The yard has at last cooled down from what has been another punishing Arizona summer. You may be left to wonder if your trees have withstood the heat unscathed, or what is called for in their care these days.
It is only natural to put such questions to rest now that it is fall. We of Veteran Family Tree Service can tell you this is the season for it. Being a veteran owned and run operation, we have put our ISA Certified Arborists to work for homeowners in the Northwest Valley and beyond since 2018. Our people are on hand 24/7 to see to the health of your trees and the safety of your property. A call to (602) 483-6197 will find us any time.
There is no place like the Northwest Valley when autumn comes around. The weather is mild and one does not see the same dormancy in our trees as in more northern climes. It is a prime opportunity to give them some attention.
Why an Arizona tree needs tending in the fall
One look and a tree might seem fine but after all the triple-digit months they are under stress. Fall allows them to recuperate and lay in new roots and energy come winter. With the soil and temperatures being more agreeable, it is an ideal time for planting or pruning. Do the work while they are not contending with the sun and you will be rewarded with better growth in the spring.
A look at any summer damage
Make a tour of the property and examine every tree. The dry spells and monsoons of summer have a way of leaving their mark. Some things to watch for:
- Limbs hanging or split by the wind
- Bark that has been scorched or is coming off
- A branch devoid of leaves on an otherwise full tree
- Any sign of fungus or sap oozing, or discoloration
- Water that will not drain near the roots
- Trunks that are off kilter or soil heaving at the base
Should you see something hazardous, a large limb threatening your roof or driveway for instance, do not put it off. Phone us at (602) 483-6197 and we will have a look at it.
Pruning done properly
You can put in some time in the fall to get rid of dead or wayward branches. Done right it will take some weight off the tree and improve the canopy. But there is an art to it; top a tree or make the wrong cut and you have done it harm for good.
We let our judgment guide us in the field. Our arborists have more than ten years experience to know where to make a cut without unduly stressing the tree, all in accordance with ANSI Z133 standards.
Root care
As it cools off so should your watering. Not as often as in July perhaps, but a good deep soaking is still in order for the younger stock. Put down some mulch at the base to keep the moisture in and the soil temperature even, but leave a few inches between it and the trunk.
Put in a new tree
Thinking of making an addition? In the Northwest Valley fall is about as good as it gets for planting. The air is cool enough to not put a young tree through the wringer and the soil is warm to promote roots. An arborist can be of value in picking the species and location.
Leave the rest to us
Spread your mulch and rake up the leaves on a weekend, we have no objection. But when ladders and chainsaws are in the picture, or a tree is close to a power line, it is dangerous business. Stump grinding, cabling and the like require the proper training and gear.
We have a 4.9 on Google from over 260 reviews and extend a 10% discount to our veterans and those on active duty. We are out in Peoria, Glendale, Mesa, Phoenix, Surprise, Sun City, Goodyear and the rest of Maricopa County.
Give your trees what is due after the summer. For an assessment or to put in a call for emergency storm work, Veteran Family Tree Service is at your service 24/7 and can usually accommodate same day. (602) 483-6197.