We could also call this post: Tree Recovery After the Texas Big Freeze: What You Need to Know
A few years have passed since the devastating Texas big freeze, and it’s now time for Texans to make a crucial decision about their trees: should they remove them, or will they recover? Understanding the current state of your trees is essential to maintaining safety and the health of your landscape. The current heatwave is really stressing trees even more and the lack of rain since early June is being felt as well.
Dead or Alive?
Signs of a Dead Tree
If your tree is bare and hasn’t put out a single leaf by now, it is almost certainly dead. Unfortunately, waiting a few more weeks or months won’t change this outcome. This applies to all tree species. A completely leafless tree without any signs of life means it has begun rotting internally. Large limbs from these trees can fall without warning, posing significant risks to people and property.
Signs of a Recovering Tree
Trees showing any signs of green are potentially recoverable. A tree with even a few green leaves has a chance to bounce back. Healthy trees should have developed a full canopy of leaves by this point in the summer, especially with the ample rain we’ve been receiving in the Abilene region. Trees with at least 50% of their normal canopy are likely to survive but may require careful trimming to remove damaged or dead limbs.
Assessing Tree Health Post-Freeze
Poor or Patchy Canopies
Many trees still exhibit poor or patchy canopies as a result of the Texas Big Freeze. By this stage in the growing season, healthy trees should be lush with leaves. If your tree’s canopy is less than 20% of what it should be, it’s a strong indicator that the tree will not recover and should be removed to prevent potential hazards.
What to Do Next
1. Evaluate Your Trees: Look for new growth. Trees with no green at all are beyond saving and need to be removed.
2. Check Canopy Density: A full or nearly full canopy is a great sign. Trees with less than 50% of their canopy should be monitored and possibly pruned.
3. Safety First: DANGER! Dead trees and large dead limbs pose serious risks. It’s crucial to remove them promptly to avoid accidents.
Seek Professional Help
Our arborist continues to see trees across the Abilene region struggling with the aftermath of the freeze. If you’re unsure about the state of your trees, consulting with our professionals can provide clarity and ensure your landscape remains safe and beautiful. For expert advice and tree removal services, reach out to our team. We’re here to help you make the best decisions for your trees and your property.
Using a crane for crane assisted tree removal is an advanced method that offers several advantages, especially for large trees or those in difficult-to-access areas. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how a crane is typically used for tree removal:
1. Assessment and Planning
Site Inspection: A certified arborist and/or tree removal expert will conduct a thorough assessment of the site, including the tree’s condition, size, location, and surrounding environment.
Planning: A detailed plan is developed, including the sequence of cuts, crane placement, and safety measures. This plan ensures the process is efficient and minimizes risk to property and personnel.
2. Crane Setup
Positioning the Crane: The crane is positioned in a stable and accessible location, ensuring it can reach the tree safely. This may require the crane be setup along a city street, with the crane’s reach able to not only pluck parts of a tree from a front yard, but from a back yard as well.
Stabilizing the Crane: Outriggers are deployed to stabilize the crane, ensuring it remains secure during the lifting process.
The Crane Assisted Tree Removal Process
3. Securing the Tree
Rigging: Professional tree crew members may use a manlift, a crane lift or even climb the tree and attach heavy-duty straps or cables to the sections of the tree that will be removed. These straps are connected to the crane’s hook.
Safety Check: The crane operator and riggers perform a final safety check, ensuring all equipment is secure and communication lines are clear.
4. Cutting and Lifting
Cutting Sections: The tree is cut into manageable sections, usually starting from the top. A chainsaw is typically used for this process.
Lifting Sections: As each section is cut, the crane operator lifts it away from the tree and lowers it to the ground or a designated drop zone. This method ensures that large sections can be safely removed without damaging nearby structures or vegetation.
5. Lowering and Processing
Lowering Sections: The crane operator carefully lowers each section to the ground, where ground crews process it further, such as cutting it into smaller pieces for disposal or transport.
Processing: The ground crew team removes branches, sections the trunk, and prepares the debris for removal. This might involve chipping the wood or hauling it away.
