Don't be SPOOKED by a decaying, dead tree.

Did you know? Trees can live for years with internal decay. While some trees can handle internal decay, it's always just a matter of time before they fall. Not knowing when that may happen is a spooky and potentially dangerous situation. Since the trouble may be hiding on the inside, it is important to regularly check your trees for signs of decay and disease.

Our friends from the Arbor Day Foundation recommend calling your arborist if:

• There are signs of infection. Crown dieback, cracks (deep splits in the tree’s bark), misshapen or discolored leaves, soft crumbly wood, and the appearance of fungi may indicate your tree is infected. Other signs that may show the tree has unwanted pests include emergence holes, feeding galleries and woodpeckers feeding heavily on the tree.

• You see large, dead branches in the tree’s crown. These are sometimes referred to as widow-makers because they can fall for seemingly no reason and seriously injure those below. If 50 percent or more of the tree is dead or damaged, it should probably be removed for safety reasons.

• Your tree isn’t growing well. Take a look at the health and vigor of your tree compared to the trees growing near it. Thin leaf cover, discolored foliage and stunted growth are all signs your tree is having trouble. The reason may need to be diagnosed by a professional.

• There is evidence of root defects. Root defects often are not easily noticeable, but heaving soil and fungi growing near the tree’s base are both signs of root issues.

• The trunk is compromised. Cracks or splits, large wounds and dead branch stubs on the tree’s trunk all indicate internal decay.

• The tree is hollow. A tree with a hollow trunk has been seriously compromised and is a hazard. If a third of the tree is rotted or hollow inside, it needs to be removed.

• The tree is suddenly leaning. All leaning trees aren’t necessarily dangerous, but a tree that suddenly leans to one side may have structural problems.

• You observe sprouts at the base of the tree. These are known as epicormic shoots and they indicate that the tree is severely stressed and should be evaluated by a professional.

• The tree is under power lines. A tree that is growing into power lines can become a hazard and may need to be removed by a certified arborist or tree service.

• The tree is too close to a house or other structure. Trees hanging over the roof or too close to a structure might need to be removed – or at least regularly pruned. In general, large trees should be at least 20 feet away from a house or building.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://arbordayblog.org/treecare/saying-goodbye-when-its-time-to-remove-your-tree

Fall is a great time for inspecting your trees.

While visual inspections of your trees can happen year-round, fall is a great time to do it since it’s easier to see changes in the tree as leaves fall and the canopy becomes more visible. From the ground up to the canopy, some of the things we recommend looking for include fungal growth around the base of the tree, any sort of damage on the main stem or branches, premature leaf drop or color change, and branches that are dead, cracked, diseased, or seem weak.

As an ISA Certified Arborist®, Joshua and his team are educated to care for your trees.

Here are just a few things you can expect when you choose to work with the Browning Tree Service Team.

• We have been recognized in our community as tree care professionals

• We have studied tree biology and are knowledgable in arboriculture

• Our trained eyes help us offer the best diagnosis to homeowners for their trees

• Great knowledge of maintenance practices in order to keep your trees looking great for years to come

• Dedicated safety measures to keep the team, the property and any bystanders safe

With 20 years of experience, our ISA Certified Arborists have developed a reputation for excellence.

Thank you for sharing reviews on Google.

"Josh and team clearly take pride in their work and it shows in these 5 star reviews. Took our large tree out from tricky spot between 2 houses safely. Cleaned up and ensured everything was in great condition. Would absolutely recommend to use to get the job done right the 1st time." - Kevin N.

Click here to visit our YouTube channel and watch our videos.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/whyhireanarborist

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/autumn-tree-care-what-can-i-do/

Call on us for your next tree removal.

The talented arborists at Browning Tree Service Corp are dedicated to providing superior and complete service with integrity.

With over 20 years of experience, we’ve developed a reputation for excellence with long-term clients. Our staff members are skilled and equipped to properly meet our clients needs, which includes a complete tree removal.

Signs that a tree may need to be removed:

• It is dead, dying, or considered an unacceptable risk.

• The tree is causing an obstruction that is impossible to correct with pruning.

• The tree is crowding or causing harm to other trees.

• The tree is located in where new construction requires removal.

