Nine More Great Evergreen Trees for Your Yard

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose


Evergreen trees provide beauty to your landscape all year round. Here are nine great evergreen trees that will add to your property. Now is an ideal time to plant a new tree in your landscape.

Emerald Green Arborvitae
The Emerald Green Arborvitae is one of the most popular and dependable screening trees for our area. They are often planted in rows to create a ‘Natural’ barrier. The Emerald Green is a dense evergreen that maintains its deep green color all year. Because of its columnar growth habit, and limited spread, the Emerald Green is an appropriate selection for small planting spaces.

Giant Sequoia
Giant Sequoia’s are some of natures largest trees.  These trees are medium to fast growing and do best in sunny protected areas with well-draining soil. The benefits of these trees are numerous, but to name a few: they provide shade in urban landscapes, they can create a windbreak for wide open spaces, and house many varieties of birds.

Excelsa Cedar
Excelsa cedars offer a combination of beauty, durability, stability, and sustainability.  Excelsa’s have an aesthetic that fits most gardens and landscapes here in the Northwest, making them a good choice for either a stand-alone tree or planted closer to provide some privacy. They are known for their natural resistance to disease, rot, and insect damage. The Excelsa Cedar is a renewable resource, since they are primarily grown in managed forests, and they are a fast-growing tree.  Excelsa’s are widely used and a popular choice for good reason.

Alpine Fir
The foliage of Subalpine Fir turns up along its branches, similar to Noble Fir, but the needles are shorter and tend to be bluish green.  The form of the tree is “spire-like,” very pointy and narrow, an adaptation that reduces the amount of snow that can build up on its branches.  This is a great accent tree for smaller planting areas and surrounding ponds and rockeries.

Green Giant
Green Giant is a vigorously growing, pyramidal evergreen with rich green color that remains outstanding throughout the year. It has no serious pest or disease problems and has been widely grown and tested in commercial nursery production. The “Green Giant” is an excellent substitute for Leyland cypress.

Vanderwolf Pine
The Vanderwolf Pine is a large evergreen tree with a pyramidal shape. It has long blue/green needles that give it a unique appearance. They are drought tolerant trees making them a good choice for landscapes that have limited watering options. They are low maintenance, require minimal pruning once established, and are generally resistant to pests. They are valued for their drought tolerance, cold hardiness, low maintenance, and their ornamental qualities.

Schipka Laurel
Schipka laurels, often called Skip laurel, offer several benefits. They are densely leafed compact shrubs that work well for privacy screens, wind barriers, and hedges. Their thick foliage is lush and green year-round, which makes them a popular choice for privacy, or anyone looking for some added color in the winder months. In short, the Schipka laurels provide year round foliage, are fast growing, low maintenance, and work well in full sun or part shade.

Oregon Green Pine
The Oregon Green Pine is an attractive medium size evergreen with a pyramidal shape. They have a dark green needles that are dense and give them a vibrant appearance. They have silver/white candles in the spring that have a nice high contrast to the dark green needles.  The Oregon Green is a great tree for a full sun area that needs a little sound dampening, visual barrier, or for an ornamental addition to the landscape.

Leyland Cypress
The Leyland Cypress is an excellent choice for a fast-growing large screening tree. Its growth rate and mature size are often underestimated when it is young, as it can be thin in its early stages. Growing up to three to four feet each year the Leyland Cypress fills in quickly. The Leyland requires little maintenance as long as you have adequate space for the tree at maturity. Leyland Cypress can also be used as a hedge as they do tolerate shearing to control growth and overall size. Shearing to control growth will require long term and regular maintenance.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

Preparing Your Trees for Winter

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose

Essential Tips for a Healthy Season
Winter can be a challenging time for trees. The cold in the air and on the ground make it difficult for trees to flourish, and trees in poor health may not survive the season at all.

With the right preparation, you can ensure that your arboreal companions make it through the cold months thriving and ready to bloom in the spring. At Big Trees Inc., we understand the importance of safeguarding your trees during winter and are here to provide you with essential tips for a healthy season.

1. Assess Tree Health
Before you embark on your winter tree care journey, it’s crucial to assess the current health of your trees. Inspect them for any signs of disease, pest infestations, or structural weaknesses. Identify dead or damaged branches that may pose a risk during winter storms.

