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There are so many reasons to prioritize consistent Portland tree care: it increases your property value, benefits the environment, and makes your yard more enjoyable. During the dry summer months, fire prevention is yet another reason to take care of your trees. Without regular pruning, trees sport more dead material, which can serve as fire fuel. Read on for our tips on how to prevent property fires through landscape and general home maintenance.

Creating a Landscape that Discourages Fires
—Remove dead plant materials. Dead grasses, bushes, and trees are fire fuel. In rural areas, you may be able to burn dead plants with the proper permitting. In urban zones, add dead plants to your on-site compost, or (in Portland) stick it in your city compost bin.
—Create Defensible Space. Those in rural, especially fire-prone areas should create a 30’ treeless perimeter around their homes with minimal vegetation. This decreases the chance that flames will reach the structure. Additionally, defensible space makes it easier for firefighters to defend the home. Homes on a hill require more defensible space (150’ perimeter), because fire moves more quickly up a slope.
—Remove Roof and Gutter Fire Hazards. Remove dead branches that overhang roofs. Keep gutters and roof valleys clear of grasses and other plant material. A good rule of thumb is to keep branches at least ten feet from your roof.
—Prune shade trees so that lowest limbs are at least six feet off the ground. This minimizes the amount of organic material that’s accessible to ground fires.
—Keep trees healthy; vigorous trees are more likely to survive a fire. Schedule regular Portland tree trimming from certified arborists. Be sure to remove deadwood while pruning.

General Maintenance Tips for Preventing Fires on your Property

Recognize the Signs of a Dry, Stressed Tree. Pay attention to the health of your trees. If you notice the following clues, your tree may be diseased or dead.
• Unusual leaf loss, or a reduction in leaf growth
• Brittle bark that falls off the tree, or cracks in the bark
• Fallen limbs, as well as leafless branches that are spongy or brittle
• Open wounds or soft spots
• Fungus growth (indicates internal rot)
• Twigs that break evenly and cleanly, with a brown interior. A healthy twig will bend, and its interior will be green.
Dying trees are dry trees; as such they constitute a fire hazard. If you discover a dead or dying tree on your property, call us to arrange Portland tree removal.

Grill and Burn Safely. When fire is involved stay alert. Grill safely—keep grills away from deck railings and structures. Gas grills have their own safety requirements; understand your grill and have a plan for putting out unexpected fires. For instance, when grilling you can keep a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher handy. The same safety approach applies to bonfires: have a plan for quickly extinguishing the fire, and look out for dry materials overhead. If tree branches droop dangerously over the bonfire area, trim them away before burning.
Maintain emergency vehicle access. Fire trucks cannot access rutted, steep, or poorly maintained roads. Each rural fire district has its own standards for driveways.

Practice interior fire safety. From checking fire alarms to clearing out fireplaces, there are plenty of ways to prevent fires inside your home. Check out the State of Oregon’s Home Fire Safety Checklist for more information.

Thin Lush Vegetation. Fires are a natural, cyclical event in Western forests. When they occur regularly, fires minimize burnable materials. However, since European settlement, fires have been repressed. Less frequent fires means more dead plants are available to burn, so that those fires that do occur tend to be more intense. If your property is thick with growth, consider controlled burning to reduce the amount of fire fuel on the ground.

If you have questions about your property, you can always get in touch with Urban Forest Pro. Our Portland certified arborists are happy to visit your home and suggest effective approaches for minimizing fire danger in your landscape.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

In one corner, we have trees. In the other, solar panels. Which one will win in America’s cities? Should we prioritize the urban canopy, or open up spaces to harvest sun power? Well, as Portland certified arborists, we don’t think this has to be a fight. While homeowners may feel they must choose between solar panels and trees, we have found it is possible for both to coexist effectively. Homeowners from Washington DC to San Jose have fought or even sued over solar access, oftentimes with two environmentally conscious neighbors battling over who has the ecological upper ground. However, as we outline below, proper tree placement and pruning can allow solar panels to function in proximity to shade trees.

There’s no denying that solar panels do not operate as well under shade. A Renewable Energy Laboratory study found that shadows over PV (photovoltaic) panels reduce power production by one third. Researchers are aware of the problem, and are looking for ways to boost productivity in shady conditions. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory recently found a way to increase productivity under shade by 12%, by using microinverters instead of string inverters within PV panels.

