From routine pruning to emergency storm work, Brown's Arbor Care handles the full range of tree care — always with an eye on safety, tree health, and your property. Explore our services below, or request a free quote.

Pruning

Tree Pruning involves removing deadwood, shaping trees, and enhancing their health while mitigating the risk of falling branches. The process is tailored to each tree's needs, which may include crown cleaning, thinning for light penetration, or raising lower limbs in urban settings. We focus on proper timing to reduce stress on trees and promote healthy growth.

At Brown's Arbor Care, we prioritize the health and well-being of your trees. To ensure this, we avoid using spikes when carrying out pruning jobs as each wound created is a potential site for decay in the future. We understand that the process of pruning can be stressful for the tree, which is why we take extra care to minimize any additional strain.

Our pruning approach is tailored to suit the specific needs of each tree. We recognize that not every tree will require the same approach, which is why we take the time to assess and determine the best course of action. For instance, a healthy mature tree that has never been pruned before may only need a good crown cleaning, which involves removing dead, broken, or problematic limbs.

For trees that require more attention, we may recommend a thinning approach, which involves removing no more than a quarter of the tree's canopy. This technique maintains the tree's natural shape, while also improving light penetration, strengthening the tree's structure, and reducing the risk of damage during storms. In addition, thinning allows more light to reach lower and inner limbs and increases airflow, which improves tree health. In urban settings, lower limbs may need to be pruned to make way for pedestrians, vehicles, or buildings.

We raise the lower lateral limbs, allowing for clearance and improved views without compromising the tree's health. When drastic crown reduction is necessary, we take a cautious approach, reducing the canopy over multiple visits to allow the tree to recover from each pruning session. It's important to note that removing all of the foliage at once, also known as "topping" the tree, is not recommended as it can severely damage the tree and prevent it from reaching its natural shape.

In the event that a tree has been "topped" or excessively damaged in a storm, our crown restoration pruning can help to improve its structure and appearance. This technique focuses on removing watersprouts, stubs, and hangers found in such trees. While the best time for pruning can vary depending on the species of tree, winter when the trees are dormant is generally the optimal time. However, we understand that this is not always a possibility and will work with you to determine the best time for your specific tree.

Want to know more about how we approach pruning? Click here to learn more about our pruning services, or contact us for a free quote, we’re happy to help!

Removal

Tree removal is a delicate operation that focuses on safety and timing, especially with dead or dying trees that pose a risk to people or structures. Whether the cause is disease, insect infestation, or old age, removal needs to happen promptly to prevent potential harm. In emergency situations like storm damage, immediate action is taken to eliminate threats. We approach tree removal with precision, ensuring a safer environment.

When it comes to tree removal, timing is everything. The ideal window for taking down a tree is within a year of its death. During this time, the tree is still relatively stable, and its branches and trunk are strong enough to withstand the removal process.

However, when the tree poses a threat to people or structures, it should be felled sooner, regardless of its age. Trees can die for a variety of reasons, including disease, insect infestation, and old age. When a tree dies, it gradually becomes weaker, and its branches and trunk begin to decay.

This decay can make the tree unstable and more likely to fall, posing a threat to anyone or anything in its path. That's why it's important to remove dead trees as soon as possible. Sometimes, a tree may need to be removed prematurely of its death because of these risks.

For example, a tree may have sustained damage in a storm, causing it to become unstable and pose a danger to nearby structures or people. In such cases, it's crucial to remove the tree as soon as possible to prevent accidents or property damage.

Again if you have a dead or dying tree on your property, it's important to have it removed as soon as possible to prevent accidents, property damage, and the spread of pests and diseases. When it comes to tree removal, timing is key, and the sooner the tree is removed, the better.

Want to know more about our removal process? Click here to learn more about our tree removal service, or contact us for a free quote, we’re happy to help!

Stump Grinding

Stump grinding removes unsightly and hazardous tree stumps, making way for a cleaner, safer, and more usable landscape. Whether you’re planning new plantings or simply want your yard easier to maintain, we grind stumps below ground level and leave the space ready for what comes next.

At Brown’s Arbor Care, we understand that tree stumps can be more than just an eyesore; they can be safety hazards, attract pests, and make lawn maintenance more difficult.

Our stump grinding service is designed to remove those problems cleanly and efficiently, using compact grinders that fit through most gates and can reach tight spaces without damaging your lawn. We grind each stump down to about 4–6 inches below the surface, which helps prevent regrowth and leaves the area level for grass, garden beds, or new plantings.

