Written by: Certified Arborist & Hoppe Plant Health Care Manager Brad Hill, WI-1235A
Throughout a tree or shrub’s life there are many issues that can affect its health, vigor and overall appearance. There are common site issues found in the urban setting like poor soils and tough growing conditions as well as other abiotic factors that can put stress on the plant, resulting in decline. Stressed plants are the most vulnerable to insect and disease issues because their natural ability to ward off these attacks is weakened.
Hoppe Tree Service offers several treatments that can mitigate poor site conditions. Root invigoration with an AirSpade pneumatic tool will help alleviate soil compaction, and, along with backfilling with organic matter, will greatly improve the soil conditions for plant roots. Growth regulators have been proven to increase root density and root function in trees. Regular fertilization provides micro and macro nutrients along with humic acids that are inadequate in most urban soils. Individually or in tandem, these treatments will help reduce insect and disease issues and increase the health and beauty of your trees and shrubs.
If there are already insect and disease issues present, Hoppe Tree Service offers industry-leading treatments that can prevent and/or minimize damage before removal becomes the only option. In general, fungicides only act as protection against fungal disease for the leaf surface. Timing the application is critical to get the fungicide on the leaf surface before the disease can take hold. We monitor spring weather closely to ensure we perform treatments before conditions and temperature are conducive to infection.
Insecticides can be used to control or prevent damage to tree and shrub species prone to certain pests. A good example is Emerald Ash Borer treatment for ash trees. Because insects follow the same life cycles each season, we monitor weather conditions for pests as well. This allows us to time our applications for the greatest control based on when insects are present and do the most damage to your plants.
Certain tree and shrub species are more susceptible to issues like nutrient deficiencies and insects and disease than others. Knowing the tree species and their potential problems and understanding what to look for will help ensure they are well taken care of. Our arborists craft proposals specifically for you and the species in your landscape. All of our plant health care work is performed by knowledgeable, well-trained, certified and licensed technicians, most of whom are certified arborists.
Timing is everything! Contact us early at 414.257.2111 to reserve your place on our schedule for complete tree and shrub service this spring.
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