10 Best Upcycle Ideas After Tree Trimming

Garden owners and tree growers know the value of trimming, pruning, and maintaining a tree to preserve its aesthetic value and overall health. However, along with every trimming project comes a pile of logs, branches, and twigs that most homeowners might find useless and rubbish.

More often than not, we would chop those logs into firewood or dump them in the compost. But if it still isn’t enough to get rid of the debris, you may want to consider upcycling them for sustainable use.

Upcycling is the process of transforming discarded objects, in our case trimmed branches and logs, into something attractive and useful. That said, here are ten (10) best upcycling ideas you can do after tree trimming.

1. Sitting Stool

If you have branches and logs large enough, you can upcycle them into sitting stools with a few tools and wood polish. Cut the log down to your preferred size, sand it up, run a few coats of wood polish, and place a pillow on the surface after drying.

2. Bedroom Corner Table

Using any sanding tools or sandpaper, you can transform those sizable branches and logs into a small yet durable corner table for your bedroom. Otherwise, the table can fit anywhere else, be it your porch, living room, or your favourite reading corner.

3. Outdoor Flooring/Path walk

If the trimmed branches aren’t large enough for a stool or table, you can still find other ways to upcycle them. One is to cut them down to size and build a garden path walk instead of using concrete steps or stones.

Moreover, you can also use them to build a unique outdoor flooring instead of using tiles. Make sure to sand down any rugged edges before placing them on the floor to avoid splinters.

4. Flower Planters

You can upcycle branches that are wide enough as mini flower/herb planters or nursery pots. Depending on the size, you can bore holes horizontally or vertically and add humus, wood chips, or potting soil for your plants.

We suggest planting herbs and succulents on upcycled flower planters, as they wouldn’t need as much water to provide a long-lasting vibrance to your garden.

5. Birdbath

If you have a large saucer at home and want your garden to flourish with birds, a birdbath is the easiest upcycling project for you. All you have to do is secure the saucer on a trimmed log or branch, add some water and bird seeds on the side, then you’re done.

However, if you only have slim twigs and sticks as trim-offs, you can make a tripod out of them, tie them up with twine, and place the birdbath on top. It will surely give your garden a nature-inspired upgrade.

6. Candle Holders

For people looking for a rustic and natural yet cozy bathroom accessory, candle holders should be the go-to projects. Drill a hole in small branches and logs and transform them into tea light candle holders which should hold specific candle sizes, depending on your choice.

7. Seedling Markers

If you have a vegetable garden and has nothing to do with trimmed twigs and branches from your tree, you can always use them as seedling markers for your garden!

Putting sticks and twigs on your garden beds can help you sort veggies, herbs, and plants from one-another without any cost. If you have print-outs or labels, tack them onto the seedling markers, and you now have a low-cost yet useful upcycling project.

8. Vases

For logs and branches too big for candle holders, consider upcycling them into indoor vases. If you have a router at home or know someone who has one, routing out the log’s centre will transform it into a great flower vase.

Otherwise, drilling a hole to fit the plant stems should do the job. What counts is the effort of doing it and the aesthetic value it adds to your home without the price.

9. Trivets

Coffee lovers and tea drinkers would love having wooden trivets in place of fabric and plastic ones. When strung or glued in a circle or any desired shape, cross-sections of trimmed branches will make an excellent trivet.

Wood also adds another heat-protective layer, preventing your hot coffee pot or casserole from ruining your table polish or fabric, making it a perfect and cheap upcycling project.

10. Ornaments

Artsy individuals can show off their skills in making holiday decorations and ornaments from upcycled wood chips and trimmed branches.

Start by slicing a tree branch into thin cross-sections and sand them down. Next, drill a hole on top of one and strung it with twine, which you can use to hang it on your Christmas tree, fireplace, or wall.

Finally, you can bring out your art materials and paint on the sanded surface, making it your tiny natural canvas. You can make this upcycling idea for any holiday and occasion. It’s also a perfect family bonding activity.

Conclusion

Upcycling trimmed tree branches and twigs shouldn’t break your bank. With a few tools, helping hands, and creativity, you can transform any trimming rubbish into something sustainable and valuable.

Besides, while the above ideas make upcycling trimmings easy enough, the trimming job takes quite a skill and equipment to execute safely and properly. With that, Trees Down Under is here to help.

Trees Down Under takes pride in our expert arborists who are serving Sydney’s green space for more than three (3) decades. Set a schedule with our friendly staff and experience reliable and efficient tree and garden services.

Trees Down Under is the perfect solution for your garden. We cater to residential and commercial gardening services in Sydney. Call us at 0475 463 597 for more questions or to get a free estimate.

Avoid These 8 Critical Mistakes When Trimming Your Trees

Regardless of what tree you’re growing, trimming them will often result in healthy and lasting growth. Just like pruning, you need to consider a few things when trimming branches off your tree to prevent permanent damage to it.

That said, it’s always best to have an arborist trim your trees, as it helps protect you and your property from safety risks. But if you want to do it yourself, here are eight (8) critical mistakes to avoid when trimming your trees.

1. Trimming Just About any Branch

More often than not, people who choose to trim their trees only target scarce and dead branches. While that’s mostly the case, you also need to keep the following in mind:

• Amount of branches and foliage to trim away
• Which parts and branches of the tree should you trim
• How to properly trim the branches

You can potentially harm your tree if you don’t plan the right foliage to trim off. Doing so harms its overall health and longevity.

