Pruning and Tree Care

For extensive information on pruning, mulching, insects and diseases, as well as treatments and other vital tree information, contact our company or visit

Trees Are Good.org

Will trees live after Transplanting?

Yes, all trees can survive if properly taken care of. The rate of survival is over 98% on spaded trees.

Can you move my trees?

Tree Medics can arrange for you to move trees subject to accessibility. Trees moved during the hot summer months are moved with a larger spade, ensuring more native soil and feeder roots are attached, which results in better tree survival.

What is the proper care of trees after transplanting?

Use 4-6 inches of wood mulch--this keeps the ground cool and moist and weed competition down, preventing damage from lawn mowers. A tree should have 1 inch of water per week, whether it be from mother nature or the garden hose. Take care not to drown your trees, and do not use drip irrigation. Water less often in late summer.

WHY YOU DO NOT TOP TREES.

Many tree owners feel that "topping" their trees enhances the tree's safety and reduces its storm risks. They also feel that a tree that is "too tall" is dangerous. These two tree myths are simply not true. Below is an illustration that helps explain the difference between topping and pruning.

Courtesy of Tree City USA Bulletin No, 8, National Arbor Day Foundation

Topping trees is a practice that causes unnecessary stress and increased risk to a tree's health. In a typical tree-topping job, limbs are chopped to stubs, which in turn causes many detrimental side effects. Some of these effects include tree starvation, shock, and increased vulnerability to insects, disease, and decay. Even though you may notice rapid, new growth from the stub-cuts, the tree eventually develops a dense and dangerous crown. This in turn defeats the purpose of the original intent in topping the tree. The only way to completely remove the risks associated with tree ownership is by completely removing your tree(s). Tree Medics can substantially reduce the risk by using the proper arboricultural pruning techniques.