Pruning in August: What Can (and Can’t) Be Trimmed This Time of Year

With a mix of plentiful sunlight and periodic downpours, summer in Georgia often means an explosion of green. Trees and shrubs stretch out their limbs with the added fuel, and seemingly all at once, your once-tidy yard looks like a jungle. It’s tempting to grab the pruning shears, but hold that thought. 

Before you start snipping, it’s important to know which plants can handle an August trim and which should be left alone for now.

Pruning Trees in August: What You Should Know

First, Is It Okay to Trim Trees in August?

The short answer is sometimes — but with caution. Pruning is more than a cosmetic fix. When you cut a branch, you’re creating a wound. In the right conditions, your plant will respond by sealing it up and redirecting energy into new growth. But during the heat of late summer, this healing process may be delayed. Add in humidity, and it creates the perfect storm for pests, fungi, and disease.

In general, trees and shrubs that bloom in spring or early summer are best pruned in the dormant season (usually late winter). Pruning too late in the growing season can stress plants, making them vulnerable to cold-weather damage. Our beloved peach trees are an example, along with other fruit-bearing varieties that need time to recover and set buds for the next season.

Of course, not all trees follow the same rules. Some woody ornamentals like azaleas, dogwoods, and magnolias can be safely pruned shortly after they’ve finished blooming. But even with these species, August is pushing it — instead, try to wrap up any trims by mid-summer to avoid disrupting next year’s flower production

When Is Pruning Trees in August Okay?

Despite the risks, there are some situations where a little late-summer trimming is necessary:

  • Storm Prep: August is prime storm season in the Southeast, and the peak of hurricanes is not far behind. If you notice damaged limbs that could become hazardous in high winds, it’s smart to have them removed now. Think of it as proactive protection for your home.
  • Signs of Disease or Decay: If a tree is clearly suffering — whether from pests, fungi, or rot — targeted pruning may be needed to prevent the issue from spreading. Just be sure to disinfect your tools between cuts to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Certain Species: Some fast-growing trees like certain evergreens can handle light shaping this time of year, especially if you’re just tidying up wayward shoots.

No matter the reason, if you must prune in August, be sure to keep it light. This time of year, the goal is to correct any immediate issues, not to overhaul. Limit cuts to one or two branches, and avoid making major structural changes.

Schedule a Consultation With Premier Tree Solutions

August may not be the ideal time for pruning, but our phone lines are always open if you’re looking to consult with a professional arborist. From pruning for cosmetic purposes to strategically trimming problem branches, our team at Premier Tree Solutions brings expertise to every job we take on. If you have a tree project to tackle, contact our specialists for an evaluation: Call 404.252.6448 or send us a message online.

Essential Late Summer Tree Care for Georgia Homeowners

As the last lazy days of summer unfold, yard work may take a back seat to soaking up the final stretch of the season. Luckily, summer tree care isn’t quite as intensive as the work you’d do during other times of year, but there are still some important ways to tend to young saplings, towering oaks, and everything in between.

Late Summer Tree Care 101

Assess for Damage

Summer might feel like an easy, breezy season to us, but a number of seasonal stressors can leave our trees suffering in silence. As fall nears, take a walk around your yard to look for these telltale signs of trouble:

  • Drought Stress: Georgia’s summer rains can be hit or miss, and when the dry spells linger, trees start showing symptoms. Keep an eye out for curling leaves, wilting, or premature leaf drop. If you suspect drought stress, deliver water slowly and deeply at the root zone, especially to young or newly planted trees. 
  • Diseases: Humidity is the perfect catalyst for fungal foes like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Check for oozing sap or unusual bark texture, and consult a professional for guidance if you discover any abnormalities.
  • Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects often rear their heads this time of year. Check the undersides of leaves for tiny invaders, sticky residue, or fine webbing. A gentle spray of water from your hose may be enough to dislodge them, but be sure to call for backup if an infestation is widespread.

