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.

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.

Drought Still a Threat to Missouri This Year

http://www.news.stlpublicradio.org/post/drought-still-threat-missouri-year

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 How to Choose a Tree Service Partner  for you as you go through the process of choosing a partner to help you care for your property.

Ray’s on KMOV Channel 4 News!

Ray’s comes to the aid of a St. Louis area homeowner when another tree company took her money without finishing the job.

http://www.kmov.com/news/investigates/186892792.html

Protect Your Landscaping During Summer Months 

Although the heavy rains the region experienced this spring and summer have been very helpful in restoring moisture to the soil after the extreme heat and drought of 2012, it’s important to ensure your plantings get plenty of water.  As temperatures climb, leaves can lose more water than the roots can absorb. Tree replacement can be very expensive for both homeowners and commercial properties.

You can help preserve the health of your trees by following some simple steps:

  • Deep watering is essential to a plant’s survival during the summer.
    • Water slowly to allow the water to trickle deep into the soil and reach the roots.
    • Use a drip or soaker hose, overnight if necessary.
    • Soil should be moist all the way to the tree’s drip line.
    • If water runs off the soil surface, turf area, or over a sidewalk or street, or if it forms puddles, the water is being added too fast. Soil should be moist, not soaked.
    • Once the soil is saturated, which will take some time, trees should have water that would equal two – three inches of rainwater every two weeks
    • With the drought we’ve experienced in the last two years, watering may need to be done through December or until weather permits
  • Consider having your soil tested.
    •  Mineral imbalances can make trees more vulnerable to extreme conditions.
    •  Just like animals, trees need nutrition.
    •  Talk with an Arborist about the right fertilization for your trees.
  • Check for insects.
    • Insects can accelerate drying leaves and stress plants. Set up a good insect management program.
  • Mulch preserves moisture.
    • Protect soil moisture by mulching trees and shrubs.
    • Be sure to add enough moisture so water penetrates well below the mulch line.