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Tree Care Tip: Proper Watering is Important All Year and Especially in Summer

Written by Stein Tree on July 2, 2021. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

As part of good tree care, proper watering is important, especially during the summer months when less rain falls and other seasonal growing plants compete for the available water. Stein Tree Service offers some watering tips for optimal tree health.

Proper Watering Tips for Ideal Tree Care and Health

Watering best practices vary with the season and with a tree’s growth phase. A newly planted tree needs to be handled differently than an established tree; they may require a different watering schedule or need different amounts of water. Other factors, such as climate, soil, and the type of tree can all determine the best methods and times to water. For example, leaves can get scalded by the sun if one waters during the wrong part of the day.

Generally, the only parts of a tree that need water are the roots. While you can directly water your flowers or a vegetable garden, tree root systems absorb water from the soil and distribute it throughout the rest of a tree. A good practice is to water deeply and slowly, giving the roots enough time to soak up enough water.

Checking for soil moisture is a good way to see if your trees need watering. However, merely looking at the surface soil is inadequate. Check for moistness by feeling the soil about two inches under the surface. You can use a spade or your hands to push topsoil away for this purpose. If the soil feels dry, you need to water.

Thorough, proper watering once a week (or more often in summer) is better than small, frequent watering. A good guideline is about 5 minutes of hose watering at medium pressure. Too much water is as bad for tree health as too little, so be careful to avoid over-watering your plants and trees.

Watering Newly planted trees

If you have newly planted trees in your landscape, be aware that those trees need special nurturing, so proper watering is crucial. For the first few months, you only need to be sure the area around the root ball is kept moist. Once the roots begin to spread out, you will want to spread out the watering circumference. The area within the tree’s dripline (the area from the tree trunk to the ends of its branches) should be sufficient.

For new trees that are still being established, check the soil condition often. Regular watering should be done for at least the first two growing seasons, including fall, as this time helps prepare trees to survive the winter. Mulch can help hold in the moisture, aiding in healthy tree growth.

Watering Established trees

Trees that have weathered at least two growing seasons should be established enough that you can somewhat relax your vigilance. The tree will become accustomed to the area’s normal precipitation levels and adjust accordingly. However, when an area has a drought period or even a shorter period where rainfall is less than expected, you may need to water trees to maintain health. Be proactive, and water before the tree begins to show signs of distress. If watering is necessary, water the soil within the tree’s dripline and keep the soil moist up to 12” deep. This watering is required for the duration of a drought, every 10-14 days.

Stein Tree Service is Passionate About Good Tree Care and Health

Stein Tree Service has been nurturing trees in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland for over 25 years. We know how to care for trees, and we encourage residents to learn about proper watering and other best practices to keep a healthy landscape. For information about our services, such as tree trimming and pruning, tree removal and pest management, contact Stein Tree Service today. We offer free consultations.

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Stein has a permit to work in spotted lanternfly quarantine areas in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Tree Service Companies have to be trained in proper moving and disposal of materials to avoid spread of the spotted lanternfly and Stein has completed the training courses.

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In the spring, destructive ash borer (EAB) adult beetles begin to emerge. These invasive pests can destroy your ash trees. Our specialists are certified to treat for EAB in Pennsylvania and Delaware. For A free consultation, contact us today.

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Stein Tree Corrects Spotted Lanternfly Myths

Written by Stein Tree on May 7, 2021. Posted in Pests & Diseases, Stein Tree Service Blog.

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that has caused massive damage to the east coast of the United States. As home and business owners try to keep their trees safe, myths about this treehopper have formed. Some myths, such as the spotted lanternfly being luminescent, are harmless, but others can cause real damage to one’s plants and property. Other myths are about the pest’s behavior and can lead people into thinking their trees are safer than they are. Below are 3 spotted lanternfly myth debunked by the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences. Learn the facts and what you can do to keep your trees safe.

Myth #1: Pressure Washing Trees Destroys Spotted Lanternfly Eggs

One of the common spotted lanternfly myths among homeowners is that by pressure washing egg masses on trees, the eggs will be destroyed and prevent the spread of Spotted lanternflies on their property. This thought is false and has two major issues:

Pressure washing may remove egg masses from trees, but the eggs can still hatch.
High-pressure sprays can harm trees, remove their outer layer of bark, and damage the cells under the bark.

The better way of removing egg masses is to scrape them off trees with plastic or some other instrument that will do no damage to the bark. The egg mass can be put into a bag with rubbing alcohol, and disposed of.