2. Pruning and Trimming
Pruning and trimming your trees before winter can help reduce the risk of branch breakage under the weight of snow and ice. Focus on removing weak or overgrown branches, ensuring a balanced and sturdy tree structure. Be sure to use proper pruning techniques to avoid causing harm. Pruning before winter arrives helps ensure trees are ready for the colder season.

3. Mulching and Insulation
Mulch is your tree’s best friend in winter. A layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees helps insulate the soil, providing a buffer against extreme temperature fluctuations. For young or fragile trees, consider adding insulating materials or tree guards for added protection.

4. Pest and Disease Management
Winter is not a reprieve from tree pests and diseases. In fact, some thrive in cold weather. Be vigilant for signs of infestation or infection and take preventive measures. Consult with a professional arborist if you suspect a problem that requires treatment.

5. Wrapping and Shielding
Shielding your trees from harsh winter elements is crucial. Tree wraps and shelters can help protect your trees from frost and reduce the risk of sunscald. Secure these protective measures before the first frost arrives.

6. Monitoring and Winter Care Plan
Your commitment to tree care doesn’t end with winter preparation. Regularly check on your trees throughout the season. Remove heavy snow loads gently to prevent branch breakage. Adjust mulch and insulation as needed. Create a winter care plan to address any issues that arise promptly.

Are Your Trees Ready?
By following these essential tips for preparing your trees for winter, you’ll set the stage for a healthy and vibrant springtime comeback. Remember that Big Trees Inc. is here to assist you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance and support in ensuring your trees thrive all year round.

For more details and advice on tree care, contact Big Trees Inc. at 360-563-2700.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

Essential Fall Tree Care Tips to Keep Your Trees Healthy and Vibrant

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose

As the summer warmth begins to wane and the leaves start to turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, it’s a clear sign that fall is arriving. While fall might bring to mind images of pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters, it’s also a crucial time to pay attention to the health of your trees. Proper fall tree care ensures that your trees remain vibrant and strong throughout the colder months and are ready to thrive when spring arrives once again. In this article, we’ll explore some essential fall tree care tips to help you keep your trees in excellent condition.

1. Raking and Leaf Removal
The sight of colorful leaves blanketing the ground is undoubtedly picturesque, but leaving too many leaves on the ground can have negative consequences for your trees and lawn. A thick layer of leaves can create a damp environment that promotes disease and inhibits healthy growth. Make sure to rake and remove fallen leaves regularly to prevent these issues.

2. Mulching
Applying a layer of mulch around the base of your trees is a great practice for fall tree care. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulates soil temperature, and suppresses weed growth. Apply a layer of mulch that is about 2-4 inches deep, making sure to leave a few inches of space around the tree trunk to prevent moisture buildup and potential rot.

3. Watering
While trees tend to require less water during the fall compared to the hot summer months, it’s still important to ensure they receive adequate hydration before the ground freezes. Trees need sufficient moisture to survive the winter and prepare for the spring growth season. Be sure to water your trees deeply but less frequently as the temperatures drop.

4. Pruning
Fall is an ideal time for pruning, as the trees are entering a period of dormancy. Pruning helps remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, enhancing the overall health and appearance of your trees. Additionally, removing these branches can prevent them from falling and causing damage during winter storms. Always use proper pruning techniques and tools to avoid injuring the tree.

5. Inspect for Pests and Diseases
Perform a thorough inspection of your trees for any signs of pests or diseases. Fall is a crucial time to identify and address these issues before they have a chance to worsen over the winter. Look for abnormal growths, discoloration, or signs of infestation. If you’re unsure about a particular issue, consider consulting with an arborist for professional advice.

6. Protect Young Trees
Young and newly planted trees are particularly vulnerable to the harsh conditions of winter. Consider wrapping the trunks of young trees with burlap or tree wrap to prevent sunscald and frost cracks. This protection can also help keep rodents from gnawing on the bark during the colder months.

7. Fertilization
Fall is an optimal time to fertilize your trees, as they will absorb and store nutrients during the dormant season. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer can provide essential nutrients to support root growth and overall tree health. Consult with a professional or conduct a soil test to determine the specific nutritional needs of your trees.

For more details and advice on tree care, contact Big Trees Inc. at 360-563-2700.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

Summer Tree Care Tips

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose

Proper care of your trees during the summer months results in a healthy landscape for your yard. Summer is a great time to follow these five tree care tips.

