Ottawa Arborist & Tree Service Blog

When to Consider Tree Cabling

When a tree is about to keel over due to a weakness or damage that compromised its structural integrity, tree cabling can provide sufficient support to prevent tree failure.

Hence, the team at Croft Tree Experts would like you to know when to consider tree cabling.

What is Tree Cabling?

Tree cabling is a method arborists use to provide trees with weakened or damaged branch structures with the necessary structural support. The process involves installing high-strength cables, usually made of steel, in-between tree branches. This allows for redistributed weight and increased support of limbs at risk of falling.

Bolts are typically inserted into the tree’s trunk to provide an attachment point for the cables. This and the cables’ arrangement prevents the tree limbs from moving, preventing any breaking and falling of branches.

Tree cabling is a technique that only professionally trained arborists should perform. It requires the expertise to analyse a tree’s condition to determine if tree cabling is necessary. Furthermore, installing the bolts and cables needs to be safe and effective. An inexperienced hand could damage the tree further instead.

What are the Types of Tree Cabling?

The three most common types of tree cabling are:

1. Static Cabling

This technique is used on trees with codominant trunks in danger of breaking or trees with multiple stems. The cables are installed in a “Y” or “V” shape to ensure maximum support for the tree.

2. Dynamic Cabling

This type of tree cabling is mostly used for large trees in high-risk areas like near power lines or buildings. It helps hold branches that make significant motions during heavy storms or winds in place. In dynamic cabling, shock absorbers are installed between the cables and bolts. They absorb the impact of heavy movement, allowing the cables and bolts to hold the branches in place.

3. Bracing

This cabling technique is most commonly used on trees with large branches or trunks that could break or split. It is considered a last resort since it also stands a good chance of damaging the tree and isn’t effective in all situations. In tree bracing, steel rods are directly attached to the tree’s trunk to support the weak or damaged areas.

When Should Tree Cabling Be Considered?

When a tree’s physical structure is weakening, this technique can help alleviate the strain. Some of the problems tree cabling solves include:

Weak branch structures that are prone to splitting or breaking in heavy winds or storms.
Trees with codominant trunks or multiple stems that seem likely to split apart.
Large branches and trunks, especially if they are weak or damaged
Trees growing in areas considered high-risk like near power lines or buildings
Trees with some cultural or historical value that are worth preserving

Tree cabling isn’t a recommended technique for every situation. The tree will have to be assessed by a professional before an official treatment is chosen.

Is Tree Cabling A Good Idea?

When needed, tree bolting and cabling provide valuable benefits.

It reduces the risk of falling branches or tree failure, thus increasing the safety of the people and property in the vicinity.
It also preserves trees that would otherwise be cut down and taken away.
Tree cabling is a cost-effective alternative to felling a tree, especially if it has significant cultural or historical value.
This technique can also preserve the aesthetic appeal of a tree as it supports its weakened or damaged components.
When the tree is secure, property owners will be relieved and less stressed since they know their property is safe.

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa Arborists Services

Tree cabling is a useful and valuable way of preserving fragile trees. It also helps protect the people and property near the tree. However, only trained arborists should be determining when tree cabling is necessary and carry out the process.

As such, please contact us if you have any trees on your property that are in danger of falling. Croft Tree Experts provides the most trusted arborist services in Ottawa and the Valley. Our proactive tree care allows us to save and preserve trees that are damaged in Ottawa’s climate. Choose us to protect your person, property and state of mind today.

5 Tips to Improve Chainsaw Safety

Chainsaw safety is a critically important issue to consider when you intend to use one. The hazards it poses to your life and well-being are very significant and cannot be ignored.

Hence the team at Croft Tree Experts would like you to know 5 tips to improve chainsaw safety.

1. Avoid Injuries With The Right Grip

Avoiding injuries is a very big part of chainsaw safety. One of the best ways to do so is to ensure that your grip on the chainsaw is optimal. When done correctly, you can avoid the most common chainsaw injuries.

You need to have an encircling grip on the front handle of the chainsaw when using it. This involves your thumb wrapped around the handle with your fingers in support while the chainsaw is in use. This grip allows for maximum stability, especially in the event of a kickback.

Also, if you need to move with the chainsaw as it runs, it is best to hold it by only the front handle and let it swing by your side. This way, if you trip and fall with the chainsaw in hand, the engine will be less likely to accidentally accelerate and spin the chain.

2. Protect Yourself With The Right Gear

Even with all the tips and expertise available, the risks of using a chainsaw are still prevalent. Hence, you should have the necessary PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to help you in emergency situations and maintain your chainsaw safety.

A helmet and steel-toed boots can protect you from falling logs and tree branches. A face shield and ear protection can protect you from flying debris and the chainsaw’s noise. There are chaps made to resist chainsaw blades that can save your legs in unfortunate situations.

3. Monitor Your Chainsaw’s Sharpness

Chainsaw safety is much easier to maintain with a sharp chainsaw than with a dull one, so you should keep an eye out for the signs that your chain is becoming dull.

If you find yourself forcing the chainsaw into the cut instead of just guiding the saw, your chain is getting blunt. Also, if the byproduct of your cutting is dust, not chips, you should be sharpening your chainsaw as soon as possible.