Before any work begins, we assess the area, identify nearby structures or plants to protect, and recommend that you call 811 to have underground lines marked for safety. The benefits go beyond appearance. Stump removal makes your yard safer by eliminating trip hazards, discourages termites and carpenter ants that often settle into decaying stumps, and allows for easier mowing and maintenance.

Once grinding is complete, we rake the wood chips back into the hole or haul them away — your choice. The chips also make great mulch if you’d like to keep them. Pricing typically starts at $100 per stump, with discounts for multiple stumps or jobs with easy access. Every quote is customized based on size, number, and location, and we’re always happy to provide a free estimate. T

o schedule stump grinding or ask questions, we’d be happy to help you clear the way. If you'd like to know more, have a look at the details of what it takes to grind a stump.

Planting

Tree Planting goes beyond just putting a sapling in the ground. It's a careful operation that includes selecting a healthy nursery plant and the right site for its growth. Factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and available space are considered. With proper planting techniques and watering management, we ensure that each tree has a solid start and a thriving future.

The process of planting a tree is more than just digging a hole and putting a sapling in the ground. It requires careful consideration and planning to ensure that the tree thrives in its new environment. Matching the proper tree to the site is crucial for its long-term health and growth. Selecting healthy nursery plants is essential for ensuring that the tree has a strong start in life.

A healthy sapling will be more resilient to pests and diseases and better able to withstand environmental stresses. Proper watering management is also crucial, as new trees require adequate moisture to establish roots and grow. Planting can be done at any time of the year, but it's important to consider the climate and weather conditions when selecting a planting date. In some cases, it may be necessary to delay planting until the weather is more favorable for the tree's growth.

Before planting a tree, a plan must be proposed to determine the best location and planting method. Factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and available space must be taken into account to ensure the tree has the resources it needs to thrive. Additionally, proper planting techniques must be followed to ensure that the tree is planted at the correct depth and with adequate support.

Planting a tree is a complex process that requires careful consideration and planning. Matching the proper tree to the site and selecting healthy nursery plants are critical for the tree's long-term health and growth.

Planting can be done at any time of the year, but Fall is the optional season. It's important to consider weather conditions and follow proper planting techniques. Click here for our new tree manual to ensure yours thrive from day one or read more about our planting techniques.

Tree Protection Plan

A tree protection plan entails understanding tree biology, assessing the trees on a site for their preservation suitability, evaluating potential development impacts, modifying construction designs to lessen these impacts, providing post-construction tree maintenance, and documenting all steps in detailed reports. This approach allows us to harmonize development with the critical mission of environmental preservation.

At Brown’s Arbor Care, we understand the importance of protecting and preserving trees, especially during construction. We uphold the belief that progress and environmental conservation can go hand-in-hand, with careful planning and respect for our shared ecosystem.

To protect trees during construction, we start by understanding tree biology. It’s vital to comprehend that every part of a tree, from roots to leaves, plays a critical role in its survival. With this knowledge, we carry out a comprehensive assessment at the beginning of each construction project, evaluating the species, age, health, and stability of the trees on the site. This helps us determine which trees can be preserved and which need to be removed due to practical or safety reasons.

Construction can impact trees in a variety of ways, from obvious physical damage to subtle changes like soil alterations or light variations. We have a methodical approach to predict these impacts. Upon understanding potential effects, we suggest modifications to construction designs to minimize harm to trees. This could include changing the layout to steer clear of critical root zones or using construction techniques that are less invasive.

People want to protect trees for several reasons. Beyond their beauty, trees contribute significantly to the health of our environment. They absorb carbon dioxide, filter the air, and provide habitat for wildlife. Trees also add aesthetic and economic value to properties.

Post-construction, trees require ongoing care to adjust and thrive in their altered environment. We provide a range of services like watering, pruning, pest control, and routine health checks to give the trees the best chance at a healthy life in their new surroundings.

At Brown’s Arbor Care, we ensure transparency in our communication throughout the process. We prepare detailed reports at every stage, enabling our clients to stay informed and make educated decisions about their projects.

Do we need to protect trees? Absolutely. Trees are not just the scenic backdrop to our buildings; they are a vital part of our shared world. Their preservation supports both progress and the environment. We invite you to join us on this journey of growth and greenery.

Comprehensive Soil Care

Bring out the best in your trees with our Comprehensive Soil Care service. This tailored approach combines three potent techniques: Air Spading, Soil Amendment, and Vertical Mulching. Together, they significantly boost your soil's structure, nutrient content, and overall health, empowering your trees to grow stronger and thrive.