Final Step
6. Final Cleanup
Site Cleanup: Once the tree removal is complete, the site is cleaned up by our team. Debris is cleared, and any equipment is removed. The area is left as neat as possible.
Inspection: A final inspection ensures that all parts of the tree have been safely removed and that no damage has occurred to the surrounding property.
What Are The Benefits of Using a Crane for Tree Removal?
Crane assisted tree removal is pretty much a no-brainer for a number of reasons.
Safety: Reduces the risk of injury to workers and damage to property, especially in confined spaces or near structures.
Efficiency: Faster than traditional methods, as large sections can be removed in one lift.
Precision: Allows for precise control over where sections of the tree are placed, minimizing impact on the surrounding area.
Accessibility: Ideal for trees in hard-to-reach locations, such as backyards or urban environments.
Using a crane for tree removal is a sophisticated process that requires specialized equipment and trained professionals to ensure safety and efficiency.
Cost-Effective Crane Tree Removal Services
Our crane tree removal service offers a safe, efficient, and cost-effective solution for your tree removal needs.
We recognize that tree removal is a significant investment, so our goal is to provide the best value for our clients. Our pricing is transparent and competitive.
Our state-of-the-art technology and equipment streamlines the tree removal process, reducing overall costs without compromising on quality or safety.
Our commitment to affordability extends to our Emergency Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Service. We understand that unexpected tree-related emergencies can be financially stressful, so we strive to provide prompt and reliable service at a reasonable price.
Quality and Accessibility
At Thornton’s Tree Service, we believe that quality tree removal services should be accessible to everyone. We take pride in offering top-notch crane-assisted tree removal with assistance from our International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) arborist that won’t break the bank. Our satisfied clients across Abilene, Brownwood, San Angelo and the Weatherford areas attest to our exceptional value and customer-centric approach.
1. Think Safety First
Before you start any cleanup, prioritize safety:
– Survey your property for downed power lines, gas leaks, and unstable trees or structures. If you encounter any of these hazards, contact the relevant utility companies and emergency services immediately.
– Wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves, sturdy boots, and safety goggles to protect yourself from sharp debris and hazardous materials.
2. Take Photos to Document the Damage**
For insurance purposes, take detailed photographs and notes of the damage to your property. This documentation will be vital when filing insurance claims and ensuring you receive the necessary compensation for repairs.
3. Remove Debris
Start by clearing smaller debris such as branches, leaves, using rakes, brooms, and garbage bags to gather and dispose of smaller debris. This will make it easier to tackle larger items and fallen trees. Be careful around cautious of potentially hazardous materials like broken glass, nails, and sharp metal objects. Handle these with care to avoid injury.
4. Tree Removal and Pruning
After the storm the most significant challenge can be dealing with damaged trees. Here’s what you should do:
– Look for trees that are leaning dangerously, have split trunks, or have large broken branches. These trees may need to be removed entirely.
– For trees that are salvageable, prune broken or damaged branches. This will help the tree recover and prevent further damage in the future.
– Seek professional help for large or dangerous tree removal. It’s best to hire a professional tree service as attempting to remove large trees yourself can be extremely dangerous. Thornton’s Tree Service crews are on call 24/7/365 so call anytime you need professional tree removal.
5. Check for Structural Damage
Inspect your home and other structures on your property for damage:
– Look for missing roof shingles, water leaks, and other roof damage. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further water damage.
– Check your fences, sheds, and other outbuildings for damage. Repair as needed to ensure they remain secure.
7. **Prevent Future Damage**
Take steps to mitigate future storm damage, this can save you time and money in the long run:
– Regularly prune your trees and shrubs to prevent overgrowth and reduce the risk of storm damage.
8. Seek Professional Help
If the cleanup task feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance:
– Thornton’s Tree Service crews can handle large tree removals, pruning, and stump grinding, ensuring your property is safe and looks its best.
Storm cleanup can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can restore your property safely and efficiently. Remember to prioritize safety, document the damage, and seek professional help when needed. Thornton’s Tree Service is here to assist with all your tree care and removal needs. Contact us today we can help you recover after the storm.
Thornton’s Tree Service is proud to announce that Riley Holt has achieved certification as an arborist from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). This esteemed accreditation recognizes Holt’s dedication to professional excellence in tree care and maintenance.
