General – ArborTech Tree Services

Stump Grinding: It May Be More Than A Personal Preference

Randy Sample — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 18:44:42 +0000

Stump grinding is the fastest and most effective way to remove a tree stump no matter what the size. Most tree removal estimates will include a separate price for grinding the stump. Here are a few reasons to consider having the stump ground.

Why Grind The Stump?

They can pose hazards: trips & falls; damage to your lawn mower.

They look unsightly.

Once ground, they give you back usable space if you want to build a new deck, patio, driveway, sidewalk, etc

To prevent contamination: tree stumps that have been left to rot over the years can attract fungi and mold which can, in turn, contaminate other areas of your garden/landscape.

They are less expensive to grind, at the time of removal, since the crew is already on site.

What’s Left Behind?

Grinding a stump does leave a pile of wood chips behind which can be quite large. One option to get rid of this pile of wood chips is to have your tree company remove it for an additional cost. Another option is to use the wood chips as mulch for other plants in your landscape.

Once the stump and mulch are gone you will be left with a hole, but don’t fret! This hole can easily be filled to blend in with the rest of your garden/landscape. Whether you plan to turf, pave, deck or plant flowers, you’ll have a blank canvas ready to use as you wish.

Who Do I Call?

If you have a tree stump that you would like removed, ArborTech Tree Services offers stump grinding services at an affordable price. Give us a call at (413) 525-0060 Ext 1 or contact us here.

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Why Specialist Equipment is Essential For Professional Tree Care

Randy Sample — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 18:40:00 +0000

Whether we are performing tree removal, tree trimming or tree repair, having access to specialist equipment is essential for a number of reasons. Using the right equipment will ensure that all work is completed safely, efficiently and with the least amount of impact to your property.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the tools and equipment required for professional tree care.

Hard To Access Tree Removal

A hydraulic truck crane allows for the safe and efficient removal of larger trees or trees on properties that are difficult to access. This equipment also ensures that the tree can be removed without causing any damage to your property or landscape.

Zero Impact to Your Property

We will always aim to achieve zero impact to your property when carrying out our tree removal services. Our machinery is fitted with rubber tracks that ensure damage to your lawn and landscape is kept to an absolute minimum. We also have machines that can operate on the outskirts of your lawn or garden and don’t need to access your lawn at all. For example, our stump grinding machine can reach through your fence to reach a stump on the other side.

Tree Trimming & Pruning Beyond Reach

We are often asked to trim and prune tree branches and limbs that are at height or situated in awkward or challenging locations. We assess every tree carefully to determine which equipment will be suitable for the job. For example, our cherry picker allows our skilled arborists to safely carry out their work to the highest standard.

Always the Right Equipment for the Job

Over the years, we have invested in some of the best tree care equipment available today. It means we can attend to those challenging jobs that conventional or smaller machinery cannot cope with. Whether you have branches overhanging utility cables or you have a large tree down that you need to be removed, one call to our team is all it takes. Call us at (413) 525-0060 or contact us here.

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Can My Tree Benefit From Tree Cabling Services?

Randy Sample — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 13:52:18 +0000

Trees are natural living things that can grow unpredictably or suffer from damage or growth defects. While many problems can be solved with proper tree trimming, problems with larger trees, such as a split trunk or a large branch that is growing at an awkward or dangerous angle, may need a little extra help to avoid removal. This is where tree cabling comes in.

What is Tree Cabling?

Tree cabling, also known as tree bracing, is the installation of flexible, steel strand cables to stabilize the tree and reduce stress damage from high winds and the heavy weight of snow, ice or foliage. The cables work to improve the tree’s longevity by strengthening weak branches or limbs so they are able to withstand severe weather.

In What Instances Would My Tree Require Cabling?

An Open Wound - an open wound in a branch or trunk can make the tree vulnerable to harmful diseases and fungi

Codominant stems - 2 or more main stems (or "leaders") that are about the same diameter and emerge from the same location on the main trunk. As the tree grows older, the stems remain similar in size without any single one becoming dominant. The junctions between codominant stems can be the weakest part of a healthy tree. Because of this, these trees pose a higher risk of failure. Multi-stemmed trees are susceptible to breakage under the stress of severe weather.

Damage Control - To protect your family and property by reducing the chance of limb failure to an otherwise healthy tree. To preserve the appearance of the tree. If a tree loses a major limb, it could appear lopsided for the rest of its life.

How Does Tree Cabling Work?

The tree cabling process involves drilling holes in the branches or trunk of the tree. The arborist then inserts a cable through the hole and secures it to keep the connection tight. You may be concerned that your tree will look unsightly, but in fact cabling is very subtle and in most cases almost unnoticeable.

Tree Cabling Services You Can Trust

At ArborTech, we offer professional, safe and affordable tree cabling services that will secure and protect the branches or trunk of your tree. If you suspect your tree is affected by any of the problems mentioned above, or you believe your tree to be unsafe for any other reason, call us at (413) 525-0060 or contact us here.

