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Guidelines for Elm Tree Pruning in Edmonton

Posted on by Leona and Travis
  • Edmonton Elm Tree Pruning “IS ONLY ALLOWED” between October 1 to March 31.
  • Elm Tree Pruning in Edmonton “IS BANNED” from April 1 to September 30.
  • Edmonton Elm Tree Removal “IS ALLOWED” anytime throughout the year,

however, stump removal is mandatory and no firewood or logs may be retained.

  • All Elm Tree branches and wood must be chipped up or taken to the Edmonton

Waste Management Centre.

  • Elm wood cut shorter than 4 feet in length, can be disposed of at one of Edmonton’s Eco Stations.
  • Special Edmonton Elm Pruning permits may be obtained from the City of Edmonton in extreme circumstances, when Elm Tree Pruning may be necessary out of the allowable timeframe. Call 311

Your Best Certified Arborist in Edmonton, can Assess and Consult with you about the best care  of your Elms, while following all Provincial and Municipal bylaws.

The Lifecycle of Dutch Elm Disease

Posted on by Leona and Travis

Dutch Elm Disease is a fungal disease that develops a fungus internally within Elm trees. The fungus grows rapidly within the trees eventually blocking off the tree’s vascular system.  This process stops the trees’ water conducting ability, causing the tree to wilt and then die.  The complete demise of a mature Elm, usually can happen within one or two growing seasons.

This devastating disease is mostly spread to other healthy Elm Trees, by 2 kinds of Elm Bark Beetles. (The Native Elm Bark Beetle, and the European Elm Bark Beetle).  These Beetles breed and lay eggs under the bark of dead, dying or cut Elm wood.  The new generation of beetles, emerge from dead and diseased wood, carrying the fungal spores with them on their bodies.  These beetles then move to healthy Elms to feed, spreading the fungal spores, thus spreading the disease. In urban environments with monocultures of Elm trees, growing close together, Dutch Elm Disease can spread underground, via grafted root systems.

If you have Elm tree pruning that is required or if you are concerned about your Elm tree health, contact an Arborist in Edmonton. To protect the Elm trees of Alberta it is essential to have your Elm tree pruning completed by your best Edmonton Arborist.

Black Knot Fungal Disease

Posted on by Leona and Travis

Black Knot Fungal Disease is the common name for the fungal tree organism Apiosporina morbosa, which causes a devastating tree disease in many places in Canada, including Alberta.  It is often found on commercial and private trees, as well as trees in the native, natural environment.  In Edmonton, several species of Cherry, and Plum trees are affected.  Most commonly, Mayday trees, Chokecherry Trees and Pin Cherry Trees.

Initially, a small swelling or green, olive-coloured gall will develop along branches of the tree.  These green swellings can grow up to 2-3 years before maturing into unsightly black growths. Once infected, the fungus grows internally, and will “girdle or choke -off” the tissue, causing the branch to decline , and potentially over time, resulting in branch death of complete tree loss.

The most obvious way to recognize Black Knot Fungal Disease are the visible black growths also known as “Knots”. These black “growths”, are usually spotted by an untrained eye, when the tree has lost all of it’s leaves.  These growths release fungal spores into the air. Spores spread more rapidly and further with the aid of wind, rain splash and insects or birds landing from branch to branch.

There are several ways to help control and/or slow the spread of Black Knot Fungal Disease.  The most direct way, when possible, is to prune for removal of the swellings well below this area during late Fall or Winter.  This will allow the knots to be clearly visible, as there will be no leaves on the tree.  As well, at this time the fungus will be less likely to spread, as the trees are dormant.  Secondly, cleaning or disinfecting of the pruning tools, followed by correct disposal of the removed, diseased branches, are crucial in control.  “Correct Disposal” consists of burning, burying or removal of infected tissue from location.  Note that even after pruning, these fungal spores can continue to disperse for several months.

A Certified Arborist is able to identify, and correctly put into place, a plan of action for your tree’s monitoring, health and maintenance.  Edmonton’s Best Arborist can aid you in keeping your trees disease- free and beautiful!