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Myth #2: The Spotted Lanternfly Can Only Reproduce with Tree of Heaven

Another one of the common spotted lanternfly myths is that the pest needs Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) to reproduce, which may lead to homeowners who lack these trees in their landscape to think that spotted lanternfly will be unable to spread on their properties. Tree of heaven is an invasive species of tree native to China, introduced to the U.S. in the 1700s, and is the preferred host of the spotted lanternfly. But the pest can reproduce and spread without this tree.

Research has shown that the spotted lanternfly reproduces faster when using tree of heaven as a host, so homeowners who do have the tree species on their properties should consider removing them, if possible. The pest feeds on over 70 different plants, so if your property lacks a tree of heaven, your landscape is still at risk of spotted lanternflies feeding, reproducing, and spreading among your plants.

Myth #3: Homemade Remedies Are Safe and as Effective as Professional Methods

Some homeowners may be tempted to remove spotted lanternflies on their own through home remedies and sprays. Dish soap, glass cleaner, vinegar, and chili/cayenne peppers are a few of the ingredients people use to remove spotted lanternflies. Contrary to what some people think, these home sprays are less safe and effective than professional methods and are dangerous to trees and plants. Dish soap, for example, removes protective, natural oils and waxes on plant leaves, leaving the plant more vulnerable to damage and disease.

Other methods such as removing tree of heaven or using cards or knives to remove egg masses (as previously mentioned above) are more effective methods to manage pests. For chemical-based methods, a certified arborist and pest management specialist will have the proper training, experience, and chemicals to use if needed. As always, reach out and consult with a tree care company to remove and manage pest populations on your property.

Contact Stein Tree Service for Pest Management

If you want to keep your trees safe from spotted lanternfly, contact Stein Tree today. Our team of tree care specialists is certified to treat in areas of spotted lanternfly infestation in Delaware and Pennsylvania. Stein performs commercial and residential plant and tree care services, including plant health care (PHC), tree removal, trimming, and pruning. For more information on spotted lanternfly myths or our services, contact us today.

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West Chester Certified Arborist: The Right Way to Plant Trees

Written by Stein Tree on April 19, 2021. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog.

Planting a tree on your property is one of the best things you can do to improve your home’s resale value and curb appeal while enhancing the environment. However, the process involves more than dropping the new plant into a hole to ensure a healthy, thriving tree that lasts for generations. The best time to plant a tree is early spring, so Stein Tree Service’s certified arborist in West Chester, PA explains the right way to plant your new tree.

Tips for Planting New Trees

The right way to plant trees sounds simple on paper, but both you and arborists have to consider plenty of factors to ensure the proper conditions before and during planting. Before you start digging in your yard and planting the tree saplings, here are a few tips to help your planting go smoothly to ensure optimal tree growth.

Before You Dig

The key to the long-term health of your new tree is proper planting and care. Before you even dig a hole, you need to make sure the area is suitable for the tree you are considering. Make sure to consider the height and diameter of the mature tree’s canopy and root system. The taller your tree will be when fully mature, the farther away you should plant from your house.

Next, you need to ensure that the type of soil and pH levels on your property are compatible with the type of tree. You may need to correct the soil accordingly by adding nutrients. A certified arborist can test your soil and advise you if you need to make adjustments.

Whether you are planting the tree personally or hiring a trained professional, you should clearly mark any underground utilities, to avoid hitting the lines with your shovel and to keep the roots from interfering. Call 811 a few days before your planned dig to have someone come out and mark the locations in your area.

When You Plant

Improperly planting your trees can cause several problems. One common issue is a root-bound tree. To prevent this problem:

Inspect the root ball before buying and avoid those with tight root spirals.
Gently remove unhealthy roots or girdling roots (plant roots growing around the trunk or near the soil surface, which can choke the tree by inhibiting nutrients from reaching the rest of the tree).
Aim for a tree with a root ball of 10” to 12″ diameter per every one inch of trunk diameter.

Ensure that the hole is deep enough, and allow a few inches of loosened dirt under the root ball. The soil level should come to the top of the first level of main lateral roots. Pack the soil around the base of the tree and water well (watering can help eliminate air pockets, which inhibit root growth and water movement.) Place a generous layer of mulch around the tree, with a 1-inch depth at the base of the trunk, gaining depth outwardly up to 4 inches.

