Emerging ginkgo leaves
The foliage of ginkgo trees is unique. Ginkgo trees are hardy, resistant to most pests, and low maintenance. The golden yellow fall color is beautiful.
Crabapple blossoms
Beautiful new selections of disease-resistant crabapples have been introduced in recent years. Older varieties of crabapples suffer from apple scab, leaf spot, and many other fungal diseases.
Azaleas
In the early spring, azaleas should be monitored closely for outbreaks of lace bugs. Ongoing infestations will reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
Native white oak tree
White oak trees are struggling in Kentucky woodlands. White oaks are both economically and ecologically critical to the state of Kentucky. Our bourbon heritage and our forest diversity are both dependent upon its future ability to survive in our changing environment. Many interesting cooperative programs between bourbon distilleries and academic institutions like the University of Kentucky are currently researching the sustainability of our white oak trees.
Japanese beetle feeding on ornamental cherry tree leaves
The pheromones, produced by Japanese beetles as they feed, attract other beetles to the same tree. These large gatherings will rapidly defoliate a tree.
Dogwood with chlorotic leaves
A newly planted Kousa dogwood is displaying signs of a nutrient deficiency. Nursery stock may suffer from transplant shock. Appropriate amount of water, supplemental nutrition, amended fill soil, and constant monitoring are essential for new landscape installations.
Latest In the Canopy…
Risk is in the Eye of the Homeowner, Part 1
Earlier this year, I visited Ft Mitchell to assess a large red oak in a small backyard. The majestic oak measured 46" dbh and reached far above the owner's two-story home. Easily over 70 years old, the oak had a severe vertical crack due to its codominant structure. I could see light through the split in the tree's trunk. I stood in awe of the tree as its far-reaching canopy moved and swayed with the wind. Somehow, this tree had managed to hold itself together, probably for most of its life, with this defect. Over the past several years, multiple devastating storms and straight-line winds have demolished large trees in the areas in and around Fort Mitchell. These storms have prompted many homeowners to remove imperfect trees near their homes. Undeniably, a formal tree risk assessment would categorize this tree as an imminent danger to life and property. The homeowner loves this tree. She watered it through last summer's drought. Her grandkids play, and her chickens scratch around under the canopy of this tree. I found the tree to be deserving of all the respect it demanded by surviving against the odds all these years. Thankfully, Jake Gerrein and his crew of dedicated arborists took on the major project of preserving this tree. Read more in my next entry as I explain the enormous task of bracing and cabling this oak!
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Julie Collins, Consulting Arborist
My Approach is Unique
How do my services compare to other local tree companies? When you call, I answer. I provide honest and realistic tree care based upon my expertise and research. Growing my business relies upon my customers' trust and satisfaction. I work to educate my clients and their landscapes thrive under our combined care for many years to come. My certifications signify years of arboricultural training and experience. I provide personalized approaches for every customer's needs through detailed diagnosis and targeted treatments.
I am the only practicing Registered Consulting Arborist and currently active Board Certified Master Arborist in Northern Kentucky.