Brown's Arbor Care

Keeping Your Canopy Strong

Jared Brown

The Art of Mulching: From Tree Health Benefits to Avoiding the Pitfall of Volcano Mulching

by

The Unseen Protector: The Importance of Mulch for Trees

Ever wondered about the role of mulch in your garden? More than just an aesthetic dressing, mulch is a strong protective force that acts as a guardian for the soil. It safeguards the soil from the harsh elements, locks in precious moisture, curbs weed proliferation, and gradually improves the soil’s nutrient profile.

The relationship between mulch and a tree’s growth is not only essential but also reliant on proper mulching techniques. When done right, mulching can cultivate a fertile environment conducive to root growth. By moderating soil temperatures and preserving moisture, mulch significantly improves the conditions for root development. Furthermore, it lessens soil compaction, allowing roots to expand and penetrate deeper, enhancing the tree’s resilience and health.

Mulching: An Art and A Science

Like many gardening practices, mulching must be done with care and understanding. Mulch can influence the vitality of a tree positively, but when misused, it can lead to a problematic phenomenon known as volcano mulching.

Volcano mulching is a trend that involves piling mulch high against a tree’s trunk, creating a ‘volcano’ effect. Though it may seem harmless, or even artistic to some, this practice can be detrimental and sometimes fatal for trees.

The excessive mound of mulch in volcano mulching can trap too much moisture around the tree’s trunk, attracting decay organisms and leading to potential rot. It can also become a haven for rodents that gnaw on tree bark and suffocate roots by hindering air and water access.

The Right Way to Mulch

Avoiding the pitfalls of volcano mulching is straightforward with the right technique. Typically, a layer of mulch between 2 to 4 inches, spread over a 3-foot radius from the tree’s base, is most beneficial. It’s essential to keep the mulch away from the tree trunk, creating a donut-like shape. This practice keeps the decay organisms at bay and safeguards the tree’s health.

In essence, while mulching offers a multitude of benefits for trees, it isn’t a process to be taken lightly. The right mulching practices, customized to the particular needs of the tree species, can significantly improve the health and durability of trees. As with many things in gardening and life, it’s all about balance. Too little or too much of something good can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. So, let’s embrace the art of mulching and help our trees flourish.

The Impact of Tree Canopies on Urban Heat Island Effect

by

Hey there, city-dwellers! Ever felt that summertime sizzle and thought, “Wow, it’s a lot hotter here than in the countryside”? You’ve experienced what the science folks call the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect.

This phenomenon refers to cities being significantly warmer than their surrounding rural areas—think of it like you’re on an island surrounded by an ocean of coolness, but you’re stuck in the heat. Not an island vacation I’d sign up for! But don’t worry; our green friends—trees—come to the rescue with their wonderful, shade-giving canopies.

In this article, we’re diving into the role these leafy heroes play in battling the urban heat. And as someone who’s lived in both concrete jungles and forested havens, I can tell you, the difference is more than just a breath of fresh air.

So, let’s take a stroll through the city streets, learn about these heat islands, and discover how the humble tree canopy plays a huge role in keeping our cities cooler, healthier, and, dare I say, happier places to live. Trust me; it’s going to be an enlightening journey. Buckle up, my eco-conscious friends!

Understanding Urban Heat Island (UHI) Effect

Let’s dive into some science, shall we? No need to pull out your old school textbooks—I promise to keep things interesting!

Aerial view of the skyline of the City of Los Angeles (LA).

Picture this: a vast sea of concrete buildings, asphalt roads, and barely any green in sight. This, my friends, is the setting for our urban heat island story. Heat islands occur in urban areas because all these man-made materials absorb heat during the day and slowly release it at night. It’s like the city’s wrapped in a giant thermal blanket.

And when there’s a lack of natural areas to absorb and alleviate this heat—say, trees, parks, bodies of water—the heat gets trapped, raising the overall temperature. Suddenly, walking down the street feels like you’re in a sauna!

But it’s not all about comfort. This increase in temperature can lead to more energy consumption (think air conditioning), decreased air quality, and even health problems. That’s right—the urban heat island effect isn’t just a discomfort; it’s a significant environmental and public health issue.