Soil Compaction And Tree Stress

Posted on by Leona and Travis

Soil Compaction is a common contributing factor to tree stress and tree decline in our urban landscapes. It can be a problem that cumulatively develops over long periods of time, with effects that are often misdiagnosed.

Soil compaction occurs when the compression of the ground soil particles force the spaces between the particles too close together. This creates a soil environment that has little to no pore spaces available for needed water and air to reside in.

Soil compaction can physically damage or physically crush the roots of trees as well, as seen in high traffic pedestrian areas, and construction zones where heavy equipment is used around the base of trees.  “Shallow-rooted” trees for example, Spruce and Pine trees are sometimes more affected.  As with most trees, the absorption roots and root systems are within the top 12” of the soil.  When the ground is wet, soil compaction can become  a more rapidly increasing problem if traffic or pedestrian areas are heavily used, at that time.

There are, however,  a  few steps that  can be taken to help your trees and any further damage to the rootzones, due to “Soil Compaction”.

Firstly, Improving the soil “structure” by introducing compost or organic material can be helpful.  This will improve drainage, aeration, and contribute added nutrients for the tree.

Secondly, using a top dressing over the root zone of the tree with Mulch.  This will  also protect the root zone, by creating a buffer zone .  Mulch should be applied from near the trunk outward to the tip of the furthest branches of the canopy. This circumference under the tree is known as the “dripline”.   This area encompasses the  general area where the absorbing roots reside.  Although, some tree species can have rootzones   that are 2-3 times the spread of the canopy.  Your Edmonton Arborist can discuss with you about the benefits of using an organic mulch, such as bark or wood chips.  These mulches will aid in adding nutrients to your tree’s roots as it breaks down.  Mulch should not be applied more than 2-4 inches deep over the root zone.  If it is deeper, it can be detrimental to the roots by causing a suffocation affect.  Also, water, nutrients and air, can not effectively penetrate the area.

Lastly, “Soil Compaction’s” affects are often misdiagnosed,   showing symptoms of secondary  causes.   This is because it is not readily visible, or apparent to the untrained eye.  Trees can rapidly decline past the point of no return, if compaction continues or worsens.

It is important to have a Certified Arborist  in Edmonton assess and provide a site visit to determine the best management practices with regard to your soil, trees and landscape.

Evan’s Cherry: The Hardy Gem of Alberta

Posted on by Leona and Travis

The Evan’s Cherry (Prunus cerasus), is a cultivar of a sour cherry also sold under the name ‘bali’. This tree cultivar may have originally come from Alaska, where it was likely distributed to new settlers. This deciduous specimen was rediscovered by an horticulturist, and research scientist for Alberta Agriculture, Ieuan Evans, in an old orchard near Edmonton, Alberta. The tree had been growing on it’s original root stock there, since the 1920s. This cultivar is exceptional due to its extreme hardiness, for zone 3a and flourishes in the harsh climate of the Canadian Prairies.   Because of it’s connection to Alberta, the Evan’s Cherry is significant and more attention should be given to the attributes and usage of this tree.

This cultivar can be grown in shrub or tree form, having been know to reach a maximum height of 12-14’ tall, making it a great specimen for small yards. The plant is easy to propagate, and is self- pollinating.  It flowers in the Spring, with an abundance of beautiful white blossoms, that develop into a bright red fruit.  The fruit is usually abundant, and is usually at it’s peak for harvest in early August. This tart fruit is desirable for baking, jams and jellies.

Widely available and distributed, the Evan’s Cherry is now readily available and can be found all across Canada and the United States, in many tree nurseries, and greenhouses, for purchase.    Even though the Evan’s Cherry is not owned, or subject to any proprietary terms, it’s direct connection to Alberta is undisputed.

Poplar Borer The Urban Menace

Posted on by Leona and Travis

As an insect pest in Alberta, The Poplar Borer beetle has become more and more apparent to the Edmonton Arborist.  Edmonton’s Swedish Aspen Trees and Tower Poplar Trees have been significantly affected by this pest. Local damage has become widespread and unfortunately, has caused the requirement for more tree removals.