As a certified arborist, Riley Holt brings enhanced expertise and knowledge to Thornton’s Tree Service, ensuring the highest quality of care for our clients’ trees. Holt’s achievement underscores our commitment to providing top-tier tree services and upholding industry standards.
“We congratulate Riley Holt on this significant accomplishment,” said Mike Thornton, Owner of Thornton’s Tree Service. “His certification as an arborist reflects our team’s ongoing commitment to excellence and reinforces our ability to deliver superior tree care solutions to our valued clients.”
With this certification, Riley Holt continues to elevate Thornton’s Tree Service as a trusted leader in the industry, providing expert tree care services to communities including Abilene, San Angelo, Midland, Weatherford in west central Texas.
As March unfolds in Abilene, Texas, the promise of spring is in the air, and it’s the perfect time for residents to turn their attention to the well-being of their trees. Proper tree care not only enhances the beauty of your property but also ensures the health and resilience of your trees in the face of West Texas’s diverse weather conditions. Let’s dive into some essential tree care tips specifically tailored for Abilene residents, helping you cultivate a thriving and verdant landscape.
Assess Damage From Winter Cold and Winds
Before the growing season begins in earnest, take a stroll around your property to assess your trees for any winter-related damage. Look out for broken branches, split bark, or signs of stress. Prune away damaged limbs to encourage healthy growth and prevent the spread of diseases.
Prune with Purpose
Early March is an opportune time for pruning deciduous trees before the onset of new growth. Give us a call today for a free estimate on removal of dead or diseased branches to promote your overall tree health and shape the canopy for optimal sunlight exposure. Proper pruning enhances air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal infections and pest infestations.
Mulching Magic
Mulching is a key practice for tree care in Abilene. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or wood chips, around the base of your trees. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature, providing an ideal environment for root health. Ensure the mulch is spread evenly and does not touch the tree trunk. Our Thornton’s wood chips make for great mulch!
Water Wisely
In the semi-arid climate of Abilene area and Texas, proper watering is crucial. As temperatures rise, trees may require more water to thrive. Deep watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering, as it encourages deep root growth. Be mindful of water conservation efforts or if you’re lucky to have a well on your property water at will. Just be sure to adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilize Appropriately
March is an excellent time to consider fertilizing your trees to provide essential nutrients for robust growth. Choose a balanced fertilizer suitable for the needs of your specific tree species. Consulting with our local garden center (we prefer those over the big box stores) to help you determine the right fertilizer and application method for the variety of trees you have on your residential or commercial property.
Stay Vigilant Against Pests
Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases on your trees. Early detection is crucial for effective management. If you notice unusual spots, discoloration, or signs of pest activity, consult with the garden centers or the local extension office to identify the issue and implement an appropriate treatment plan.
Storm-Proof Your Trees
West Texas weather can be unpredictable, and severe storms are not uncommon as we’re now in severe storm season. Inspect your trees NOW for weak branches or limbs that could pose a hazard during high winds before the storms get here. Give us a call for a free estimate for pruning or we can even consult on the removal of potential risks to safeguard your property (even your neighbors) and the well-being of your trees.
By following these March tree care tips tailored to the Abilene, Brownwood, Wichita Falls and Weatherford areas, residents can ensure their trees not only survive but thrive in the upcoming spring season. A well-cared-for landscape contributes to the beauty of your property!
Call today for a free estimate for any of your tree service needs.
In talking to us about tree care, one of the questions we hear from folks sometimes revolves around “what is the best time of the year to do tree service?”. The answer is, it depends.
In Texas, the best time for tree service normally depends on the specific needs of the trees and the services required. However, a general guideline for tree maintenance is to schedule it during this time of the year which is a dormant season, from late fall to early spring. Here are some considerations for different tree services:
- Tree Pruning: Late fall to early spring is ideal, as most trees are dormant during this period. Pruning during the dormant season helps reduce stress on the tree and minimizes the risk of disease transmission. However, if pruning needs to be done, say branches are on a structure or are blocking access, of if you are needing storm damage taken care of, trees can be pruned any time of the year.