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ArborTech Services during the COVID-19 Crisis

Randy Sample — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 17:11:24 +0000

To Our Valued Customers,

Massachusetts recently announced all non-essential businesses must close and advises residents to stay home as COVID-19 cases rise.

We are reaching out to our customers to let them know that ArborTech continues to be here for you. Some of the work that we do, as it relates to the safety of the public, is considered essential. We are still working in the field, taking calls, managing emergency/urgent situations, and visiting your properties for consultations as needed.

We are following guidelines that our Affiliates (TCIA, ISA & MAA) have put out relative to the work that we do such as:

Tree removal or removal of a dangerous tree
Pruning of dead, dying, or dangerous limbs
Mitigating storm damage
Shrub trimming or pruning
Cabling or bracing a hazardous tree
Assessment of hazard trees for the purposes of removal
Plant Healthcare services to help improve the vitality of your trees & shrubs such as fertilization; treatment for invasive insects; treatment of common tree & shrub diseases which if left untreated could rapidly deteriorate your plants.
Treatments to prevent diseases
Emergency response readiness

We recognize the uncertainty of these times and we want to assure you that we are taking the necessary measures and precautions to remain a healthy and safe resource for you.

Please call our office at (413) 525-0060 with any questions or concerns you may have. You can also reach out to us our contact page

Stay safe & healthy,

Randy & Meredith Sample

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Common Reasons For Tree Removal

Randy Sample — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 20:06:25 +0000

There are a number of reasons why you might consider removing a tree. Perhaps you are planning to do renovation on the site where the tree currently exists or you are looking to increase the amount of sunlight that comes into your garden.

Whatever the reason, professional tree removal will ensure that your tree is removed safely and efficiently. Attempting to remove a tree yourself could result in injury to you or damage to your property.

Diseased or Damaged Trees

It’s often disappointing when a tree dies, especially if it provided shade, was aesthetically pleasing or served as a memorial. When a tree incurs extensive damage from disease, storms or insects, it is imperative to remove it because its strength is often times compromised. As the tree becomes weaker, it will be less able to withstand the assault of extra weight or storm damage.

There are a number of diseases in New England that can affect trees such as Dutch Elm Disease, Emerald Ash Borer and Bronze Birch Borer. Not only will tree removal of a diseased tree prevent it from falling and causing damage, but it will also stop the spread of disease to other healthy trees.

Recommendation:

If one or more of your trees has suffered damage due to storms or insects, it is important to have it examined as soon as possible. A certified arborist may be able to suggest alternative methods to removal such as cabling and bracing or insecticide treatments.

Encroaching Trees

Having problems with a tree that has outgrown its environment? Remember back to the day when you thought it was the perfect fit for your backyard and now it’s encroaching on your patio, obscuring your favorite view or its roots are growing into your sewer pipe? Trees that are causing issues can be removed or trimmed back significantly.

Recommendation:

For safe and efficient tree services, give the team at ArborTech a call at (413) 525-0060 or contact us through our website.

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How to Protect Your Plants From Cold Weather and Frost

Randy Sample — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 17:32:18 +0000

Winter is the time of year when we like to curl up in a warm environment. The same can be said for your tender outdoor plants.

While many garden plants are hardy enough to survive the coldest of cold snaps, some are more vulnerable and need a little extra help. A hard frost can cause severe damage to these plants and shrubs and can even kill them completely. Excess rain can also cause rot and harsh winter winds can cause damage to foliage.

The good news is that there are many things you can do to ensure your plants stay safe, dry and warm during the winter months and are ready to flourish when spring finally comes back around.

4 Things You Can Do

Bring Tender Plants Indoors

If you have plants in containers, these can be moved inside to protect them during the winter. A greenhouse or a cool porch are great locations and will protect your most vulnerable plants from wind, rain, frost, and snow. Lemon verbena, pelargoniums, and fuchsias are just some of the plants that are most vulnerable to frost.

Pack Up Your Shrubs

Some half-hardy shrubs can suffer severely from frost damage. Wrapping your shrubs in a fleece jacket and packing it with straw is a great way to protect them. If you have large exotics such as cordylines in your garden, we recommend tying up the leaves during the winter months to prevent wind damage and to stop water from pooling at the bottom of the plant and causing the base to rot.

Protect With Mulch

If you have plants that grow from shallow tubers or rhizomes, adding mulch can prevent them from becoming waterlogged and suffering frost damage. Apply a deep layer of mulch around the base of plants such as dahlias and cannas to provide protection to these delicate areas.

Elevate Your Pots

If you have some pots that you can’t move inside or you simply don’t have the space to store them, you can lift them from the ground to prevent water-logging. Specially designed pot feet are available, but wine corks will do the job equally as well. Wrap plants like lavender in horticultural fleece or a hessian cloth to prevent frost and root damage.

Winter Mulch Supplies

Our mulch provides excellent protection for your plants during the long and cold winter months. We can also give you expert advice on how to protect your plants from winter frost kill. To find out more, call us at (413) 525-0060 or contact us here.