We always recommend that when removal is necessary, you should plan to replace that tree, and we will assist with the selection of a new one.

Here’s what others are saying!

"Browning Tree Service did some work for my next door neighbor, I asked them if they could look at my tree and give me a quote to remove some problem limbs. They not only gave me the quote but did the work once they were done at my neighbor. When done cutting they picked up all debris, raked, and used a leaf blower to cleanup. The three workers all kept busy and were very professional. I was impressed all of them had radio headsets so they could communicate without effort even when one was on the roof and the limb chipper was running full blast. They will be the first one I call when I have more tree work to do." - Tim L.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/whyhireanarborist

Our Stump Grinder Means Business

When we remove a tree, we always recommend grinding stumps. But, why is that? When a tree stump is left, it can lead to new tree growth around the stump. These new sprouts become difficult and costly to remove, as new shoots continue to come back.

Other benefits of grinding the stump include:

• Stump grinding isn't invasive.

• Stump grinding is safe.

• Roots will decay in the ground.

• Stump grinding is the best way to avoid pests.

"We typically grind the entire stump that is above ground. We also ground any surface roots that are visible. Our objective at the end of the job is that you will have a level yard that grass will grow nicely on and it would not look as if a tree had been there in the past." - Joshua Browning

Click here to watch our Stump Grinder in Action.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area.

RESOURCES

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/question-can-i-treat-removed-tree-stumps-by-drilling-and-applying-copper-sulfate/

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/question-can-i-plant-grass-over-newly-removed-stump/

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/faqs/

5 Steps for Summer Tree Care

With summer, comes less rainfall and potential drought conditions. The primary responses of a tree to heat and drought are a reduction in photosynthesis and carbon assimilation rates. This translates to a reduction in energy production and food reserves. This reduction can increase vulnerability to health issues and reduced defense mechanisms against pests.

For these reasons, it's important to take extra steps to care for your trees during the summer.

1. Water trees when there isn't adequate rainfall.

2. Refresh your mulch.

3. Look for signs of bugs infestation.

4. Prune only when absolutely necessary; Removing only dead wood. Wait to start pruning living branches until early fall.

5. Call in a professional; it is always a good idea to consult an ISA Certified Arborist for answers to tree questions.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.purduelandscapereport.org/article/summer-tree-care/

Trees and Lightning

With storm season, comes the threat of lightning. Have you seen a tree that's been hit by lightning? It should be inspected and approached with care. A tree struck by lightning has been stressed severely, due to intense heat of the strike takes a great deal of energy from the tree.

Did you know? "Trees, because of their height, are natural lightning rods. Damage can be minimal or quite literally explosive. Since water or sap is a better conductor than wood, lightning damage is often related to the concentration of moisture in and around a tree.

For instance, if the moisture is concentrated in the phloem between the bark and the wood, then the lightning strike will follow this channel and create an explosive separation of the bark. If there is more moisture in the center of the tree, the explosion from within may blow the tree apart."

Take a look at this resource from Purdue University's Department of Forestry & Natural Resources to learn more about Trees and Lightning.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-FAQ-9-W.pdf

Celebrate Earth Day with New Trees

Earth Day is April 22nd! Many people choose to celebrate the day by planting new trees. Planting trees is a fun activity to do with your family and young children. It creates memories for everyone and children will enjoy watching it grow each year!

Although trees are a great addition to a landscape, not all trees are equally well-suited for every site or climate. Tree selection and placement are important decisions a homeowner makes when landscaping or replacing a tree. Matching the tree to the site benefits both the tree and the homeowner.

A few things you should consider include:

• What will be the tree's function?

• The shape of the tree.

• The size of the tree.

• What is the condition of the area where you will plant the tree?

If you have questions or need assistance with tree placement or removal of a tree, make sure to contact a professional arborist.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/choosingtherighttree

Beware of Storm Chasers this Spring

As storms roll through, the storm chasers roll in. While it may seem convenient to allow the door-to-door guy clean up your property after a storm, it's not the best option. We have heard stories of unfinished work, broken promises and up-front payment before the work is done. All of which can become a real nightmare.