2. Trimming Without Planning

Like the first mistake we discussed, you need to plan out how your tree should look after trimming it down. You must preserve the tree’s structure and health when removing branches and foliage.

Poorly trimming the branches may lead to damages that might take time and money to repair, potentially leading to the tree’s death. That said, plan before you trim.

3. Using Improper Gear

There are tons of gardening and trimming equipment in your average hardware. However, every tool is designed for a specific use, and some of them don’t work as better as the others. For instance, a garden hacksaw can trim larger branches better than garden cutters.

Aside from that, using dull cutters and unsanitised gear may strain your tree and expose you to safety risks while trimming. Fungi and bacteria on a dirty blade can transfer to the tree, potentially causing severe damage.

If your tool is leaving jagged cuts after trimming, it creates open wounds that won’t heal as fast as sterile wounds. Hence, we strongly advice using sharp and clean tools when trimming your trees.

4. Trimming Below the Branch Collar

A branch collar is the closest part of a branch from its main trunk. It is a crucial part of the branch that helps transport nutrients to and from the tree.

Since a tree has countless branch collars around its trunk, it can be dangerous and harmful for the tree if you trim too much of the branch and cut off the collars.

Most of the time, people would trim unwanted branches flush against the tree’s trunk. Doing so will damage the trunk’s structure and tissues. Hence, we strongly suggest cutting about an inch away from the branch collar, or the point where the branch connects with the trunk.

5. Trimming Very Little Foliage and Branches

If you’re landscaping your shrubs and slow-growing trees, there’s a good chance that you might trim only the tips of the stems and branches. While it’s possible to do so, leaving a significant deadweight can affect the tree’s health and your safety over time.

Furthermore, if a tree shows signs of disease and fungi infestation, failing to trim enough of the branches can promote disease spreading and lead to severe growth problems.

6. Heavy Trimming During Spring and Summer

When you trim too much foliage from a tree during its growing season, you’re running the risk of starving the tree. Keep in mind that a tree makes its food through its foliage. Thus, removing too many leaves will reduce its ability to photosynthesise.

Additionally, trimming during mid-summer, where drought likely occurs, further stresses-out your tree. A heavily trimmed tree will become less resilient, especially when water and soil moisture are severely scarce.

Excessive trimming during the hot season may also expose the tree’s previously shaded bark. Doing so will cause sunscald and dry/peeling barks.

7. Stubbing and Flush Cutting

Performing a proper prune and trim will minimise a tree’s wounds, reducing its time to heal. On the other hand, a stub cut leaves the decaying matter in the tree that may spread backwards into the trunk.

Moreover, a flush-cut is when you cut the branch too close to the trunk and leave a large open wound, exposing the tree to fungi and diseases for a significant period. We recommend avoiding both cuts as they usually lead to the tree’s death. That said, it’s always best to have an arborist take care of the trimming.

8. Frequent Excessive Trimming

At this point, you should already know that planning the time for trimming is crucial for your tree’s health. Aside from that, it’s also important to note the intervals of every trim.

It would be best if you give your tree enough time to heal and recover. Keep in mind that excessive trimming stresses a tree, exposing it to diseases, especially if done in the wrong season. 

Every trim is a tree’s wound, so make sure it completely recovers before you trim or prune it again. Open wounds serve as entry points for decay fungi and bacteria that can rot a tree from the inside out. Hence, frequent improper trimming can eventually kill your tree faster than its average lifespan.

Conclusion

The above list is only some of the many things that can go wrong when trimming and pruning your tree. So if you don’t have the confidence, tools, and skill to execute the job, it’s always efficient to have a professional handle it.

We at Trees Down Under boasts a team of passionate arborists who have been serving Sydney’s gardens for over 30 years. Speak with our staff for an appointment and experience time-tested and reliable tree and garden services.

Trees Down Under offers tree services in Sydney. Call us at 0475 463 597 for inquiries and a free estimate.

We are the perfect solution to all your trees and garden needs.

5 Australian Trees That Need No Maintenance

Planting trees in your lawn can increase your property’s value and decrease your energy bills. They offer a picturesque view and shade to protect you and your family for warmer and colder months. Moreover, since Australia often suffers from bushfires, the local councils urge residents to plant trees within their backyard. In this way, they can counter the carbon dioxide emission, especially in urbanised areas. 

However, most Australians don’t have the time to take care of trees within their garden. Tree care is essential to develop and maintain healthy growth. Thus, choosing trees that need no or little maintenance is the right option. 

Are you wondering what trees are perfect for your garden layout? Here are 5 examples of Australian trees that need no  or little maintenance:

Acacia Trees

Acacia, or commonly known as Wattles, is the largest genus of vascular plants in Australia. About 1000 acacia species are across the country’s forests with 9.8 million hectares or 8% of the total forest area.  

They vary from low-growing species to larger shrubs and trees. Acacia trees are perfect for garden spaces as they bloom colourful foliage and provide shade. Due to its rigid structure that is highly resistant to moisture loss, garden owners choose to plant them in their backyard. In spring, they bloom yellow puffball flowers with a sweet aroma. 

