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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is an Arborist?

An arborist is an individual trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care. Contact us today to speak to one today!

Is Croft Tree Experts Insured?

Yes, Croft Tree Experts is covered by ArborGuard which is an insurance program designed exclusively for arborists and their industry.

Is Croft Tree Experts certified?

Yes Croft Tree Experts has ISA certified arborists on staff. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) serves the tree care industry as a membership association and a credentialing organization that promotes the professional practice of arboriculture all around the world.

How much does it cost to remove a tree?

Cost of removing a tree depends on many factors. For example; size, location, health, obstructions, to name a few. This is why the cost associated with removing every tree is different. Croft Tree insists trees/jobsites are seen by an estimator to provide our customers with accurate estimates.

Why should I prune my trees

Pruning a tree can have many benefits. The first and most important is keeping the people around it safe. Next would be the trees health, removing deadwood helps to prevent disease and decay, thinning helps to increase airflow and sunlight and reduce risk of failure. These are just a few reasons to prune, there are many more, feel free to ask us anything else about pruning.

What is the Emerald Ash Borer? Who is responsible for removing infested trees?

The emerald ash borer is a non-native, highly invasive and destructive wood boring beetle that feeds under the bark of ash trees. All species of ash tree are vulnerable to attack. The Emerald Ash Borer has killed millions of trees in Ontario, posing a major threat to the environment and economic activities. The way the emerald ash borers live and feed causes serious damage to the tree and often kills them.

The City of Ottawa is responsible for treating and/or removing infested city-owned trees however the responsibility for removing privately owned infested trees falls on the owner. Special precautions must be taken when removing a tree infested by emerald ash borers, most importantly proper disposal of wood. Make sure you have your infested tree removed by a certified arborist so you can help prevent the damaging spread of this invasive species.

If a neighbor's tree falls on my property who is responsible for removal?

While this question seems simple, the real answer is a bit more nuanced. If a neighbor's tree is showing signs of damage, rot, or other factors which might increase its odds of falling, they are responsible for removing the tree and potentially damage which was caused to your property. If the tree had shown no signs of damage and came down because of a particularly bad storm and caused damage to your property, your homeowners insurance will provide coverage according to your policy limits. If a neighbor's healthy tree falls into your yard and doesn't cause any damage, we hate to say it but you will be on the hook for cleaning and removing the tree.

How do I know if I have a dangerous tree?

If you have a dangerous tree, you want to make sure you get it removed before anything bad happens. The most common signs of a dangerous tree are dead or detached branches, rotten wood along the trunk and cracks or splits in the trunk. Dangerous trees also often have bark abnormalities with deep cracks or holes. If you suspect your tree is dangerous and needs to be removed, contact us today, we can help.

Who is responsible for tree trimming near hydro lines?

Hydro Ottawa is responsible for keeping primary supply overhead power lines free from trees and other forms of growth.

The responsibility for keeping the service wires on your property (secondary supply lines) outside of the clearance area free from trees and vegetations is the property owner. You are also responsible for maintaining the growth of trees and plants near service wires that feed directly into your house.

For the clearing of trees and plants near power lines which fall under your responsibility, make the safe choice and call a certified arborist. We are experienced removing all kinds of trees from near power lines, so you know it will be done safe and right.

Do you offer regular tree maintenance plans for commercial properties?

Croft Tree Experts is happy to offer regular maintenance plans for commercial properties. We encourage business owners to make the investment in their trees in order to avoid expensive damage and to keep your property looking great. If you are interested in our regular commercial maintenance plans, contact us today!

Which insects can infest a tree stump?

One of the main reasons for removing a tree stump is because it is the perfect environment for insects to make a home, starting an infestation that can spread to your home. The most common insects which can start an infestation are:

  • Termites
  • Beetiles
  • Carpenter ants

Make sure your tree stump does not create an infestation in your property and get it removed.

Can you remove the entire tree stump? What about the roots?

Yes, we can remove the entire tree stump with our stump grinder. We can also remove the largest roots which are usually in the top 16 inches of soil. If your tree has deeper roots, we can grind those as well. Once we are done grinding away your stump and roots, you will be able to grow grass or plant a new tree in its place.

Do newly planted hedges need more or less maintenance?

Newly planted hedges need considerably more maintenance compared to more mature hedges. This maintenance is called formative pruning and it should take place for 2-3 years to ensure your newly planted hedge grows well and has the shape that you want.

Who is responsible for trimming a hedge on or near a property line?

If a hedge is on your side of the property line, then you own it and are responsible for trimming or paying for it to be trimmed. Your neighbor has the right to trim any part of the hedge that crosses or overhands over their property.

Why should I plant native tree species?

Planting native tree species helps re-establish the original ecosystem of the region. By planting a native tree species, you can have a meaningful and positive impact on the local birds, animals, and insects which underpin the local ecosystem. Native species also benefit from lower levels of maintenance as they are adapted to the area where they are planted.

How can I make sure that the soil is good for tree-planting?

If you are planning on planting a tree in soil that is sandy or with large amounts of clay, you will want to make sure that you mix in lots of compost. This ensures that your trees will have the nutrients that they need in order to grow large and healthy. Make sure you dig in good amounts of compost around the tree, so as it grows it will continue to reach nutrients. If you are planting in a new subdivision, you will want to make sure there is enough topsoil. Often construction in these areas removes most of the topsoil and not much is replaced.

What is an ISA Certified Arborist?

The ISA, or International Society of Arborists, is a non-profit organisation which regulates arborist certification throughout the world. ISA certified arborists must meet stringent requirements, have extensive work experience, and pass a comprehensive exam before becoming a certified arborist. Certified arborists are trained in how to properly care for and remove trees as well as identify potential diseases, damage, and more. Only certified arborists can fill out arborist reports which are essential for distinctive tree permits needed to remove a tree.