How to Care for Trees in a Heatwave

As summer heaves its last steamy sigh, extreme heat can still take a toll — especially on younger trees. Help them beat the heat by:

  • Watering in the early morning or evening to minimize evaporation
  • Laying mulch at a depth of about three inches to retain moisture
  • Holding off on fertilizing, which can stress heat-weary roots.

Get Storm Ready

If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to get your property storm-ready. Georgia’s hurricane season peaks in late summer and early fall, so be sure to follow our tips for storm preparation. As a refresher, these include:

  • Checking trees for signs of instability
  • Having dead, weak, or overhanging limbs trimmed
  • Calling in a professional to evaluate large or leaning trees

Keep in mind that while pruning is possible this time of year, it’s best to only do it on an as-needed basis. Shaping for cosmetic purposes is better left for the dormant season, when your trees can handle it with less stress.

Plan for Fall Planting

Once the heat breaks, it’s the perfect time to plant new trees. Cooler temperatures and rainfall will help any newly planted trees and shrubs establish strong root systems. While it’s wise to wait out the hottest weeks, many native species can handle being planted a little early — just keep them well-watered and mulched.

What Trees to Plant in Late Summer or Early Fall

  • Magnolia: An iconic Southern beauty with glossy leaves and fragrant blooms
  • Crape Myrtle: A colorful favorite that thrives in Georgia’s climate
  • Southern Live Oak: Majestic and long-lasting; a staple of Southern landscapes
  • Flowering Dogwood: An ornamental with delicate spring blooms and vibrant fall foliage

Schedule an Assessment With Premier Tree Solutions 

While it doesn’t have to be a major undertaking, a little late summer tree care goes a long way toward healthy trees come fall (and beyond). Whether you need assistance with pruning or a professional opinion on any at-risk trees, call in experts for an assessment. Send us a message online or give us a call at 404.252.6448.

Beat the Heat: The Best Shade Trees to Plant for a Cooler Yard Next Summer

Sunny days are often a welcome sight, but sometimes, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Hours of relentless rays make it tough to enjoy your yard to its fullest, and with no shade to shield against them, everything from sunburn to scorched grass can ensue.

Planting new trees is a simple solution, as long as you choose the right species.

What Is the Best Tree for Shade?

When it comes to throwing shade, oaks reign supreme. From their stability to their sprawling crowns, these trees are considered the quintessential backyard beauties for a reason. But while the live oak is among the best-loved shade trees for homes in Georgia, they do require ample space to spread. In ideal conditions, their canopy can reach a staggering circumference of 120 feet.

Indeed, live oaks look gorgeous adorning lawns with ample acreage. If your lot doesn’t stretch quite that far, consider alternatives with less overwhelming reach. For example, fast-growing varieties like the Nuttall oak and the scarlet oak will expand to 40 feet at maturity.

Four Other Top Shade Trees to Consider

Oaks aren’t the only option for blanketing your backyard in tranquil shadows. Here are a few other species to consider, all of which are ideal for southeastern growing conditions.  

Weeping Willow

One of the most instantly recognizable tree species of all time, the weeping willow often springs to mind when we envision peaceful afternoons ensconced in cool shade. Just know that if you plant one, its waterfall branches should be pruned regularly to maintain their iconic shape and sway. An alternative option is the willow oak, a fast-growing deciduous tree that bears a resemblance to the weeping willow and takes on beautiful yellow and orange hues each autumn.

American Sycamore

The largest deciduous trees in the Eastern U.S., American sycamores offer plenty of cool shade from their soaring heights, which can reach up to 100 feet. With their ability to grow more than two feet per year, it won’t be long before you’re sipping lemonade beneath a leafy canopy, or perhaps lounging in a hammock suspended between two trunks. But with this rapid ascent comes the need for proactive pruning, which can direct new growth and eliminate problem limbs.

