Tag Archives: tree health

Anatomy of a Tree

How knowledgeable are you when it comes to the anatomy of a tree? Being able to identify parts of a tree is helpful in identifying tree illnesses and safety hazards. Tweet your tree anatomy questions at us: “@westchestertree”.

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Starting from the Bottom: The Root System

A healthy root system makes for a healthy tree! The purpose of the tree’s root system is to anchor the tree, as well as absorb water and minerals from the soil. There are two kinds of roots, large perennial roots and small, short-lived “feeder” roots.

Did You Know: Tree roots are typically found in the top three feet of soil.

The Five Parts of a Tree Trunk

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Did you know a tree trunk has five parts? A tree trunk is comprised of the outer bark, the inner bark, the cambium cell layer, sapwood and heartwood!

The heartwood is the innermost layer of the tree trunk, and acts as the supporting pillar of the tree. Though the heartwood is technically dead, it does not decay or lose strength while the outer layers of the tree are intact. Heartwood is a composite of hollow, needlelike cellulose fibers which are bound together by a chemical-like glue, lignin, making it almost as strong as steel.

The layer which covers the heartwood is the sapwood, which later hardens and turns into heartwood. Sapwood acts as the trees pipeline for water, helping it move up to the tree’s leaves.

After the sapwood is the cambium cell layer. The cambium cell layer annually produces new barn and wood in response to auxins, the hormones which are passed down through the tree. Auxins stimulate growth in cells and are produced by leaf buds at the ends of a tree’s branches.

Next is the Phloem, or the inner bark, which acts as the pipeline for food. The Phloem only lives for a short time before turning to cork; this cork is part of the tree’s protective outer bark.

Lastly is the outer bark, which protects the tree from the outside world. This outermost later helps keep out moisture and prevents the tree from losing moisture; the outer bark also insulates against extreme temperatures.

Branches, Twigs and Leaves

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A tree’s branches and twigs spring out of the trunk and are the supportive structure for leaves, flowers and fruit. Through the process of photosynthesis, leaves make food for the tree and release oxygen into the air.

How Trees Are Damaged During Construction

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Winter is the perfect time to begin planning your upcoming spring projects and renovations. If you are considering tackling a construction project near your home or residence, try to keep the surrounding trees in mind to avoid potential damage. Here are a few ways trees are damaged during construction.

Do you have tree care questions? Call Westchester Tree Life!

Trunk and Crown Injury

Westchester Tree Life serves all of Westchester county.

Did you know construction equipment can injure the portion of your trees which sit above ground? Branch breakage, wounds to the trunk and tearing of the tree bark are all ways your tree can become injured during a construction project. To avoid permanent or fatal injuries to your tree, ask your team to be mindful of their equipment, or mark a barrier.

Root Damage

This diagram helps to explain how nutrients move through a tree’s system, beginning with the root system.

Construction which is tearing up ground or affecting the ground can potentially damage your tree’s roots! Your tree’s root system is vital, as it absorbs water and minerals from the soil and sends them up the trunk to nourish the tree. When planning construction, try to cut as far away from the tree as possible; a good rule of thumb is to steer clear of working underneath the tree’s crown.

Did You Know: Damage to a tree’s roots can affect its ability to stand upright during storms, causing potential danger and property damage.

Soil Compaction

Soil that has not been compacted vs. compacted soil via Mother Earth News

Be aware that heavy construction equipment can cause soil compaction. This reduces pore space which is necessary for water and air movement. Soil compaction can halt root growth, limit water absorption and penetration and decrease oxygen.

For more information on how trees are damaged during construction, check this guide from Trees Are Good.

Common Tree Diseases

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The key to maintaining beautiful trees is being able to understand the basics of tree health. Spot these common tree diseases before they irreversibly ruin your tree’s health with help from our quick guide.

Fire Blight

Fire Blight via Perdue University

You may have noticed fire blight during the summertime, as the bacteria is most active in warm, moist weather. Trees affected by fire blight appear to have “scorched” branches, leaves and twigs, leaving them brown or black. This disease can be spread by infected pruning tools, bees and rain.

The solution to fire blight is simple: prune! Call your professional arborist as soon as you notice fire blight to prevent it from spreading. Proper pruning is essential, so be sure to have a professional aborist take care of it.

The Emerald Ash Borer Beetle

Tree infected by the EAB beetle via The Emerald Ash Borer Resource Guide

Trees infected by the Emerald Ash Borer or EAB beetle are characterized by a thinning or dying crown, and erratic growth along the trunk. Infected trees often attract woodpeckers, as the birds are harvesting the beetles in the bark. The sure sign of an EAB infestation/infection are unique “D”-shaped holes where the beetles have exited the trees.

The EAB via The National Park Service

An EAB infestation is serious and can be spread to other trees in the surrounding area. Contact Westchester Tree Life at the first sign of an EAB infestation.

