is pruning your trees. Here, we explain the importance of late-winter pruning in preparation for spring storms and help you identify at-risk branches in your yard.

Why Prune in Winter to Prevent Storm Damage?

Tree pruning is the removal of damaged or undesirable limbs. While it can be performed to control or direct new growth, it’s also one of the best tools we have to protect against property damage caused by trees. In fact, broad-leaved trees that have been pruned properly have a 73% survival rate when faced with hurricane-force winds, compared to 47% for unpruned trees. By eliminating hazards proactively, we can reduce the risk of large branches and limbs falling on your home or surrounding structures.

Pruning can be done any time of year if necessary, but winter is ideal because:

  • Most trees are dormant, and cutting is less stressful for them when they’re inactive.
  • Insects and diseases are also less active. In other seasons, they might target trees that are vulnerable from fresh cuts.
  • Branches are bare, giving tree care professionals a better line of sight for precise cuts.
  • Spring storms are just around the corner, making winter an ideal time to prepare.

How to Identify Trees that Need Pruning

Look for Dead, Dying, or Diseased Branches

In many cases, you’ll be able to identify at-risk trees even with a quick inspection. Dead branches often have peeling bark, brittle wood, and lack of leaf growth during the growing season. Disease, on the other hand, usually manifests as discoloration, cankers, or unusual spots on your tree’s bark.

Scope Out Structural Issues

In addition to the obvious signs of branch issues above, some structural problems could cause limbs to become weak or imbalanced, making them more vulnerable to storm damage. Look for branches that are crossed or rubbing against each other, which can create wounds. Sharp angles are also more likely to form splits, as are branches with weak or narrow crotches. Lastly, significant leans are a sign of an already-strained root system, which could become further compromised with flooding or high winds.

Consider Other Safety Hazards

Branches that are broken, hanging, or otherwise hazardous should be removed during seasonal pruning. Additionally, consider each tree’s proximity to key features on your property, including utility lines, structures, driveways, or walkways. Even healthy trees may need pruning (or potentially relocation, if possible) when high-value structures are within close reach.

Schedule a Tree Pruning Service With Premier Tree Solutions 

As specialists in emergency services, Premier Tree Solutions is here to help you prepare your property for the worst. From pruning to complete tree removal when necessary, our arborists can assess your trees and recommend the best solution for your needs. And since Mother Nature can be unpredictable, we’re here to assist you with post-storm cleanup, too. To get in touch, call 404.252.6448 or send us a message online.