Furthermore, Acacia evergreen species, such as Bower Wattle, can withstand severe temperature changes without losing their leaves throughout the year. It is one one the most low-maintenance and drought-resistant trees sought in the garden community. 

Grevillea

Grevillea is another evergreen flowering plant that ranges from shrubs to trees. A grevillea tree can grow up to 35m tall, ideal for shading and privacy purposes. It is one of the sought plants for garden owners because it is self-sufficient and has unique spider-like flowers. Furthermore, thanks to its nectar-rich flowers, it invites bees, butterflies, and birds in your outdoor space.   

Grevillea’s perfect location is in a sunny position with well-drained soil. It grows more healthy with deep watering, which penetrates the topsoil 20cm below its surface. 

Lilly Pilly

Lilly pilly, or also known as Australian cherry, is a common hedging plant in Australia. It is ideal for marking boundaries and giving your property some privacy since it grows up to 30m tall. Moreover, it usually has thick foliage with a glossy sheen, and it also grows edible berries. These attract birds and passersby as their colourful flowers and appearance are truly eye-catching. 

As an evergreen, Lilly Pilles can withstand season changes without dropping their leaves. Planting them in moist and fertile soil is the best choice, but they can also survive in drought, full shade, frosts, sandy soil, and coastal conditions.    

Coast Banksia

Another Australian evergreen native is Coast Banksia. Coast Banksia trees can grow 25m-30m tall and usually have stouts, irregular trunks, and low branches. Furthermore, they have distinctive elongated flower spikes and jagged leaves. As these flower spikes age, they transform to large woody cones with grey colour. 

Coast Banksia is best to thrive in sandy soils. But, some species can grow in dry condition, heavier soils, rainforests, and coastal areas. Also, it usually survives during winter and areas with annual rainfall less than 200 millimetres. 

Grass Trees

Grass trees are iconic plants for most Australians, especially for garden enthusiasts. They are perennials that can grow from 1m to 6m tall. Their growth rate is about 1cm/year, which makes them low maintenance. It takes about 20 years before they bloom flowers. They are well-known for their charcoal trunk and flower spikes that can extend up to 4m long. 

In case of fire incidents, grass trees can quickly recover, thanks to their starch storage. Also, they produce nectars that serve as food for insects and birds. If you choose to plant them, time and patience are crucial factors as they are slow-growing trees.

Conclusion 

As a garden owner, there is nothing more satisfying than to have a visually appealing garden. Planting trees can give aesthetics and privacy to one’s property. However, maintaining them through regular pruning and trimming can be quite a hassle. Fortunately, you can choose from the 5 Australian trees presented through this article to save time and effort from maintenance.

And if you need professional advice, Trees Down Under is your trusted partner! Our team of expert arborists and gardeners offer bespoke tree and garden services to answer your problems. We also understand that tree and plant maintenance can be quite challenging. So instead of avoiding high-maintenance plants, you can always seek help from us. 

We conduct excellent pruning, stump grinding, tree removal, and green waste disposal services at the most affordable prices. After your call, we will be at your doorsteps, equipped with the right tools and devices at the earliest time possible.

So, maintain the beauty of your garden with Trees Down Under! Contact us at 0475 463 597, or send us a message via email.  

10 Things to Remember When Trimming Your Trees

Besides giving shade to your property, planting trees in your backyard takes away pollutants and gives fresh air. Just a fun fact, a single mature tree is enough to provide oxygen to four people. So planting them in a highly urbanised city is beneficial for the residents. Furthermore, trees are the perfect solution to increase privacy and provide a visually appealing garden layout.

However, just like other plants, trees need care and maintenance. Specifically, trimming them is essential for healthy growth, and to avoid accidents from falling branches. So, if you are a garden owner, here are the 10 things to remember when trimming your trees:

1. Inspect Your Tree

Tree garden owners often neglect the state of their tree. Unknowingly, diseases and pest infestations already penetrate the tree trunk. If ignored, they can be a falling hazard and cause property damages and accidents. Trimming trees is one of the solutions to keep them healthy.  To spot tree diseases, you can look for these signs:

• Vertical cracks and seams on the trunk
• Discolouration and deformation of leaves
• Seeping fluid
• Peeling bark
• Reduced foliage
• Presence of termites
• Changes on the soil around the tree

It is best to call for emergency arborists for a full tree checkup, and they might provide solutions right away.  

2. Equip Right Tools and Machines

You cannot trim a tree with just scissors. Tree trimming requires cutting off branches, twigs, and leaves. Thus, you need the right tools and equipment, such as shears, pruners, and loppers, to finish the task. Moreover, it is vital to have a ladder for climbing and safety gears for protection. 

Also, note that low quality and unsanitised tools can bring diseases on trees. They can be bearers of infectious fungi and bacteria. Meanwhile, improper cutting from unpolished and low-quality tools results in rough marks and wounds that attract tree diseases. 

3. Get Necessary Permits

Local councils don’t permit irresponsible cutting of trees or their parts. So, depending on the kind of work, you need to get necessary permits. Different cities have different regulations. For Sydney, you can check their tree pruning and removal guidelines here. 

4. Remove Dead Tree Parts

Trimming trees is not only limited to their foliage. It also involves cutting unwanted and dead branches and twigs. Fungi and bacteria are attracted to them. Moreover, they can potentially fall in your property and cause harm to you, your family, or passersby. 

