Tree and Shrub FAQ's

Do I need all the visits that are recommended?

The program recommended to you is based on your landscape inspection, any past history of the landscape we may have, and input from the homeowner. Plant material, non-pest related problems, insect and disease problems are noted. Based on this information and referencing Cornell University's latest issue of "Pest Management Guide for Trees and Shrubs," a program can be put together.

Is fertilizing trees and shrubs important?

Fertilizing trees and shrubs is an important part of a Plant Health Care program. Knowing what type of fertilizer to use, how much to use, and when to apply it is important.

Fertilization is part of maintaining a plant's overall health and vigor. A healthy plant is better able to overcome insect or disease pressures. Our goal is to keep the plants healthy, not only to make them grow fast. With One Step's Deep Root Feeding you get the benefit of the nutrients being injected into the soil and the reduction of compaction and addition of water to the root system.

When is a good time to plant trees and shrubs?

In general, anytime is a good time to plant as long as sufficient soil moisture is maintained. Fall and Spring are good times to plant because of the existing natural soil moisture. Plants can be installed during the Summer as long as they are being properly watered. Planting in the Winter is also possible as long as the ground is not frozen. The key to planting is soil moisture. Too much and the root systems suffocate, too little and they desiccate. Keep it moist, but not water logged.

Even with a program, my leaves still show signs of being eaten!

The goal of insect control is to reduce the amount of damage caused by the insects. It is impossible to eliminate all the insect feeding. We can't eliminate it all, but we can control it. Also, consider the type of control that is being used. Some controls work on contact while others need to be ingested before they will do their job.

What are "mulch volcanoes"?

This is the senseless piling of mulch against the trunks of trees. Mulch should be no more than 2-4 inches in depth (anymore than that and it suffocates the root system). It should not come in contact with the stems or trunks of trees and shrubs (otherwise it will rot them, leading to dieback and possible death).

How come you didn't spray everything while you were here?

Knowing what to spray and what not to spray is important. Inspecting the landscape helps us determine what plants may need to be sprayed. Japanese beetles prefer some plants (they really like purple and red plants) and not others. While some plants may have a natural population of beneficial insects that are doing the job just fine. Different insects have different life-cycles that require controls applied at different times. Some product labels tell us not to treat certain plants. You hired us for how much we know, not how much we apply.