Root collar disorders—often caused by girdling roots or a buried root flare—are some of the most common structural and physiological problems affecting urban trees. Because the issues begin below the soil line, they can go unnoticed for years until decline is well underway. Early identification is key to preventing long-term canopy loss, structural failure, and tree death. What Is the Root Collar? The root collar is where the trunk transitions into structural roots. This zone

Ganoderma applanatum found on White Oak Few diseases are as destructive and misunderstood as Ganoderma root and butt rot. This fungal pathogen is responsible for the slow decline and eventual structural failure of many mature shade trees in Northwest Indiana. While some fungi decay only dead wood, Ganoderma species actively invade living trees, weakening them from the inside out and creating serious risk concerns for property owners. What is Ganoderma? Ganoderma is a wood dec

As autumn settles over Northwest Indiana, the vibrant colors and falling leaves are a visible reminder that trees are transitioning into dormancy. While it may seem like trees simply “shut down,” the reality is far more complex. Within the canopy, trunk, and roots, countless biochemical and physiological changes are taking place — all designed to help the tree endure months of cold, dry, and dark conditions ahead. 1. Photoperiodism: The Internal Calendar The first signal of s

Every fall, trees across Northwest Indiana put on one of nature’s best shows: leaves turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold...

Fall is one of the most important times to evaluate the health of your trees. While it’s normal for leaves to change color and drop as...

When most people think about fertilizing their trees, spring usually comes to mind. But for long-term tree health, fall is often the most...

A healthy green lawn is a point of pride for many homeowners, but the products used to achieve that lawn can have hidden consequences for...

In tree care, what you can’t  see can sometimes be the most dangerous. A tree may look perfectly healthy from the outside — green leaves,...

What You Need to Know and Why Now Is the Time to Act We’re nearing a critical point in the life cycle of one of the most destructive soft...

And Why Our Fertilizer Treatments Include Them When people think of tree care, they usually picture pruning branches or applying mulch....

Understanding Common Summer Tree Pests in Northwest Indiana Summer is a time of explosive growth—for both trees and the insects that feed...

In many new housing developments across Northwest Indiana, homeowners are excited to see newly planted trees dotting their front yards...

What to look for — and when — using Growing Degree Days As trees leaf out across Northwest Indiana, so do the pests and pathogens that...

Each year on April 22, millions of people across the globe come together to celebrate Earth Day  — a day dedicated to raising awareness...

Spring has finally arrived in Northwest Indiana! As the snow melts and the days grow longer, it's time to take a close look at your trees...

When we think of climate change solutions, global efforts like renewable energy and carbon policies often come to mind. But some of the...

As trees emerge from dormancy in the spring, their demand for nutrients increases dramatically. During this time, trees focus on...

Hinoki Cypress showing transplant shock. Planting a new tree is an investment in your landscape, but did you know that soil health  is...

Apple scab is one of the most common and destructive fungal diseases affecting apple and crabapple trees in Northwest Indiana. Left...

Spring is one of the best times to plant new trees, providing them with optimal conditions to establish strong roots before the heat of...