To remove dead limbs and twigs safely, cut them not more than 6mm from the bud to prevent dieback. However, large branches need more than one cut. For the first cut, make a partial cut on the bottom part, a few millimetres away from the branch origin. Then, make a second cut on top, few millimetres away from the first cut. After that, the branch will freely fall. 

5. Avoid Improper Trimming Cuts

Trimming too close to the trunk or branch produces a flush cut. It destroys the trees natural defence mechanisms that lead to wound compartmentalisation and callus formation.  

On the other hand, trimming too far from a branch can leave a dead part on the tree. It invites disease organisms and becomes a passageway to enter the trunk, affecting the tree as a whole. Eventually, it could lead to decay or death of the tree.   

6. Trim Depending on the Age of Trees

The trimming volume for trees depends on their age. Young trees can lose 25% of their overall foliage. Meanwhile, mature trees can only withstand 15% of their foliage removed. As young trees have more energy and strength for recovery, that is not the case for old ones. 

Trimming more than 15% of a mature tree’s foliage will lessen food and nutrient production within its system. Moreover, if mature trees get sick, losing their foliage may eventually lead to their death. 

7. Trim Trees at the Right Time

For more efficient growth, trimming trees at the right time is crucial. In particular, evergreen trees that don’t drop their leaves during autumn need shaving during their dormant season. 

The perfect season for tree trimming is during late winter to early spring because of the following reasons:

• Wounds heal faster.
• There are lesser risks for pest infestations and diseases.
• Sap flowing is not an issue. 
• Effortless to trim as leaves are gone for deciduous trees. 

8. Avoid Applying Dressing to Wounds

In case trimming produces wounds, some recommend applying a dressing to them. They claim that it prevents decay, speeds up healing, and enhances the appearance of the cut. But in reality, they hinder healing and invite rot organisms and pest infestations. So from now on, it is best to avoid putting dressing on tree wounds. 

9. Clean Debris and Green Waste Right Away

After trimming, remember to clean tree debris and green waste right away. These can become tripping hazards and cause accidents. Furthermore, leaving them for several days in the backyard can invite pests and rodents. These are threats to human health and the community’s sanitation system. 

Also, note that local council pickups don’t collect green wastes thicker than 10cm and more massive than 100kg. So if you need an immediate solution, Trees Down Under Green Waste Removal is just one call away.  

10. Be in Touch with an Expert

Let’s be honest. Most garden owners don’t know the right procedures for tree trimming. Most of the time, they create more harm than good. Thus, getting in touch with expert arborists is crucial to maintain and keep your backyard trees healthy. From trivial methods of foliage trimming to extensive tasks such as chopping large and heavy branches, they have the right tools and equipment. 

Conclusion 

Tree trimming is essential to keep backyard trees healthy and prevent diseases and pest infestations. Always remember the 10 things related to tree trimming presented through this article. And if you ever need a backup, Trees Down Under is your one call away partner. 

We have a team of professional arborists, landscapers, and gardeners who can give bespoke solutions to your tree and lawn problems. With more than 30 years of experience, we are the best tree service provider here in Sydney. 

After your call, we make sure to dispatch a reliable and service-oriented team of experts for quality and efficient services. Equipped with the right tools and machines, we promise to do the job without mistakes!

We are available 24/7 for tree trimming and other garden services. Contact us at 0475 463 597, or send us a message via email. 

5 Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Do When Trimming Their Trees

Garden owners dream of their perfect outdoor space. A large field of grass with blooming colourful flowers and towering trees. Undoubtedly, children and pets would love to play and run around the area. And at night, it is an excellent hotspot for relaxation and calmness. 

Furthermore, most homeowners invest in planting trees to provide aesthetics, shade, fresh air, and hedges for their property. To achieve these benefits, proper tree care is essential. However, some garden owners don’t even know how to trim their trees the right way. Aside from sprucing up the layout of the lawn, proper trimming makes trees safer and more stable.

So that you can further understand and avoid improper tree care, here are the 5 biggest mistakes homeowners do when trimming their trees:

Mistake #1: Trimming at the Wrong Time

The right timing will always come. That is also the case for trimming your trees in the backyard. In general, most homeowners wait for the leaves to grow thick and obstruct other trees before removing them. Furthermore, dead and diseased branches are problems that need immediate removal. During those times, trimming might be necessary. But the best time to trim is during the trees’ dormant season. 

Trimming trees in late fall to late winter will make them grow healthy for the coming spring. Note that cutting branches off in warmer months may attract pests and damage trees altogether. Also, over trimming will make them more susceptible to diseases. Mature trees need trimming at least once every 3-5 years while younger trees require once every 2-3 years.  

Moreover, trees that act as hedges require trimming to maintain their form and foliage. Check out when is the best time to do hedge trimming through this article.        

Mistake #2: Improper Cutting Techniques

In cutting unwanted and dead branches, proper techniques are essential to prevent wounds. They minimise damages done on the tree and allow it to heal faster. Note that improper cuts can cause irreversible harms and may lead to the tree’s death. Here are two examples of unacceptable tree cuts:

Flush Cut

It is the method of cutting too close to the trunk or branch. According to Iowa State University’s Horticulture department, it weakens the natural defence mechanisms of trees. That leads to wound compartmentalisation and callus formation. So, when trimming, make the final cut just beyond the branch collar and branch bark ridge to avoid a flush cut. 