1. Mulching:
Mulching trees is an important action because it cuts down on weeds, stabilizes soil temperatures, and helps conserve soil moisture. It’s best to mulch trees with 3-4 inches of shredded hardwood mulch. Be sure to keep the mulch 4-6 inches away from the trunk.  Placing mulch all the way up to the trunk can suffocate the roots and promotes disease and insect problems.

2. Irrigation:
During the hot summer months, watering trees may be needed, especially if your trees are young or newly planted. Newly planted trees need an average of one inch of water per caliper (trunk diameter), per day. IE: a 4” caliper tree needs 4 gallons of slow drip per day.

3. Fertilization:
Another important step in caring for trees in the summer is making sure they have adequate nutrition to support leaf growth, and resist pests and diseases, and that means fertilizer. Trees growing in urban or suburban areas often need more fertilization than trees in rural areas.

4. Pruning:
While most tree trimming should happen during the dormant season, there are some times when summer tree pruning is necessary. Any diseased, dead, or damaged branches should be pruned out for the health of the tree and for safety reasons. Also, spring flowering trees are best pruned in the early summer, after they finish blooming.

5. Tree pest inspections:
Examine trees for pest infestations regularly throughout the summer. While most insects are not harmful to trees, discovering any potential tree pest problems early gives you a better chance of controlling them.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

 

Planting a Tree Could Help You Live Longer

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose

In the urban landscape, trees shade the sidewalks, absorb air pollution, lessen traffic noise, and also happen to be nice to look at. And of course trees take carbon dioxide in the air and convert it to oxygen, which we mammals kind of need for breathing.

But it also turns out that trees can help you live longer.

A recent research study conducted in Portland by the US Forest Service, found that in neighborhoods where a nonprofit was planting more trees, fewer people died.

Geoffrey Donovan, the Forest Service researcher who did the study, which was published in the December issue of the journal Environment International, stated  “Urban trees are an essential part of our public health infrastructure, and they should be treated as such.”

Green health care

For three decades, the Portland area nonprofit organization Friends of Trees planted nearly 50,000 oaks, dogwoods and other types of trees around the city. Between 1990 and 2019, Friends of Trees planted 49,246 street trees (and kept records of where they were planted and when). The research team looked at the number of trees planted in a given area, in the preceding 5, 10, or 15 years. They compared this information with death rates due to cardiovascular, respiratory, or non-accidental causes in that same area, using data from the Oregon Health Authority.

Using a mathematical model to remove factors such as race, income, age and education, the study found that for every 100 trees planted, there was approximately one fewer non-accidental death per year. So 50,000 trees planted equated to 500 fewer non-accidental deaths per year.

Yashar Vasef, executive director of Friends of Trees, which plants across six counties in Oregon and Washington, stated “Across the board, the benefits of trees are astounding. And they come at a lower cost than many other solutions.”

As the trees got older and taller, the mortality rates among nearby people went down, the study found.

Geoffrey Donovan from the US Forest Service stated “Bigger trees, bigger impact on mortality, which is what you would expect. Studies have found links between exposure to the natural environment and improved health in a wide range of different cities and countries. We certainly know that air pollution, stress, and sedentary behavior are bad for people no matter their race or socioeconomic status.”

The reverse, unfortunately, seems to be true, too. Mortality rates appear to go up in areas that lose tree cover.

In an earlier study, Donovan and his team saw an increase in deaths from cardiovascular and lower-respiratory-tract illnesses in areas from Minnesota to New York that lost trees from a pest called the emerald ash borer.

More trees, fewer deaths

Another recent study published in the British medical journal The Lancet suggested that a third of deaths from a 2015 heat wave in Europe could have been prevented with 30% more tree cover.

There are several reasons trees could boost health, including better air quality and increased levels of oxygen, less stress, and increased physical activity among residents of tree-lined neighborhoods. The link between more trees and lessening death rates held in both already heavy tree population neighborhoods, which tend to be more prosperous, and neighborhoods with fewer trees, which tend to be poorer.

The US Forest Service study stopped short of saying there was a direct cause-and-effect relationship between trees and death rates. But the statistics are pretty convincing and make for a safe bet.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

Plant a Tree for Arbor Day

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose

National Arbor Day is celebrated every year on the last Friday in April; this year on April 28th. It is a civic holiday in Nebraska. Some other states have selected their own dates for Arbor Day. The usual observance of Arbor Day is to plant a tree. On the first Arbor Day, April 10, 1872, approximately one million trees were planted.

