What’s a Tree Ordinance?

Tree ordinances are used to protect and manage the trees in a local community. First created by William Penn during the colonial era to defend trees being cut down, the number of tree ordinances have grown exceptionally in the passing years. These laws, or exceptions to the laws, are created to handle issues such as trimming public trees, cutting down trees to build a new location, disputes between neighbors dealing with trees, and more.

While not many people may have to deal with a tree ordinance, it’s still important to learn what they are, why they exist, and what they help with. To learn more about tree ordinances, keep reading below.

The Major Types of Tree Ordinances

There are two major types of tree ordinances. Read what those are below.

Arboriculture-Focused Ordinances

These ordinances involve aesthetic and environmental issues. Examples include regulating the planting, removal, and general maintenance of trees in parks and other public areas, trees blocking views in the city, and protection of certain trees. But there are countless other ways an arboriculture-focused ordinance could be created.

Timber Harvest Ordinances

These ordinances are created to regulate tree harvesting from companies that want to take trees down for profits. There are so many of these and so many regulations to look out for that this kind of ordinance has its own subgroup.

Other Types of Ordinances

Aside from the two main types described above, there are multiple kinds of other tree ordinances that cover a wide range of specific topics. Examples of these include ordinances that help to replace trees that are cut down for construction and development and helping to solve issues with trees blocking sunlight from certain locations.

Georgia’s Tree Ordinances

The Georgia Forestry Commission, whose mission is to protect and conserve Georgia’s forest, created a tree ordinance development guidebook for those in our communities that wanted to learn more about tree ordinances. You can use this resource to uncover additional information about the environmental, social, and economic benefits of tree ordinances, specifically in Georgia. It is important to note that there are multiple counties that have varying tree ordinances. Respective county website should be reviewed to determine requirements for applying for tree removal permits to avoid fines.

Click here to read the guidebook.

If you have any more questions about tree ordinances, feel free to contact the experts at Premier Tree either by clicking here or by calling us at 404.252.6448.

BE A GEORGIA TREE KNOW-IT-ALL: PERSIMMON

Get to know Georgia’s beautiful array of trees and how you can take care of your own! Each month, we feature some of the most popular trees in the state. This month, we are showcasing the Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana L.). Learn all about the Persimmon below!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources:

https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_divi5.pdf

https://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoor-design/landscaping-and-hardscaping/how-to-plant-and-grow-persimmons

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/persimmon/growing-persimmon-trees.htm

http://www.gatrees.org/resources/education/native-trees/NativeTreesGeorgia.pdf

Premier Tree is your local source for professional tree services in the metro Atlanta area. We provide tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and more. Check out all of the services we offer, and contact us today for a free consultation!

Say No to the Bradford Pear Tree

Chances are you’ve seen a Bradford Pear Tree before. These trees are known for their beautiful white flowers, but they’re also known for their unappealing smell when they’re blooming. They’re also especially common in the South.

However, in addition to having foul-smelling flowers, this tree has several dangerous and damaging qualities. If you have a Bradford Pear Tree in your yard or are considering getting one, keep reading below to learn why this tree isn’t the best option to pick.

They Grow Like Kudzu

When cross-breeding happens between the Bradford Pear Tree and other common pear trees, a Chinese Callery pear is created. Unfortunately, cross-breeding is an extremely common and easy thing for these trees to do, even sterile ones.

These pears have thick thorns that can cause issues for most gardening and landscaping equipment, and also produced thug-like thickets that prevent native plants to grow and produce fruit in the same area. Because of this, these pears became a lot like kudzu when they are made, impossible to get rid of while choking out other native plants.

Weak Branch Structure

The Bradford Pear Tree always outgrows its frame. This means that its branch support structure is extremely weak. If a storm doesn’t tear down the tree before it turns twenty, its own branches will destroy the tree at this young age.

This also means that the branches are extremely likely to fall, without any warning. This is very dangerous for anything under the tree, such as humans, pets, or other foliage.

History of the Tree

Bradford Pear Trees have become such an issue across the United States, that many locations are taking a stand against the tree. In fact, places like South Carolina are warning against the tree and Kentucky even offers a free alternative tree for every Bradford Pear Tree cut down.

But how did the Bradford Pear Tree become such an issue in the first place? Here’s a breakdown of its history:

  • The tree was first introduced to the environment in the 1960s by the United States Department of Agriculture. When it was created, it was to be used as an ornamental landscape tree.
  • They quickly became very popular with landscapers because they were so inexpensive, easy to transport, took to any type of soil, were pest and disease-free, and also grew very fast.
  • The trees were designed to remain very small and were encouraged because of their beautiful spring flowers and their stunning fall foliage.
  • However, it quickly became evident that these trees would create way more problems than the beauty they harvested.

