The Benefits of Trees on Your Property

front yards with big trees on residential properties

Are you considering planting trees on your property? Not sure what the benefits of trees on your property are?

The team of certified arborists at Croft Tree Experts share everything you need to know about the benefits of having trees on your property.

The Benefits of Having Trees on Your Property

Whether you already have trees on your property or are considering planting trees, there are countless benefits that having trees has to offer. 

Trees are often just seen as an added natural beauty, but the practical advantages of having trees on your property aside from the aesthetic appeal are quite extensive:

Added Property Value

a home surrounded by trees

A major aspect of a home buyers decision revolves around the aesthetic appeal of a home. Having a property with great landscaping and being surrounded by trees is much more appealing than a barren and empty yard. Healthy and mature trees can undoubtedly increase the curb appeal of your home and can potentially increase the property’s value by up to 10%. 

Increased Energy Savings

It’s a little known fact, but trees can actually help lower your energy bills! By blocking strong winds and snow from reaching your home in the winter and providing adequate shade in the summertime, effective tree placement can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%. A certified arborist can help choose the best type of tree and the best placement of trees on your property to maximize the energy savings that they can offer.

a woman surrounded by trees soaking in the mental benefits of being in nature

Additional Privacy 

If you have an exposed backyard or live near a busy road, trees can immediately offer additional privacy and a more peaceful setting. Trees can act as a natural sound barrier to make your property seem quieter and more calm and also double as a visual barrier as well – to let you enjoy your home in privacy. You can enjoy your property with less distractions, less stress, and less noise!

Mental & Physical Health Benefits

We’ve all heard about the benefits of being outside in nature – it’s proven to be good for your mind and your body. You can get the benefits of being surrounded by nature in the comfort of your own home. Being surrounded by nature has been proven to reduce anxiety, stress, and improve overall well-being. Trees can also be good for your physical health as well – they act as natural filters that protect us from breathing in pollutants.

Considering Planting Trees on Your Property?

arborist planting treeIf you’re sold on planting trees and want to reap all of the benefits that they have to offer, you should call on the expert tree planters at Croft Tree. Our team of certified arborists are equipped with the proper training, the right equipment, and years of experience to make sure that your tree planting goes smoothly.

As part of our tree planting services, our arborists will consult on what type of trees you’re looking for, where you want to plant them, the soil conditions, and what would best suit your property. Once we figure out the logistics, we’ll do the rest.

Once your trees are planted, we’ll provide some tips for how to care for your new tree. Routine maintenance is the best way to maximize the benefits that your trees have to offer. Contact us to learn more about our arborist services and to get a free quote for all your arborist needs in the Ottawa area.

Winter Tree Pruning: The Do’s & Don’ts

arborist pruning or trimming a tree in winter

Once all of the leaves have fallen off the trees around us and the cold winter weather begins to settle, most people tend to forget about tree care.

That however, is often a mistake – winter is a great time to care for your trees. This is especially the case for tree pruning, which can be much better in the winter months.

For the duration of winter, it is often much easier for arborists to identify any structural issue with a tree and make rational pruning decisions. With no leaves in sight, we get to see a direct view of a tree’s structure.

With that in mind, there are many precautionary measures that you need to consider when pruning a tree in winter.

The Benefits of Tree Pruning in Winter

When it comes to pruning trees, you’ve got plenty of opportunities. In fact, it’s been said that most people aren’t even aware that trees can be pruned in winter. 

For that reason, we’ll be covering the topic with hopes to give you helpful insight on the do’s and don’ts of winter tree pruning. Let’s start with the benefits of winter tree pruning, and how it compares to spring and summer pruning.

1. Easy to Identify Structural Damage

Starting with the obvious – no leaves. This means that when looking for damage to a tree, or tree branch, it’s much easier and much quicker to identify.

arborist wearing safety gear while pruning tree in winter

And with pruning being both a proactive and reactive tree care method, a better view of the entire tree allows arborists to accurately care for your tree. When making cuts in your tree, it’s important to be as accurate and stable as possible to improve its shape, health and safety. 

2. Less Strain and Stress for Your Trees

When you prune a tree, it naturally reacts to the cuts by stimulating new growth and closing the open wound from pruning. 