To protect you and your property, always hire licensed professionals to do the work. Licensed professionals with proper credentials are important because it shows they are educated, trained and dedicated to their profession.

When it comes to tree work, choose a Certified Arborist.

“Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through experience and by passing a comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading experts on tree care.” (ISA)

To best protect yourself, ask these questions of any arborist you are considering for hire:

• Ask if the arborists on staff hold an ISA certification.

• Ask about membership in professional organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and/or one of its chapters.

• Check the local yellow pages directory or newspaper for arborists who list themselves as ISA Certified and/or state licensed arborists or who display the official logos of professional membership.

• Ask for proof of insurance, and then verify coverage with the insurance company.

• Ask for references from past customers, and do not hesitate to check them or to visit the locations where the company or individual has done tree care work.

• Do not be afraid to ask for an estimate, and remember that it is okay to get more than one. You should not always select the lowest bid.

Remember that utilizing a licensed and insured tree service is worth the price to avoid further damage to your property and your trees. Do your research and find the best company for the job! If you’re looking for a certified and insured arborist in the Lafayette area, contact Browning Tree Service!

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/whyhireanarborist

Have you examined your trees for the Emerald Ash Borer?

The Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire), an exotic beetle that feeds on ash trees, continues to devastate trees in the Midwest every year. The larvae feed in the phloem and outer sapwood, producing galleries that eventually girdle and kill branches and entire trees.

Emerad Ash Borer (EAB) Update in Indiana (Purdue University)

• Emerald ash borers (EAB) are wood boring beetles that kill ash trees (Fractions).

• Dead ash trees threaten property and public safety.

• Treated trees should continue to be treated.

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Safety

Dead and dying ash trees are extremely brittle and prone to cracking and dropping limbs on people and property. People have been killed or injured in cities across the country by falling ash tree limbs. Remove these trees before they die or lose major limbs to prevent these tragedies.

The DNR and Purdue University Extension office have shared a Decision Guide to help determine how to proceed with protecting or removing your trees. Click here to view the pdf.

If you have questions or need help with examining your ash trees for EAB, contact us today.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/EAB/

http://www.emeraldashborer.info

https://indianapublicmedia.org/news/how-the-emerald-ash-borer-will-survive-indianas-cold-snap.php

https://www.purdue.edu/newsroom/general/2012/120423SadofEAB.html

Is Your Home Covered from Winter Weather Damage Due to Fallen Trees?

Here's some helpful information and a few tips you can follow to prevent possible costly winter storm damage to your trees or home.

"Damage caused by wind, wind-driven rain, damage to your home from trees or other falling objects, collapse of a structure due to weight of ice or snow are usually covered under most standard homeowners policies." (Indiana Department of Insurance)

While damage to the home may be covered, it is important to know that the removal of fallen trees may not be. Trees that do not land on and damage your home, are not covered under most standard homeowners policies.

Here are few things you can do to help your trees withstand the power that winter can bring (Purdue University):

• Eliminate codominant stems by pruning weak-forked branches. Choose a good, strong central leader for young trees.

• Inspect trees for broken, dying, diseased and dead branches each year. Also, conduct a visual assessment after a storm event.

• Under no circumstances should a tree be “topped” to prevent wind or ice damage.

• A healthy tree is the best defense to any challenge the tree may face in its lifetime. Appropriate watering and fertilization improves root growth and structure, making the tree more stable.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.in.gov/idoi/consumer-services/consumer-alerts/consumer-alert-archives/winter-weather-and-insurance/#:~:text=Damage%20caused%20by%20wind%2C%20wind,under%20most%20standard%20homeowners%20policies.

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-FAQ-12-W.pdf

Dealing with Freezing Rain or Ice on Trees this Winter

So far, we have been lucky to have had pretty mild weather. However, as we all know from living in West Lafayette, Winter is coming. And when it arrives, it will likely be very cold, snowy and icy.

It is important to make sure your trees and property are ready for our sudden mid-west winter weather. Here are a few things to watch out for:

• A tree with a bad limb.

• A dead tree that is at risk of falling.

• A tree or limb that is overhanging a power line.