Stein Tree’s Certified Arborists Will Help West Chester Trees Thrive, from Planting to Maturity

Depending on the type and number of trees you want as well as the type of soil in your area, planting trees can seem complicated. To guarantee the best start for your newly planted trees and protect them for years to come, you may want to hire a certified arborist in West Chester for tree care services. Stein Tree Service’s team of extremely knowledgeable and experienced arborists have helped residents and business owners care for their trees and shrubs for over 37 years. For more information on the right way to plant trees or to request a free consultation, contact us today!

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Pipeline Right of Way Clearing

Written by Stein Tree on March 26, 2021. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Removal, Tree Service, Trimming Shrubs and Trees.

Pipelines serve a crucial role for businesses and government agencies, both local and national, and the safety and integrity of such infrastructure is vital. Pipeline right of way clearing (ROW clearing) is an important service that helps keep the areas surrounding pipelines free of excessive vegetation. Removing overgrown brush or trees around a pipeline is a careful process that helps prevent any damage to the pipeline itself. Overgrown brush and trees can present a few risks to the pipeline and surrounding area, infrastructure and crew safety, accessibility, and monitoring.

Types of Pipelines

Pipeline right of way clearing involves removing excessive vegetation both above and below ground. Overgrown trees with branches hanging over a pipeline are the most visible signs of risk, but trees can cause damage to underground components of a pipeline, too. For example, the roots of a tree can be too close to an underground pipeline and can interfere with the operations.

Some of the types of liquid and natural gas pipelines arborists will work on to help maintain a clear right of way include the following:

Gathering lines: These lines collect and move products from their sources to storage or processing areas. The storage facilities must have cleared perimeters as well.
Transmission lines: These lines transport large quantities of natural gas or hazardous liquids over long distances and most are underground.
Distribution lines: Some distribution lines move gas to industrial customers and other smaller ones connect businesses and homes. These lines are typically located in easements along streets underground.

Because most pipelines are underground, arborists need to be keenly aware of potential issues unseen above ground, such as with roots as mentioned above.

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Why Pipeline Right of Way Clearing is Important

Pipeline right of way clearing is important for numerous reasons. Safety is a major concern for pipeline infrastructure and workers, and overgrown vegetation can compromise that safety. A clear right of way makes the pipeline work site more accessible and allows workers to be more productive. And right of way clearing is important for monitoring the area for potential risks.

Safety

One of the most important reasons for right of way clearing is to keep the surrounding people and infrastructure safe. For example, weak or damaged branches (or an entire tree) can fall onto a pipeline and cause significant damage. Overgrown trees or brush prevent inspectors from finding damage or potential safety hazards. Trees and brush can cause damage to underground components of a pipeline, too, such as when roots damage pipeline surfaces. Pipeline right of way clearing helps ensure the safety of both the pipeline and workers.

Accessibility

Right of way clearing helps keep infrastructure clear from obstacles that may interfere with travel or productivity, and businesses who own pipelines are responsible for maintaining them. Dense trees and overgrown brush can block work crews and vehicles from getting to their pipelines or utilities, preventing them from doing their work. Safety inspectors or pipeline technicians need a clear right of way, too. If technicians need to repair a vital pipeline component, especially in an emergency situation, waiting for someone to clear a path wastes time and money. A clear right of way allows workers to easily access and work on the pipeline and surrounding infrastructure.

Monitoring

All underground gas pipelines in the United States are protected under the Homeland Security Agency. Pipeline companies use aircraft to fly over their pipelines each week to ensure that no tampering with the utilities is occurring. Pipeline companies can also use patrols to spot potential issues or problems in the infrastructure. A pipeline working area covered with dense vegetation and overgrown trees or brush makes monitoring difficult to impossible. Keeping the ROW clear ensures that the pipeline area can be easily monitored.

Choose Stein Tree for Pipeline Right of Way Clearing Services

Stein Tree Service offers many tree care services to businesses, municipalities and residential clients. Our right of way clearing services are comprehensive, and we use state of the art practices and equipment, such as our spider lift and lift trucks, to perform the work that our clients depend on. Licensed and insured in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, our certified arborists and professional crews will maintain a safe environment for your commercial business while managing and maintaining your right of way clearing project. Contact Stein Tree Service at 302-478-3511 for answers to all your questions about pipeline right of way clearing services today.

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What Does Dormancy Have to do With Good Tree Care in Wilmington, DE?

Written by Stein Tree on March 19, 2021. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Plant dormancy is a state of “sleep” or inactivity for plants and trees in the winter. This aspect of trees’ life cycle helps them survive the harsh winter weather, such as the freezing temperatures and frigid wind. Those who specialize in tree care in Wilmington, DE, are well versed in the subject of dormancy because often, trees must be pruned or inspected during winter dormancy for best results.