4. Use the Recommended Zones Only

The best way to use a chainsaw is to cut with the bottom of the bar. In this position, the saw’s pull is easy to control as long as you have a firm grip. Cutting with the top of the bar is more uncomfortable but, with a strong grip and good bracing on the ground, you should be fine.

However, you should always avoid the kickback zone, located on the top half of the tip of the chainsaw. If this section makes contact with any surface while the chainsaw is active, it will be thrown up and back toward the operator. A good grip can prevent this from causing damage but the best policy is to avoid the kickback zone always.

5. Store Safely

Even at rest, a chainsaw can be dangerous if its storage is poor. Not only does it pose a risk to those who regularly use the space it is located in, but it is also subject to the effects of the elements. That can lead to rust, corrosion, and other damaging situations that make it more dangerous to use without maintenance.

As such, you should ensure that your chainsaw is stored in a place that keeps it away from others and also protects it from elemental wear and tear. A great protective technique is using foam pipe insulation to protect the blade of the chainsaw.

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa Arborists Services

Handling a chainsaw with safety on your mind is crucial to preventing accidents and other unfortunate incidents. Following the safety tips should allow you to use a chainsaw and cut down what you need safely.

However, no matter how hard you try, there will always be some risk when you use a chainsaw. To be perfectly safe at all times, you should always leave the kind of work that requires a chainsaw to the professionals.

Please contact us if you need any large-scale arboreal work done on your property. Croft Tree Experts provides the best arborist services in Ottawa and the Valley. We provide unmatched expertise in tree removal, tree pruning, tree stump removal and so many other services. Contact us to help you take care of your property.

Croft Tree Experts: Tree Fertilization Resource Page

Tree fertilization is a crucial part of arboreal maintenance. It allows trees to grow fully and healthily, facilitating their appearance and longevity. It also serves to correct and prevent developmental problems that can stunt growth and lead to defects in leaf production, flowering, and fruit development.

There are different types of fertilizers and fertilization methods available and each of them is suitable for specific situations and tree species. As such, the team at Croft Tree Experts would like you to know everything you need to about tree fertilization.

What is Tree Fertilization?

Tree fertilization is the act of providing trees with the required nutrients to facilitate their growth and development fully. If the trees are not getting enough nutrients from the environment around them, the nutrients are artificially introduced into the environment or directly applied to the tree itself. The fertilizer is applied as a granular compound, a liquid injection or an aerosol spray.

An important note is that when you fertilize a tree, you are not feeding it. Plants use photosynthesis to make their own food and the nutrients provide the necessary building blocks to make their food.

What Are The Benefits of Tree Fertilization?

Tree fertilization provides numerous benefits when properly performed. They include;

Advancing healthy tree growth
Fixing imbalances in the amounts of nutrients available
Compensating for the soil’s quality
Enhancing a tree’s aesthetic qualities
Increasing pest and disease resistance
Lengthening a tree’s longevity

How To Fertilize Trees

Soil Application: When the fertilizer is in granular form, it can be applied around the tree’s base. The application can be done by hand or with the help of a mechanical spreader.
Root Injection: With a specially designed injector, fertilizer can be introduced into the tree’s root zone. The type of fertilizer and the injector required make this method of fertilization very effective and expensive. As such, root injection is usually reserved for large trees or those that are severely nutrient deficient.
Foliar Application: Fertilizer can also be applied to a tree’s leaves using a sprayer. The aerosol nature of the application makes this time-consuming and inefficient. However, the foliar application allows for the fertilization of trees whose roots are hard to reach and can correct specific nutrient deficiencies.

Ensure to follow all the necessary directions when performing tree fertilization. Using the correct amount for the tree’s species and size prevents overfertilization which can harm trees.

Types of Tree Fertilizer

There are four common types of compounds used to fertilize trees.

Nitrogen fertilizers: Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plant growth and is used in many fertilizers. It is available in numerous forms like granular, liquid and slow-release compounds.
Phosphorus fertilizers: Phosphorus is also important for proper tree growth and development. It facilitates the growth of roots, flowers, and fruits in trees. Phosphorus is usually used in granular or liquid form for tree fertilization.
Potassium fertilizers: To maintain their overall health and vigour over their lifespan, trees need phosphorus. Like nitrogen tree fertilizers, phosphorus fertilizers are also available in granular, liquid and slow-release forms.
Micronutrient fertilizers: Trace amounts of other nutrients like copper, iron and zinc are also necessary for tree development. These micronutrients are often added to fertilizers intended for particular species or to correct specific nutrient deficiencies.

When You Should Fertilize Trees

Tree fertilization should always be performed in response to a particular need or as a solution to a problem. Hence you need to establish the need by investigating or watching out for symptoms.

Tree growth is an important and obvious sign that can let you know if you need to fertilize the trees. Leaf discoloration, below-average leaf sizes, shrivelled or dying branches, and other signs of malnutrition will indicate the need for tree fertilization. However, you need to also eliminate physical trauma, disease, parasites or environmental stress as a cause of the problem. These issues can also cause those symptoms so a careful analysis also needs to occur before making a decision.

Soil testing will determine the amounts of nutrients present in the soil, as well as the soil’s pH (the acid or alkaline levels in the soil). Soil pH is very influential on plant growth, when it falls out of the optimal range for a specific plant it can create nutrient deficiencies and other problems.

The location can also determine whether or not tree fertilization is needed. If the tree is growing in an area that is regularly fertilized, like a lawn, then there is no need. In urban areas or other environments where the required nutrients are in short supply, you may need to fertilize the tree regularly.