In some parts of the country, the solar panel vs. tree debate has spurred legal battles and legislation. For example, California’s Solar Shade Act was passed in 1978 to protect homeowners’ investments in solar energy. The law made it a crime to impede panels’ sun access. In 2008, a couple in Sunnyvale, California was convicted on criminal charges that their backyard redwood trees blocked their neighbor’s PV panels. In response, state Senator Joe Simitian passed a bill protecting pre-existing trees, so that homeowners cannot be prosecuted for planting trees prior to the installation of neighbors’ solar panels.

Here in Oregon, there is no solar access law protecting solar panel owners from similar situations. For property owners in Portland, tree services cannot be court-ordered to protect solar access. However, homeowners can request voluntary easements asking neighbors to maintain sunshine availability. That’s the first step in achieving tree- and solar-friendly boroughs: open and respectful communication between neighbors. Here are a few more techniques for preserving both solar access and healthy tree growth.

Portland Certified Arborists’ Tips For Tree Care with Solar Panels
• Place trees away from home to prevent blocking, scratching, and otherwise damaging solar panels.
• Avoid planting trees near the west or southwestern facing sides of home; these directions receive the strongest sunlight and are the best options for solar panel placement.
• Properly maintain trees that are already planted, to prevent solar panel damage. Regular Portland tree trimming will minimize neighbor disputes and protect PV panels.
• Remove dying trees, which pose a threat to nearby structures including solar-paneled roofs. Portland tree removal is recommended for unstable, unhealthy trees.

If you have questions about a certain tree on your property, get in touch. We can provide recommendations on how to enjoy both solar energy and vibrantly healthy trees. Our ISA certified arborists are happy to answer your Portland tree planting questions. We can calculate sunlight angles onto PV panels, according to each specimen’s mature height. Our arborists can also provide recommendations on the best tree placement for solar panels. Call us today for more information on how to balance shade with solar access.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

Siding protects and waterproofs your home. Any structure lacking strong, snug siding is vulnerable to weather and pest damage. As Portland tree care specialists, we are passionate about adding trees to the urban canopy—but not at the expense of structures. If trees and shrubs are too close to siding, damage is likely.

Portland Certified Arborists on How Trees and Shrubs can Affect Siding

• Branches can scrape siding, compromising its strength.
• As the protective surface is worn away, scraping branches can cause the premature failure of paint, vinyl and aluminum.
• Trees and bushes can also push into siding, opening cracks where insects and other pests can gain ingress.
  • Lush greenery may prevent air circulation and evaporation, potentially leading to rot or mold.
• Bushes may trap moisture near the foundation, leading to damp, moldy basements.
  •Large dead branches can fall and rip away siding.

Protecting your Siding from Plant Damage

When siding is concealed by flora, problems may not be discovered for years. That’s why it’s key to conduct regular visual inspections. Every season, pull away branches to look for scratches, dents, rot, and mold. Keep in mind that east and north sides tend to grow more mold. If you find any damage, it’s time to trim back those trees and bushes.

When placing new specimens, give them plenty of room to grow. Note the size of the mature plant, and leave a broad diameter accordingly. Overall, it’s best to set bushes and trees ten feet back from structures.

For those trees and bushes that are already placed near your home, be vigilant about pruning. Portland tree trimming should be done every 3 to 7 years, depending on the type of tree. Deciduous trees should receive pruning every 3 to 5 years, while evergreen trees may be pruned every 5 to 7 years. Ornamental trees are trimmed yearly, or more frequently according to the desired look. More frequent pruning may be required for plants that are situated near structures.

As your Portland tree pruning experts, we would be happy to visit your property and provide recommendations that will protect both your trees and your home. From safely removing dead trees to expertly trimming branches away from siding, we can adroitly handle your family’s tree care needs. Call us today to learn more about our tree pruning services.

Check out what Phyllis had to say about us on Google:

“All the crew at Urban Forest Pro are attentive and skilled. The pride they take in their work is obvious as they left all the shrubs and trees looking and grounds in outstanding shape. The whole property is healthier and brighter due to careful tree trimming, shrub trimming and meticulous stump grinding. The admin staff was patient and thoughtful and walked us through the process. I highly recommend these personable professionals and will use them again for all my arbor work.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5/5

(Dec 20, 2019)

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

Though winter is the most recommended time to prune, Portland tree pruning in the summertime can provide particular benefits for fruit trees and damaged trees. It can also be advantageous for general tree shaping.