Stub Cut 

Opposite to flush cut, stub cut means cutting too far from the trunk or branch. The dying stub invites disease organisms and becomes a pathway for them to enter the tree trunk. Eventually, this would lead to the tree’s decay. To avoid a stub cut, make sure to retain the bark branch ridge, and the branch collar is intact. 

Mistake #3: Using Dull and Unsanitised Tools

Cutting off tree parts is not as easy as it seems. Aside from it being a heavy task, you also need the right equipment to prevent any harm. Dull tools can potentially strain the tree and leave jagged cuts. These produce open wounds that affect their growth and well-being. Furthermore, using unsanitised and dirty tools can spread bacteria and fungi across the tree. 

Thus, check first if you have the right tools and equipment for proper tree trimming. For safety, it is best to contact a tree service provider. 

Mistake #4: Trimming Any Branch

While it is necessary to cut dead and diseased branches, that is not the case for unwanted ones. Sometimes, you might want to remove the hanging branches under your home’s roof. However, considering these following factors is crucial:

• How much of the branch to trim
• Which branches need trimming
• How to make the angle of the cut depending on its surrounding 

Improper trimming can affect the overall health of the tree. It is best to call for tree service providers like Trees Down Under assess the situation and provide the right solution. 

Mistake #5: Not Getting a Professional’s Help

Tree trimming is different from plant trimming. It requires the right knowledge and proper techniques to keep trees healthy and avoid accidents as well. Sharp tools, ladders, and falling branches are risks that you need to face, carefully. 

Moreover, if you want to maintain a visually appealing garden with trees, getting a professional will benefit you in the long run. Thus, getting help from expert arborists and gardeners is the best choice to make. 

Conclusion

Tree trimming requires in-depth knowledge and the right equipment and tools to do the job accurately. Presented with the 5 biggest mistakes homeowners do when trimming their trees, your safety should be your number one concern. That’s why Trees Down Under is 24/7 ready to attend to your trimming and garden needs. 

Our staff consists of expert arborists, landscapers, and gardeners who have studied and trained for years to bring unrivalled garden and tree services. We have developed excellent and efficient methodologies to fulfil our clients’ concerns. Since 2005, we are providing bespoke yet affordable residential tree services , commercial tree services, and industrial tree services in Sydney. 

So, Trees Down Under is the right partner for your trimming and other garden services. Contact us now at 0475 463 597, or send us a message via email.  

The Dangers of Planting Trees in Your Home

Along with a great landscape design, planting trees can help enhance the overall appearance of your garden. With their green foliage and colourful flowers, passersby will undoubtedly turn their heads in admiration. Furthermore, trees that form a row can serve as hedging plants to provide security and privacy in your property. They can mark the boundary of your place and give you a breath of fresh air as well. 

Flipping on the other side of the coin, planting trees can also put your home in danger. Thus, careful planning is essential to protect you, your family, and the neighbourhood’s safety. Do you know the threats of planting trees in your garden? If not, Trees Down Under is here to discuss them, comprehensively. 

Falling Hazard

Falling trees are one of the worries of garden owners in creating their ideal lawn. 

As they grow taller than your house, they are threats when heavy winds come, or a car accident happens. Based on research, tree trunks break at 145 km/hr critical wind speed, regardless of their size or species type. Meaning, a category two storm or higher can knock down nearby trees in your area if they’re not cyclone-prepared or felled immediately. 

Tree pruning removes unwanted and diseased branches and twigs. As dead tree parts are fall risks, pruning them is the best option as you don’t have to remove the tree itself. But, when you cannot control their growth anymore, it is best to consider tree felling.

Fire Risk

Trees are fire spreaders. Bushfires in Australia are evidence of how trees are dangerous once they get caught in fires. It can result in property losses and damages or worse, deaths. It is best to have enough space between the house and the trees for safety. In general, 5 to 10 metres are ideal, given that there are no combustible materials near the trees.  

But, tree spacing requires professional knowledge. Aside from fire clearance, you need to account tree shading, maximum growth, and overall aesthetics. Asking for assistance from garden professionals will help you decide what’s best for your trees.  

Penetrates Foundation

Tree roots can be culprits in damaging soil and concrete foundations in your home. They can crawl on concrete cracks and diminish its strength that may lead to its failure. Moreover, large roots can extend beneath a house and cause foundation uplift. Or they can leech water from the soil of foundations, causing the building to settle and sink unevenly. 

Clogs Water Drainage

Trees usually fall off their leaves when medium to heavy winds come. Especially during autumn, deciduous trees lose their foliage and prepare to rest for winter. Their dropped leaves end up in your backyard, streets, creeks, and rivers. They can clog waterways and the drainage system when accumulated. 

Thus, a responsible garden owner should know how to take care of their green waste. So, every time leaves start to pile up, clean them and make sure they avoid drainage as much as possible. If you’re busy, Trees Down Under’s green waste removal service is just a call away. 

Houses Insects

While flowering plants invite butterflies, trees also lead other animals in your home. However, they might bring you more harm than good. Presence of rodents and pests is a health hazard as they carry bacteria and viruses. Furthermore, bees and wasps may settle in your tree and sting you, your family, and passersby. 