The tree’s age can also factor into the need for fertilization. When done properly, tree fertilization can accelerate the growth of young and recently transplanted trees. The use of slow-release fertilizers is also effective for foliage that has been planted recently.

Croft Tree Experts: Ottawa’s Tree Maintenance Services

Tree fertilization helps promote the growth and health of trees. Proper tree fertilization and maintenance ensure that trees have access to the necessary nutrients and prevent any deficiencies in growth and development.

Please contact us if you need any help with tree maintenance and fertilization. Croft Tree Experts has provided expert arborist services to Ottawa and the surrounding areas since 2015. Our team is highly skilled and dedicated to ensuring that your trees stay healthy and strong for as long as you need.

Tree Cutting Techniques – The Dos & Donts

When the need arises to remove a tree from your property, you should engage tree cutting techniques with determination and precision. There are many crucial things you need to do and avoid doing to ensure you are safe during the process. Carelessness on your part can lead to significant injury to your person and massive property damage to the surrounding area.

Hence the arborists at Croft Tree Experts would like you to know the dos and don’ts of cutting down trees.

DO: Make A Plan For Tree Removal

Tree Cutting Techniques chainsaw A common mistake average people make when felling trees is failing to make a plan for safely taking down and removing the tree.

Tree cutting techniques always begin with an analysis of the tree that needs to be felled and the area around it. You need to make a plan based on the buildings in the immediate vicinity, the direction the tree leans in, nearby utility lines, other trees around, the health of the tree you intend to fell, etc.

If your analysis of any of the above conditions indicates significant risk, you should not be cutting down that tree without professional help. The danger to yourself and the damage you can do to your surroundings should not be toyed with.

DO: Use Safety Gear

When undertaking a project like felling a tree, safety is always a critical issue. Hence, you should always use PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to protect yourself during the felling of a tree. Even if the tree is relatively small, the danger of injuring yourself only reduces marginally. Gear should you use include the following:

Work boots or sturdy, closed shoes
Durable long-sleeved shirts and pants (with chainsaw-safe ratings if possible)
Hard hat
Goggles that seamlessly cover your eyes
Earplugs or earmuffs
Work gloves

DON’T: Use The Wrong Equipment

Using an axe might be cheaper for DIY enthusiasts but the risks are much higher than you can anticipate, especially if you’re felling a large tree.

Any tree larger than a sapling should be felled with a chainsaw. For small to medium size trees, you will need a chainsaw with a 16 to 18-inch bar. Larger trees require a 20 to 24-inch bar chainsaw to safely fell. And that just scratching the surface with regard to types of chainsaws. Ensure that your chainsaw is properly functional before you start it up. Tree Cutting Techniques wedges

An important tree cutting technique is to use felling wedges for particularly large trees (over 18 inches in diameter). These wedges help direct the tree when it falls and allows you to prevent pinching of your chainsaw during tree felling.

DON’T: Fell A Tree Alone

A staple of tree cutting techniques is to always have a lookout, especially for large trees.

If you are cutting down a tree, you are too close to tell if the tree is falling as you have planned it. Your lookout stands at a distance away from you but within earshot to warn you if the task is going awry.

You should establish a signal with your lookout to quickly indicate danger and give you enough time to escape the worst of the situation.

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa’s Arborists Services

Tree cutting techniques involve many serious considerations to ensure safety during the process. Following these guidelines should allow you to remove any unwanted trees from your property without hurting yourself or causing unnecessary damage.

However, even if you follow all these guidelines, mistakes can still occur at the hands of an inexperienced person. Most of the equipment and techniques used to fell trees require specialized knowledge and training to properly handle. As such, it is always advisable to engage an expert arborist when you need to cut down a tree.

Please contact us if you have any concerns about tree removal. Croft Tree Experts provides unmatched expertise in tree and tree stump removal. Our dedicated team of arborists is experienced in handling urban and rural environments. Choose us to ensure your tree is removed as safely as possible.

Tree Identification – What Type of Tree Do I Have?

Trees can be a critical component of your landscape. The impact they can have on the environment and their ability to enhance the visual appeal of your property is significant. However, not all trees can fulfill these requirements. Knowing which ones you have on your property and their possible impact is crucial.

Hence, the team at Croft Tree Experts would like you to know exactly how to identify trees in your environment and how they can impact your property.

How To Identify Trees

Many different factors can help you in tree identification. The common features that all trees share can be used to differentiate between them.

Leaves

A basic starting point for tree identification is analyzing the leaves. Using their shape and type can help narrow down the tree’s identity. The basic leaf types are needles, broadleaf and scales. Leaves of the needles and scales variety are often found on evergreens while broadleaf variants are found on deciduous trees. Common leaf-distinguishing shapes include ovate (egg-shaped), deltoid (triangular), cordate (heart-shaped), orbicular (round) and lanceolate (narrow and long). There are exceptions to these classifications, like palm-shaped maple leafs and elliptical leaves of the live oak.

Leaf Buds

The appearance and arrangement of leaf buds are helpful in tree identification, especially in winter when deciduous trees do not have leaves. Some buds are very characteristic, the buds of beech trees have sharp points while oak tree buds are small, clustered, and protected by scales. Elm trees tend to have alternate buds that appear on the stem’s opposite sides in alternating pairs. Knowing what the buds look like and how they are arranged on the tree can help identify a particular tree.

