FAQ: Harmony Tree Service
What is a Certified Arborist?
An arborist is trained in the science and art of caring for and maintaining plants and trees. Certification involves an official assessment of an arborist’s knowledge and competence to provide proper tree care. The certified arborists at Harmony Tree Service are also required to maintain certification by remaining up to date on the latest techniques in arboriculture.
Should I fertilize my trees?
Most trees can benefit from fertilization. Depending on age and condition, different species have different needs. The truth of the matter is, that it is more important to ensure that the growing environment is improved prior to applying any chemical fertilizer into the existing soil. Unless the subject tree is in severe decline and we need fast result.
If the soil is bad, the tree will be stressed. Soil compaction and lack of soil biology are some of major issues in urban environment. Mulching is a great practice as it will help the soil retain water and heat. It will decompose in time, turning into a natural fertilizer. A thick ground cover of fallen leaves can also provide a good supply of nutrients to a tree for several months. Consult Harmony Tree Service staff for more details.
When should I prune my tree?
Most trees can be pruned year round in accordance with flowering and fruit production cycles. Certain trees require canopy reduction following a flowering period and not before.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree even if it is on my property?
Yes, Municipalities have their own Private tree bylaw. Please refer to "Tree Permit" page. Permit is not required for tree pruning.
What is the best time of year to remove a tree?
Winter is usually the best time for tree removal since a tree has shed its leaves and most adjacent greenery is also dormant making removal easier and more efficient.
What is done with the wood following a tree removal?
Harmony Tree Service can cut your tree into firewood or remove it from your property as desired. Wood is usually recycled into firewood at farmlands or turned into slabs.
Does my tree need extra water? How should I water my tree?
Watering Newly Planted Trees: For new trees, water immediately and thoroughly after you plant a tree.
Watering Trees During First Two Years: During the first couple growing seasons, your newly planted tree is expending a lot of energy trying to get its roots established in the soil. Especially during the first few summers of your new trees life, it will have a difficult time dealing with heat and drought. You can make this easier by providing water and covering the soil with wood-chip mulch. Deep watering can help speed the root establishment. Deep water consists of keeping the soil moist to a depth that includes all the roots.
How Much Water and When: Not enough water is harmful for the tree but too much water is bad as well. Over-watering is a common tree care mistake. Please note that moist is different than soggy, and you can judge this by feel. A damp soil that dries for a short period will allow adequate oxygen to permeate the soil.As general rule, your soil should be moist. Usually 20 minutes 3\4times a week depending on weather conditions with a trickle of water from a garden hose near the base of the tree. Mulching is also key in retaining moisture in the soil.
How can I tell if my tree is unhealthy?
Signs of disease will be visible to the naked eye. If leaves are discoloured, browning, or curled unusually; if the tree is experiencing defoliation; if the branch tips are wilting, then your tree might be diseased. Water and nutrients are the first step to remedying this, but if problems persist then consult a tree expert. If only certain branches are diseased, you can prune out the infected branches and make sure to remove them from your yard.
Should I apply mulch to my garden again and again?
Yes! Try to maintain two to four inches thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree, without touching the trunk. This will especially help the tree to survive during winter. Please use natural, non-artificially coloured mulch
Will tree grow back if I leave the stump?
Typically, Evergreen trees do not sprout back from stump. However, leafy(deciduous) trees depending on the vigor and species of the tree, full regeneration can occur if no further care is given. Please see Stump Grinding.
What are these unusual spots on my tree’s leaves? Is my tree dying?
Most of fungal spots on the leaves are common cosmetic conditions that is unsightly. It does not necessarily harm a tree and is usually cyclical. Some infestation is tolerable to the tree but when it is severe, it may require fungicide application.
Easiest thing you can do is to rake up all the leaves in fall and dispose them off-site.
You can contact us at (416) 844-8484 if you would like a professional opinion regarding health of your trees.
Here are some common diseases you may come across:
Does Harmony Tree Service have regular maintenance packages?
Yes, we provide the Scarborough area and surrounding regions with seasonal tree care packages that include a complete line of tree care services.
If your question wasn’t answered here call the tree experts in Scarborough at (416) 844-8484.