The Future of the Bradford Pear Tree

The Bradford Pear Tree is quickly on its way out. The troubles the tree causes simply aren’t worth its beauty. The good news is that there are several beautiful trees you can plant instead, such as the apricot tree, crape myrtles, fringe tree, serviceberry, dogwood, and tupelo trees.

If you have any more questions about making smart tree choices, give the experts at Premier Tree Solutions a call at 404.252.6448 or click here to contact us.

Take a Bite Out of Tree Removal with JAWS!

If you have a tree in your yard or at your business that needs to be removed, you’re probably aware of how big a pain it can be to go through that process. It’s expensive and a dangerous task to complete, but you need to remove the tree either for safety or cosmetic reasons.

That’s why Premier Tree Solutions is proud to be the first company in Georgia to have access to the latest piece of innovative, tree-removing equipment. Called JAWS for short, this equipment is a Palfinger PK40002 Knuckle Boom Crane with a Mecanil SG280 Grapple Saw from Palfleet. All of that technical jargon means that this piece of equipment is beneficial for both property owners and the workers taking away the tree.

Keep reading below to learn more about this equipment Premier Tree Solutions is proud to use!

The Benefits of JAWS Tree Removal

There are countless reasons why this equipment is the best of the best when it comes to safety and efficiency with tree-removal. Here are the top benefits:

  • We won’t have to climb any trees or use complicated rope systems. All we need is this piece of equipment to get the job done. That means it’s safer for us, you, and your property.
  • The setup and breakdown of the equipment take very little time. That means you will barely know that we’re there.
  • This equipment also significantly reduces the cleanup process of tree removal. That means less time of us being in your space.
  • It saves money on both your cost and our cost since the equipment is so easy to use and gets the job done quickly.
  • It’s better for the environment, as it makes the tree removal process much easier and kinder to the ground we remove the tree from.

If you are interested in using the JAWS removal equipment, Premier Tree Solutions would be happy to assess your tree and yard to see if the equipment can reach. We must assess every job for its capability, but the good news is that this assessment is free of charge to you.

Give the experts at Premier Tree Solutions a call at 404.252.6448 or click here to contact us to schedule your assessment.

BE A GEORGIA TREE KNOW-IT-ALL: EASTERN COTTONWOOD

Get to know Georgia’s beautiful array of trees and how you can take care of your own! Each month, we feature some of the most popular trees in the state. This month, we are showcasing the Eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides). Learn all about the Eastern cottonwood below!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources:

https://plants.usda.gov/factsheet/pdf/fs_pode3.pdf

http://www.gatrees.org/resources/education/native-trees/NativeTreesGeorgia.pdf

https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/eastern-cottonwood

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/cottonwood/cottonwood-tree-in-landscapes.htm

 

Premier Tree is your local source for professional tree services in the metro Atlanta area. We provide tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and more. Check out all of the services we offer, and contact us today for a free consultation!

 

First-Aid Kit: How to Treat an Injured Tree

There’s a handful of ways a tree can be damaged during their lives on this earth. Bad storms, human equipment, bugs, and fire are just a few of the most common reasons trees might find themselves with injuries. The good news is that, whether it’s a fallen branch or a gash on the trunk, once a wound pops up, trees are usually able to heal themselves.

However, certain injuries may require us humans to step in. Keep reading below to learn about tree injuries and how and if to treat them!

What Happens When a Tree is Injured?

To understand how to heal an injured tree, it’s important to understand the science behind what happens when a tree is injured.

There are two ways a tree responds to an injury. The first is called compartmentalization, when the tree seals the wound with specialized callus tissue that it creates. This tissue is essentially new wood that the tree grows around the wound to form a protective boundary so that the decaying tissue of the wound won’t affect the other existing tissue of the tree.

The second way a tree protects itself from a wound is called barrier zones. It’s similar to compartmentalization, but this time the new wood entirely closes around the wound, swallowing it whole, with chemical and physical barriers. There is a chance that the tree will not be successful in its efforts, meaning that the wound will continue to grow and affect the rest of the tree. The good news is that most of the time, active and young trees are usually successful with barrier zones.

However, we, as tree caregivers, can help the tree speed along these healing processes.