Silver Maple

If you’re seeking shade sooner rather than later, the silver maple is a species worth considering. These trees grow even faster than the Sycamore—up to seven feet per year! Their accelerated growth has even garnered interest among researchers, as it makes the maples a potential biofuel source. With attractive fall foliage, they’re also a popular ornamental option and one of the most common species across U.S. landscapes.

Tupelo

Finding the right tree to withstand wet soil can be difficult. If your yard is low-lying and tends to retain water, you can still find shady relief in the form of the tupelo. Historically known as the “swamp tree,” this member of the dogwood family has simple leaves that produce stunning scarlets in the fall. If you’re a fan of local honey, consider planting a variety of tupelos together to attract bees in the late spring.

Schedule a Consultation With Premier Tree Solutions

Shady trees perform best when they’re cared for properly. Whether you need help hand-pruning your saplings as they grow or you’re seeking trimming services for mature trees, Premier Tree Solutions can help. Contact us today for a free assessment: call 404.252.6448 or send us a message online.

Summer Storm Tree Prep for Homeowners

For homeowners along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, summertime isn’t just about barbecues and beach days. Unfortunately, it also comes with the very real threat of severe storms, with the typical hurricane season spanning from June through November. 

This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts the season will bring above-average storm activity. If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to start safeguarding your home and property against the threat of ferocious winds, flooding, and other devastating impacts.

How Do I Prepare My House for Summer Storms?

Strengthen Your Structure

Any vulnerabilities in your home’s structure become major risks when driving rains and hurricane-force winds emerge. With that in mind, you’ll want to do everything you can to protect your house against Mother Nature: think roof repairs to address loose shingles, storm shutters for windows and doors, and plywood for reinforcement, if needed.

Be Proactive About Flooding

Even if your home isn’t officially in a flood zone, your storm prep should include steps to mitigate monumental rainfall (which can accumulate quickly during surges). Homes with basements or other low-lying areas might benefit from sump pump installations to move water in the event of flooding. Many municipalities also offer sandbags, which can be placed outside doorways and other cracks to keep floodwater out. Don’t forget the simple but important task of cleaning your gutters and downspouts so rainwater has a clear path to drain.

Prepare for Power Outages and Emergencies

Generators can be a tremendous help for keeping your refrigerator running or your home cool during power outages, but don’t wait until a storm is forecasted if you plan on purchasing one. Refresh yourself on how to use it, too: Improper use and placement can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide, a leading cause of many storm-related deaths.

Each hurricane season, you should also create or replenish your emergency kit. Include flashlights, batteries, non-perishable foods, bottled water, first aid supplies, and medications for at least several days. When severe storms are in the forecast, consider having a go bag ready with evacuation essentials for every family member (pets included).

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Homeowner’s insurance policies don’t always cover storm damage. Depending on your policy, you may need to purchase additional coverage for wind damage and flooding. Because many contracts take days or even weeks to go into effect, review your terms as an utmost priority.

Get Your Yard Ready

Although hurricanes can’t be prevented, some of the damage they bring can be reduced with proper planning. Trees, in particular, are often behind some of the most devastating effects of severe storms. From collapsed roofs to downed fences, damaged vehicles, and blocked roadways, fallen limbs and branches can have dangerous and costly repercussions. That brings us to a question we encounter often: Should you trim trees before a hurricane, or is it better to wait until after the storm to address damage as needed?

As tree care specialists in a storm-prone region, we can’t recommend proactive tree trimming enough. Here’s why: Trees that are pruned properly sustain less damage than those that are unpruned or improperly trimmed. And storms are only getting more severe, not to mention costly, even for insured homeowners. In 2024, Hurricanes Milton and Helene resulted in more than $229 billion in damages together. In addition to the steps above, professional summer storm tree prep is one of the simplest yet most effective strategies you can pursue to protect life and property before a hurricane.

Schedule a Service With Premier Tree Solutions

While Premier Tree Solutions is always here for storm damage assistance and cleanup services, preventive tree trimming is the safest option. Get your property hurricane-ready by calling 404.252.6448 or by sending us a message online.

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.