Bark

When you consider its particular variety, bark can also be helpful in tree identification. The common classifications for bark are colour, texture, and age. Many tree species have bark that is grey or brown in colour but other species have bark with colours like cinnamon, white, silver, greenish-white, and copper. Variations in bark texture include furrowed, peeling, warty, papery, shiny, smooth and scaly. As the tree ages, the colours and textures of the bark usually change simultaneously. Silver maple in particular has been shown to change from a smooth bark that is silver in colour to a furrowed bark with grey and black colours.

Silhouette

As they grow, trees tend to make a distinctive shape that can be used to identify them. The shape tends to change due to factors like age and available space, so this is mostly used to identify young trees that exist in open spaces. For instance, the American elm usually grows in the shape of a vase while the sweet gum takes the shape of a pyramid.

Why Tree Identification Is Important

It may not seem like a crucial issue but knowing the kind of trees growing on your property can inform the decision-making process concerning your landscape. The trees growing on your property can have a significant impact on you and your neighbours.

Trees can increase your property value when they have improved upon your property. Aesthetic value is the most obvious consideration, mature trees can remarkably increase curb appeal and add 5% to your property value if you want to sell.

Trees are also known to improve energy efficiency by facilitating optimal temperatures on your property. As such you can save money on your air conditioning and heating costs with trees around your home.

If you value privacy and relaxation, you will derive those benefits from having trees on your property. Research shows that tree exposure, especially in the daytime, reduces muscle tension, blood pressure, and stress levels within 5 minutes. These benefits also extend to your community at large.

However, some trees can negatively affect your property value if grown on your property. When your trees on your property create more problems than they solve, it is probably best to think about removing and replacing them with a more suitable plant.

Trees that grow very large roots can be very problematic when they encroach on boundaries. If the roots wander into sidewalks and curbs, they can crack and deform. This forced alteration makes them a hazard for pedestrians and detracts from the neighbourhood’s aesthetic appeal. If the roots wander into a neighbour’s property, they can damage fences and other structures, creating a significant financial liability for you.

Trees can also cause other troubles with your neighbours. If your tree blocks your neighbour’s aerial view, that can create issues in the community. This is especially significant if your neighbourhood has specific ordinances to allow for scenic views. Also, storms can break the limbs of your tree and throw them into your neighbour’s property. If you haven’t properly maintained your tree, you will be liable for those damages.

If you aren’t sure of the possible impact of a tree on your property and neighbourhood, you can consult a certified arborist who will conduct a tree assessment. After the tree inspection is complete, the report will let you know whether or not you need to replace the tree.

What Trees Are Best For Ottawa Backyards

Ottawa is home to a broad range of habitats that maintains a diverse population of plants. Hence there are a large number of trees that are native to the area and suitable for planting on your property.

Small trees that grow flowers are great for planting in Ottawa backyards. The flowers draw pollinators, which leads to fruiting. That provides extra appeal and food for birds and wildlife. Examples include:
-Alternate-leaved Dogwood
-Blue beech
-Hawthorn
-Pin cherry
-Maple (mountain or striped)
-Serviceberry
-White Cedar (evergreen)

Large trees serve as habitats for many birds and other wildlife. They are also beneficial in providing clean air, great shade and increased property values. Examples include:
-American beech
-Balsam fir
-Birch (white or yellow)
-Bitternut hickory
-Black cherry
-Maple (red, silver, united or sugar)
-Oak (red or bur)
-Tamarack
-White pine
-White spruce

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa’s Expert Tree Care Services

The ability to identify trees on your property can help you avoid many nuisances and liabilities as you benefit from their many advantages.

Please contact us if you need professional help with trees on your property. Croft Tree Experts provide the best arborist services in Ottawa. Our certified arborists can help identify trees and diagnose any potential problems and tree care specialists will aid with any pruning, mulching, or removal that is necessary. Our experience in rural and urban areas ensures that we can assist you in creating the landscape you desire.

The Best Shade Trees For Your Property

Parents And Kids Planting A Shade Tree Into Their Backyard During The Summer

Large shade trees can be a beautiful addition to your backyard or landscaping plans, but they can also be energy-saving while keeping your backyard space cool during the hot summer months. Planting a shade tree can allow you and your family to enjoy the outdoor space of your home while reducing your energy bill. Talk about two birds with one stone! If you want to learn about which backyard trees will give you the best shade, keep reading!

Can You Plant a Tree Where One Has Been Removed?

How to Protect Your Trees From the Summer Heat

If you’ve noticed Ottawa’s intense heat and humidity this summer, so have your trees. It’s important to protect your trees in summer as you would in winter because of heat-related issues such as heat stress. Heat stress will affect your trees in many ways – it makes them wilt, it stunts healing, and they are prone to further complications. Keep reading if you’re interested in summer tree care tips!Read More

Tree Care & Maintenance For Newly Planted Trees in Ottawa

a female looking over her newly planted tree

First and foremost, congratulations on thoughtfully planting a new tree! The hard work is behind you, but now you also have to take care of your newly planted tree – if you’re not sure what that entails, not to worry. The team of professional arborists share their tips and tricks for taking care of your new tree. If you follow our guidelines, you will be sure to have a healthy and fully grown tree that you can be proud of on your property. If you happen to run into any complications or notice any serious issues with your newly planted tree, give us a call and our trained arborists can come for an assessment.