Below are a few considerations for those dealing with ice-damaged trees that was shared by The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

1. Don’t be too eager to force trees and shrubs bent over by ice into their former upright position. In removing the ice, you may damage the plant. Wait for warmer weather to melt away the additional weight. If the lean was less than 45 degrees, the plant should right itself, but some staking may be required.

2. Thick ice accumulation on larger trees will often exploit dead branches, those weakened by decay, and those poorly attached to the main stem. Topped trees are particularly vulnerable to ice damage due to this destructive practice. Some trees, because of their growth and form, are more susceptible to ice accumulation than others, and are thereby normally prone to damage.

3. For larger damaged trees, always seek the advice of a Certified Arborist. They know how to safely work around trees, and what treatments are and are not warranted.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources: https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/news/why-is-freezing-rain-so-tough-on-trees/

Tree Risk Assessment

You have heard us talk about scheduling a Tree Risk Assessment, but do you know what it really means? A tree risk assessment is an evaluation of a tree to determine the risk of it causing a safety issue to your or a neighboring property.

During a Tree Risk Assessment, our team will assess a variety of factors to determine the health and risk factors that a tree may cause.

Things we look for:

• Condition of the soil

• Distance of structures from a tree

• Wind exposure

• Overall health of the tree

Browning Tree Service Corp is certified to systematically identify and assess tree risk through our ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). The TRAQ program sets standards, systematic processes for assessing tree risk and providing information to tree owners and risk managers for making informed decisions that will promote the safety of people and property, as well as enhance tree benefits, health, and longevity.

During certain circumstances when all other options have been exhausted, trees may need to be removed. Major storms can sometimes cause trees to lose their strength and collapse or fall, making tree removal vital. We have the staff and equipment to safely accomplish these tasks.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Are you ready to schedule a Tree Risk Assessment? Call the office to discuss pricing and further information. 765-428-0589

Resources:

https://wwv.isa-arbor.com/education/resources/educ_Portal_Risk_AN.pdf

https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/ISA-Tree-Risk-Assessment-Qualification

Pruning Techniques for the Autumn Season

As we touched on last month, fall is a great time to prune your trees.

“Pruning is an important maintenance practice for tree care. Start with corrective pruning to remove any broken, damaged or dead branches, or suckers that sprout from the base of the tree.” (Purdue University)

While pruning is a common tree maintenance task, it is not one that should be taken lightly. It is important to remember that each cut that is made to a tree can potentially change its future growth.

Pruning Techniques

• Specific types of pruning may be necessary to maintain a mature tree in a healthy, safe, and attractive condition.

• Cleaning is the removal of dead, dying, diseased, weakly attached, and low-vigor branches from the crown of a tree.

• Raising removes the lower branches from a tree to provide clearance for buildings, vehicles, pedestrians, and vistas.

• Reduction reduces the size of a tree, often for utility line clearance. Reducing a tree’s height or spread is best accomplished by pruning back the leaders and branch terminals to secondary branches that are large enough to assume the terminal roles (at least one-third the diameter of the cut stem). Compared to topping, reduction helps maintain the tree’s form and structural integrity.

• Reducing density of foliage at the crown periphery, thinning, is sometimes performed to increase wind or light penetration for aesthetic reasons and to promote interior foliage development.

Proper pruning of trees and shrubs requires an understanding of tree species, knowledge of best practices for pruning, and a commitment to ongoing education. That is why it is always best to consult with a trusted arborist.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-506-w.pdf

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/pruningyourtrees

Caring for Your Changing Trees

Once the leaves fall from your trees this fall, rake them into piles away from the tree. Raking leaves away from the tree is important, as it keeps the leaves from clogging up your landscape and putting your tree's health at risk.

"Heavy leaf debris allowed to remain on lawns during winter can cause thinning of the turf by preventing light from reaching the leaves, reducing or blocking photosynthesis for turf plants growing under the debris. Lawns with heavy leaf debris remaining on the turf through winter are also more susceptible to snow mold, a winter fungal disease." (Purdue University, College of Agriculture)

Fall is also a great time to prune away any branches that are at risk of breaking or falling during the winter months.