So, now that you’ve got the lowdown on UHIs, it’s time to introduce the cool saviors of our story: tree canopies.

Role of Tree Canopies in Urban Areas

Now that we’ve gotten our crash course on urban heat islands, let’s turn our attention to the caped crusaders of our cities, the mighty tree canopies.

Picture the sprawling branches of a tree in your favorite city park, its leaves fluttering like green confetti in the breeze. This is more than just a pretty sight, folks! These canopies act like natural air conditioners, providing shade and reducing temperatures underneath.

But it’s not just about the shade. Ever heard of evapotranspiration? It’s a fancy word for a simple process. When trees “sweat” (that’s right, they sweat just like us), they cool the air around them. It’s their own version of a cooling system, and they’ve been doing it for millions of years. Talk about OG technology!

But, don’t just take my word for it. Studies have shown that tree canopies can reduce local air temperatures by up to 9°F (5°C). That’s enough to turn a sweltering day into a somewhat comfortable one!

Tree canopies also have a ton of other benefits, from improving air quality to reducing stormwater runoff and even beautifying our cities. They’re the silent superheroes that don’t wear capes—they wear leaves!

But as amazing as these natural heat combatants are, it’s not always a walk in the park when it comes to implementing and maintaining them. Stick around as we dive into the science, the successes, and the challenges of growing our urban forests.

The Science Behind Tree Canopies and Urban Heat Reduction

Alright folks, let’s nerd out a bit more, shall we? We’re going to explore the why and how of trees’ superpower in reducing urban heat.

We’ve already chatted about how tree canopies provide shade (I mean, who doesn’t love a good shady spot on a hot day?), but let’s dive a bit deeper.

Trees are like the best multi-taskers ever. While they’re busy creating shady spots, they’re also performing this incredible process called evapotranspiration. Imagine you’re sweating on a hot day and feel a cool breeze – ahh, relief! That’s pretty much what trees are doing. They release water vapor into the air, which cools the surrounding atmosphere. It’s like a tree-sized air conditioning unit that doesn’t rack up your electricity bill!

Now, another cool trick up their bark is how they interact with sunlight. A lot of the sun’s energy, instead of being absorbed by concrete and reradiated as heat, is absorbed and used by trees for photosynthesis. The rest is reflected back into the atmosphere. So, instead of contributing to the heat, they’re quite literally breathing life into our cities.

Science has got our backs here. Studies have shown that on a hot summer day, shaded surfaces can be 20–45°F (11–25°C) cooler than unshaded ones. Now imagine scaling that up to an entire city filled with tree canopies. Yeah, it’s a pretty big deal!

In the next section, we’ll take a look at some real-life examples of cities that have harnessed this power of trees to cool down their streets. But let me warn you: it’s not always as easy as planting a tree and calling it a day. Stick with me, and we’ll navigate through these challenges together.

Case Studies

Time for some tales from the urban jungle! Let’s see how cities around the world are bringing tree canopies into their battle against the heat.

First up, we’ve got Melbourne, Australia. They launched their “Urban Forest Strategy” back in 2012, aiming to double their tree canopy cover by 2040. Today, Melbourne is well on its way to becoming a forest city, and it’s noticeably cooler for it.

Over in North America, Toronto has a fantastic urban tree canopy program. They’ve committed to increasing their tree canopy coverage to 40% (it’s around 28% now), and they’re using some really cool mapping technology to identify the best spots for planting.

But it’s not always smooth sailing. Singapore, often called a “City in a Garden,” has always prioritized greenery, but they face a constant challenge. In a tropical climate with plenty of rainfall, trees grow fast, and maintenance can be tough. But with a dedicated team and the support of the community, they’re managing to keep things cool in the tropics.

These stories just go to show that while it might be a bit of a challenge to maintain a healthy urban forest, the payoff in cooler temperatures, cleaner air, and happier citizens is worth it.

But let’s not brush over the challenges. After all, anything worth doing is rarely easy, right? Coming up, we’ll look at some of the hurdles cities might face when trying to add more green to their scene.