You might be surprised to learn that some activity does occur during the colder months. Processes such as plant growth are typically slowed down, so plants require less nutrients and water to survive. Root growth and some other internal processes still take place.

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Preparing for Dormancy

Dormancy occurs when trees begin receiving less light and experience temperature drops. These changes in environmental conditions allow trees to “know” that winter is coming and begin to prepare. Trees take their remaining nutrients and begin to seal themselves off from their leaves before dropping them in the fall. Leaves in certain plant species (such as deciduous trees) fall due to plant hormones producing chemicals that signal the leaves to break off. These hormonal chemicals also prevent cell division and cause trees to stop growing.

This process allows the tree to conserve energy and lowers its need for water and nutrients. Mulching in the fall helps insulate a tree and reduce moisture loss during winter dormancy.

During Dormancy

For most trees, this time of rest is the best time for pruning. Trees are less likely to be “shocked” by the activity and wounded limbs. Pruning also helps prevent potential dangers that weak or damaged branches pose, especially during strong winter winds. Any wounds from trimming and pruning will heal more quickly since the tree is expending no energy on new growth, so the tree will be less likely to become infected from disease or insects. In addition, since the ground is frozen, less trauma due to compaction occurs.

Inspection during winter and spring dormancy is a great idea because tree professionals can more easily see the tree structure and unobscured bark. Areas of decay or injury will be more easily recognized.

Evergreen trees experience dormancy as well but in a different way. Their needles become coated with a heavy waxy substance that prevents them from losing moisture. In addition, they have a chemical inside that helps them resist freezing.

Post Dormancy

As the winter nears its end, trees are exposed to warmer temperatures, even in short interludes, and they begin to have increased activity. Sometimes you will see budding and may worry about early blooming. However, trees are equipped to handle warming during these brief periods of time before the actual advent of summer. As days become longer and the air and ground begin to warm, trees are able to recognize that their growth period has arrived again.

Trust Stein Tree for Your Tree Care in Wilmington, DE

Stein Tree Service performs inspections, tree pruning or removal, pest treatment, and other tree care in Wilmington, DE area and Pennsylvania. Our certified arborists and tree care specialists take great care to make sure your trees thrive after their dormancy. For information about our services or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

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APHIS Removes EAB Quarantine Regulations

Written by Stein Tree on March 10, 2021. Posted in Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), News & Announcements, Stein Tree Service Blog.

March 10, 2021 – The United States Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), an organization that is part of the Department of Agriculture, has removed emerald ash borer (EAB) quarantine regulations. APHIS originally proposed deregulation in 2018, and the proposal was open for public comments for some time. APHIS published a ruling to eliminate federal domestic EAB quarantine regulations on December 15, 2020, and the ruling became effective on January 14, 2021. The removed regulations are related to APHIS’s domestic regulatory actions, such as issuing permits, making site visits, and conducting investigations of suspected violations.

APHIS noted that the domestic quarantine “has not proven effective in stopping [EAB] spread.” The agency also stated that they would focus on identifying “more effective and less intrusive methods and will direct available resources toward non-regulatory options for management and containment of the pest, such as rearing and releasing biological control agents.” Some people and organizations opposed the proposal, feeling that the EAB quarantine helped bring awareness of the problem and kept the invasive species from spreading even more quickly. As a result, residents in states affected by EAB will need to be more vigilant in watching for signs of EAB on their properties and continue to raise awareness.

Signs of Emerald Ash Borer Presence

While regular inspections are recommended, homeowners can keep an eye out for these signs of infestation. If a homeowner notes any of these issues, they are advised to call a certified arborist or tree care specialist to treat the pest as soon as possible.

Thinning leaves at the top of the tree
S-shaped galleries under the bark
D-shaped exit holes
Splitting bark
Excessive sprouting around base of tree
Unusual woodpecker presence

Licensed vendors, such as Stein Tree Service, will sometimes need to use chemical applications to treat EAB and perform tree removal.

About Stein Tree Service

Stein Tree Service is the oldest independently owned tree service company in Delaware. The company has been serving residents and businesses in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland since 1983. Stein Tree Service is licensed to treat for emerald ash borer in Pennsylvania and Delaware. For more information about available services or the EAB quarantine, contact Stein Tree Service at 302-478-3511 or visit their website directly at www.steintree.com.