Spring is one of the best times of the year to plant a tree.

In case you need more reasons to plant a tree, here is a list:

Plant Trees in Memory

Memorial trees planted in your yard can serve as a lasting, meaningful tribute in honor of someone special. 

Plant Trees in Celebration

Plant Trees in Celebration of birthdays, anniversaries, new births, or any special occasion. By planting Trees in Celebration, you can honor your loved ones while caring about the environment and making your environment more green.

Live Longer

A recent study done by the US Forest Service found that in areas where a non-profit was planting thousands of oaks, dogwoods, and other trees in the Portland area, the rates of non-accidental deaths decreased by roughly 1 per year, per 100 trees planted. So plant a tree and you could live longer.

A More Beautiful and Healthier Environment

Trees take in carbon dioxide and give off oxygen that we need to breathe. Trees reduce the amount of storm water runoff, reducing erosion and pollution in our waterways and can reduce the effects of flooding. Trees shade the sidewalks, absorb air pollution, lessen traffic noise, and also happen to be nice to look at. Many species of wildlife depend on trees for habitat. Trees provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

How Long Does It Take a Tree to Recover From Transplanting

Written by on · Leave a Comment

Transplanting a tree can be a necessary step for a many reasons, such as if the tree is outgrowing its current location, or if it’s simply in the way of construction or new landscaping plans. The process of transplanting a tree can be quite traumatic for the tree, and it’s important to give it the time and care it needs to recover.

How long does it take a tree to recover from transplanting? The answer to this question can depend on a variety of factors, such as the size and species of the tree, the time of year it’s transplanted, the care it receives after transplanting, and the overall health of the tree.  In general, smaller trees are able to recover more quickly from transplanting than larger trees. This is because they have smaller root systems and require less energy to establish themselves in their new location. However, even a small tree can take several months to fully recover from transplanting.

For larger trees, the recovery process can take much longer. It’s not uncommon for a large tree to take two to three years to fully recover from transplanting. During this time, it’s important to provide the tree with plenty of water and nutrients, and to avoid disturbing the soil around its roots.

The time of year that a tree is transplanted can also have an impact on its recovery time. In general, the best time to transplant a tree is in the fall, winter or early spring, when the tree is dormant and the weather is cooler. This allows the tree to focus its energy on establishing new roots and adapting to its new environment, rather than on growing new leaves or flowers.

The aftercare provided after transplanting is also critical to the tree’s recovery. Newly transplanted trees require regular watering, especially during the first year after transplanting. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. In addition to watering, the tree should be fertilized and pruned as needed to promote healthy growth and development.

The overall health of the tree can impact its ability to recover from transplanting. If a tree is already stressed or diseased before it’s transplanted, it may take longer to recover or may not recover at all. In these cases, it’s important to consult with a professional arborist to determine whether transplanting is the best option, or if other measures should be taken to improve the tree’s health.  A tree may show signs of recovery within a few weeks to a few months after transplanting. New growth may appear, and the tree may begin to produce leaves or flowers. However, full recovery can take much longer, especially for larger trees. It may take several years for the tree to fully establish itself in its new location and resume normal growth and development.

While recovery time can range from several months to a few years, it is important to be patient and provide the necessary care and attention to ensure the tree has the best chance of thriving in its new location. By taking these steps, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your newly transplanted tree for years to come.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or  http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

 

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

Big Trees Solves Privacy Issue for Mobile Home Resident

Written by on · Leave a Comment

SNOHOMISH, WA: Big Trees Inc, (https://bigtreesupply.com), a tree nursery and tree transplant company in the Seattle area, recently helped a mobile home resident with a request to block eyesores on a neighbor’s property.

Big Trees got the unusual request recently for screening trees needed to block out a neighbor. What was different in this scenario, is that the trees were to be planted in a mobile home park. Not only was there limited planting space, but shifting eyesores on the neighboring property.  After reviewing pictures of the site, it became clear that there was no planting space available where the screening needed to be to block out the neighbors never ending, shifting eye sores.