Challenges in Implementing Tree Canopies

Just like every superhero story, our tree canopies also face their fair share of challenges in the quest to cool our cities.

First up, we’ve got space, or rather, the lack of it. Urban areas are jam-packed with buildings, roads, and infrastructure. So, finding space for our leafy friends can be a real head-scratcher. But city planners have gotten creative, integrating trees into city designs in ways that serve multiple purposes.

Then there’s the issue of maintenance. As our case study in Singapore highlighted, trees need care and attention. They have to be pruned, treated for diseases, and sometimes even replaced. It’s a big commitment, but considering the benefits they bring, I’d say it’s one worth making.

Lastly, there’s some societal resistance to reckon with. Let’s face it, change can be hard. Not everyone loves the idea of replacing a parking space with a tree or dealing with leaves in the fall. But with awareness and education, we can help people see the long-term benefits that far outweigh the minor inconveniences.

However, for every challenge, there’s a solution. As more and more cities embrace the idea of urban forests, we’re coming up with innovative ways to overcome these obstacles. And remember, every little bit helps. A single tree might not seem like much, but multiply that by a city, and you’ve got yourself a serious weapon against the heat!

Coming up, we’re going to explore some of the extra benefits that these urban tree canopies bring to our cities. It’s not just about the shade, folks!

Broader Implications of Tree Canopies

When it comes to the wonders of tree canopies in cities, cooling down the streets is just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s unveil some of the other perks these green giants bring along.

First off, trees are nature’s air purifiers. They absorb pollutants and give us clean, fresh air to breathe. So more trees can mean less smog and fewer health issues like asthma. Now that’s what I call a breath of fresh air!

Next, urban trees are a great ally against climate change. By absorbing CO2, they help us combat global warming. And considering how urgent this issue is, every tree planted makes a difference.

But it’s not just about the physical benefits. Being around trees can be a real mood booster, too. Studies show that spending time in green spaces can lower stress levels, improve mental health, and even increase life satisfaction. So tree canopies are also contributing to our overall well-being.

Let’s not forget about the biodiversity, either. Trees provide a home for all sorts of wildlife, even in the heart of the city. Birds, insects, squirrels – they all need a place to live, and our urban forests can provide just that.

And finally, there’s the sheer beauty of trees. Their changing colors with the seasons, the sound of wind rustling through the leaves, the shade they provide on a sunny day – they truly add to the aesthetics of our urban spaces.

In the end, having more tree canopies in our cities is a win on so many levels. It takes some effort, no doubt, but as we’ve seen, the rewards are more than worth it.

As we wrap up, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we’ve learned and where we’re headed.

Conclusion

Well, folks, we’ve journeyed through the concrete jungle and emerged with a newfound appreciation for our leafy superheroes – the urban tree canopies.

From offering us a shady respite on those sweltering summer days, cooling down our cities with their natural air conditioning, to improving our air quality and providing a haven for wildlife – these tree canopies prove their mettle time and again.

Yes, there are challenges along the way. Urban spaces are tight, maintenance is no walk in the park, and societal resistance can be hard to overcome. But as we’ve seen in cities from Melbourne to Toronto to Singapore, with a bit of planning, commitment, and community involvement, it’s possible to grow and maintain vibrant urban forests.

And the rewards? A cooler, cleaner, healthier, and happier city for all of us to enjoy. After all, as the saying goes, “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”

So next time you’re out and about in your city, take a moment to appreciate the trees and the coolness they bring. And if you feel like getting involved, see how you can help your city’s urban forestry initiatives. Remember, every tree counts!

Thanks for joining me on this tree-rific journey. Here’s to cooler, greener, and more tree-filled cities!

The Importance of Calling Before You Dig: Keeping You and Your Property Safe

by

Homeowners often take on various home improvement projects, and digging is often one of them. Calling before you dig is essential when planting a tree or stump grinding to prevent any damage to underground utilities or pipes. When starting any digging work, it’s important to call your state’s one-call center at least two to three business days beforehand, who will notify the relevant utility companies to mark the area with flags or spray paint. In some cases, hidden liabilities may exist, so it’s important to check for them before beginning any excavation work. By taking the necessary safety precautions, you can save yourself from costly repairs and ensure your safety.