Croft Tree Experts’ Summer Tree Maintenance Checklist

As harsh as winter in Ottawa can be, summer also comes with its own challenges.

Trees are exposed to dry weather, summer storms, diseases and pests during these months.

Having a proper maintenance and care routine for your tree can positively impact its overall health. Allowing it to have a healthy growing season this summer.Read More

How Tree Mulching Helps Your Yard & the Environment

How can mulching your trees and plants enhance your property? When it comes to property maintenance, homeowners tend to have two main objectives: promoting a healthy lawn & garden and keeping the weeds out.

Regular tasks such as weeding and watering put a strain on your knees and back after a certain amount of time. This can set back a homeowner’s ability to keep up with the job, and this is where mulch comes in.

Introducing mulch to your garden and landscaping is a more sustainable practice that decreases the amount of energy and water required to keep a garden healthy and weed-free. Read More

Tree Felling & Tree Removal: Are They the Same Thing?

Has your tree become an eyesore? What if you want to remove it – but you aren’t sure whether you need to pay for a tree removal service or tree felling? (or is there even a difference?)

Perhaps you have a diseased, dying or dead tree that needs to be cut down. Is it tree felling or tree removal that we’re talking about?

If you think about it, trees are kind of like people. Each tree grows in a somewhat different way and has its own special features. So, for each tree, a different method of removal is required, and tree felling is one method among several.Read More

How Do The New Ottawa Tree Protection By-Laws Affect Tree Removal?

arborist executing tree removal in ottawa

Ottawa’s most recent Tree Protection by-law has strengthened regulations preserving urban trees and preventing urban deforestation by imposing strong fines for breaking them.

This new set of regulations, approved in January 2021, is the result of blending two by-laws affecting trees on private and municipal property.

If you are planning on getting a tree removed, it is important to know what this new regulation entails. Read More

The Value & Benefits of Hiring an Arborist in Ottawa

Arborists are specialists in tree care.

They are knowledgeable about the needs of the trees and are trained and equipped to take care of them by the book.

Healthy, well cared-for trees will add substantial value to your property, so you want to hire a certified arborist to take care of your green space.Read More

Do You Have Landscaping Plans for Next Summer? Why Not Start Planning Now!

Beautiful backyard gardens with lush green grass.

The possibilities are endless!

Landscaping plays a key role in the overall beauty of a property, and you want to make sure your redesign goes off on time and on budget.

If you are thinking of landscaping to transform your green space in Ottawa to enjoy it for years to come, you’re headed in a good direction. Give your yard the finish it deserves!Read More

Ottawa Tree Removal: Do You Need A Permit??

ottawa homeowner researching tree permit bylaws

From time to time, an Ottawa homeowner or property manager may might want to cut a tree down for different reasons.

Maybe the tree is dead or dying. Perhaps the tree suffers from rotting or infestation. Whatever the reason is, you want a specific tree on your Ottawa property to be gone. Fair enough.

However, the City of Ottawa has been making significant efforts in the last decade to protect urban trees from being cut unnecessarily. As a result, someone who wants to get rid of a tree may find it necessary to obtain a permit for tree removal in Ottawa, although the rules vary depending on the situation.Read More

Tree Root Removal for an Attractive & Safe Property

The most obvious reason to remove tree roots and/or a tree stump is that it serves as a reminder that a tree once stood there.

However, there is more to it, since tree stumps and roots pose a big risk to properties and individuals.

For this reason, you want them removed for your peace of mind. If you are just trying to save a tree but need to get rid of the pesky roots that are clogging up the sewer line or cracking your sidewalk, we also have your Ottawa tree care needs covered. Whatever the reason is, be sure to read this article before removing any tree roots.Read More

DIY Tree Removal: Not Worth The Risk, Hire the Ottawa Tree Removal Pros!

Arborist removing a tree with a chainsaw in Ottawa.

So you’re handy with tools.

You own a chainsaw. You’ve got some rope, maybe an axe or two. And you figure you can save a few bucks by doing your own tree removal in Ottawa.

Times are tight for everyone, after all, and every dollar counts.

But is the savings worth it?Read More

4 Tips for Fall Cleanup for Ottawa Trees & Yards

With the end of summer (sigh… cry) comes fall in and around Ottawa.

Short as it is, fall (or autumn, if you will) is a beautiful time of year in Eastern Ontario and Quebec. The leaves are turning all sorts of vibrant shades, the smell of fireplaces begins to permeate the air, and pumpkin spice everything is on offer.

When it comes to yards and trees, fall means cleaning up and preparing for winter.Read More

4 Things to Look for in an Ottawa Tree Cutting Service

Ottawa house with large trees and great landscaping.

If you’re an Ottawa homeowner or property manager, you’ve probably found yourself in the position – at one time or another – of searching for help with tree cutting.

From tree felling, tree removal & tree stump removal to tree branch pruning and more, Ottawa tree cutting services run the gamut from professional arborists to Johnny-come-lately operators with a chainsaw.Read More

How Ottawa Arborists Help with Tree Care, Tree Removal & More

Ottawa house with large trees and beautiful landscaping in front.

With the onset of summer, many Ottawa homeowners and property managers are busily tending to their landscaping and property beautification.