Big Trees suggested building 4 foot long, narrow planter boxes on wheels and then planting 6-7′ Emerald Green arborvitae. The final product worked perfectly! Not only do the four planters block out the neighbor’s yard, but they are easily moved around the property should that be necessary.

“This was a difficult problem to solve when we were faced with such limited planting areas,” said Nancy Penrose, owner of Big Trees.  “It’s not totally ideal as the trees at some point will out-grow the boxes, but the homeowner will get years out of this solution and it can just be recreated when necessary down the road.”

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or  http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

 

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

The Spacing Between Trees

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose

Planting new trees is a great way to add beauty and value to your property, but it’s important to consider the proper spacing to ensure their health and growth. The distance between new trees when planting depends on several factors, including the species of tree, the intended use (e.g. for shade, ornamental, or privacy), and the size at maturity.

One of the most important factors to consider when planting new trees is their ultimate size and shape at maturity. If you are planting trees for shade or privacy, you’ll want to consider the mature height and spread of the tree species to ensure that they provide adequate coverage. On the other hand, if you are planting ornamental trees, you may want to consider their aesthetic appeal and choose species with attractive shapes and growth habits.

Another factor to consider is the availability of space. If you have a large property, you may have more flexibility in planting distances. However, if you have a smaller property, you may need to adjust your planting distances accordingly to accommodate the available space. In smaller landscapes, it’s important to choose smaller tree species or those with more compact growth habits to ensure that they do not become overcrowded.

In addition to the size and shape of the trees, it’s also important to consider the type of soil they will be growing in and the amount of sunlight or shade in the planting area. Some tree species have extensive root systems that need plenty of room to spread, while others have more shallow roots that can tolerate close planting. Soil type and moisture levels can also play a role in determining the appropriate planting distance.  Some tree species can handle shade or sun better than others as well.

When it comes to determining the proper planting distance, there are some general guidelines that can be followed. For most deciduous trees, it is recommended to plant them at least 10-15 feet apart. Coniferous trees, on the other hand, can often be planted closer together, as they typically have more compact growth habits. For large shade or ornamental trees, it is recommended to plant them at least 20-30 feet apart.  When planting evergreens for privacy, an additional consideration is the balance of “instant” privacy versus waiting for the trees to fill in overtime.  Budget plays a large role in this as well.

It’s important to keep in mind that these guidelines are just that – guidelines. Every tree species is unique, and the ideal planting distance will depend on a variety of factors, including the intended use of the trees, the size and shape of the tree at maturity, and the availability of space. If you’re unsure about the proper planting distance for a specific tree species, it may be helpful to consult with a local arborist or landscaper.

In conclusion, planting new trees is a great way to enhance your property, but it’s important to consider the proper spacing to ensure their health and growth. By taking into account the size and shape of the tree at maturity, the type of soil, and the availability of space, you can choose the appropriate planting distance and create a beautiful and sustainable landscape.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com

Seasonal Needle Drop for Evergreens

Written by on · Leave a Comment

By Nancy Penrose

“Needle drop” is a term used to describe a normal process that happens to many evergreens during the fall and winter season. While it is usually normal, it can be a concern for homeowners when they see a lot of needles falling.

Every needle on an evergreen tree has a certain life span. As it gets older, the needle goes through a number of stages, including turning yellow, brown and then dropping off the tree.

The length of time for a needle to go through all these stages varies by evergreen species. An individual needle typically lives from one to four years. Many are shed in the fall, sometimes causing a preponderance of falling needles all at once.

White pine trees typically have the most noticeable needle drop. Every fall the needles that are 2 or 3 years old will change colors and drop. That then leaves only the current season’s needle growth on the tree. So the tree can then appear sparse, until new growth starts the following season.

Austrian and Scotch pines retain their needles for 3 years. Spruce and Fir trees have more gradual changes. Older needles fall at different times instead of all at once.

Arborvitae shed branchlets, instead needles. The branchlets turn brown as they age, but remain on the tree for a long time before dropping.

All evergreen trees go through some type of needle change during their life span.
Environmental stress, such as severe weather conditions or drought periods can cause more needles to drop. The tree’s protective mechanisms conserves moisture for the strongest and healthiest needles.

Yellow or brown needles and dropped needles can also be symptoms of insects and plant diseases. It’s important to inspect the trees carefully, to ensure they are experiencing a normal phenomenon and not signs of damage.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com