How to Care for these Trees

There are several things you can do to assist a tree that might be wounded on your property:

  • If you notice the wound is looking ragged, grab a knife and cut off the sharp edges. However, be careful not to remove any of the healthy bark. If you do that, you’ll be exposing more living tree tissue than necessary.
  • Sometimes pruning is necessary for trees. Some branches could be dead and in the process of falling, threatening the safety of everyone nearby. In cases like that, pruning is vital. However, it’s worth noting that when trees are pruned, it can cause a good deal of stress to the tree. That’s why it’s so important to use proper pruning techniques to trim your trees and assist with the healing of wounded branches. You can click here to learn more about the skills our expert team offers for pruning services.
  • You might have heard about dressing a tree wound before. After all, humans get their wounds dressed so why not trees? Current studies show that dressing tree wounds can actually get in the way of the tree healing itself. Let the tree do it’s thing and back away with the dressing.

Trees are fantastic at healing their own wounds. They’ve been doing it for centuries without humans help, so take comfort in knowing that there’s not a lot that we can do to help our trees that might be injured. So sit back, relax, and trust the tree to fix itself.

Accidents happen to everyone, even trees. It’s not the end of the world if any of their beautiful trunks or branches get hurt since they will repair themselves. If you have any more questions about how to repair injured trees, the experts at Premier Tree Solutions can help! Click here to contact us today.

Today’s Lesson: Tree Removal 101

If you have a lot of trees in your house, then it’s a high probability that one day you’ll walk outside and notice that you might need to consider tree removal. Maybe you can see some of its branches are threatening to fall on top of your house, or maybe you can tell the tree is dying by the gray color of its bark.

Situations like these are common for most houses with trees, and usually it means it’s time to have the tree removed. For most people, the idea of having a tree removed is a very daunting task, and they might not know where to begin.

To help lighten the burden of kickstarting that process, we’re answering some of the most common questions about tree removal below.

1)  What is tree removal and why is it important?

The removal of trees is a lot like what it sounds like, but it’s a term used to describe multiple methods of removing trees. Whether it’s cutting down the tree and allowing it to fall down safely or cutting the tree down by sections, it’s also important to keep in mind the crew members’ safety and the preservation of the yard from where the tree is being removed.

Just like the definition of tree removal is multi-faceted, so is the reason why you need to remove a tree. Usually the most important reason is a dead tree that is harming the safety of your family and your home. However, sometimes people also have trees removed for yard cosmetic reasons or because the tree might be sick and could spread disease to other nearby trees.

2)  How much does it cost to take down a tree?

This largely depends on factors like what your insurance covers, what services you are receiving, and which company you use. Generally speaking, the average tree removal costs anywhere from $150 to $1,500, but sometimes the price increases from there. You’ll be able to receive an estimate from a trusted company before you agree to pay anything.

3)  Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in my yard?

While they are a few exceptions to this rule, most cities do require that you get a permit before removing any trees. This for a lot of different reasons, including safety, HOA requirements, and even the environment. However, this also depends on what kind of tree you’re removing and what services you require.

4)  Is there a best time to remove a tree?

No – Anytime is a good time!

If you have any more questions about tree removal, click here to learn about our services we offer. Premier Tree Solutions has been providing quality, professional tree services to the metro Atlanta and surrounding areas for ten years. If you’d like for our expert team to assist you with tree removal, click here to contact us.

BE A GEORGIA TREE KNOW-IT-ALL: EASTERN BLACK WALNUT

Get to know Georgia’s beautiful array of trees and how you can take care of your own! Each month, we feature some of the most popular trees in the state. This month, we are showcasing the Eastern black walnut (Juglans nigra). Learn all about the Eastern black walnut below!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Sources:
http://www.gatrees.org/resources/education/native-trees/NativeTreesGeorgia.pdf
https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=934
https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B987&title=Native%20Plants%20for%20Georgia%20Part%20I:%20Trees,%20Shrubs%20and%20Woody%20Vines#BlackWalnut
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/prune-black-walnut-61308.html
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/nut-trees/black-walnut

 

Premier Tree is your local source for professional tree services in the metro Atlanta area. We provide tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, and more. Check out all of the services we offer, and contact us today for a free consultation!

Summer Days & Blooms: Trees that Bloom in the Summer in Georgia

Most people think of spring when they think about flowers, but summertime is actually one of the best seasons to enjoy blooming trees, too. Not only do trees provide much-needed shade during the heat of the summer in the South, but they can also produce stunning and wonderfully smelling flowers.

If you’re thinking about planting trees that have flowers during the summer and aren’t sure which will be the best in your yard, check out this list of the best trees that bloom in the summer in Georgia.

American Snowbell

A photo of the American Snowbell tree, one of the trees that bloom in the summer in Georgia.