- Tree Removal: This can be done anytime of the year. However, some property owners prefer to do it during the dormant season to minimize the impact on other plants and reduce the risk of diseases spread by insects. It’s also a good time to be able to re-landscape the are where the tree stood, adding new topsoil to make way for grass seeding, or replacing the tree with a new tree. Which is covered next.
- Tree Planting: Fall and early spring are excellent times for tree planting in Texas. Planting during these seasons allows the tree to establish its roots before our hot West Texas hot summer months.
- Fertilization and Soil Amendments: Spring is often a good time for fertilization and soil amendments to support the tree’s growth during the active growing season.
- Insect and Disease Control: Depending on the specific pests and diseases, treatment may be necessary at various times. It’s essential to monitor trees regularly and address any issues promptly.
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and the specific timing may vary based on the tree species, what our spring climate is like, and individual tree health. We always suggest giving us a call for a free review from one of our tree care professionals. They’ll come out onsite and can assess all the trees on your property and provide recommendations based on their unique needs.
During this upcoming cold snap here in Texas, you should take care in protecting young trees to the extreme temperatures that will get down to around 5 degrees or less in some places around Abilene, Brownwood, and Weatherford, TX. The Texas Freeze that’s forecast will be nothing like 2021 but it will impact small saplings.
Covering the root zone will help insulate the soil, retain moisture, and regulate the soil temperature.
The recent rains we’ve had in the Abilene area have resulted in the soil being able to retain heat better than dry soil.
You can wrap small trees with blankets, towels, burlap or purchase frost cloth from local nurseries. You need to cover the trunk and vulnerable branches if you can. Make certain the cover reaches the ground to trap head. DO NOT USE PLASTIC! Plastic actually transmits cold to whatever part of a plant that is covered.
Small tree trunks can also be wrapped with burlap or tree wrap to protect the bark from damage and the freezing temperatures.
If you are looking to plant some new trees on your property, make sure you choose trees and species that are well adapted to the local climate and more resistant to cold temperatures. Trees that grow well in south Texas will not survive here in West Texas.
You can’t look at a Mesquite tree here in the Abilene area that has lost leaves without seeing the green sprouts of mistletoe. Folks who are experiencing their first Christmas in the area may not realize how common it is in this part of the world. They probably don’t even know it’s mistletoe…
The tradition of mistletoe during Christmas dates back to ancient times and has pagan origins. Mistletoe was considered a symbol of fertility, peace, and love in Celtic and Norse mythology. It was believed to have magical properties and was often hung in homes for good luck and protection.
During the Roman festival of Saturnalia, which took place around the winter solstice, mistletoe was exchanged as a symbol of friendship and goodwill. It was also associated with the Norse goddess Frigg, who was said to have declared mistletoe a plant of love and promised to kiss anyone who stood beneath it.
Over time, the tradition evolved into what we now know as “kissing under the mistletoe.” It became a popular Christmas custom in England during the 18th century. According to the tradition, a couple standing under the mistletoe is supposed to exchange a kiss, and it’s believed to bring good luck and happiness to the couple.
Today, hanging mistletoe is a common Christmas decoration in many homes, and the tradition of kissing under it remains a playful and festive custom during the holiday season.
Mistletoe is actually a type of parasitic plant that grows on various trees, including apple, oak, and pine trees. It’s known for its distinctive evergreen leaves and white berries. There are several species of mistletoe, but the European mistletoe (Viscum album) and American mistletoe (Phoradendron spp.) are the most commonly recognized.
This plant is unique because it doesn’t root in the ground like most plants; instead, it grows attached to the branches of host trees, like you see it here in West Texas, where it extracts water and nutrients from the trees.
Some great tips on using it for holiday decorating and making your own decorations may be found here.
Whether seen as a blessing or a curse, mistletoe doesn’t spread rapidly. Its growth rate is quite slow, extending only about 2 feet per year. Research suggests that it takes roughly 60 to 70 years for a 1.5-acre area of mistletoe to develop. Similarly, the demise of a single tree due to dwarf mistletoe could take several decades, and an extensive infestation over a large amount of acreage might occur over centuries.