The following is a simple guide to summer tree pruning. As always, please consult our Portland certified arborists for specialized knowledge and information.

Summer Tree Pruning Goals & Benefits

1. Remove dead limbs. Summer pruning plays an important role in the removal of dead, damaged, and diseased tree limbs. Any limb that has the potential to cause damage or stress to your tree should be removed. This enhances the tree’s potential for robust growth while minimizing the chance that a weakened branch will fall on your home during a storm.
2. Encourage hearty growth. Pruning in summer may encourage vigor. In summertime, weak tree growth should be pinched or pruned back about 3 inches from the end of each soft, leafy shoot. This can be repeated again in late summer if rapid side-shoot growth occurs. As always, it is best to leave pruning in the hands of professionals, such as our Portland certified arborists.
3. Help fruit trees grow strong. Fruit trees are often good candidates for summer pruning. Pruning them allows more light penetration, which can support young tree development. Proper pruning can encourage mature trees to produce fruit of greater quality and size. Increased light and air circulation resulting from pruning encourages the overall health of the tree. Pruning in the summer helps to support robust and durable branch development, which will help support healthy fruit in the future. Some fruit trees, such as apricots and cherries, are susceptible to disease when pruned during the rainy season. It is best to prune these fruit trees in the summer, preferably in July or August. Peach trees, nectarine trees, and Japanese plum trees often grow very quickly, rapidly reaching impressive heights, while neglecting the development of sturdy limbs. Pruning these trees in the summer can reduce this occurrence, and support the growth of stronger branches. As always, it is best to consult a Portland tree pruning expert as each fruit tree is different.

4. Pest Control. Another benefit of summer pruning is pest control. By removing branches and fruit that have mites or aphid damage you are protecting the overall health and longevity of the tree. You are also ensuring that your fruit trees produce delicious, healthy fruit that’s free of pests. Make sure to throw out these defective limbs or fruits. To prevent infestation, do not compost them.

Summer Pruning: Special Considerations and Potential Dangers

Pruning in the summer is primarily for shaping and creating a solid structure. Heavy pruning should be saved for winter, when trees are under less stress. Moreover, it is important to do your summer pruning earlier in the season. If you wait to long, you could put the tree at risk of water damage or winter injury. Rain can damage fresh cuts on a tree, so it is better to wait to prune if rain is in the near future. Avoid pruning in fall all together.

If you are still mulling over whether or not to prune and/or how much to prune, it is likely in your best interest and the best interest of your beautiful trees to contact a reputable Portland tree pruning service such as Urban Forest Professionals.

Check out what Craig had to say about us on Google.

“Definitely recommend UFP for tree trimming and removal. Had tree work performed at my house recently, both the consultation with the arborist and the work crews were very professional. Did exactly what they quoted, for the quoted price and stuck to schedule. Took all debris from the job and even swept up the patio! Will hire again.”

5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
(December 23, 2019)

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

In roof damage, water is the ultimate culprit. Stagnant water can seep under shingles and flashing, leading to rot and costly damage. All roof maintenance tasks maximize roof life by minimizing water ingress. Proper tree care plays its own role in your roof’s lifespan. Today we’re taking a look at the tree side of roof maintenance, including tree trimming, clearing away tree debris, and being selective about where you plant trees in the first place.

Portland Certified Arborists on Tree Care to Maximize Roof Life

Trim Trees Regularly. Especially in lush locales such as Portland, tree pruning is key, especially in the summer. Without regular trimming, tree limbs are more likely to fall and cause roof damage. A weakened branch may come tumbling down during the next roof storm, leaving a gaping hole in your roof. Prevention is the name of the game here—by trimming away sick, dead, or otherwise weakened branches, you can prevent storm roof damage.

With that said, tree pruning is dangerous and demanding work that is best left to professionals. Try to tackle tree trimming yourself, however, and you could create more damage than you thwart. It is best to leave the pruning to Portland certified arborists.