Tip: When you are unable to diagnose what is wrong with your plants, trees or shrubs, call a professional arborist. Westchester Tree Life can assist by providing a detailed evaluation as well as a plant health care plan to keep you on the right track!

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew on pumpkin leaves via Pure Nutrients

Have you noticed powdery mildew accumulating on your leaves? This white coating forms during dry, cloudy weather with high humidity, and can be caused by a variety of fungi. You may notice that powdery mildew tends to grow on plants in shaded areas.

To prevent powdery mildew, seek out resistant varieties of trees and shrubs. Ask your local arborist which available fungicides will work best to protect your plants, trees and shrubs.

3 Signs a Tree Is Dying

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Knowing how to properly care for the trees on your property is key when maintaining a safe environment. A dying tree is a danger to the surrounding buildings, power lines, pedestrians and more; knowing how to spot a dying tree easily can save you from damages. Here are 3 signs a tree is dying.

Trunk Damage

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When assessing the health of your tree, start at the trunk! If the damage to a tree’s trunk is sufficient enough, it compromises the future of the tree. Look for any cracks in the trunk and check the bark; a lack of bark may be a tell-tale sign that your tree is not so healthy. Though it is normal for a tree’s bark to fall off as it ages, it’s not a good sign if the bark won’t grow back.

Damaged Roots

Tree roots can cause thousands of dollars in damage to sewer lines. Prevent plumbing problems by following these tree-planting tips.
via Popular Mechanics

A healthy root system is essential for tree healthy. The roots are where water and nutrients are absorbed and distributed throughout the tree. If your tree’s roots aren’t visible, call Westchester Tree Life to assist in your tree care evaluation; we can help spot damage properly.

A leaning tree; via CBS New York

Is your tree leaning? A noticeable lean can be a sign of serious root damage. Leaning trees are a damage to their surroundings, especially during the stress of winter storms. As ice bears down and wind pushes, the tree can give way and land on a nearby home, business, car or person.

Bare Branches

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If you are concerned a tree on your property is dying, check it’s branches come springtime. A tree which is not producing leaves is a warning sign. If you notice that only one side of your tree has dead or dying branches, you may want to have a professional arborist come to check for serious trunk and root damage.

If you are concerned a tree on your property is dead or dying, call a professional arborist from Westchester Tree Life today at (914) 238-0069. You can also request a consultation using our online form here.

Hardiness Zone FAQ

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Easily determine what plants, shrubs and trees grow best in your area by knowing your hardiness zone! Hardiness zones are defined by conditions such as minimum temperatures, and determine which specific category of plant life is capable of growing and thriving there.

What are Hardiness Zones?

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The United States and Canada are divided into 11 plant hardiness zones based on a 10 degree Fahrenheit difference in the average annual minimum temperature.

How Do I Determine My Hardiness Zone?

The United States Department of Agriculture has a map which can assist you in determining your hardiness zone. View the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map here.

What Does “Suitable Hardiness” Mean?

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Suitable hardiness means a plant which can be expected to grow in the zone’s temperature extremes; this is determined by the lowest average annual temperature. (via arborday.org)

Are There Other Factors That Affect Plant Survival Aside From Hardiness Zone Limitations?

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Yes! Soil moisture, humidity, the number of days of frost and risk evaluation such as the probability of a severe low temperature should all be taken into account.

For more information, read our blog, “Hardiness Zones” here. For assistance in determining the best plant health care for your garden or landscape, request a consultation from Westchester Tree Life here.

Don’t Move Firewood

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Westchester county offers so many beautiful outdoor activities and attractions, especially during the fall time! Whether you are hitting the trails and camping, or enjoying a late-summer fire in the backyard, it’s important that you use firewood from the area. Moving firewood is more dangerous to your local eco-system than you think; here’s why you shouldn’t move firewood.

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Don’t Move Firewood! Here’s Why:

Did you know that tree-threatening pests and diseases can lurk in firewood? Though these insects and diseases are limited to how far they can travel on their own, the moving of firewood can transmit them to other forests and properties. By using firewood from the immediate area, you are limiting what pests and diseases are being spread. View the list of pests that could be spread from the moving of firewood.

If You Are Camping . . .

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A safe camping trip extends beyond bringing mosquito repellent and hiking gear! Refrain from bringing firewood with you on your camping trip, hunting trip or RV adventure this fall. This works both ways, as bringing firewood home from your campsite can be just as harmful. Instead of bringing firewood with you, buy it where you will burn it! Learn more from Don’t Move Firewood here.

Don't Move Firewood

How Far Is Too Far to Move Firewood

Firewood should not be moved more than 50 miles maximum; ideally finding firewood to burn within ten miles of where you plan to burn it is the key. If you are unsure as to whether you are transporting your firewood too far, stop; don’t risk the spreading of possible pests and diseases! Instead, try to purchase your firewood in from a local source. Here are more tips as to what you can do to stop the transportation of firewood.