To ensure your safety and avoid damage to underground utilities, you need to call before you dig. The nationwide 811 call before you dig service was created to prevent such incidents. The process is simple, free, and efficient.

When you call the number 811 or visit your state’s 811 center website, you provide information about your excavation site, and the 811 service transmits the information to the utilities. The utilities then send out locators to mark the publicly managed underground lines for free. This ensures that you can safely dig without damaging any underground utilities.

If you’re located in North Carolina, you can call NC811 or use the NC811 online system to submit your request. Once you provide the necessary information about your excavation site, the 811 service will notify the utilities to mark the area within three working days. It’s important to note that you must call 811 or submit your request online at least three working days before digging to ensure the utilities have enough time to mark the area.

In the Triangle area, the process is the same as in the rest of North Carolina. You need to call 811 or submit your request online at least three working days before starting any digging projects. The utilities will mark the area to help prevent any damage to underground utilities.

It’s crucial to call before you dig. By doing so, you are taking the necessary safety precautions to avoid any damage to underground utilities. The process is simple, free, and ensures your safety. Call 811 or submit your request online at least three working days before digging and be sure to follow the utility’s markings to ensure that you can safely complete your excavation project.

Why Are Arborists So Expensive? Understanding the Cost of Tree Care

by

Arborists are professionals who specialize in the care and maintenance of trees. They are highly trained and provide a variety of services, such as tree pruning, removal, and emergency care. However, the cost of hiring an arborist can be a major concern for homeowners. So, why are arborists so expensive?

One of the main reasons that arborists can be expensive is the highly specialized nature of their work. Arborists require extensive training and need a supporting crew to get the job done. Running an arborist tree service business involves significant overhead costs, such as insurance premiums and equipment expenses. Arborists also have to invest heavily in specialized equipment, such as personal protective equipment, ropes, harnesses, and other tools, which can add up to over $100,000.

Another reason that arborists can be expensive is the complexity, unpredictability, and risky nature of their work. Arborists don’t just manage trees; they also eliminate limbs and dead trees that can be overhanging houses and other significant structures. One wrong cut could result in damage to property or injury to people, which makes the job more hazardous and requires the arborist to have specialized skills. Furthermore, tree removal can be expensive due to the amount of time, crew members, machinery, and risk involved in the job.

But what is the difference between an arborist and a tree trimmer? While both professionals work with trees, there is a significant difference between the two. A tree trimmer is primarily concerned with making the tree look better by cutting off excess growth. An arborist, on the other hand, is trained to diagnose and treat diseases, pests, and other tree problems, in addition to tree trimming and removal.

So, should you use an arborist? If you have concerns about the health, safety, or appearance of your trees, then an arborist is the best choice. They have the knowledge, skills, and equipment to properly care for your trees and ensure their long-term health and vitality.

When it comes to hiring the best arborist, there are several things to consider. Make sure to ask for proof of insurance before work begins. Ensure that they have the necessary training and expertise to provide quality tree care. You can check for reviews and recommendations from other customers to ensure the arborist is reputable and provides good service. Finally, make sure to get multiple quotes to compare prices and find the best value for your specific needs.

The cost of hiring an arborist can be high due to the specialized nature of their work, the need for a supporting crew, and the overhead costs associated with running an arborist tree service business. Homeowners should weigh the costs and benefits of hiring an arborist before making a decision and should consider getting multiple quotes to find the best price for their specific needs. Ultimately, hiring a qualified and experienced arborist can help ensure the health and safety of your trees, as well as protect your property and loved ones from harm.

Damages Caused by Tree Topping and Better Alternatives to Consider

by

I don’t think the trees need any toppings, do you?