Clear Away Tree Debris. Leaves, pine needles, and branches can become lodged in the lower sections of your roof. For instance, a drift of dead leaves may pile up against a dormer. To prevent water retention and weed growth, it’s important to keep your roof clear of tree blossoms, leaves, and branches.

Keep Branches Away from Your Roof. Overhanging branches are problematic, as they may rub against roof shingles and erode away protection. Additionally, such branches give rodents access to your roof, where they may chew away materials or cause damage through nesting. To prevent roof damage, it is best to keep branches at least ten feet away from your roof.

Clear Your Gutters Once or Twice per Year. Gutters inevitably fill with leaves and other organic buildup. Fail to empty the gutters, and you face water spilling over the gutters, and into your home. Gutter clearance is important in long-term roof life.

Avoid Planting Problematic Trees Right Next To Your Property. Fast-growing species with weaker root systems will be more liable to fall on your roof. When choosing trees, select slow-growing species, and consider how each variety’s height might put your roof at risk.

As Portland tree care specialists, we see green space maintenance as providing dozens of benefits—energy savings, higher air quality, and increased property value. Proper tree maintenance also helps protect your roof, as we’ve seen. For more advice on tree trimming and tree selection, give us a call. We can advise you on the best choices for your entire property, including your investment in your roof.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

Why mulch? Because mulching improves water retention, optimizes soil temperature, and reduces general stress on plants and plant roots. Mulch also keeps weeds out and prevents soil compaction. Finally, mulch adds to the quality of the soil as it decomposes. In this article, we’re exploring all things mulch, from proper mulching technique to types of mulch to common mistakes to avoid.

How to Mulch Your Tree

Clear away grass around your tree within a 3 to 10 foot area, depending on the tree size. Add natural mulch to this cleared area, about 2 to 4 inches deep, but ensure mulch does not touch the trunk of the tree. If mulch is piled up around the tree trunk, it will limit the tree’s ability to take in oxygen and nutrients. Consult Portland arborists to learn more about proper tree mulching practices and general best practices for Portland tree care.

Mulching Mistakes to Avoid

Mulching is a very important aspect of caring for your trees and plants, but acting without enough information may result in unfortunate mistakes. Mitigate these risks by following our recommendations on what not to do when mulching:

• Don’t over-mulch. Too much mulch can cause plants to become stressed in harsh weather conditions. The standard recommended mulching depth is 3 inches.
• Understand how different mulching materials decay. Some mulches last longer than others. For instance, tree trimmings decay quite rapidly, so if you use them as mulch you may need to mulch more frequently.
• Don’t pile mulch around the base of the tree. Sometimes called “volcano” mulching, this practice piles up mulch around the trunk. Not only does this suffocate parts of the tree that are designed to be open to the air; it also promotes the growth of harmful fungi. Leave a six-inch mulch-free radius around the trunk. Outside of this ring, plan to mulch all the way to the tree’s drip line.
• Be picky about your mulch. When purchasing mulch, make sure you are getting it from a reliable source. Mulch that was stored near weeds, or which has grown fungus could negatively impact your tree’s health.

Choosing the Best Mulch for Your Trees

Mulch is a blanket term that contains a wide variety of products, each with their own unique form and specialty. The two main categories are organic and inorganic mulch. Organic mulch decomposes and provides additional nutrients to the soil. While organic mulch has to be replenished more often, it is often preferred for its nutritional benefits. Inorganic mulch provides good surface drainage, discourages soil splash onto plants, and daunts moss. Inorganic mulch does not decompose and thus does not need to be replaced as often.

Common organic mulch includes:
• Farm manure, which is good for shrubs and roses and is useful for nutrients;
• Composted bark, which is good around trees and shrubs, particularly acid-loving plants, and is quite nutritious;
• Wood chips that decompose slowly and take nitrogen from the soil;
• Garden compost that prevents weed seeds from germinating and supplies gradual nutrients;
• Composted straw, which may contain weed seeds and is low in nutrients, but can also be useful;
• Mushroom compost, which supplies some nutrients and decays slowly, but is not recommended for use around acid-loving plants.

Common inorganic mulch includes:
• Gravel, which is good for drought tolerant plants;
• Cobbles and pebbles, which are an attractive way to mulch;
• Coarse grit and stone chips, which can be ideal for small plants such as succulents in raised beds;
• Black plastic sheeting, which can suppress weeds and is often laid around new trees and shrubs. Geotextile membranes are often useful to retain moisture and suppress weeds around newly planted trees and shrubs.