Poplar Borer is a common insect found in our local, native forests, historically, primarily feeding on the native trembling aspen trees.  In recent years, this native insect has noticeably moved into our urban environment, adding some of the most commonly planted trees to its diet.   

The Mature Poplar Borer is a flying insect that has a life cycle of approximately 3-5 years. The Adult beetles are grey with orange markings, usually 20-30 mm in length. These flying adults are usually seen in June and July.

Unlike many other insect pests, the Poplar Borer prefers to target healthy, living trees.  The Adult beetle lays eggs usually in a sunny area on the lower portion of the tree trunks.  After hatching, the legless larva of the insect spend  the first 3 years internally, within the tree.  They feed on the sapwood, then progress into the heartwood deep within the tree.    This causes internal damage to the vascular system of the tree, thus causing tree decline.  The larva Pupate in the 4th year, and then later emerge, as adults.  The adults create obvious exit holes in the bark.  These exit holes are approximately   ¼ “ in  diameter, and usually will  bleed reddish-brown sap.  Also, often sawdust can be visible at the base of the trees that these insects push out from holes   in the bark.

 To reduce the likelihood of your tree having Poplar Borer activity, plant your tree   in a less susceptible location to provide more shade and less sun on the lower trunks.  Tree pruning can remove obvious declining tree tops, but will not eradicate the insect.   Mechanical and Chemical Treatments can be limited in their effective treatment for the insect, and on occasion tree removal may be your only option.  A thorough assessment and consultation from your Edmonton Arborist, can help to identify the insect and determine the best plan of action for your personal or commercial landscape.

The Optimal Time to Prune My Birch and Maple Trees

Posted on by Leona and Travis

The best Edmonton arborists are informed, knowledgeable and experienced about the optimal time to prune Birch Trees and Maple Trees. Birch Tree pruning and Maple Tree pruning, in Alberta, should be performed during a very “time-specific” period of the year.

Birch Trees and Maple Trees have strong “turgor pressure”.  This scientific term refers to the pressure exerted within the plant’s cell walls, or the fluids movements within the tree.  Adequate turgor pressure enables the plant’s cell walls to remain turgid which is required for all plants to grow, and thrive without wilting. A knowledgeable Arborist in Edmonton, knows and understands the Alberta growing season, and will prune Birch trees and Maple trees during the optimal time window.  This time is generally, after full uploading of water from the root system to the tree’s canopy has been completed.  The best indicator of the completion of this process is when your Birch Trees and Maple Trees have reached full leaf emergence, and have turned green with their new leaves.  Once these trees are in full leaf, they can be safely pruned without causing the loss of water and sap from any fresh pruning cuts made. This will aid in maintaining tree tissue water saturation and will allow the trees to reach their highest turgor pressure potential.

When Birch Trees and Maple Trees are pruned outside of the optimal pruning time frame, there may be negative results.  It’s not likely that the trees will die, however they may lose vigour. Further, if pruned at the “wrong” time, the trees may “bleed” and loose sap.  This dripping, sugary sap, can be problematic and will continue to flow out of the pruning cuts until full uploading has completed.   This can continue for many weeks depending on the climate and weather.  This sap, dripping from pruning cuts over parking areas, sidewalks, decks etc. can become unsightly, messy and an overall headache!

Contact your best Edmonton Arborist to have your Birch Tree Pruning and Maple Tree pruning completed at the optimal time!

Benefits of Tree Wells

Posted on by Leona and Travis

A tree well is a bowl-like, turf free area that is created around the base of a newly planted tree. Depending on tree size, they usually are dug to a minimum of 1 meter across in diameter. They can be constructed in the ground in a variety of ways but are commonly made into just a simple round depression in the soil.  Tree wells are created for a number of reasons and can offer many benefits for your newly planted trees. In order to give a newly planted tree the best chance to grow and thrive it is essential and best that a tree well is created when planting.

Tree wells provide an efficient area for water to collect directly above the rootzone. Water has a chance to accumulate in the bowl and not wastefully run off. The wells will also hold moisture longer in times of drought or in between watering schedules.

Tree wells provide an area around the base of your new trees to hold and contain a mulch layer. The mulch is held in place in the tree well, depression, and is better protected. Tree wells containing mulch aid in keeping weeds and grass from competing with tree roots.