Don’t hesitate to ask for tree fellers if you want to remove your trees. Or you can actually design your home lawn with plants that repel insects, bugs, and rodents. 

Conclusion

Most garden owners invest in trees for aesthetics, privacy, and breath of fresh air. But, as they grow usually taller than houses, planting trees pose dangers in your home. They can fall unexpectedly, spread fires, damage foundations, block drainage, and house insects. Luckily, you can avoid these threats if you partner with Trees Down Under!

Our team of expert arborists and landscapers provide bespoke and top-rate tree services for all of your tree problems. We equip ourselves with the right gears and tools to bring safe and efficient methodologies. Moreover, we always follow the local council regulations and obtain necessary permits for hassle-free lawn services. 

At the soonest time possible, expect our friendly staff to be at your doorsteps. Don’t hesitate to call us since we are available 24/7! Contact us at 0475 463 597, or send us a message through email. 

Is Your Tree Dead? Signs That Your Tree is Dead

Climate change and global environmental impacts are becoming more rampant and common nowadays. In the event of these occurrences, nature is struggling to keep up with human activities that bring dreadful long-term effects. One of the signifiers of this phenomenon is the life cycles of flora and fauna. The trees in your backyard are heavily affected by the changes in the environment. Sometimes, they struggle and eventually die. How can you tell that your tree is dead? Watch out for these signs.

Damaged root system

Dead trees have damaged root systems. Since roots bring a lot of the things that a tree needs to survive, a damaged or even decaying roots can say that your tree is not alive anymore. It’s not getting its needs from the roots and as per its death, the damaged root system is a side effect of the dying tree. Damaged roots also make a tree structure weak. So if your tree is leaning too low, looking like it will fall any time soon, it might be dead already.

Tree disease

Trees get sick too. Like animals and humans, a tree without proper protection and treatment can succumb to diseases that will wallow it to its death. Is your tree home to many critters and pests? Is there a significant and dense population of insects swarming and causing an infestation? These factors can contribute to the sick state of the tree. Visual signs of a dead tree can include damage spots and deep wounds. If your tree looks butchered, there’s a high chance it’s not alive anymore.

Fungal growth and presence

Fungal growth is normal for many trees. However, too much of it can cause sickness to a tree. If your tree is shrouded from roots to trunk with fungi, there’s a high chance it’s breaking down and decomposing inside. A rotten tree in its core is already dead. If you’re not sure with the case, do a scratch test. Beneath a layer of bark, a cambium layer is present. In a live tree, it is colour green, in a dead one, it’s colour brown and it’s dry.

Absence of bark

A dying tree will shed barks in gradual frequencies. Because of its declining health, the barks become loose and they shed off and will fall to the ground. In a dead tree, if there are big spots with the absence of bark, then there’s a high chance that the tree is dead. They start with deep cracks in the trunk that can go all the way to the core, once the barks are loose, they will fail to protect the tree and shed off.

Bare branches in budding season

Trees have their season to bloom and grow. The foliage of trees should grow in volume in its peak season. If the branches of your tree aren’t sporting as many leaves, or have no leaves at all when they should be, they might be dead already. Check the canopy of the trees to make sure that they are growing leaves or flowers. A bare tree might be sick and dying, or more realistically, dead.

Foul odour

Some of the trees that die give off a foul smell after. The smell comes from either the decomposition and decay of the tree or its slow degradation due to insect and pest infestation. Though it might not apply for all, if your trees give off an unusual smell that wasn’t there before, call your arborist to inspect it. You can still treat it only if it’s sick, or you can choose to let it go when there’s no point in keeping it.

Conclusion

A dead tree gives off warning signs as much as sick trees do. Sometimes, the signs overlap, and you need to remove the tree already. If you want to consult about the health of your tree in the garden or the health of your plants and shrubs in the landscape, it’s best to call your local arborist to get the job done.

Team up with Trees Down Under for your garden needs!

Trees Down Under has extensive experience to deal with your garden and your trees, dead or alive. If you’re looking for trusted knowledge and unparalleled experience to assure the health and aesthetics of your landscape, you can count on us. We will work with you in keeping your trees and plants well. We can also work with you in dealing with a dead tree that doesn’t bring joy in your sight anymore. Don’t hesitate to contact us!

We offer tree services like tree removals, tree pruning, stump grinding and more.

Call us at 0475 463 597 or send us your enquiries via email. Book your next tree removal job or request a quote here.

Sick Tree: Warning Signs

Trees are a beautiful part of any landscape. They add life and vigour to any surrounding and they serve as home to other smaller forms of life. However, the opposite is true. A sick tree can be a source of problem and concern to any green thumb and they can turn dangerous for any surrounding too. Check your trees to make sure that they are still healthy and growing well. A sick tree will give you major and noticeable indications for you to check.

Brittle barks

Trees that are sick or stricken with disease may exhibit brittle barks. Barks start to fall more frequently and loose shards of wood plague the surroundings of the tree. Brittle barks contribute to a weakening state of the tree which follows to a more fragile tree. If your tree has deep cavities and crevices that may result in a loose wood slab eventually, your tree may be sick.