Though mistletoe berries can be poisonous if ingested, the plant has been used in traditional medicine for its potential medicinal properties. In modern times, it’s primarily known for its decorative use like now during the holiday season, where it’s hung as a decoration, and the tradition of kissing under it is observed in some cultures.
Mistletoe And Tree Care
Mistletoe can indeed have detrimental effects on your live oak trees and other host trees. As we mentioned, it is a parasitic plant, mistletoe attaches itself to the branches of trees and extracts water and nutrients from the host. This extraction weakens the tree, affecting its growth and overall health.
In the case of severe infestations or when the tree is already stressed due to other factors like the drought conditions we’ve experienced the last couple of years or disease, mistletoe can exacerbate the tree’s decline. It can lead to stunted growth, branch dieback, and in extreme cases, it might contribute to the eventual death of the host tree. You can contact our tree service professionals to come out and assess your trees. Wintertime is a great time to have us visit as we can see the entire tree without the leaves.
The impact of mistletoe on a tree can vary depending on a variety of factors including the tree’s overall health, the extent of mistletoe infestation, and the specific species of mistletoe involved. Regular pruning of infected branches and managing the mistletoe can help mitigate its impact on the tree’s health.
Winter in Texas may not conjure up images of snow-covered landscapes (although it’s common up around Amarillo in the panhandle), but the Lone Star State has its own unique charm during the colder months. One aspect of nature that often goes unnoticed is how trees adapt and survive in the winter. In this blog post, we’ll explore some fascinating facts about the resilience of Texas trees in the face of the winter chill.
Evergreen Marvels
Texas is home to a variety of evergreen trees that retain their leaves throughout the year. This adaptation is a clever strategy to maximize photosynthesis during the milder winter months. Pine trees, such as the Loblolly and Longleaf Pine, proudly display their green foliage even when other deciduous trees are bare.
Dormancy Dance
Many deciduous trees in Texas enter a state of dormancy during the winter. This is a survival tactic to conserve energy when the days are shorter, and temperatures drop. Oak trees, for example, shed their leaves and redirect resources to the roots for winter storage.
Water-Wise Strategies
In Texas, where water conservation is always a concern, trees have developed water-wise strategies to endure winter dry spells. Some species, like the Ashe Juniper, are adapted to thrive in arid conditions, making the most of the limited water supply during the winter months.
Freeze-Resistant Adaptations
While Texas winters are generally mild, occasional freezes are not uncommon. Trees, such as the Texas Ash and Bald Cypress, have developed mechanisms to withstand freezing temperatures. Their cellular structure allows them to endure brief cold snaps without sustaining significant damage.
Frosty Bark Insulation
Tree bark plays a crucial role in protecting the delicate tissues beneath. In winter, the bark of many Texas trees thickens, providing insulation against extreme temperature fluctuations. This adaptation helps trees like the Pecan and Texas Redbud weather the occasional cold fronts that sweep through the state.
Winter Bloomers
Contrary to common belief, some Texas trees showcase their blossoms during the winter. In South Texas, the Mexican Plum, for instance, graces the landscape with delicate white flowers even in the heart of winter, adding a touch of beauty to the frosty scenery.
Wildlife Partnerships
Texas trees have formed intricate partnerships with local wildlife to aid in their survival during the winter. Birds and mammals often rely on trees for shelter and food, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that helps both parties weather the colder months.
As winter unfolds in Texas, take a moment to appreciate the silent resilience of the trees that dot the landscape. Whether evergreen or deciduous, each tree has its own story of adaptation and survival, contributing to the unique beauty of winter in the Lone Star State. So, next time you venture outdoors, spare a thought for the arboreal wonders that continue to thrive even when temperatures drop.
So, you’ve decided to make the shift to solar power and install solar panels, a choice that not only benefits the environment but also your wallet. Solar panels are an excellent investment for your property, offering long-term energy savings and reduced carbon footprint. However, before you can harness the power of the sun effectively, there’s one important step to take when going solar: tree trimming.
If your property is graced with mature trees, they provide shade, aesthetic value, and natural beauty. But they can also cast shadows that interfere with the efficiency of your solar panels. This blog post explores why tree trimming is essential when considering solar panel installation and how it can help you make the most of this renewable energy source. The US Department of energy also has some great information if you’re thinking about installing solar panels.