Autumn Tree To-Do List

1. Rake away leaves.

2. Prune tree branches. This prevents breakage and death.

3. Mulch.

4. Plant new trees with a support system.

5. Cover young trees with burlap or plastic to keep them warm.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://ag.purdue.edu/department/btny/ppdl/potw-dept-folder/2021/mowing-leaf-removal.html#:~:text=But%2C%20don%27t%20delay%2C,plants%20growing%20under%20the%20debris.

Trees have an Immediate Effect on Air Quality

The days are hot, the nights are cool and the kids are returning to school!

In line with the lessons from the classroom, let's discuss the environmental benefits of our trees.

As you may recall from your own days of Science Class, trees alter our environment by using their leaves to filter the air we breathe. Trees help us by removing dust and other particles from the air. Trees improve our quality of life by providing food, cleaner air and water, regulating temperatures, supporting pollination and providing recreational, health and spiritual benefits.

This summer, much of the United States has experienced poor air quality from the Canadian Wildfires. This has left many people asking, "Have my trees or plants been affected by the poor air quality?"

The good news is that even through the thick haze of smoke, plants continue to receive enough light to photosynthesize. It has also been said that the airborne matter is also too small to clog plant stomata and hinder gas exchange.

"Trees have an immediate effect on air quality: they remove airborne particles, which are trapped by leaves due to tiny electrical charges on foliage. Particles also get stuck in minute leaf hairs. Plus, trees can neutralize harmful gases in the air."

If you have noticed any change of your trees this summer, please call us to schedule an inspection to ensure there is nothing serious going on.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.saturdayeveningpost.com/2023/06/our-better-nature-does-wildfire-smoke-damage-your-plants/

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/canadian-wildfires-under-control-what-to-know/

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/we-need-trees-and-heres-why/#:~:text=Large%20trees%20are%20great%20biological,them%20on%20leaves%20and%20bark.

Water your trees this summer.

It's that time of year again. Everyone is feeling the heat, including your trees! It is important to take steps to keep your trees healthy and hydrated.

Extreme heat can have a major impact on tree health and survival.

"Water is the most limiting ecological resource for a tree, and without adequate moisture, decline and death are imminent. It reduces carbohydrate production, significantly lowering energy reserves and production of defense chemicals in the tree. Check out this publication titled Drought? Don’t Forget the Trees! to learn what to look for for any weakening issues including pests that like the dry conditions."

Check out this video from our friends at Purdue to learn more. https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/alert-water-your-trees-watch-video/

A question we get asked often is "How much water should I give my tree?" While there is not one sure answer, the best way to know when to water is to check the soil moisture at 6 inches below the surface. If the soil is dry, it's time to water the tree. For trees planted within 3 years, provide about 1-1/2 gallons of water per diameter inch of the trunk.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://ag.purdue.edu/news/2022/06/keeping-plants-happy-through-heat-waves.html

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-483-w.pdf

https://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/files/fo-TreeGuideForHomeowners1209.pdf

Replanting After Stump Removal

If you have a stump removed, we encourage you to replace the tree. While it may be tempting to plant a tree in the same space, it is not recommended to do so. Keep in mind, once a tree is removed, the area may be experiencing depleted soil, a left over root system or even disease.

Once stumps are ground down, the old root system that is below the ground will begin to decompose. Depending on how "healthy" the root system is, it could continue to pull nutrients from the ground, which will compete with any new trees planted in the same spot. For the health of the new tree, it is always recommended to plant at least a few feet away from the old stump.

For these reasons, planting a new tree is not as simple as just putting a sapling in the same spot as the old tree.

Are you ready to plant a new tree? Are you wondering what kind of tree would be best for your property? Josh and our team are happy to assist with the selection of a new tree to plant.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area.

Here is a recent review we received about a stump removal.

"Stump Removal - 5 stars out of 5! Work was done with a quick response and it was very professional. I have had many tree services over the years and this work, quality, and response was the best and most professional. Thank you for your service." - James M.

Resources:

https://www.arborday.org/trees/index-choosing.cfm

Stump Grinding by Browning Tree Service

The best treatment for stump and roots left behind from removals is grinding and time. Treating with chemicals is typically not a good solution, nor does it really speed up the process. (Purdue University)

With Stump Grinding you will…

• Improve the look and use of your property.

• Avoid tripping hazards and accidents.