When you do this in winter, you’re putting much less stress on a tree as it’s in its dormant state, which means it will only react with new growth when spring comes around, and it will do so much more gradually.

3. Stops the Spread of Diseases

Even when they appear quite strong and healthy, trees are vulnerable to a number of diseases, illnesses and threats such as invasive species. 

In the harsh Ottawa winter months, these diseases and invasive species are either dead or dormant, giving your tree some time to recover before the warm summer weather arrives.

4. Decreases Likelihood of Property Damage

There comes a point in the life of many trees where they either grow too large or in the wrong direction.

tree fallen onto a van in winter

When this tree is near your home, garage or fence, this can result in damages that are not only dangerous, but extremely expensive. With the piercing winter winds and fluctuating weather, it might be a good idea to prune your large tree this winter.

5. Improves the Appearance of Your Tree 

Last but not least, the appearance of your tree. Yes, having a tree on your property can be very beneficial in ways that don’t relate to appearance, but looks definitely do matter here. By pruning your tree(s), you can rest assured that arborists will remove deadwood and enhance the tree’s appearance for the coming seasons.

What You Should & Shouldn’t Do

Tree pruning, whether it be in the spring, summer or winter, should always be done at the right time. And for something that can increase tree growth and improve health, it’s very important that you hire a tree expert, also known as an arborist. 

When it comes to hiring arborists for tree pruning, you’ll get the peace of mind in knowing that your tree was pruned properly, and that no surprises will arise once time passes by and the seasons change.

Professional Winter Tree Pruning in Ottawa

Tree care isn’t a guessing game, it takes expertise, patience and precision – tree pruning procedures are a prime example. If you cut too far, too much or in the wrong place, you might be doing more harm than good to your tree.

If your tree has dead branches, or if it’s growing too close to your home, get in touch with Croft Tree Experts. 

As Ottawa’s best arborist service, we take tree care very seriously and provide nothing but the best for your tree’s health and appearance.

Contact us to get started.

How to Protect & Prepare Trees for Winter

house in winter with snow around trees

Taking care of your tree in winter is especially difficult the first time around. 

But with time, the inevitable arrival of the cold winter weather is something that both you and your tree can be prepared to take on.

While the winter season also brings lots of joy, fun and love through the holidays, the harsh change in temperature definitely does not go unnoticed. 

Piercing winds, freezing rain, heavy snow, frigid temperatures… To say the least, the change is quite dramatic and it’s always best that you stay prepared. 

While older trees are likely well adapted to the Canadian climate, younger trees are faced with a greater challenge, with more requirements for winter preparation and more risk of getting damaged from winter’s generous gifts.

Preparing Trees For Winter

When it comes to preparing your trees for winter, there are a lot of measures that you can take, especially for younger trees.

To briefly list them, these preventative measures include watering, mulching, pruning and installing tree guards or wraps.

young tree wrapped for winter protectionFor more details on mulching, read our article on how to properly use mulch around your trees.

As tree experts, the most important preparations we recommend you do is protect the trunks of your trees. Tree trunks can get severely damaged during winter due to the constant fluctuating temperatures, known as sunscald. 

This is especially important in a climate like ours in Ottawa, where winter temperatures go as low as -30 °C  and as high as 3 °C. With these subzero fluctuations, sunscald is extremely likely to occur. If you’d like to prepare your trees for winter but don’t know where to start, get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help.

Caring for Trees During Winter

On another note, caring for your trees during the winter months is completely different. In this scenario, the ground is likely frozen, and the cold winter weather is in full effect.

woman shovelling snow in her driveway by trees and shrubs

To ensure that your trees are in good health during the winter months, be sure to occasionally check for cracks in your trees, and to prevent snow from piling up all around your trees.

For young trees and bushes, preventing snow piles is crucial as it can put too much weight and strain on the branches, causing damage. 

These said snow piles can also lead to further drainage problems, especially if the spring ahead happens to be a rainy season. 

And last but definitely not least, if salt is something you use on your driveways and roads in the winter months, be sure not to shovel this salty snow near your tree. Salt is extremely harmful to trees and is in fact known as an effective way to kill a tree. 

Professional Tree Care & Arborist Services in Ottawa

If you need tree care advice or hands-on help before or during the winter season in Ottawa, you can count on Croft Tree Experts.