Topping trees is a harmful practice that is still used by some individuals. It involves cutting off the top of a tree or its branches and is done to reduce the height or size of a tree, shape it into a particular form, or clear power lines or views. While it may seem like a quick and easy solution to a tree problem, topping actually causes significant harm to the tree and can have negative consequences for years to come. It weakens the structure of the tree and promotes decay and disease. The cuts made to the trunk or branches are large and open, which makes it easier for insects and fungi to enter and attack the tree. Additionally, topping creates an unsightly appearance that can detract from the beauty of the landscape. Topped trees often have an unnatural, stunted look that is out of place in the natural environment. While there may be situations where tree topping is necessary, in most cases, there are alternative solutions that can be used to address tree problems without resorting to topping. If a tree has been topped, steps can be taken to try to fix it, such as gradually pruning the tree back to its natural shape over a period of years or providing structural support to the tree through cabling or bracing.

There are ways to avoid topping trees. One approach is to plant the right tree species in the right location. Trees should be selected based on their mature size, growth rate, and growth habit, as well as the site conditions, such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and moisture levels. By selecting the right tree for the site, the need for pruning or topping can be minimized.

Topping trees can also be expensive in the long run. While it may seem like a cheap and easy solution to a tree problem, it actually ends up costing more in the long run. Topped trees often require more frequent maintenance, such as pruning, to remove the weakly attached shoots and branches that grow after topping. Additionally, the weakened structure of topped trees makes them more vulnerable to storms and other natural disasters, which can result in costly damage to property and infrastructure.

Another approach is to use proper pruning techniques. Pruning should be done with the long-term health of the tree in mind, with dead, diseased, or damaged branches being removed. The proper pruning techniques are essential for maintaining the health and integrity of the tree. It is recommended to use sharp pruning tools that are clean and disinfected to prevent the spread of disease. It is also important to make clean cuts that are made at the proper angle and location, to minimize the stress on the tree and promote proper healing.

To put it briefly, topping trees is a harmful practice that should be avoided at all costs. It causes significant harm to the tree and can have negative consequences for years to come. It weakens the structure of the tree and promotes decay and disease. Topped trees often have an unnatural, stunted look that is out of place in the natural environment. By selecting the right tree species and planting location, and by using proper pruning techniques, trees can be maintained in a healthy and sustainable way, without resorting to topping.

Bradford Pear Tree Bounty

by

North Carolina residents who are tired of their Bradford pear trees can now participate in the Bradford Pear Bounty Program. This program offers free, native trees in exchange for removing Bradford/Callery pear trees from their property. The program will be hosting events in Wake Forest on March 18, 2023, in Newton (Catawba County) on April 22, 2023, and in Sanford on October 28, 2023. The date for Wilmington, NC is still to be announced.

Participants must pre-register for the program and attend the location and date/time of the event to pick up their trees. Only homeowners can register and receive replacement trees, and a before and after photo of the removed tree is required. The replacement trees are free, native, and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants can exchange one native tree for each Bradford/Callery pear tree removal, with up to five (5) trees available for exchange.

While registration for the Wake Forest and Catawba County events is now full, interested parties should check back soon for fall event registration.

Bradford pear trees are invasive, weak, and have an unpleasant smell. It’s important to identify the Bradford pear tree and consider replacing it with a native tree. For more information on identification and the program requirements, visit the program’s website.

The Bradford Pear Bounty Program is an event-based program that encourages North Carolina residents to remove Bradford/Callery pear trees from their property and replace them with native trees. Don’t miss your chance to participate in this valuable program and help improve the health and beauty of North Carolina’s landscape. Register today and make a positive impact in your community!

visit treebountync.com

The Art and Science of Pruning

by

As an arborist, I have seen firsthand the importance of pruning trees properly. While pruning is often viewed as a simple task, there is actually a lot of art and science involved in getting it right. In this article, I will discuss the principles of Dr. Ed Gilman, a renowned arborist and professor at the University of Florida, who is widely regarded as an authority on the art of pruning.

Dr. Gilman believes that pruning is both an art and a science, and that a good pruner must have a deep understanding of tree biology, as well as the skills and techniques needed to shape and maintain trees. His principles of pruning are based on his extensive research and experience in the field, and are designed to promote healthy tree growth while minimizing damage and stress.