• Protect against disease or insects

• Stop new growth.

"We typically grind the entire stump that is above ground. We also ground any surface roots that are visible. Our objective at the end of the job is that you will have a level yard that grass will grow nicely on and it would not look as if a tree had been there in the past." - Joshua Browning

Click here to watch our Stump Grinder in Action.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area.

Resources:

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/question-can-i-treat-removed-tree-stumps-by-drilling-and-applying-copper-sulfate/

How to Plant a Tree

Early spring is an ideal time to plant new trees. Joshua always recommends that when removal is necessary, a new tree should be planted. Great care should be taken while planting new trees. You want to make sure to do things safely without damaging your tree's health.

Please follow these nine steps to help your tree establish quickly in its new location:

1. The trunk flare is where the trunk expands at the base of the tree. Ensure trunk flare is partially visible after the tree is planted. Remove excess soil prior to planting if flare is not visible.

2. Dig a shallow, broad planting hole. Holes should be 2–3 times wider than the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball.

3. If wrapped, remove any cover from around the root ball and trunk to facilitate root growth. Remove wire basket or cut one or two rings off so it is low-profile and will not interfere with future root growth. Inspect tree root ball for circling roots and straighten, cut, or remove them. Expose the trunk flare if necessary.

4. Place the tree at the proper height. When placing the tree in the hole, lift by the root ball, not the trunk. The majority of tree’s roots develop in the top 12 inches (30 cm) of soil. Planting too deep can be harmful to the tree.

5. Straighten the tree in the hole. Before filling the hole, have someone examine the tree from several angles to confirm it is straight.

6. Fill the hole gently but firmly. Pack soil around the base of the root ball to stabilize it. Fill the hole firmly to eliminate air pockets. Further reduce air pockets by watering periodically while backfilling. Avoid fertilizing at the time of planting.

7. If staking is necessary, three stakes or underground systems provide optimum support. Studies have shown that trees develop stronger trunks and roots if they are not staked; however, it may be required when planting bare root stock or on windy sites. Remove stakes after first year of growth.

8. Mulch the base of the tree. Place a 2–3 inch (5–7.5 cm) layer of mulch, but be sure not to pile much right against the trunk. A mulch-free area of 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) wide at the base of the tree will reduce moist bark and prevent decay.

9. Provide follow-up care. Keep the soil moist by watering at least once a week, barring rain, and more frequently during hot, windy weather. Continue until mid-fall, tapering off as lower temperatures require less-frequent watering.

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Note: Before you begin planting your tree, be sure you have located all underground utilities prior to digging. 811 is the US national call-before-you-dig phone number. Anyone who plans to dig should call 811 or go to their state 811 center’s website.

Resources:

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/plantingatree

What is growing on my tree?

With spring comes excitement as new growth and sprouts come from the ground and trees. If you inspect your trees, you might notice some mosses growing on your trees. Leaving you to wonder is this normal? It is a fungus? Is it harming the tree? Should it be removed?

These grayish to light green, circular and spongy things are known as lichens (pronounced “likens”). The good news is, no, these are not harmful to your trees.

"According to the Purdue Plant and Pest Diagnostic Laboratory (PPDL), a lichen is a fungus and an alga growing as an interwoven mass that appears to be a single individual. Lichens grow symbiotically, which means that both the alga and the fungus provides something essential to the other for its survival. Lichens are not harmful to plants. They are merely using the plants or trees as a place to anchor."

While lichens are not harmful to your trees, it is important to watch out for other signs of distress or fungus growing from or around the base of your trees. When you spot a fungus growing from a tree, it's usually a good sign of a decaying tree. "Because fungi feed on organic matter, they are often a sure sign that a tree is nearing the end of its life. Tree fungi come in diverse arrays of shapes and sizes. There are a few growth forms of fungus that are easily identifiable." Check out this guide from Earth.com to help identify some types of fungus you may spot growing on your property.

Do you have questions about your trees? Have you spotted a concerning fungus? Give us a call for a tree risk assessment or removal. 765-428-0589

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A who is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://extension.purdue.edu/news/county/whitley/2021/11/lichens.html

https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/guide-to-identifying-tree-fungus/