With certified arborists and forest technicians on staff, we know exactly how to help with your tree care needs. If a tree or tree branch cracks, breaks or falls in the winter months, give us a call. 

As Ottawa’s leading emergency arborists, we’re always just one call away to help when a tree damages your home, swimming pool, fence, car or blocks your driveway.

Contact Croft Tree Experts to get started with winter tree care and more.

Tree Care: How to Properly Use Mulch Around Trees

small tree with mulch at its base

If you’re looking for help with how to mulch around trees on your property, then you’ve come to the right place.

All homeowners with trees on their property want to keep them healthy and looking great but are often confused on how to do so. 

Mulching imitates the natural environment found in forests where leaves and branches cover the surface of the ground and provide nutrients. When the forest matter decomposes, it creates the ideal environment for root growth. 

Placing mulch around your trees helps prevent weeds from growing, which eliminates the competition for water. Some other benefits include preventing soil erosion, keeping roots cool in the warm months, and improving soil structure and fertility. 

It’s important to know the proper method of mulching around trees to avoid harming the plant. 

Don’t Create a Mulch Volcano 

A mulch volcano is created by pilling up too much mulch around your trees in the shape of a mountain. 

mulch volcanoYou’ve probably seen mulch volcanoes surrounding plants and trees in public spaces and people’s lawns, as it’s a common occurrence. However, using too much mulch can kill the tree rather than benefit it. 

Using excessive mulch will cause water to run off the sides of the volcano and away from the base of the tree. Oxygen, which is another vital component that trees need in order to grow, will have a tough time reaching the roots through the thick layer of wood chips. 

The amount of nutrients and water a tree needs to grow and thrive will be less than sufficient, causing the tree to become unhealthy and likely die. 

The Proper Mulching Method 

Before placing the mulch around your tree, make sure to shovel away any rocks, excess dirt, or anything else blocking the tree trunk. 

types of mulch side by sideThere are two basic types of mulch: organic and inorganic. Organic mulches consist of natural materials such as chopped leaves, compost, straw, grass clippings, and wood chips. On the other hand, inorganic mulch mainly consists of plastics and geotextiles. 

Using the mulch of your choice, spread the material in a 3-5 foot diameter around the base of the tree. How big your circle is going to be depends on the size of the tree. Layer the mulch until it’s 2-4 inches deep. Any depth above 4 inches can suffocate the roots and prevent nutrients from reaching the soil. 

Mulch is typically added during the springtime, although you should check on it at the end of the fall season. You may need to reapply a layer in order to help the soil retain moisture and insulate the roots from the cold. 

Mulch Landscaping Services in Ottawa 

Trees, especially young ones, can benefit greatly from having mulch covering their roots and trunk. 

Even though mulching may seem like an easy gardening task, there are a few things you must know before beginning the project. Knowing the different types of mulch, how to place it around the tree, and when to add the material to your garden is important to keep your trees healthy. 

With the help of our expert Ottawa arborists, you can ensure your trees are getting the best care possible.  

Reach out to us today to learn more about under tree landscaping and get a free, no-obligation quote for your upcoming garden projects.

What’s The Best Time Of Year For Tree Removal & Stump Removal?

tree stump in forest

Having a yard filled with trees is every homeowner’s dream. Not only do trees add property value, but they also provide shade for those hot summer days, can save you money on utility and energy bills, and have a natural stress relieving effect.

In some cases, however, trees can become a hazard and will have to be removed. 

Trees can develop into hazards if they become diseased or start to decay, which is when you’ll have to contact a professional to assess the situation. 

If there is no way to save the tree, then the decision to have it removed will have to be made. 

Deciding to cut down a tree is never easy, but removing it at the right time will make the process much easier. 

The Best Time for Tree and Stump Removal 

Even though a tree or stump can be removed any time throughout the year, there is a certain season that is considered the easiest for tree removal.

It’s often recommended that you have your tree removed during the winter and early spring months because these months are considered to be the dormant months.

arborist tree removal

Dormant trees tend to be lighter, and as we’ve all noticed, trees tend to lose most of their leaves in the winter, which makes it less of a hassle for arborists when removing the tree.

Trees that have decaying or dead branches pose a bigger threat in the winter, as the accumulation of snow weighs the branches down and can cause them to break at any moment. 