Deep cracks in the trunk

Inspect the trunk of your tree. Any major cracks indicate that the tree is slowly disintegrating within. Although it’s normal for tree trunks to have cracks, deep cracks that go beyond the barks of the trunk can mean that your tree is not well. Call your local arborist to treat the tree if that happens.

Deadwood

Another sign of a diseased tree is the abundance of deadwood. Trees have a normal level of deadwood, but if you notice that more deadwood is present as time passes by, examine the tree to mitigate its sickness. Do a scratch test to the branch. If the inside of the wood is brown and dry, it’s deadwood. Prune it.

Decaying spots

Decaying spots show that a tree is sick. This means that other symptoms might be present to your tree too. Check the roots first for any decaying spots as this area tends to experience the decaying occurrence first before any other parts of the tree. Then, check the trunk. If there are wounds in the trunk, a decay may likely occur the following days or months. 

Pest, insect or critter infestations

Infestations result from decays and rots in the tree. A decaying tree or rotting root can attract pests and insects. However, this could also mean the other way around. Infestations from insects or critters contribute to the faster decay and degrade of the tree. Either way, it makes the tree sick. Call professional help to improve the situation.

Fungus growth

The same manner with infestations, fungus growth is a symptom of a dying tree. More fungus or fungi will grow and take over the tree, making it sicker and more brittle. This leads to the eventual degrading of the tree. Fungal tree disease weakens the tree and usually leads to a dying tree, but to treat the tree and restore its health, call your tree expert.

Changing colour or discolouration

Leaves and flowers from trees have a specific normal colour depending on the species and kind. Any changes in colour and discolouration mean that the tree is not growing well, thereby affecting the colour of the growing foliage and flowers.

Lacking foliage or less foliage volume

Trees grow a certain volume of leaves that are normal for its kind. Lacking foliage indicates a less dense volume. This results in a lack of leaves. If your tree is experiencing insufficient nutrient or sun dose, it might grow into a sick tree. Inspect the canopy first to know if there is a normal level of foliage present. Check with your arborist to find out what’s wrong.

Leaning trunk

A trunk supports the tree in any landscape or environment. If the trunk is leaning, it indicates that the tree is not strong enough and will fall or collapse. This can result from many things like decay and infestations. See the trunk of the tree. If it’s supporting the tree well, the trunk is still strong enough to raise the tree.

Soil change

Other signs of a sick tree can be mistaken for its nature and characteristics. As such, one of the ways you can check the health of a tree is through the soil. It is one of the biggest indicators of a sick tree. Dry soil means the tree is receiving less water. The root system of a tree is heavily affected by any soil disturbance too. Look at your soil regularly to find out if your tree is still healthy.

Conclusion

A sick tree exhibits warning signs and symptoms. As a tree owner, it is your responsibility to check these aspects from time to time to make sure that your tree is healthy and living well. Any sign that gives you a red warning can put your tree in danger and eventual death. This can cause you more issues in the long-run. Contact your arborist to have a checkup from time to time.

Team up with Trees Down Under for your garden needs!

We are Trees Down Under and we give you tree services. We know that flora needs constant care and attention every time. If you don’t have the time to do these, we are here to give you our expertise. You aren’t alone in taking care of the precious greens in your backyard. Don’t hesitate to contact us!

We offer tree services like tree removals, tree pruning, stump grinding and more.

Call us at 0475 463 597 or send us your enquiries via email. Book your next tree removal job or enquire with us here..

Backyard Planting: Trees with Invasive Roots

To many homeowners who have the time, doing the gardening in their backyard is a relaxing activity. It allows them to take a break from their busy lives by doing something at their own pace. Moreover, communing with nature is also a great way to boost mood and mental health.

One gardening activity that is healthy and beneficial is planting trees. If you think your garden lacks a vertical aspect, adding trees will be a good idea. Not only can trees beautify your garden and improve your curb appeal, but they can also offer you shade, fresh air, and fruits. 

What Trees in Australia Have Invasive Roots?

Not all trees are desirable to plant in your backyard. In fact, you should avoid planting trees which can cause problems, such as those with invasive roots. To give you an idea which tree species in Australia have aggressive roots, we have listed a few of them below.

Camphor Laurel

Camphor Laurel is one of the highly invasive tree species in Australia. Although it’s a lovely shade tree, you would not want this in your backyard because it can self-fertilise and grow like a weed. On top of that, Camphor Laurel also has invasive roots that are notorious for damaging sewerage pipes. 

Poplar

The roots of Poplar trees can spread up to 3x the height of the tree, and they can even surface. The reason behind this aggressiveness is thirst; Poplar roots grow extensively in search of water. However, this can destroy drainage systems, pavements, and foundations. 

Golden Robinia

Golden Robinia is also not an ideal tree to plant for your yard, especially if you only have a small outdoor space. This tree is best planted in large gardens due to its invasive and fast-growing root system. Golden Robinia trees also have thorns and brittle branches which can be a safety hazard. Moreover, this tree grows rapidly that it requires frequent maintenance and pruning.

Pride of Bolivia

This gorgeous tree also has an extensive root system which, like Poplar, is because it’s searching for water. Thus, if you have leaking taps and pipes in your backyard, the Pride of Bolivia tree will poke into them and magnify the damage. Moreover, the aggressive root system of this tree can also impair your driveway, retaining wall, foundation, house, and other structures. 

