Ask The Expert
Have a question about your tree or shrub? Ask the Expert at asktheexpert@raystreeservice.com. We have arborists on staff ready to answer your questions and help you solve your tree and shrub dilemmas. Have something to offer? Let us know what you think! Send us your tips, solutions and lessons learned and we’ll post those that can help others.
Ask the Expert Question: My family is purchasing a new house which appears to have a half dozen or so pine trees. All of which seem to be in decline, and also covered in what appears to be English ivy. Is it safe to assume the ivy is harming the trees? Would the trees bounce back if I cut the ivy?
Answer from John Beckman, Certified Arborist: It does not appear that the ivy is thick enough to cause the amount of decline that I am observing in the picture. There would be some direct competition for nutrients and water, but this would not account for all the decline. There will be no harm to the trees if you remove the ivy (or just sever it at the base of the trees). I don’t think that just cutting the vines will saves these trees, if you do cut the vines do not cut into the bark of the trees. I believe you have something else at work on these trees and a site visit would be necessary for a more complete diagnosis.
Ask the Expert Question: I have this pine tree (see picture). It is all brown from the bottom up, only the top is still green. I have not found any damage on the tree. Do you know what I can do to save this tree?
Answer from John Beckman, Certified Arborist: The picture you sent us is somewhat grainy, but the tree appears to be a Spruce, probably a Colorado Spruce. While we would need to inspect this tree on site, there are several possibilities for why this tree has declined:
1) Moisture stress – Low soil moisture from July 2011 to April 2012 killed a lot of evergreens in the region.
2) Fungal infection – needle cast.
3) Insect – Bark beetles will leave the trunk with a “shot hole” appearance.
Choosing a Tree and Lawn Care Partner
We believe it should be easy to find trusted partners to help you properly take care of your tree, landscaping and lawn care needs. So, we’ve created a checklist for you as you go through the process of choosing a partner to help you care for your property.
The world of landscaping and tree care can be very complex and challenging to navigate, even for the nature hobbyist. At Ray’s, we want to make it easy for you to find the information you need to take good care of your trees and shrubs. That’s why we have created Ray’s University. We are committed to providing you with the latest in landscape care news, whether it’s from one of our arborists, our newsletter, links to news stories, or tips from your neighbors, we want to be YOUR source for tree and shrub care.