Lawns, hedges, bushes and trees get the royal treatment as it’s their time to shine in the sun.

With such a short window not only to enjoy warm weather here in Eastern Ontario but to take care of our homes and property, summer is – as you can imagine – the busiest time of year for Ottawa arborists.Read More

Ottawa Tree Services in Full Swing for the Summer

Well pruned tree growing in front of Ottawa house.

We have all faced a great challenge this year, with the COVID-19 global pandemic.

We certainly hope you and your loved ones have stayed healthy and safe through these times.

At Croft Tree Experts in Ottawa, we curtailed our Ottawa tree services this spring until getting the green light from the Province of Ontario to restart operations. We are now returning to our regular operations and getting back to offering our full lineup of tree services, including tree pruning, tree planting, tree removal in Ottawa – and many other arborist services.Read More

What Happens When Storms Damage Trees

storm damage that resulted in a tree falling on a home

Most damage to a property during storms occurs when trees fall. In addition to physical damage or detriment, risk and liability can become a concern to people who have had a tree from their property fall. Therefore, deciding what to do with damaged trees is vital. If you are looking for information on tree removal and branch trimming in Ottawa this article is for you.

When Winter Ends & Trees Are Damaged or Dead

Tree limb fallen in a yard during autumn with snow on the ground in Ottawa.

With winter ending, it’s that time of year where we’re all out in our yards and out & about on our properties here in Ottawa and the National Capital Region.

As you inspect the trees on your property, you may have observed that winter took its toll on one or more of your trees. Indeed, Ottawa winters are known to do their fair share of damage to trees, and when everything finally melts and thaws out in the (merciful) spring, tree damage becomes apparent.Read More

Stump Removal vs Stump Grinding

A stump grinder being used for stump grinding services.

There are many reasons for eliminating tree stumps in your yard. This will not only improve the aesthetics of your property but will also ensure the safety of your beloved ones.

Nonetheless, deciding which procedure to adopt can be challenging. Stump removal and stump grinding are very common systems in Ottawa, but very different in terms of removal. Read on to learn which one suits you best!Read More

Everything You Need to Know About Tree Removal in Ottawa

Arborist watches tree as it falls during tree removal service.

If you own a home or manage a property in Ottawa, you might find yourself needing tree removal.

While tree removal is a fairly straightforward process, it is definitely something left to tree professionals and arborists. From your end, the important things to decide are
• when to remove a tree (versus when to keep it, prune the branches, etc.)
• whether you will need an Ottawa tree removal permit
• who you will call on to remove the tree(s)

Read on to find out what steps you can take to make sure your tree removal is carried out safely and in compliance with Ottawa bylaws.

Why Hire an Arborist in Ottawa?

Two arborists looking up at a tree before removal service.

Arborists are qualified individuals who specialize in the care of trees.

As a result of the training, arborists are knowledgeable about trees and their specific needs. However, that is not the only reason to hire an arborist in Ottawa: proper tree care is an investment that will add considerable value to your property.Read More

Get Ready for Springtime – Tree Trimming in Ottawa

Arborist high in a tree trimming branches with a chainsaw.

When it comes to tree health, pruning and trimming is a necessary task that improves sunlight penetration and increase air movement through the tree

Trimming trees will not only remove the old and dead branches, It will add value to your property.

Interested to learn some tips on tree trimming in Ottawa? Throughout this blog post, you will find all you need to know about tree pruning and tree trimming.Read More

Why You Need To Remove Trees That Have Fallen On Your Property

Fallen Trees Cause Can Extensive Damage

Fallen trees can result in thousands of dollars in damage.

When a large tree falls, anything in its path will be caught by it. This could include other nearby trees, buildings, vehicles, or power lines. Because of the sheer size of some trees, it is essentially guaranteed that if a large tree falls on something, it will be damaged, and be costly to fix.

If a tree falls on your home, or vehicle, you won’t be able to get the damage repaired without removing the tree first. If you delay in having the tree removed, the weight of the tree will increase the amount of damage the home or vehicle sustains, making it much more expensive to fix.

In other words, the longer you procrastinate, the more expensive the repairs will become.

Fallen Trees Pose an Inherent Risk

No tree stands forever. It is a simple fact of life.

If a tree falls on your property, quick removal is a necessity to maintain a safe environment for your family, pets, guests and neighbours.

A tree that touches a power line can cause shock hazards, power outages and fires. Downed power lines are extremely dangerous, and you should always assume that they are live.

Stay away from the tree & power line – under no circumstances you should try to remove a portion of the tree yourself!

Delaying the removal of a fallen tree poses another risk, namely parts, or all of the tree shifting and falling further, or causing a major collapse of your house. A tree that has fallen on a house won’t sit in the same spot forever. It will either shift and fall off the side of the building, causing more damage to anything in its path, or the weight of the tree will cause the roof and potentially more of the house’s structure to collapse, bringing potential harm to anyone who is inside.

Because of these risks, it is crucial that you trust a certified expert in tree removal to get the job done quickly and safely.

Life Finds a Way – Even in Fallen Trees

Trees can fall for many different reasons.

A common cause for fallen trees in and around Ottawa is weather. Whether it’s a heavy snowfall or ice storm in the wintertime, or a summer storm with high winds or lightning strikes, trees are most certainly exposed to a variety of natural climate phenomena that can cause it to fall.