Pruning Principles:

Understand the biology of the tree

The first principle of pruning, according to Dr. Gilman, is to understand the biology of the tree being pruned. This means understanding the growth habits, growth rate, and structure of the tree, as well as its overall health and condition. It is also important to understand the purpose of the pruning, whether it is to remove dead or diseased branches, reduce the size of the tree, or shape it for aesthetic reasons.

Prune at the right time

Timing is an important aspect of pruning. Dr. Gilman recommends pruning trees during their dormant season, which is typically during the winter months. Pruning during the dormant season helps to minimize the stress on the tree and allows it to heal more quickly. It is also important to prune at the right stage of growth, such as after a flush of new growth, to ensure that the tree is able to recover quickly.

Prune for the long-term health of the tree

Pruning should always be done with the long-term health of the tree in mind. Dr. Gilman recommends removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as those that are crossing or rubbing against each other. This helps to prevent disease and insect infestations, as well as promoting healthy growth and development.

Use proper pruning techniques

The proper pruning techniques are essential for maintaining the health and integrity of the tree. Dr. Gilman recommends using sharp pruning tools that are clean and disinfected, to prevent the spread of disease. It is also important to make clean cuts that are made at the proper angle and location, to minimize the stress on the tree and promote proper healing.

Don’t over-prune

Over-pruning is a common mistake that can have serious consequences for the health and appearance of the tree. Dr. Gilman recommends removing no more than 25% of the tree’s canopy at one time, to avoid causing stress and damage to the tree. Over-pruning can also result in the tree becoming top-heavy and unbalanced, which can increase the risk of breakage in wind or rain.

To bring it all together, following the principles of pruning outlined by Dr. Gilman can help ensure healthy tree growth and maintain the beauty and integrity of our urban forests. By understanding the biology of the tree, pruning at the right time, promoting long-term health, using proper techniques, and avoiding over-pruning, arborists can effectively shape and maintain trees for years to come.

2022 Tree Planting

by

Freshly planted Scarlet Oak

Plan for Pruning

by

Are you looking to improve the health and appearance of your trees? Proper pruning is essential for maintaining a beautiful and thriving landscape. At Brown’s Arbor Care, we recommend carrying out a heavy prune in the late winter to early spring when the tree comes out of dormancy and focuses on growth in recently pruned areas.

Our expert arborists take care to create cuts on trees that will encourage wounds to quickly seal. We prioritize the removal of deadwood and branches that may cause issues in the future, while keeping the overall form and health of the tree in mind.

It’s worth noting that the smaller the cut, the quicker it will compartmentalize. This is why it’s a good idea to have trees pruned when they’re young and the limbs are a smaller diameter. By doing so, you’ll encourage healthy growth and avoid future problems.

At Brown’s Arbor Care, we’re committed to delivering exceptional service and results. If you have any questions or concerns about pruning your trees, please fill out the form on our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help.

Don’t let your trees fall by the wayside. Trust the experts at Brown’s Arbor Care to provide comprehensive tree care solutions that will keep your landscape looking its best. Contact us today to learn more!

Contact Form

Seasoned Firewood Available

by

Are you in search of high-quality firewood for your home or business? Look no further than our premium firewood at Brown’s Arbor Care!

We take pride in separating and processing only the best hardwoods throughout the year, and what isn’t taken to the landfill is brought back to our woodyard to be split and stacked. After 5-6 months, our wood is fully seasoned and ready to burn. We offer standard lengths of 17 inches, but can provide shorter pieces upon request.

Our woodyard is conveniently located at 2514 N Carolina Hwy 54 W, Chapel Hill, NC. Contact us today to schedule your pickup or delivery!

At just $300 for a half cord of our premium firewood, we offer a cost-effective and convenient option for heating your home or business. We accept checks and cards as payment for your convenience.

We also offer delivery service based on travel distance, calculated at just $3 per mile. This service is available to Orange, Chatham, Durham, and Alamance counties.

At Brown’s Arbor Care, we’re committed to delivering exceptional service and high-quality firewood to our customers. Order your firewood today and stay warm all season long!