Of course, Portland arborists will have the best information on Portland tree care. Thus, if you are stumped by which mulch to choose, or how to properly place your mulch, it’s best to consult the experts. Arrange for Portland tree services with our ISA certified arborist. From mulching to pruning to tree removal, Urban Forest Professional’s arborists will provide the expertise and technique to keep your trees growing strong.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

Sudden Oak Death (SOD) is a serious disease that often necessitates tree removal. It is caused by the plant pathogen Phtophthora Ramorum. SOD spreads by air and water; its most common transmission method is to splash onto other plants via rainwater. Since the mid 1990s, SOD has killed millions of trees in Oregon and California. It was first found in Oregon nurseries in 2003. OPB reports, “If Sudden Oak Death goes unchecked, it could cause significant damage to Oregon’s forest ecosystems.” Sudden Oak Death is worthy of its name; it can kill a tanoak in a few days. However, this plant pest affects more than just oak trees; rhododendron, evergreen huckleberry, azaleas, red oaks, and 130 other beloved Oregon plants are susceptible to SOD. To protect your plants from this deadly disease, read on.

Sudden Oak Death: Protecting your Garden from the Ravages of Phtophthora Ramorum

Signs of SOD Infection. Phytophthora Ramorum manifests in two different ways, depending on the host plant. In shrubs and other non-woody plants, the disease shows as leaf spots, and sometimes shoot dieback. In tanoaks and oaks, the same pathogen causes a completely different symptom: bole or trunk cankers, with dark thick sap seeping from bark.

Keep in mind that other organisms and injuries can cause similar symptoms as SOD. To ensure accurate Portland tree care, it may be necessary to have a tissue sample from the tree tested at a laboratory, and to consult with Portland Certified Arborists who can identify what Phytophthora Ramorum looks like in various plant species.

Protecting your trees from SOD

A knowledgeable and watchful public is key to Oregon tree care, This vital prevention strategy can slow or stop the spread of Sudden Oak Disease. If you have identified that you live in an area affected by SOD, or have trees or shrubs that are susceptible to SOD, one way of prevention is to take many samples from many trees annually.

If you are coming and going from an area that is infected with SOD, make sure clean shoes, vehicles, pets, etc. before returning to the uninfected area.

An April 2015 OPB report on SOD similarly recommends the following prevention strategies:

• Determine if you have any susceptible species.
• Check to see if you are in a currently infected area (although, even if you are not your trees and plants can still be susceptible).
• Inspect your trees and plants for symptoms.

Sudden Oak Death is serious business. Once called the “Ebola of the plant world” by Ross Meentemeyer, director of the Center for Geospatial Analytics, SOD has the potential to devastate and wipe out the beauty of Portland’s tree-line streets, parks, and backyard gardens. It is important to prevent SOD (and ensuing Portland tree removal) when possible. Proper diagnosis and treatment and certified Portland tree care experts can help you identify, treat, and prevent the spread of this nasty tree virus. If you think that your tree may have become infected, or have other SOD related questions, it is paramount that you get in touch with Urban Forest Professionals immediately! Only you can prevent the spread of Sudden Oak Death.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

In early 2015, Governor Kate Brown declared a state of drought emergency in counties throughout Oregon. This is the first drought in the state since 2004. Drought can devastate agriculture, threaten livestock, and deplete natural resources. Another potentially major consequence of drought is compromised tree health. As we head into what wildfire experts are saying could be the driest summer in twenty-five years, it’s critical to preserve your own trees by brushing up on Portland tree care for drought.

Portland Tree Care: Tending to Your Trees During a Drought

1. Recognize Signs of Tree Stress

To properly mitigate the risks of drought, knowing the symptoms of tree stress is a good place to start. The first, and perhaps most, devastating damage occurs long before any apparent signs of trouble, in the form of root damage below the soil. In an attempt to amend the imbalance of this root loss, the thinning of the tree canopy may occur.

Evergreens demonstrate stress through the discoloration of their needles, sometimes turning brown at the tips, progressing through the needle towards the twig. At other times needles may turn yellow, red, or even purple. Deciduous trees may acquire “scorch,” in which leaves brown between veins or on the outside edge. Other drought stress symptoms may include leaves that wilt, yellow, and curl.