Willows

If you’re planning to plant Willow trees in your backyard, you have to know that this tree has invasive roots that can damage your properties such as water pipes, house foundations, and pavements. Furthermore, you might need to do frequent cleaning especially in the fall and spring as catkins and leaves shed off the tree.

What To Do If You Have Trees With Invasive Roots in Your Backyard

You’ve probably added trees in your yard in hope of adding value to your property and enhancing your home’s curb appeal. However, if you’ve planted the wrong trees, such as those with extensive root structures, you’ll get the opposite of what you want. Invasive roots can be extremely disastrous, so here are a few things that might help you deal with your tree problems.

Install root barriers

Prevent roots from spreading and invading structures that they might destroy. 

Trim the aggressive roots

Contact an expert arborist to help you reduce the overgrown roots. Doing so on your own can harm or even kill the tree in danger. Make sure that after cutting, you nourish the tree and give it time to heal. 

Remove the tree

Another option you could do if you have trees with invasive roots is to cut down the entire tree before it could even damage your property. If you need a tree removal expert, Trees Down Under has a team of certified arborists who can handle the tree removal job for you.

Conclusion

Although the above-mentioned trees are charming to place in your backyard, you should resist the temptation. Trees with invasive roots may look discreet, but the roots underground can cause damages to pipelines, sidewalks, buildings, and other properties. 

Hence, as much as possible, you should opt for trees with small root systems and avoid those with invasive ones. Besides, there are plenty of non-problematic trees you can choose from for your backyard garden. You can consult with our expert landscapers here at Trees Down Under to help you pick out trees, shrubs, grass, and plants for your outdoor space. 

Feel free to contact us at 0475 463 597 for residential tree and garden services. 

How to Prepare for Tree Felling

Tree felling is defined as the process of cutting down trees. But the job is more complicated than simply working your tools to cut and topple the tree over. Not to mention that tree felling is also deadly and dangerous. Between 2000 and 2016, the National Coronial Information Service has recorded more than 99 deaths due to tree felling and chainsaw use. 

If you’re new or an amateur to tree felling, tackling the process without any preparation may lead to a disastrous outcome. Even tree fellers who are experienced in the job find tree felling challenging, with some even committing fatal errors. Thus, expert or not, planning before beginning to cut trees is a crucial step not only to establish a safe work area but also to ensure efficiency at work.

Tree Felling Preparation

Planning is at the core of tree felling preparation. It also allows you to ensure smooth flow, minimise mistakes, and anticipate possible problems. The following are some points you need to consider in preparation for your tree-felling project.

Estimate the Tree Height

Before getting a hold of any tool, you first need to gauge the height of the tree you want to cut. This is a crucial safety measure, especially if you’re working near obstacles such as trees, establishments, and power lines. This allows you to estimate the safety distance you need to establish in felling the tree.

Locate the Felling Direction

Determine where your tree will fall by assessing it and considering factors such as wind direction, leaning direction, and side of branch abundance. Falling trees have the force and strength that’s deadly and destructive, so you need to make sure that the space along the felling direction is clear from anything and anyone. 

You also need to clear two paths 45 degrees opposite the felling direction for your escape route. You will have to place your tools and equipment on the opposite side of the felling direction.  

Clear Branches Around the Base and Trunk

Prune the branches and twigs on the base of your tree using an axe. This enables you to work with the felling cut without any hindrances. To increase safety, we recommend that you use a pulling chain and work from top to bottom.

Check for Diseases

Timber discolouration, brittleness and softness indicate that your tree is infested with diseases. If you have such a tree, you must be extremely cautious in felling it. It’s best if you cut the tree according to its natural felling direction and at a higher elevation so that it leaves a taller stump. Rot in trees declines as you go higher up the tree.

Determine the Right Tool and Cutting Technique

After clearing unwanted branches around the trunk, you can now begin cutting the tree. To identify the best tool and cutting technique to use, assess first the size and lead of your tree.

• For small trees, you can use an axe to cut from both sides of the trunk. 
• For slightly larger trees, you’ll need an axe and a bow saw to make the undercut and the horizontal back cut, respectively. 
• For medium-sized and large trees, it is ideal that you use an axe for the undercut and a cross-cut saw for the horizontal back cut. This process creates a hinge that will guide the tree into your desired felling direction. Wedging is also a necessary step in tree felling large trees. 

Conclusion

Preparing for the tree felling job is a necessary step to ensure safety and efficiency while working. Even foresters and professional tree fellers still plan ahead and prepare for anything that might happen. That’s because every tree and situation is different and some tree requires special handling and skills to cut them correctly.

Small trees are easy to fell. However, cutting medium-sized and large trees requires more advanced skills and expertise. For safety reasons, it is not advisable for beginners to fell such trees. You will need a reliable company to do your tree felling needs fast and safely.

Trees Down Under is exactly the company that you’re looking for. We have an expert team of certified arborists and tree fellers to remove your tree safely and efficiently. When you book with us, we will immediately prepare for the job and plan a systematic flow. Aside from having the right tools, equipment and protective equipment, our team also has the experience and accuracy that tree felling jobs require. 

Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime at 0475 463 597. We offer emergency tree removal and other tree services around the Sydney area.