Sometimes a tree contracts a disease that causes it to die.

Other times, trees can just get old and fall apart in a natural way.

Yet even if a tree is dead, there will still be life in it. Why?

Animals may take shelter inside it, insects andpests could tunnel into the wood. It is also very likely that moss and fungi will grow on the trunk.

These are all less than desirable things to have on your property and you certainly wouldn’t want any of them to migrate into your home. So don’t delay in getting your tree removed.

What to do When a Tree Falls on Your Property

If a tree happens to fall on your property, the first thing you need to do is to leave the affected area as soon as possible, through the safest possible route. Having an evacuation plan will go a long way in making sure your family stays safe in the event of a tree falling on your home. Make sure you practice the plan with your family and when the time comes when you actually need to evacuate your home, focus on nothing but the safety of you and your family.

Afterwards, call emergency services, who come to make sure the house is safe to re-enter.

Then, get hold of your insurance company to determine if the repairs will be covered by your coverage.

Finally, contact us! Tree removal is one of our most popular services, and one we are especially adept at. We know how to deal with fallen trees wherever they may lie. We are the best choice for having the tree removed safely so you don’t have to worry about putting yourself at risk to take care of it.

Ottawa Fall Cleanup Tips for Lawn & Trees

woman picking up leaves off lawn in autumn.

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in Ottawa! Leaves, wind, chilly weather, pumpkin spice, and warm scarves are all tell-tales of this gorgeous season.

If you’re a homeowner or property manager in Ottawa, you know the value and importance of taking care of your lawn. Keeping your yard in tip-top shape and preparing it for the upcoming seasons are probably at or near the top of your list of home care priorities. Read More

There Is A Tree That Straddles My Property & My Neighbours – Who Is Responsible?

Worker in a tree cutting a branch with a powered hand saw.

Yours, mine, or ours?

Just as good fences make good neighbours, good neighbours need to make good shared decisions. If a tree seems to be near or on the boundary of your two properties, you and your neighbour need to confirm who owns the tree before any problems arise.Read More

Do I Need A Permit To Remove A Tree On My Ottawa Property?

Certified arborist watching a tree as it falls during removal service.

A question we get asked quite a bit is about Ottawa tree removal and the need for permits.

The City of Ottawa has a by-law to protect urban trees from being removed without good cause. To remove a tree from a private property, you might need a permit from the city, but the rules differ depending on the situation. Read on to find out more about permits for tree removal in Ottawa.Read More

Take Advantage of Summer for Tree Trimming & Tree Removal in Ottawa

Summer is a great time to tackle Ottawa tree removal and trimming. Take advantage of those long, sunny days to tidy up your property: Clear away dead branches, fallen trees and debris. Not only will you be making your home look its best, you’ll also be preventing disease and encouraging new growth in your trees and shrubs.Read More

Removing Dead and Wind-Damaged Trees in Ottawa

When you have fallen trees, limbs & branches, debris and dead or wind-damaged trees on your property, certified Ottawa arborists can properly assess the damage and take the appropriate action. Most damage occurs when branches or trees fall, either on your own property or your neighbour’s property. Let’s take a closer look at why it’s important to bring in the professionals in these situations.Read More

What is Black Knot Fungus? How Do You Treat It?

Black knot fungus is a common tree disease and it’s caused by a fungus Apiosporina Morbosa. It mostly affects fruit trees like cherry and plum trees, both cultivated and wild. It manifests by creating and developing knobby dark or black growths on the branches and trunk. If left untreated, a black knot can result in the death of a tree. Read More

How Trees Can Increase Your Property Value

Having a tree in front of your home is a good way to increase the price of your property. It’s even better if you have two or more trees as part of a well-kempt, beautiful landscape.

This is where it’s important to know what the best trees for increasing property value are as well as how to add, remove, and trim those trees to get the most of your property value.Read More

When is the best time to trim, prune or cut down a tree? Is it better to do before the leaves bloom?

A question we’re often asked relates to the timing of when to cut down or prune a tree. People want to know whether it’s better to do this in the early spring, or perhaps it doesn’t make a difference and they can put it off into summer.Read More

How We Cut Down Large Trees in Ottawa

“Tim-berrrrrr!”

That’s usually the sound people associate when they picture a big tree being cut down. How about the image that goes with it? Perhaps you’re imagining a tall tree, redwood type maybe even, and a burly guy in a red plaid shirt, swinging an axe in one fell swoop at the trunk to bring down the whole tree a-fallin’? Tree-cutting cartoons are hilarious, but of course that’s not how professional tree-cutters actually cut down large trees. In this edition of the Croft Tree Experts blog, we’ll take an inside (well, outdoors but from insiders) look at how large trees are cut down.Read More

Why Does My Tree Have Mushrooms on it?

Our team at Croft Tree Experts in Ottawa often get questions revolving around mushrooms growing on trees:

Why do mushrooms grow on trees?
Is it a problem if mushrooms are growing on a tree in my yard?
Can I eat the mushrooms growing on my tree?
What does it mean if I have mushrooms growing on my trees?

Am I Responsible To Remove My Tree Or Is The City?

an arborist using a chainsaw to remove a branch

One of the questions we get asked quite a bit here at Croft Tree Experts is in regard to whose responsibility it is to remove a tree from residential property: The homeowner or the city.

