Austin Cowen

Oak trees are some of the most valuable and long-lived trees found in Northwest Indiana. On many properties, they represent decades—sometimes centuries—of growth and environmental stability. Because of their size and longevity, mature oaks require a different management approach than younger or ornamental trees. Most issues affecting oaks are not sudden—they develop gradually and are often tied to root and soil conditions rather than anything visible in the canopy. Understanding how oak trees...

Every spring, mulch starts going down across Northwest Indiana—and unfortunately, so do a lot of preventable tree problems. Mulch is one of the best things you can do for your trees… when it’s done correctly. But when it’s not, it can quietly cause stress, decline, and even long-term damage. Here are the most common mulching mistakes we see—and how to fix them. 1. The “Mulch Volcano” This is by far the most common issue. You’ve probably seen it: mulch piled high against the trunk, forming a...

Each spring, trees seem to come back to life almost overnight. Bare branches begin to swell with buds, leaves appear, and flowers soon follow. But behind this seasonal transformation is a fascinating biological system that trees use to survive winter and prepare for new growth. Understanding how tree buds work can help explain why timing is so important for tree care in early spring. What Exactly Is a Tree Bud? A bud is a compact structure that contains undeveloped plant tissue. Inside each...