When trees are dead and no longer grow, they disrupt the distribution of nutrients to the other plants in the warmer months. The removal process is significantly more effective when the ground is frozen since the cool temperature protects the surrounding plants and soil from any damage. 

Emergency Tree and Stump Removal 

Although the best time for tree and stump removal is during the winter season, some trees require immediate removal as they pose a threat to the safety of your family and anyone who passes by your property. 

weather damaged tree11

So how would you know if you’re in need of an emergency tree removal? The following signs will help you determine whether or not your tree jeopardizes the safety of your loved ones. 

Trees are susceptible to weather damage, which can occur both in the winter and summer months. 

Strong winds, hurricanes, and tornadoes can cause severe tree damage to the tree. The tree can be uprooted from the soil, twisted, or if the trunk is weak enough, even snapped. 

Heavy rain can wash away the soil and expose the roots of the tree, weakening it and leaving it vulnerable. As mentioned earlier, heavy snow can also cause dead or decaying branches to fall, possibly injuring someone. 

When trees are diseased, the branches are likely to fall at any given time, endangering the homeowners of that property. 

Some common signs of tree disease include: 

  • Holes in the bark or leaves
  • Dead branches
  • Hollow pits 
  • White mildew 

You should also look out for trees that seem too close to your home. Some branches that are near the windows or walls can damage the property if the wind is strong enough.

The roots of the trees can also disrupt the structure of your home, having the power to lift patio stones, driveways, and reach deep enough to disturb the foundation. 

Expert Tree and Stump Removal in Ottawa 

Many homeowners love having trees on their property, but when that tree becomes diseased or suffers damages, it’s no longer safe or healthy to keep it around. 

Our professional arborists at Croft Tree Experts have the experience and skills needed to safely remove your tree. We take pride in our dedication to providing our clients with quality results in an efficient and timely manner. 

Whether you’re in need of regular tree removal or emergency tree removal, Croft Tree Experts has got your back.

Get in touch with us to learn more about our tree and stump removal services and get your free, no-obligation quote today. 

Common Signs That You Need to Get a Tree Removed

arborist tree removal

Not sure if you need your tree removed? Having trees on your property offers several benefits, but sometimes a tree can do more harm than good. 

Not only do trees add an aesthetic appeal to your home, but they also conserve energy, produce oxygen, and serve as a habitat for birds, small animals, and insects. 

In some cases, however, homeowners are forced to have the tree removed because it’s causing a negative impact on the property. 

Below are some signs that homeowners can look for that indicate if you need to have your tree removed.  

The Tree Is Dead

If a tree is dead, it will no longer provide some benefits like water retention and shade. dead tree split from stormInstead, it will become a hazard as its structural integrity is compromised.

There are a couple of ways to find out if your tree is dead. The easiest way to find out is by inspecting the tree. Walk around the tree and take a close look at the branches. If you see new leaves or leaf buds, then the tree is most probably alive.

A more accurate way to determine if a tree is dead or alive is by conducting the scratch test. Underneath the outer layer of bark, there is a layer called the cambium.

Peel back a small layer of the exterior bark and look at the cambium. If the inner layer is green, it means it’s alive. In dead trees, the cambium layer is brown and dry. 

The Tree Shows Signs of Disease or Decay

Just like humans, trees can get sick. Trees are susceptible to a wide variety of diseases, with some illnesses being hazardous enough to terminate the tree. 

To know if your tree has been infected with a disease, look for signs such as withered branches, blackening of the bark, or the growth of fungus-like organisms.

When large populations of fungus or mushrooms grow at the base of a tree, they infect roots and the trunk, which will cause instability and weaken the tree’s structure. 

There is no sure way of knowing if your tree is decaying, so it’s best to consult an arborist if you see any of the signs mentioned above.

The Tree Is Growing Too Large and Overcrowding

two kids beside large treeHaving a large, healthy tree on your property to provide shade in the hot summer days seems like a dream, but when that tree begins to press against your home, you’ll be more concerned about damaging your property than the summer heat.       

When there’s not enough space on your land for the tree to fully grow, the tree branches will start pressing against the windows and walls of your home.  

The roots of the trees could start growing under the building and disrupt the foundation. 