If you’re looking for a smaller tree or something similar to a shrub, the American Snowbell may be the pick for you. Also known as the Storax or the Mock Orange, these trees only grow to be about eight to 15 feet tall. But that doesn’t mean they don’t produce gorgeous flowers. Their bell-shaped white blooms will have your entire yard smelling divine.

Black Cherry

A photo of a Black Cherry tree with a bird in the branches, one of the trees that bloom in the summer in Georgia.

While Black Cherry trees technically bloom flowers in the springtime, they don’t disappoint during the summer either. After spring, their gorgeous white flowers produce small, black cherries that are a great food source for birds and other wildlife. If you like the idea of helping feed critters while also enjoying the flowers and cherries yourself, then pick the Black Cherry for your yard.

Crepe Myrtle

A photo of a bloom on a crepe myrtle tree, one of the trees that bloom in the summer in Georgia.

Crepe Myrtles are a favorite tree in the South. Their summer-blooming flowers are gorgeous and light up any yard, plus they also have gorgeous colored fall leaves and very lovely bark. That means this tree won’t just look good during the summer but also year long. You even have options with this particular species of trees thanks to their three types: Japanese Crepe Myrtle, Indica Crepe Myrtle, and Queen’s Crepe Myrtle.

Jacaranda

A photo of a Jacaranda tree, one of the trees that bloom in the summer in Georgia.

Often described as a tree from a fairy tale, the lavender colored flowers of the Jarcaranda tree will grab anyone’s attention. The good news is they thrive in southern environments. While their flowers start to bloom in late spring, the flowers last all the way through June. If having something whimsical during the summertime is your cup of tea, choose this tree.

Magnolia

A photo of the Magnolia Tree flower blossom, one of the trees that bloom in the summer in Georgia.

When you think of flowers in the south, chances are you’re conjuring up images of the Magnolia Tree. Those big white flowers are recognizable from anywhere, plus the smell they produce is a favorite of most people who were raised or live here. There are certain species of the tree that bloom just in the summertime, so major sure to grab that type, like the Magnolia Grandiflora or the Sweetbay Magnolia, if you want blooms only during that season.

Premier Tree Solutions is proud to provide quality, professional tree services to the metro Atlanta and surrounding areas. If you need help maintaining any of these trees that bloom in the summer in Georgia, click here to contact us or give us a ring at 404-252-6448.

Stormy Waters? We Can Help: Stormwater Pond Clearing

When you think of a pond, you probably think of ducks, fish, and parks. However, a stormwater pond, also known as a retention pond, is different from a duck pond. It is a functional pond—one that collects rain from storm drains and runoff to keep roads and parking lots from flooding during heavy rains. As such, problems with stormwater ponds are NOT a day at the beach.

Learn about how these ponds can become clogged and what Premier Tree Solutions can to do help.

What is a Stormwater Pond?

These stormwater retention ponds are an excellent tool that property owners have in controlling the flow of rainwater. But, over time, they fill up with overgrown weeds, litter, and sediment. When this buildup of sediment and overgrowth occurs, the pond is not able to fulfill its job of collecting rain runoff.

In Georgia, stormwater retention ponds have a vital role in the environment to prevent flooding and erosion. Plus, stormwater ponds improve the water quality in canals and creeks that feed into rivers. Because of this, keeping a stormwater retention pond draining and flowing properly is a very important task. With populations rising, aquatic weed and litter management needs to be addressed to reduce the impact these can have on the state’s natural resources and overall beauty.

What Happens when a Stormwater Pond is Overgrown?

An overgrown retention pond can be a huge eyesore, causing your property to lose value or simply have an unappealing feel to it. However, there are more problems than just the aesthetics of an overgrown pond. When trash and overgrowth collects, excess water may not be able to drain safely into it, which can cause floods or damage to roadways and parking lots.

Finally, a neglected stormwater pond is a breeding ground for the types of creatures you do not want to attract—snakes, rodents and, especially, mosquitos. A clean retention pond is less appealing to these pests.

How to do Stormwater Pond Clearing

Premier Tree Solutions has the expertise that offers professional stormwater pond clearing, vegetation management, and other related services. To do this, we follow a few essential steps.

  1. We assess the pond to determine the aquatic weed and plant removal needs of the area.
  2. We look at specific environmentally safe ways to control growth.
  3. We work to safely remove debris, sediment, and trash to return the pond to its fully-functioning state.

If you are interested in learning more about our stormwater pond clearing services, reach out to our team today to schedule an inspection as soon as possible. The team at Premier Tree Solutions will be ready to help you get your pond functioning as-intended once again.