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In the spring, destructive ash borer (EAB) adult beetles begin to emerge. These invasive pests can destroy your ash trees. Our specialists are certified to treat for EAP in Pennsylvania and Delaware. For A free consultation, contact us today.

Tree Care in Newark, DE: Winter Tree Problems

Written by Stein Tree on February 26, 2021. Posted in Pests & Diseases, Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Tree care in Newark, DE is an all-year activity. During winters in the Northeast, many species of trees and shrubs go dormant and stop producing new branch and leaf growth. In some ways, this dormancy is similar to certain mammals, such as grizzly bears that hibernate throughout the coldest months and wait for the spring to jump back into activity. However, trees are unlike these animals in that they are unable to move to a safe and snug hideaway and are often exposed to the most intense of weather conditions, which can lead to winter tree problems.

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Winter Tree Care Reminders for West Chester, PA Residents

Written by Stein Tree on February 2, 2021. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Winter is here in all its chilly glory and we have already had some snowy weather. While you may be tempted to stay indoors this season, remember that your trees are subject to winter’s harshness and cold temperatures, and protecting them is part of good winter tree care in West Chester, PA. Such protection is especially needed in a winter such as the one we are experiencing, which promises to bring more snow and ice our way. The inclement winter weather can cause stress on trees, particularly young, newly planted, or recently transplanted trees. The following are some reminders of important winter tree care tips we recommend for our West Chester, PA neighbors.

Important Winter Tree Care Tips

If you want to protect your trees and shrubs during winter, you should know a few helpful winter tree care tips. These tips will help your trees remain healthy, better withstand the winter weather, and look beautiful once the warmer weather of spring arrives.

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1. Mulch Around Trees

Adding a fresh layer of organic mulch around the tree’s base underneath the drip line is advisable, but avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk. The mulch will insulate the tree’s soil and tree roots to protect against temperature extremes and cold weather. Mulch also slows water loss from the soil to help avoid moisture loss.

2. Protect Young Tree Trunks

The winter dormancy of grasses and flowering plants forces rabbits, voles, and other rodents to seek other food sources. One common winter food for these types of animals is soft tree bark. They can often be found during winter gnawing on the bark of young trees and exposing the inner wood to the elements. Protect your young or newly planted trees from these gnashing teeth by wrapping trunks with plastic tree guards. For those West Chester, PA residents who have bigger pests, like deer, you can use tall chicken wire as a tree wrap.

3. Clear Limbs of Heavy Snowfall

After a heavy snowfall, go out and clear off any accumulated snow from tree branches to help prevent the weight of snow from cracking and breaking limbs. If you have young branches with heavy icicles, you can use a garden hose connected to a hot water faucet to spray and slowly melt off the weight. If you use this method, take care to avoid burning the tree.

4. Have Trees Pruned or Trimmed

Pruning and trimming is an essential part of winter tree care that maintains tree health. Weak tree branches and canopies that are overfull can cause damage to property or people if strong storms cause them to fall. If you missed the chance to have pruning done in the fall, winter is still a great time. In some cases, winter is even better because your tree care specialist can better see the tree structure and any trunk problems that could indicate issues for your tree.

Contact Stein Tree Service to Learn More about Winter Tree Care in West Chester,PA

Have questions about winter tree care and want to protect your trees? Contact Stein Tree Service’s professional arborists today for advice. We are happy to answer your questions, and we offer a free consultation with our certified arborists. Stein Tree Service is the oldest independently owned tree care company in Delaware, and we are passionate about tree care!

Important Winter Tree Care Tips

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Shrubs that Create Interest in Winter – Enjoy the View and Get Your List Ready for Spring Planting and Tree Care in West Chester, PA

Written by Stein Tree on January 18, 2021. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog, Tree Care.

Winter has a delicate beauty. The deep browns of bare trees, muted greens and grays of frozen ground, and cool whites of snowfall combine to create a subdued color palette. This quieter landscape offers great inspiration for those gardeners and homeowners who want to show off a touch of flair through winter-flowering shrubs. Winter shrubs with bright blooms and sweet scents, colorful berries, and textured, glossy green foliage are perfect for sparking winter interest and creating a nice contrast to the cooler winter landscape. For those interested in tree care in West Chester, PA., take a quick look at some favorite shrubs that create interest in winter.