If there are several trees on your property, they may become overcrowded and start competing with each other for the nutrients in the soil. The smaller trees will begin showing signs of nutrient deficiency and will begin to wither away. 

Overcrowding will also limit airflow and cause weak flowering, which causes fungal diseases to grow and prohibit other trees from growing to their full potential.

Keep Your Property Safe With Croft Tree Experts 

Unsure if your tree is posing a threat to your property?

Our Ottawa arborists have the skills and experience needed to expertly assess your property, determine the right course of action, and get your tree removed.

We work hard to deliver the best results possible, no matter what shape your tree is in. 

Get in touch with us to learn more about our tree removal services and get a free, no-obligation quote today.

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.

 

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How Tree Mulching Helps Your Yard & the Environment

mulching in yard with trees

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?

arborist cutting tree

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

Black Knot Fungus & How To Treat It

black knot fungus on a tree

Lots of people in Ottawa ask our arborists about black galls growing on stems and branches, especially during springtime.

What exactly are these funny looking things on our trees? Are they harmful? Do we need to remove them – or remove the whole tree?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

What Is Required to Become An Arborist?

arborist cutting tree in ottawa

An arborist mantains, transplants and removes trees using diagnostic and pruning tools, climbing systems and mechanized equipment.

Certified tree professionals are knowledgeable on the science of arboriculture, and the study, cultivation, and management of individual trees. 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

tree roots in Ottawa yard.

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

Ottawa Tree Removal in the Winter Time

A single tree during winter surrounded by snow.

Can you do tree removal in Ottawa during the winter?

That’s a question we’re often asked here at Croft Tree Experts, the leaders and trusted providers of Ottawa tree removal and other tree care and arborist services.Read More

A Day in the Life of an Ottawa Arborist

Arborist doing tree pruning with a chainsaw in Ottawa.

“What’s it like, being an arborist?”

As Ottawa arborists, we get asked this question quite a bit.

Being an arborist isn’t just a job for us, after all, but more of a passion and lifelong interest.Read More

4 Tips for Fall Cleanup for Ottawa Trees & Yards

Autumn leaves on green grass.

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

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 Is an Arborist? Why Should I Hire One?

arborist in safety equipment looking at trees after tree removal.

It’s springtime again here in Ottawa. The leaves are budding, the birds are chirping, the days are getting longer, and the temperatures are (slowly but surely) getting warmer.

That means it’s lawn & tree care season once again.

A question we hear a lot is, “What is an arborist?”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.

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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.

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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

tree falls after storm needs removal

There are a number of reasons why a fallen tree should be removed from a property. Most of these reasons have to do with safety but there are other things to consider as well. Regardless of any specific reason, a fallen tree has to be removed. Read on to find out why your need to remove a fallen tree from your property and avoid larger problems that could arise in the future!

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.

Tree fallen on damaged roof needs emergency removal.
Fallen tree on an Ottawa house needs emergency removal.

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.

Large tree fallen in the back yard of an Ottawa house.
Tree limb fallen in a yard during autumn with snow on the ground in Ottawa.

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

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

summertime house yard with trees

 

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

high winds split tree trunk

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

Why Keep Mulch Away from Tree Trunks?

putting soil around the base of a young tree

Hey tree enthusiasts!

One of the more commonly asked questions we get asked here at Croft Tree Experts in Ottawa is in regard to mulch.

Should you put mulch in your yard? Is it beneficial? What should one avoid when mulching? Read More

How We Cut Down Large Trees in Ottawa

man cutting large tree trunk

 

“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?

white cap mushrooms growing on a tree

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?

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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.
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6 Common Diseases That Kill Trees in Canada

Tree sawed to expose cross-section

When planting trees, property owners usually take care of it by watering, fertilizing, staking and pruning them. These are all basic steps for maintaining your trees in Canada. But like humans, trees are not immune to diseases and death. Your trees may need treatment, too.
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 now obtain a permit from the city, but the rules differ depending on the situation. The goal of the the bylaw 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 the tree felling and removal on private property in Ottawa. This bylaw is complex with many regulations, conditions, and prohibitions. In order to be sure you are safely and legally removing a tree from your property it is essential that these bylaws are understood and followed. 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!

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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:
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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.
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