To answer this question in short: It is usually your responsibility as a homeowner to remove a tree from your property.

Of course, like just about anything else when it comes to bureaucratic matters, it’s complicated, and there are often contradictions. In this article we’ll take a look at different circumstances in which trees are removed from residential property and who pays.Read More

How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Tree?

Staff supervising tree removal by Croft Tree Experts

At Croft Tree Experts in Ottawa, we remove trees and stumps of all varieties and sizes. Being certified arborists, we have the know-how and experience that it takes to fell a tree effectively, efficiently, and without damage or impact to surrounding property, buildings or landscaping.

A question that we are frequently asked – particularly by phone, email or on our contact form – is, “How much does it cost to remove a tree?”Read More

Croft Tree Experts Are on the Way – “How Do I Ensure I’m Prepared?

Croft Tree Experts arborist using saw to cut tree branches

So you’ve decided to get the services from Croft Tree Experts. Great Choice! Whether its tree removal, stump removal, or hedge trimming; we can provide an unmatched quality of tree services to protect and beautify your property. Our team of Certified Arborists and Forest Technicians bring the skills, knowledge and expertise in examining trees and give you the best advice to protect them. Call Croft Tree Experts and we’ll be there in no time. How do you ensure you’re ready when Croft Tree Experts are on their way? This guide should help you prepare for our tree experts to do what they do best.Read More

How Do You Remove Trees In Urban Locations Without Damaging Homes?

tree removal expert sawing through a tree

Due to potential hazards, sometimes trees need to be removed if they are diseased, damaged, too aged, infested, or simply because they have become too large for the area that they are in. It is important that tree removal is only performed by trained professionals because such a process can be tough and dangerous. Removing a large tree incorrectly could cause serious damage to your home.
Read More

Do I Need A Permit To Remove A Tree On My Property In Ottawa?

Croft Tree Experts Arborist climbs high to remove section of tree

In most cases, yes. In the last decade, the City of Ottawa has made significant efforts to protect trees from being cut needlessly, especially in urban areas. Anyone looking to cut down a tree on an Urban property must obtain a permit from the city. However, the rules differ depending on the situation. The goal of the the by-law is to ensure that trees being cut down in the City’s urban areas are diseased or in a state that risks damage to property or person. Cutting down a tree simply because you don’t like it is no longer in the cards.

Tree Protection (By-law No. 2020-340) is the bylaw that governs tree felling and removal on private property in Ottawa. This bylaw is complex with many regulations, conditions, and prohibitions. Understanding the by-laws is essential to legally and safely remove a tree from your property. Luckily for you, you don’t have to take a deep dive into Ottawa By-Laws. You can trust in our knowledge and expertise as Ottawa’s leading arborist service. Contact Croft Tree Experts today!

Signs Your Tree May Need To Be Removed

Croft Tree Experts arborist sawing base of tree during tree removal

Having a tree removed can be hard decision to make. Not only is it an expense to consider, but it is easy to become attached to the tree and fear that once the tree is removed you will miss its shade and presence. Sadly, there some cases when you may have no choice but to bite the bullet and remove a tree either for immediate safety or avoiding future problems.
Read More

Signs Your Tree May Be Sick

fruit tree in late autumn with bare branches

A sick tree can be tough to deal with. Most of the care comes down to prevention and early detection if you want a good chance at saving it from needing to be removed. Strong healthy trees not only provide you and your property with joy, shade and character, but also stand to increase the property value of your home. Be sure to always have an eye open for signs your tree’s health is compromised, as these symptoms typically develop slowly and the earlier it can be treated the better chance you have to save it. Here is a list of things to look out for:
Read More

5 Reasons Why You Should Remove A Stump ASAP

Croft Tree Experts grinding stump during tree removal in Ottawa

Removing a tree stump can be easily procrastinated. I can involve a lot of work and time and it is not too much of an eyesore, so why bother? Well there are many reasons why you should be thinking about getting that stump removed by professionals ASAP. Here we will discuss 5 important reasons why you need to remove that stump.
Read More

Our Blog

What is Tree Cabling?

What are the Types of Tree Cabling?

1. Static Cabling

2. Dynamic Cabling

3. Bracing

When Should Tree Cabling Be Considered?

Is Tree Cabling A Good Idea?

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa Arborists Services

1. Avoid Injuries With The Right Grip

2. Protect Yourself With The Right Gear

3. Monitor Your Chainsaw’s Sharpness

4. Use the Recommended Zones Only

5. Store Safely

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa Arborists Services

What is Tree Fertilization?

What Are The Benefits of Tree Fertilization?

How To Fertilize Trees

Types of Tree Fertilizer

When You Should Fertilize Trees

Croft Tree Experts: Ottawa’s Tree Maintenance Services

DO: Make A Plan For Tree Removal

DO: Use Safety Gear

DON’T: Use The Wrong Equipment

DON’T: Fell A Tree Alone

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa’s Arborists Services

How To Identify Trees

Leaves

Leaf Buds

Bark

Silhouette

Why Tree Identification Is Important

What Trees Are Best For Ottawa Backyards

Croft Tree Experts – Ottawa’s Expert Tree Care Services

Fallen Trees Cause Can Extensive Damage

Fallen Trees Pose an Inherent Risk

Life Finds a Way – Even in Fallen Trees

What to do When a Tree Falls on Your Property