A side effect of drought is the onslaught of unscrupulous pests and diseases, including boring insects and fungal pathogens. Stressed trees go through chemical changes that attract opportunist pests. A tree weakened by drought provides easy access for infestation and pathogens.

2. Caring for Trees During Drought

While providing Oregon tree care services, we’ve seen a few common mistakes among well-meaning homeowners hoping to nourish their trees through dry spells. A common mistake is watering at the base of a tree, which is not where it finds its nourishment. Another is fertilizing during signs of drought stress, which can cause root burn. Instead, refrain from fertilization during drought, and water beyond the tree’s drip-line to reach the full expanse of the roots. Here’s a quick rule of thumb: Look at the height of the tree, and imagine roots growing two to four times that distance down into the earth. So watering farther around the circumference of the tree will help ensure that it is thoroughly nourished.

It is also important to make sure that moisture reaches twelve to eighteen inches below the surface—otherwise, the tree will not be able to absorb enough water. You can use a soil probe to help you determine when this has been accomplished. To retain moisture between watering, layer four or five inches of organic mulch on the soil surface, six inches from the trunk of the tree. Remember to also properly prune away dead or infested branches to improve the tree’s overall health. Prioritize watering young or new trees, trees that have recently received root injury due to construction, and trees that are growing in a restricted root zone, such as next to a sidewalk.

Tree watering is important all year round. In April to September you should water about three times a month, and in October through March water one to two times per month.

Despite the wealth of information on tree care it may still be challenging to determine the state of your trees in a drought and what steps to take to preserve the life of the tree. Fortunately, our Portland certified arborists are ready to help you mitigate the early and unnecessary death of a tree. Even the most caring amateur homeowner may fall short in tree care during challenging seasons. Contact us to arrange for consistent tree care during this hot, dry summer.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

The Pacific Northwest sometimes sees extreme weather, and windstorms with gusts in excess of 60 mph are not uncommon during the stormy part of the year. Such high winds take their toll sending heavy limbs, debris, and even entire trees crashing down, potentially damaging property.

Recently, a woman posted a picture on our Facebook page showing a tree that had fallen onto her house from the neighbor´s property. She explained her confusion about who was responsible for damage from fallen trees. In this post, we’d like to explore the nuances of this situation and attempt to provide some clarity about who is responsible.

As Portland certified arborists, this isn’t a new circumstance for us. In the course of providing Portland tree removal, we’ve seen plenty of neighbor disagreements about fallen trees. In every such circumstance, the first thing to consider is homeowners’ insurance. “Healthy” is a keyword when seeking tree damage coverage under homeowner policies. When a healthy tree falls it is considered an act of God or Nature, and your homeowner’s insurance will cover the cost of damages to your property (minus the deductible and within the provisions of your policy). If the fallen tree is not considered healthy, you face an additional layer of complexity.

Portland Tree Care Experts on Tree Damage Liability.
Let’s take a look at insurance coverage in various possible scenarios.

Your tree falls on your house. Your homeowner’s policy should cover this; however, you should be aware of your policy coverage limits. Chances are that you will have to pay a deductible before coverage kicks in. Your coverage likely includes your main home, garage, sheds, and other outbuildings. If structures have been damaged, the policy should also cover debris removal.

Your tree falls on your neighbor’s house. Under most conditions, your neighbor’s homeowner’s policy will cover damage to their property.

What about the damage that could have been avoided? As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to maintain your property, including your trees. If your trees have existing damage such as visible rot and don’t take care of it, you could be deemed liable if the tree falls.

Be a good neighbor. Avoid liability and prevent neighbor bickering; maintain your trees and regularly inspect for damaged branches, disease, and rot. Of course, as Portland tree care experts, we are available to help in this and all other aspects of tree maintenance. Additionally, we consider it good form to offer to pay for or split your neighbor’s deductible if your tree damages their property. There is no guarantee they will do the same for you if the situation is reversed, but in our experience, it is best to give them the benefit of the doubt.

On the other hand, if you see that your neighbor has damaged or rotting branches that could potentially harm your property, it is advised to write your neighbor a friendly letter to let them know and to ask them if they could remove or trim the tree in question. You can also send a copy to this letter to your insurance company. The goal here is to kindly remind neighbors that if their unhealthy tree causes damage to your property, they could be liable.