Our Comprehensive Soil Care service is designed to help your trees flourish:

Air Spading: This non-destructive technique gently breaks up compacted soil around the tree's roots, promoting better aeration and nutrient absorption. With improved water penetration, your trees will be well-hydrated and ready to take on any weather.
Soil Amendment: Revitalize your soil with essential nutrients. Whether it's organic compost, well-rotted manure, or other valuable additives, our Soil Amendment service will tailor the treatment to suit your soil's specific needs, encouraging healthier tree growth.
Vertical Mulching: A unique method that enriches your soil from within. By drilling holes and backfilling them with compost, we enhance aeration, water penetration, and nutrient absorption directly in the root zone. Vertical mulching can rejuvenate established trees and stimulate healthier root systems.

Holistic Care with Brown's Arbor Care

At Brown’s Arbor Care, your trees' health and well-being are our top priorities. Our professional team applies a holistic approach, recognizing that a healthy tree starts with healthy soil.

We carefully assess each tree and the surrounding soil, creating a customized plan of action. Depending on the specific needs of your tree and soil, we may recommend a combination of air spading, soil amendments, and vertical mulching. This could involve aerating heavily compacted soil, enriching nutrient-poor soil, or drilling compost-filled holes to stimulate root growth.

Our team is highly skilled in these techniques, ensuring each process is done correctly to avoid over-aeration, over-amendment, or potential root damage from drilling. We understand the importance of balance in nurturing tree health, striving to provide the right treatment for each tree's specific needs.

Contact Brown's Arbor Care today to learn more about our Comprehensive Soil Care service. It's time to give your trees the nurturing care they deserve!

Firewood

Provides a sustainable, efficient, and economical means of heating your home, creating cozy outdoor fire pits, and supporting camping adventures. We offer seasoned, split hardwood firewood that burns hotter and longer, ensuring a reliable source of heat and enjoyment.

At Brown’s Arbor Care, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality firewood that meets your specific needs. Whether you are looking to stock up for the winter or planning a summer bonfire, we have the right firewood for you. Our firewood is sourced from healthy trees that have been responsibly harvested and processed to ensure optimal burning efficiency.

Types of Firewood:
We offer a variety of hardwoods, including oak, hickory, and maple, which are known for their superior burning qualities. These hardwoods provide long-lasting heat and produce minimal smoke, making them ideal for indoor and outdoor use.

Delivery and Stacking:
We provide convenient delivery services to ensure your firewood arrives on time and in perfect condition. Additionally, we offer stacking services to save you time and effort, ensuring your firewood is neatly organized and ready for use.

Firewood Sizes:
Our firewood is available in various sizes to suit your specific needs, from smaller pieces for kindling to larger logs for sustained burning. We can also custom-cut firewood to your preferred length.

Seasoned Firewood:
Properly seasoned firewood is crucial for efficient burning and reducing creosote buildup in your chimney. Our firewood is carefully seasoned for at least six months, ensuring it is dry and ready to burn.

Environmental Benefits:
Using firewood as a heating source is environmentally friendly, as it is a renewable resource. By choosing local firewood, you reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable forestry practices.

Contact Us:
For more information or to place an order, contact Brown’s Arbor Care. We are committed to providing you with high-quality firewood and exceptional customer service. Let us help you stay warm and enjoy the beauty of a crackling fire.

Cat in a Tree Rescue

Cats climb high when they feel stressed or chased. Many cannot climb back down. We use arborist climbing gear to bring them down safe. Most rescues take less than an hour and we move slow so the cat stays calm.

Cats get stuck when they climb higher than they planned. They freeze, cling tight, and wait for help.

We climb the tree with ropes and a harness. We work slow and stay quiet. We place the cat into a carrier or hold it in a secure way. Then we climb down with the cat safe in our hands.

Call or text 336-525-1209 if your cat has been in a tree for more than six hours or if the height feels unsafe. We help families across Durham, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough.

Before we arrive, keep dogs inside. Keep kids back from the trunk. Place a small dish of food at the base of the tree, but do not climb after the cat or hit the trunk. Sudden noise makes a stuck cat cling harder.

We do not spike living trees for a rescue. We use ropes that protect the bark. If the tree is unsafe to climb, we explain why and plan another way.

For more details, visit our Cat in a Tree Rescue page.

Our Tree Services