Practiced Hands Tree Care

Do I need to be home during tree work? 
No, you do not need to be home while the work is being completed. For pruning, it is helpful to meet beforehand to review expectations for shaping and size reduction. This ensures the final result matches your vision. 

Should I do anything with pets or yard cleanup before tree work begins? 
Yes, please clean up any pet waste in the yard before your scheduled service. Our crew is actively working on the ground and removing debris, and this helps keep the work area safe and clean. On the day of the job, keep pets indoors or on a leash to prevent them from entering an active work zone and to protect both your pets and our crew. 

Are your tree climbers certified? 
Yes, our tree climbers are ISA certified arborists. Marielle also holds an ISA certification, adding additional expertise to plant health care and tree evaluations. Certification ensures proper technique and a higher level of care. 

What’s the difference between tree pruning and tree removal? 
Pruning focuses on improving the health, structure, and safety of a tree while keeping it in place. Tree removal is recommended when a tree is hazardous, dead, or no longer appropriate for its location. Our arborist will guide you toward the best option. 

How should I prepare my property before tree removal? 
Before your scheduled work, remove small items within about 10 feet of the tree and along access paths. This may include planters, lights, patio furniture, or children’s toys. Our crew can help with larger or heavier items if needed. 

What should I check in the tree before removal begins? 
Look for any items in the tree you want to keep, such as swings, lights, bird feeders, or decorations. If you cannot safely reach them, point them out to the crew so they can remove them for you. This helps prevent accidental damage during the process. 

Can I keep some of the wood after tree removal? 
Yes, you can absolutely keep wood from your tree if you’d like. Let us know how much you want to keep, what size pieces you prefer, and where you’d like it placed. We’ll make sure it’s left in a convenient spot on your property. 

What if there are sensitive areas like septic systems or landscaping? 
It’s important to point out anything that should be avoided, such as septic tanks or delicate landscape features. We plan access routes carefully to minimize impact. Clear communication beforehand helps us protect your property. 

Do I need to prepare my lawn or yard before the crew arrives? 
If possible, having your lawn cut a few days before service helps us achieve a cleaner final result. Shorter grass makes it easier for our crew to rake and remove debris thoroughly. We always aim to leave your yard neat and well cared for. 

When is cabling and bracing recommended for a tree? 
Cabling and bracing are used when a tree has structural weaknesses but can still be preserved. These systems reduce stress on limbs and help prevent failure during storms or heavy growth. It’s a proactive way to extend the life of valuable trees. 

What should I expect after storm damage to my trees? 
After a storm, there may be broken limbs, fallen trees, or hanging branches that create safety risks. We respond quickly to remove hazards and assess what can be saved. Our goal is to stabilize your property and restore safety as efficiently as possible. 

Who will be on my property spraying?

A PA Department of Agriculture Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator will apply all products to your property to ensure safe, effective treatments. 

Do I need to keep my children and dogs off the property after your visit?

All routinely applied products are low toxicity and safe for children and pets. If you have a severe insect problem requiring a heavier pesticide, we will always check before applying it to your property. Almost all of the products we use routinely are also utilized by organic farmers on the produce we eat at the grocery store! 

Do you offer landscaping services?

No, we do not offer landscaping services, but we know many great landscaping companies and would be happy to hear more about your needs and make a recommendation. 

How many visits do I need?

The number of annual plant health care visits you need depends on your landscape's specific varieties and quantities of trees and shrubs.

Why are there holes in my tree’s leaves?

Holes in your tree or shrub’s leaves can be caused by many different pests, including weevils, beetles, slugs, and different fungi. Identifying the plant and examining the size and location of the holes will help us determine the cause.

Are ants on my plants bad?

Ants on your plant are not harmful themselves, but large quantities of ants may indicate the presence of other damaging insects such as aphids or scales. Aphids and scale excrete a sweet sticky substance called honeydew that may attract ants. 

What is the black substance on my tree’s leaves?

This is sooty mold. It grows on honeydew, the excretion of small insects such as aphids and scale. Small amounts of sooty mold are not harmful, but large quantities will impact chlorophyll production and weaken the tree or shrub. 

Why is there sawdust around the base of my tree?

Sawdust indicates the presence of certain beetles, such as Ambrosia Beetles or Carpenter Ants. 

Why did my tree die suddenly?

Several insects and diseases in our area can cause trees to die suddenly, such as trunk-boring beetles and Oak Wilt. An annual plant health care program will ensure your trees and shrubs are inspected regularly so that pests can be caught and treated before becoming lethal. 

Do I need to mulch around my trees?

Mulch at the base of the tree is very advantageous. It creates a protective barrier between weed whackers, mowers, and other lawn equipment, provides nutrients, aids with moisture retention, and regulates ground temperatures. Just be careful not to over-mulch! Read more here. 

Why is my tree's bark falling off?

Some trees and shrubs naturally exfoliate their bark as they grow. For others, peeling bark is a cause for concern and may indicate your tree has died. Schedule an estimate to have an ISA Certified Arborist and Commercial Pesticide Applicator identify the tree species and whether or not there is cause for concern. 

What are the green/gray spots on my tree trunk?

This is lichen. It is not harmful to the health of your tree. 

Is my tree close to the house dangerous?

Large trees near the house's foundation may have limited root zones that impact their overall stability. They may also have tree limbs that extend over the roofline. It is important to have these trees inspected and pruned regularly for tip-reduction, which lightens the weight of branches, and to remove deadwood to mitigate any risk. Routine fertilization will also ensure a healthy tree. 

Why are my tree's leaves brown at the edges?

This is usually a sign of drought stress and/or heat scorch. Regular irrigation is essential for overall tree health.

What tree should I plant?

We have a PDF of pest- and climate-resistance tree species that we love!

Why aren't my hydrangea blooming?

There are several reasons why your hydrangea may not be blooming. The two most common reasons are that they were pruned at the incorrect time of year, cutting off new flowers, OR late spring freezes that damage the buds and affect the number of flowers. We use and recommend twice-annual fertilizing with Hollytone for enhanced blooms. 

What is a good evergreen tree or shrub to use for privacy from our neighbors?

Arborvitae' Green Giant' trees are very healthy and fast-growing. They provide year-round privacy and are disease- and pest-resistant. They will not grow quickly in full shade, so be mindful of the location when planting. Please try not to plant Skip Laurels. Although they are attractive and evergreen, they are very prone to both insect and disease problems. They are already invasive in southern areas of the United States and are believed to become invasive in our region in the near future.

Still Have Questions About Your Trees?

If you’re unsure about pruning, removal, or any tree care service, we’re here to help you make the right call. Reach out today and get clear guidance from a certified arborist.