Everyone here at Urban Forest Professionals is here to help as well. Our arborists can give a thorough and professional inspection, including diagnosis of potential problems. We can then remove damaged and diseased branches/sections, relieving you of any potential liability.

Remember—you are not liable for any damage that your healthy trees do to your neighbor’s property, but this only applies to healthy trees. You can be held liable if regular maintenance could have prevented the damage. Therefore, it’s best to arrange for regular tree care. Call us today about a tree inspection; by ensuring the health of your trees, you could be saving yourself hundreds of dollars on damage liability down the road.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com

Spring is here, and many people are thinking about tree planting, whether to add more shade or to replace trees that have been removed. As Portland certified arborists, we consistently field homeowners’ questions about replanting options. After arranging our Portland tree removal services for a tree lost to winter storm damage or disease, our customers often hope to replant another tree in the same spot. However, replanting is not as simple as it may seem. It’s important to choose a tree that will thrive in your available space. Moreover, city law may restrict your replanting options. Read on for our tips on replanting.

Tree planting is an area of urban arboriculture where major and costly mistakes are often made. The two major problems are 1) Choosing the wrong tree, and 2) Putting it in the wrong place. When choosing a tree, think about its preferred growing environment, its mature size, disease concerns, and other factors. If you’re unsure about whether a certain species will work, arrange for a tree consultation with one of our arborists.

Once you’ve found a species that will fit well in your available space, be picky about selecting the right specimen at the nursery. Our blog post on choosing a tree like a pro has advice on how to buy a healthy tree. Ultimately, when it comes to Portland tree planting, the ideal approach is to work with an experienced arborist who can help you select and plant the new tree.

Municipal restrictions are another area of concern when replanting trees. As the homeowner, it is up to you to be aware of local restrictions and regulations, which do vary around the Metro area. Portland, in particular, has some rather tight guidelines that could lead to a fine if not closely followed.

Portland Tree Planting Regulations

Street Tree Permits. If you intend to replant a street tree in Portland, you will need to get a permit that approves the tree type and size. To determine if a tree is considered a street tree, follow the City of Portland’s online instructions, which direct you to PortlandMaps.com to locate the tree. Basically, if more than 50% of a tree’s trunk is in the public right of way, it is considered a street tree.

Planting in your Yard. Although Portland has restrictions about what kinds of trees can be removed, the possibilities are endless as to what kinds of trees that can be planted in your yard. We recommend that you take a look around and see what you like and don’t like about the existing trees in your neighborhood. A professional arborist or horticulturalist can help you make an informed decision about what kinds of trees will grow best in your intended location.

Permits. In Portland, permits are needed for pruning, removing, and planting street trees or trees on commercial property. If you do not get a permit, you could be subject to fines of up to $1000 per tree, or $100 per inch of diameter—even if the arborist never told you that you needed a permit. At UFP our certified arborists can help you attain the necessary permits.

Mitigation. Some local municipalities, such as Lake Oswego, require that homeowners replant a new tree when an old tree is removed. This practice is referred to as mitigation, and it comes with its own set of city regulations. For example, in Lake Oswego no mitigation is required for trees that have been removed because they are hazardous or dead. Mitigation is required when a tree has been removed from a Lake Oswego right-of-way. Our Portland certified arborists can help you create a mitigation plan for tree removal.

Replanting for other reasons. The trees in our urban landscape provide both economic and environmental benefits. Mature trees add property, clean the air by producing oxygen, and provide habitat for nesting songbirds, among other benefits. The average lifespan of an urban tree is only 10 years, and most trees don’t reach maturity until 20 years, illustrating that maintenance is important to extending a tree’s lifespan. These numbers also emphasize just how much replanting actually goes on in an urban environment.

Whatever your reason for planting a new tree, we’d love to help. Our Portland tree services include consultation, tree sales and tree planting. For $300, we will take care of the whole process, from tree selection to planting. Our trees are premium stock; as such, we guarantee their health for three years against everything except vandalism and drought. Call us today about replanting a tree in your yard. If you’re wondering how much to relocate a tree check out this blog post.

This post first appeared on https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com