Winterberry. Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata) is a deciduous holly that loses its dark green leaves in late fall and leaves behind long, spectacular sprays of fire-engine-red berries. Sometimes called ‘sparkleberry,’ this fantastic holly specimen’s bright red berries are real attention-getters in winter.
Witch hazel. Witch hazel is another deciduous shrub with keen winter attributes. During even the harshest fall and winter weather in West Chester, PA, this shrub will dazzle passersby with its clusters of rich red and yellow flowers. But the blaze-like beauty of its petals is just half of the appeal as witch hazel shrubs also emit a lovely fragrance, a very desirable surprise during the frozen days of winter.
Red Osier Dogwood. This North American shrub, sometimes called Red Twig Dogwood, is incredibly hardy, known to grow and thrive as far north as Alaska. This dogwood features red stems and brilliant, fiery branches of gold, orange, and red in winter, an incredible array of colors that make it a great complement to evergreen landscapes. Plus, this shrub has the added benefit of attracting a host of pollinating butterflies, including the eastern-tailed blue butterfly. The richest of the dogwood’s twig colors occurs on young branches, and so part of the tree care in West Chester, PA for this species should include regular pruning between late winter and early spring.
Leatherleaf Mahonia. Mahonia is a hardy and adaptable evergreen shrub native to China but has since come to many American gardens. During the winter months, bright yellowish-green buds erupt from the tips of the shrub’s stems, and each new growth blooms into a dozen or more spires of bright yellow flowers. In warmer winters, gardeners can expect to enjoy a nice early fragrance to break up the monotony of winter. Note though that the leather mahonia is a self-sowing plant that is non-native to the Americas, so proper tree care in West Chester, PA is important to prevent the unwanted spreading of the species.

Contact Stein Tree Service to Learn More about Winter Tree Care in West Chester, PA

You can always add some shrubs that create interest in winter to your lawn for added beauty. Start planning your spring planting and tree and lawn care now. Contact us for information about tree care in West Chester, PA, winter tree trimming and pruning, or a free consultation about your tree or plant health care.

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Recycling Christmas Trees in Delaware

Written by Stein Tree on December 30, 2020. Posted in Stein Tree Service Blog.

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Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has encouraged all residents to recycle their Christmas trees rather than throwing them away. Yard waste (branches, trees (including Christmas trees), grass) was banned for disposal from all Delaware landfills as of 2007, in an attempt to get more residents to recycle their yard waste. Residents recycling Christmas trees is one of the results.

Why You Should Recycle Christmas Trees

One reason for recycling Christmas trees is due to the above-mentioned yard waste ban in landfills, but recycling your yard waste comes with other benefits, as well. Yard waste takes up valuable and limited space in landfills, which can cause these landfills to be overcrowded and stress their effectiveness. Also, yard waste in landfills produces methane gas during decomposition, contributing to air pollution. These issues can be avoided by recycling yard waste instead, and you can benefit from recycling your Christmas tree.

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The Benefits of Recycling Your Christmas Trees & Yard Waste

You and your landscape can continue to get the value of your old Christmas tree or yard waste after the holidays. For example, an old Christmas tree can be ground and used on your property to help the soil retain water. Another option is to compost your yard waste, turning the plant material into a non-chemical fertilizer to improve your tree and plants health. Recycling Christmas trees provides the benefit of preserving Delaware’s environment while also enhancing your own property’s health and value.

Other Uses for Recycled Yard Waste

In addition to improving your plant and tree health care, here are a few other uses for your recycled Christmas trees and yard waste.

Create firewood for your outdoor firepit or fireplace. Be sure not to transport your firewood to prevent the spread of emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, and other invasive species.
Use tree pieces in your landscape design, for example, as a plant bed border.
Removed trees can be shelters for birds and squirrels or fish feeders in your lake or pond.

How to Recycle Christmas Trees & Yard Waste

While recycling Christmas trees comes with many benefits and uses, some residents can find recycling big, heavy trees to be a hassle. If you are having trees removed, the professional tree care company can take away your yard waste after performing tree care services, or use the ground remains of your tree to re-fill the hole left by the tree. By hiring a tree care company to remove or grind your trees, you save time and hassle.

Contact Stein for Your Tree Care & Removal Services

We hope you find this information about recycling Christmas trees to be timely and helpful. If you need tree removal services or other tree care, contact Stein Tree Service. Stein’s team of certified arborists and tree care specialists are highly experienced and knowledgeable and can take care of your tree removal needs. We have been providing various plant and tree care services to Delaware homeowners and businesses for decades. Our equipment is state-of-the-art and ready for immediate response. For more information on our tree care and removal services, contact us today.