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The tree indicated by the arrow in this photo is in serious health decline. The four trees next to it are of the same species, and may be at risk to the same fate if no actions are taken. In this case it would be a very good idea for the property owner to have an arborist assess the trees to determine if the other trees are at risk and what the next steps should be. 

Halloween is this week, so we figured it's the right time to share this large-scale example of the condition called "Witches' Broom" we found near Lake Quinault last August. Witches' Broom is a condition where a cluster of branches all grow from the same place on a branch. It can be caused by multiple factors such as fungus, phytoplasmas, mites, or genetic mutations. If you don't like the way they look, these limbs can be pruned out. Consult your arborist for proper pruning techniques! 

Next week is Arbor Week in Seattle, and they have plenty of events planned. Fall is a good time of year to plant trees in the Pacific Northwest, since the weather is generally mild and the rainfall is plenty so you don't have to worry about watering. Check out their website for tree-related activities and webinars, and be sure to share a tree story if you have one!  http://www.seattle.gov/trees/get-involved/arbor-week-2020

Storm season is upon us, so just a reminder that many municipalities in King and Snohomish Counties require an arborist to examine and document a hazard tree, and may require a permit to be issued prior to having it removed. Give us a call today if you have concerns about a potential hazard tree on your property. 

Believe it or not, this clump of vegetation is actually five different trees! These ornamentals were planted much too close together, and have not been properly pruned. When planting, consider the mature height and span of the tree so that it remains visually pleasing. This is healthier for the tree too, since it won't have to compete so hard for water, nutrients, and sun. If you're looking to plant for privacy, there are many trees and shrubs that work well - consult your local arborist today! 

     It's larch madness! This is the time of year when larches turn brilliant colors - it's unique as they are one of the only trees with needles that change in the fall. Make sure that "dying" tree in your yard isn't a larch before you have it removed. Here's a great article on the science of these trees and where to find them.  https://www.wta.org/news/magazine/features/the-science-of-larches?fbclid=IwAR3CJ5_oaAxJlwWZSgm4CauUOGiRfWDDFzZ-8d5MYy6MA4ZqIwzxqx-tC3k

Trees can wreak havoc on power lines, whether it's suddenly when a branch breaks or a tree falls, or slowly over time by growing around the wire and ultimately pulling it down or breaking it. Here are two examples of the "slow" method from our personal collection. Contact your local power company to clarify who is responsible for trimming trees around power lines.

This colorful log caught our eye on a hike near Lake Quinault last month. It is a prime example of how important fallen trees are for the forest floor. They provide a home and food for insects and animals, a place for mushrooms to flourish, and nutrients for young trees nearby. If you are taking down trees on your property, we highly recommend you consider leaving the logs in place to promote the health of your land. 

What does an arborist do on vacation? Look at trees of course! We just got back from a trip to Lake Quinault where, among other huge specimens, we saw the world's largest Sitka Spruce, clocking in at 58-11" circumference, and 191' tall. We also visited the world's largest Western Red Cedar, clocking in at 19.4' in diameter and 178' tall. This area receives an average of 144" of rain per year and is home to many giant trees. 

There is an art to determining whether beetles may have taken up residence in a tree. Often they will leave little to no exterior signs, but underneath the layer of bark they are busy at work. Here's an example of a tree infested with beetles. Each species of beetle has its own pattern - we can see at least 3 different types of beetle species in this sample.