Tree wells also provide trees with physical protection from mechanical injuries by keeping lawn mowers and string trimmers a good distance away from the tree trunks.  While improving the overall aesthetics of your landscape they also provide a safer area for tree stakes and guy wires to be installed.

The benefits of tree wells are ones that will help your new tree grow and flourish. These benefits will be seen immediately and will continue for the life of your tree.  Contact your Best Edmonton Arborist for a full consultation on the correct methods of tree well construction.

Yellow-headed Saw Fly Damage to Spruce Trees

Posted on by Leona and Travis

There is an insect pest, in it’s larval stage, that causes extensive damage to Spruce trees in Edmonton. The Adult Yellow-headed Spruce Sawfly insect, is a small stingless wasp. The adult males and females look the same, in appearance:  yellow in colour with black markings on their heads.  This insect, generally produces one new generation per year.  The destructive larva are approximately 18mm long, with yellowish-brown heads and green bodies with 6 visible stripes that go down the length of their bodies.  Not to be confused with a “caterpillar”, the sawfly larva have  6 or more sets of pro-legs, which can be easily seen. A unique characteristic of these larva, are that when they are disturbed they will rear up the front part of their bodies, and release a green spruce- smelling fluid from their mouths.

The damage to spruce trees is primarily caused by the eating of the needles by the larva. Generally speaking, the larva will attack trees after the third season after planting, not earlier. The pest, usually gravitates to the upper part of the trees.  Cleanly removing the whole needle, they will stop feeding mid- summer and drop to the soil, to cocoon.  They pupate in late winter, and the adults emerge approximately the same time as the spruce bud swelling in the Spring.  The females, which fly to a host tree, will lay a single egg in a slit at the base of each needle, all her eggs are usually laid on a single branch sprig.

Be aware that repeated removal of the needles of your tree, can lead to tree demise. Regular monitoring by your tree care professional, will be crucial. This insect pest, is a strong defoliator in the Edmonton area, and  it’s  damage is very visible.  Often by the time its effects are seen, the insect has caused the majority of it’s damage for that season.

Contact your best certified arborist, in early Spring, to monitor and inspect your spruce trees for evidence of feeding larva.

Yellow-Bellied Sap Sucker Damage

Posted on by Leona and Travis

The Yellow-Bellied Sap Sucker is the only bird in the Woodpecker Family that attacks specifically living trees, to get it’s food. The birds are known for attacking a large variety of tree species. In the urban landscape, many thin-barked trees are preferred and targeted, including Birch, Amur Cherry, Mountain Ash, and Scot’s Pine.

This bird is identifiable by it’s black crescent shape on it’s breast, pale yellow belly, white wing stripe and red crown on its head.  Although this bird does eat insects, it is better known for the tree damage that is evident, from it’s feeding. They will drill (peck) into the bark, to sap-level, and cause damage by creating rows of tightly lined holes, often in a grid pattern. Once they tap into the sapwood, they will use their long tongues to drink the tree fluid that oozes out.  If a tree has been visited by the Sap Sucker lightly, often the tree can make a full recovery.  However, when many rows of holes are around the branch or trunk, the tissue of this area of the tree may “girdle”, causing the restriction of the flow of nutrients and fluids.  Parts of the tree or the entire tree may decline or die.

The likelihood of a Yellow-Bellied Sap Sucker to visit your tree, is anyone’s guess.  As with all birds, they may pick your tree, as a nice one to visit.  However, as a deterrent, noisemakers in the tree or near the area, may be effective. Hanging shiny or reflective items that move, may also work. Lightly wrapping burlap or canvas around the visited area, is commonly recommended to discourage the bird’s return. Keep in mind, that the Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker is protected under the “Migratory Birds Convention Act”.  So, the bird may not be captured, injured or it’s eggs damaged or destroyed.

As always, it is recommended to maintain your tree’s health, as well as possible, and reduce other stress factors.   Your Edmonton Arborists can help to identify the visible damage as seen on the tree, and discuss with you any pruning or maintenance that your landscape trees may benefit from.