1. Sunlight is the Fuel for Solar Panels
It may seem elementary to say that solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. They do depend on a consistent, uninterrupted supply of sunlight during the daytime to generate the most energy possible. Shaded panels are like partially covered car windows on a sunny day – they won’t function at their best.
If your trees cast shadows over the area where you plan to install your solar panels, it’s important to address this issue before the panels are installed. Trimming or pruning your trees can significantly enhance the sunlight exposure for your solar panels, leading to a more efficient energy system and save you money.
2. Avoiding Energy Losses
When solar panels are shaded by trees, as they can be as trees will continue to grow, they can experience significant energy losses. These losses occur because the shaded solar cells can’t generate electricity, and the rest of the system may be less efficient in trying to compensate for the shaded cells.
In many cases, solar panel systems are designed with microinverters or power optimizers that mitigate the effects of shading to some extent. However, it’s essential to remember that preventing shading in the first place is far more effective and efficient than relying solely on these technologies. Tree trimming provides a solution that allows your solar panels to work optimally without unnecessary energy losses.
3. Ensuring a Return on Investment
Solar panel installations are not just a commitment to environmental sustainability but also a financial investment. The ROI (Return on Investment) of solar panels largely depends on their efficiency and energy production. The more electricity your panels generate, the quicker you’ll recover your initial investment.
Tree trimming, in this context, is an investment that ensures a better ROI. By allowing more sunlight to reach your solar panels, you can expect a quicker payback period and more substantial long-term savings on your energy bills.
4. Extending the Lifespan of Your Panels
Solar panels have a long lifespan, often exceeding 25 years. However, when they are subject to shading and reduced efficiency, they may experience additional stress and wear, potentially shortening their lifespan. Proper tree trimming and maintenance can help ensure the longevity of your solar panels.
5. Environmental Benefits
Shade from trees isn’t just a hindrance to your solar panels; it also impedes the growth of plants and grass beneath. By trimming your trees to allow more sunlight to reach the ground, you can encourage healthy plant growth, which in turn contributes to a healthier local ecosystem. Trees and solar panels can coexist harmoniously, provided proper tree care is practiced.
6. Professional Tree Trimming Matters
While the idea of tree trimming may sound simple, it’s essential to emphasize the importance of hiring a professional tree service for this task. Professional arborists have the expertise to trim trees in a way that optimizes their health while creating the necessary spacing for solar panels.
Improper tree trimming can harm the tree and create new growth that might shade your solar panels later. Professional tree trimmers know how to selectively remove branches and adjust the tree’s shape to allow more sunlight without compromising its health.
The Process of Tree Trimming for Solar Panels
The tree trimming process for solar panels typically involves several steps:
1. Site Assessment: A professional tree service will assess the site to determine the extent of shading and the specific branches that need to be trimmed.
2. Selective Pruning: Pruning involves the careful removal of branches that cast shadows on the solar panel area. This is done strategically to minimize damage to the tree and encourage future growth in the right direction.
3. Crown Thinning: Crown thinning is a technique used to reduce the density of a tree’s canopy. It involves removing some interior branches to allow more light to filter through. This can significantly benefit your solar panels.
4. Ongoing Maintenance: Tree trimming isn’t a one-time job. Trees grow, and their canopy changes, so regular maintenance may be necessary to ensure your solar panels continue to receive adequate sunlight.
Invest in Solar Panels and Tree Trimming for a Brighter Future
The decision to install solar panels on your property is a commendable one, both for financial reasons and environmental stewardship. However, to ensure that your solar panels reach their full potential and provide maximum energy efficiency, tree trimming is a crucial step.
When considering tree trimming in preparation for solar panel installation, remember to hire a professional tree service with experience in this specialized task. By doing so, you’ll not only optimize your solar panel system’s performance but also maintain the health and beauty of your trees.
Invest in a brighter and greener future by embracing solar energy and taking the necessary steps to ensure it’s harnessed to its full potential. Tree trimming for solar panels is a win-win for both your property and the planet. Call us today to take care of your tree trimming needs.