Firewood Westchester Tree Life 3

August is Tree Check Month

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Did you know August is Tree Check Month? August is the peak time of year for the Asian longhorned beetle (also known as the ALB) to be found in your trees! The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is asking for your help to find and eliminate the ALB, which is a harmful and invasive pest.

Heavily ALB Infested Maple Tree in Massachusetts

ALB Infestation

About the Asian Longhorned Beetle

Long Horned Beetle Westchseter Tree Life

The Asian longhorned beetle is easily identifiable; they have long black and white antennae, six (possibly) light blue legs and a body which is black with white spots and an inch and a half long. Once you identify your first ALB, you might notice that they also can be found in your pool filters, on walls, outdoor furniture, cars and sidewalks. Westchester Tree Life

While these beetles are slow to spreading on their own during the early stages of an infestation, containing the infestation is critical. The most common way to spread an ALB infestation is through moving fireword (which we urge the Westchester community not to do).

Reporting the Asian Longhorned Beetle

What to do if you see signs of the ALB (via USDA):

Make note of what you found, where you saw it and take a photo, if possible.
Try to place the beetle in a container and freeze it for easy identification by the USDA.
Report findings by calling 1-866-702-9938

Sudden Oak Death

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If you have beautiful oak trees on your property, maintaining their health also means checking for signs of Sudden Oak Death, also known as Phytophthora ramorum. Though this is not an endemic to the Northeast, trees can be made susceptible even if a single oak tree from a nursery is integrated into your landscape. Much of the tree loss attributed to Sudden Oak Death has effected California.

A hillside in Big Sur, California, devastated by sudden oak death
via wikipedia

What are the symptoms of Sudden Oak Death, and how can you check your oak tree properly? Symptoms of Sudden Oak Death include bleeding cankers on the tree’s trunk as well as a dieback of the tree’s foliage; this eventually results in the death of your tree.

Sudden Oak Death Westchester Tree Life

If you were to take a slice from the trunk of an infected oak tree, you would see the following:

via reddit

Sudden Oak Death Life Cycle Westchester Tree Life

If you suspect that your tree is suffering from Sudden Oak Death, contact our team of ISA-certified, professional arborists at Westchester Tree Life today: (914) 238-0069

Summer Pruning

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Maintain your Westchester County residence looking its best this summer with summer pruning from Westchester Tree Life! Our professional arborists can properly and safely prune your tree branches and shrubs.

Summer Pruning Westchester Tree Life

Summer Pruning

Summer Pruning Westchester Tree Life

Summer pruning is ideal when attempting to direct the growth of your tree branches. Pruning can also reduce the total leaf surface, which overall reduces the amount of food which is created and sent to the roots.

Defective Limbs

Removing defective limbs should be left to professionally-trained arborists, due to the serious danger risks associated with the process. Westchester Tree has the training and equipment to properly removed defective limbs. Defective limbs can be defined as dead branches or limbs that hang down too far.

Hardiness Zones

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At Westchester Tree Life, our goal is for your plants, trees and shrubs to maintain a constant peak of health! To give your plants, shrubs and trees a healthy start, it is vital to select an area they would best thrive. If you’ve ever browsed online for seeds or bulbs, you’ve probably seen a reference to hardiness zones. Knowing all about hardiness zones is a great way to maximize the success of your plantings and to know which plants may be vulnerable during the harsher times of year. If you have any questions or concerns about your plant’s health, ask a Westchester Tree Life professional! Call Westchester Tree Life here: (914) 238-0069

Westchester Tree Life Explains Hardiness Zones:

So what does hardiness zone refer to? To put it simply, the United States is divided into hardiness zones based on each region’s weather patterns. There are 13 hardiness zones in the US. The lower the number, the colder the winter. For example, Louisiana is in Zone 9 while North Dakota is mainly in Zone 3. If you’re considering planting a shrub best suited to hardiness zone 5-7, you want to make sure your location falls within that range. Otherwise, your plants may not survive until spring.

It’s also important to know that some plants actually need a certain level of cold in order to survive. A plant that is hardy enough to grow in northern Maine may not grow in Florida. The hardiness zones in one state can vary widely. Here in New York, you could be in zone 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7! Our own local Westchester County area, as well as New York City, northern New Jersey, Rockland county, southern Connecticut, and parts of Long Island are in hardiness zone 6.

While hardiness zones can be a useful guide in knowing which plants can thrive in your yard, there are other factors to take into consideration. Wind, rainfall, humidity, soil composition, and sunlight can all effect the health and growth of your plants. When considering adding a new tree, shrub, or perennial to your existing greenery, it’s always a good idea to seek the advice of an expert.