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Storm-Damaged Trees – Take Caution!

Randy Sample — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 19:06:09 +0000

In the aftermath of a big storm, opening the curtains to survey the damage can be an overwhelming experience. Your initial reaction is to get outside and clean up the mess, but take caution! Before stepping out, look for fallen power lines/cables and survey your trees for hanging branches or ones that look broken. Only proceed if you are absolutely sure it is safe to do so. If in doubt, call us!

Give Your Tree(s) the Best Chance of Survival

Properly assessing the damage following a storm could make all the difference for your trees. Hasty decisions may result in a tree being removed unnecessarily.

First-Aid Following a Storm

There are a number of simple, first aid steps you can administer yourself or arrange with a professional to give your trees the best chance of survival.

Safety first!

Call the Electric & or Cable Companies - Notify them of the fallen wires/cables and wait until they give the go-sign before proceeding with clean up efforts
Remove/Prune Broken Branches - Properly prune or remove branches to help prevent the risk of decay agents getting into the open wounds. Make sure the cuts are made in the right place and are “clean”.
Remove Torn Bark - Carefully remove loose or torn bark with a sharp knife to eliminate hiding places for insects and improve the appearance of your tree. Be careful not to expose the green inner bark (cambium) as these fragile layers carry the tree’s water and food between roots and leaves.
Call An Expert - If in doubt, call ArborTech out! We are insured and have the experience and equipment necessary to take care of your storm damaged trees. Call us at (413) 525-0060 or contact us today

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Why Certificates of Insurance Matter When Choosing a Tree Company

Randy Sample — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 16:56:54 +0000

A certificate of insurance (COI) is extremely important when considering a tree company. If you choose a company that is not insured, you, the customer/homeowner, assume all liability and risk for accidents that occur while the tree company is performing work on your property. To add further insult, your insurance company may refuse to cover the claim because you hired a company that didn’t carry insurance.

Insurance Types and Why They Are Important

Worker’s Compensation Insurance

It is essential that you choose a company that carries worker’s compensation insurance. This insurance covers injury to an employee or owner of a hired tree care company.

If a company cannot provide you with a Workers Compensation Insurance Certificate, steer well clear! The burden of responsibility will be on you if injuries are incurred while working on your property.

General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance covers damage to your home as well as surrounding areas such as patios, decks, cars, pools, sheds, etc.

Commercial Auto Insurance

A range of vehicles are used for tree care projects from bobcats to cranes and bucket trucks. It is essential that these vehicles are adequately covered by commercial auto insurance. This type of insurance covers damage to a person or property caused by company vehicles.

ArborTech Carries Insurance to Protect Our Customers & Our Employees

ArborTech is insured for the work that we do and we are committed to protecting our employees, our customers and their property. It is prudent that you the customer/homeowner request a valid COI (and referrals) prior to hiring or selecting a contractor. Certificates of Insurance are available upon request by calling us at (413) 525-0060 or contacting us through our website at GoArborTech.com.

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Wet Weather and Falling Trees….See Randy’s Interview with Beth Ward

Randy — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 18:58:25 +0000

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When is the Best Time to Prune Trees, Shrubs & Hedges?

Danny Briggs — Tue, 13 Feb 2018 20:06:26 +0000

Most trees can be pruned year-round if pruned properly and according to arborist standards. There are certain times of the year that are better for plant health and environmental conditions that should always be considered.

BEST Time to Prune: Late Winter

Why Late Winter?

Warmer weather brings numerous pathogens, disease and insects. There is little of this activity in the winter, so when a pruning cut is made (aka a wound), the plant is less likely to be harmed and has ample time to heal before warm weather approaches.
The skeleton and structure of the plant is visible after leaves have fallen allowing the trained eye to identify live versus dead branches.

Pruning Guidelines:

Conifers: Prune in late winter while fully dormant. i.e.: Hemlocks, Arborvitaes
Non-Blooming Trees and Shrubs: Prune in late winter while fully dormant. i.e.: Conifers, Ginkgo trees
Spring-Blooming Trees and Shrubs: Wait until immediately after they bloom. They are the exception to the winter rule. i.e.: Forsythia, Viburnum, Witch Hazel, Andromeda
Summer-Blooming Trees and Shrubs: Prune in late winter. i.e.: Dogwood, Redbud, Magnolia, Crab Apple

Do Not prune in the fall. In the fall, disease is active and wounds heal slower giving more opportunity for pathogens to enter the live wood of a tree and spread throughout.
Do Not prune in times of drought. In times of drought, trees and shrubs are stressed. Pruning live wood will likely cause more stress and may compromise the health of the plant.
Summer pruning can be used to slow growth. This type of pruning can be used on a tree or shrub that grows vigorously. i.e., plants in the Rose and Apple family
Summer pruning can also be used for “formal” pruning and hedges following the growing season. In some landscape designs, formal shapes (squares, round shapes and neatly defined edges) look elegant.

ArborTech can help! Feel free to give our office a call at (413) 525-0060 to schedule an appointment with an Arborist

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