We can easily forget our responsibility with our trees once they have grown fully. We think that they are no longer susceptible to diseases and that they can take care of themselves. However, when we begin to neglect the needs of our trees, that is when they start being diseases and infections make their way to them. Even though trees can survive on their own, proper tree care gives them a higher chance of living up to their maximum lifespan. If trees are not given the right maintenance that it requires, don't be surprised if you will see a dead tree in your yard. It may not be soon, but it will happen. Trees that are not maintained can be extremely dangerous when they start to have diseased and dead branches. You don't want to be dealing with a broken roof because a branch fell onto it. If you aren't sure how to properly care for your tree, keep reading, and we will tell you important tips to keep your tree happy.

How to Water
Trees in their early years need more water to support their growing process. The rule of thumb is, if your tree is growing, give it as much water as it needs. Trees use up tons of water, especially in the warmer days to sustain the energy it needs. In the hot season, make sure to add to your regular watering schedule to make sure your tree survives and continues to grow. Keep watering until the soil is moist. Do this if you want to see your tree live a long and healthy life.

Get a Pruning Service
Don't be one of those homeowners who think they can DIY pruning. It can be true that it looks easy, but in reality, pruning takes years of practice to do correctly. If done incorrectly, it can result in your trees death sooner than you expect. On the other hand, correct pruning promotes growth and good health. Arborists learn this skill for years, and they keep developing their knowledge with constant training. To ensure your tree gets the right pruning treatment, choose a tree service company with certified arborists because you can't doubt their expertise in tree pruning. Remember that pruning does more than keeping your tree healthy. It is also a great aesthetic tool to bring back the symmetry and structure your tree used to have.
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Identifying Disease
Certified arborists can tell you the current state of your tree's health. While pruning your tree, they can tell you whether the tree needs more watering or fertilization and other essential things. More importantly, they can identify diseases that can be difficult for a typical homeowner to tell. Have your trees inspected not just after a storm, but regularly. This way you can make sure your tree remains healthy and that all necessary treatment is given to it. Identifying possible problems can save your tree from deteriorating, and it can also save you money because you don't have to spend on repair costs that are brought by tree damage.

The Chesapeake Bay or "The Chesapeake" surely is a fantastic place with its rich history, economic importance, and scenic view. Chesapeake extends across six states, and never fails to amaze anyone who sets foot on this stunning place. Its natural beauty, rich history, and abundant ecosystem offer guests with endless choices.  We know how much you want to explore Chesapeake, but sometimes, time is not on your side. If you don't have the luxury of time, you should know what Chesapeake has in store for you so you can maximize your wonderful time in this stunning estuary.

We want to help you make the best of your time in the Chesapeake Bay area. Here are some helpful tips for your sailing exploration on the bay.
 
Be Realistic
Sometimes, in our attempt to see everything on a trip, we tend to miss the most important sites, not to mention, moments. When traveling, you need to be realistic. This applies to all your traveling ventures and not just in Chesapeake. You need to accept the fact that you cannot see everything in a single visit and that you may need to prioritize certain places so that you can enjoy the place more. By setting realistic expectations, you can experience more and savor each moment.
 
Remember the Definition of Cruising
As much as possible, do not to be too rigid with your plan, be flexible instead. Do not hurry and linger as much as possible so you can get the most of the experience. Allow the Bay to lead the cruise and just follow through.
 
Best Time
A hot summer day may not be an ideal time to traverse the Bay. If you want a more comfortable time at the Bay, go cruising during spring and autumn.
 
How to Travel
There are two forms of cruising: 

• Bareboat- You can charter a boat and provide the crew. This can excite competent sailors and add fun to the adventure. Whether you are mooring, docking, or anchoring the boat, make sure to address the issue of stopover while on a cruise.
• Crewed- The best thing about a crewed cruise is that you don't need to do anything but relax and take delight in the stunning view and comforting vibe of the bay.

 
Itinerary Suggestions
There is just too much to experience in the Bay that it is easy to lose track of your activities. It is a good idea to choose the place or places you really want to see and focus on them. The Chesapeake is a perfect place to cruise and discover new things. You can visit Havre de Grace established in 1829. You may also want to get the chance to travel to the sailing capital of the world, Annapolis. There is also the quiet yet picturesque town of Trent Avon.
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With all the options and avenues the Chesapeake offers, you should be ready for anything throughout the adventure. Every stopover and view should give you a reason to go back to this magnificent place and explore it a little more.

​More information

Tree removal will cost you money- in some cases, a lot of it. However, what many homeowners don't know is that there is no fixed amount for tree removal pricing. A professional tree removal service determines the cost based on different factors. If everyone understands how a tree company comes up with the pricing, homeowners will be more objective when deciding what is best for his or her tree.

We first need to know what comes along in standard tree removal. For many companies, they will climb up the tree, cut it into manageable segments, until they are left with the trunk. They will also take care of the limbs and debris without an added charge. The following are some services that are not included in a tree removal service:

• Stump removal- It is very common that stump removal is not included in a tree removal package. If you have extra cash in your pocket, you can have this added to their service.
• Limb chipping- In most cases, a tree company will have chippers available with them. It is up to you whether you want it hauled away in your property or chipped. It may cost you around $100 to add this service.
• Tree trunk removal- A tree company will cut the trunk into smaller segments, but hauling them off is not typically part of what you paid for tree removal.
• Log splitting- If you want to save some wood for firewood purposes, you may add $75 for the company split the wood into a size ideal for firewood.

How much will it cost to remove my tree?
After knowing the cost for additional services, it is now time to discuss the actual price you have to pay for tree removal. The price will largely depend on the size of the tree as  shown in the breakdown below:

• Large tree removal costs $1,500- A reputable company will not remove your tree for some hundred dollars. If you ever find a company who offers bargain and low-ball offers, don't get too excited because they might be a scam. Don't compromise on the quality of the service just to save money. Your safety is still worth more than anything.
• Fallen tree removal costs $150- Unlike a living tree, the risks involved in removing a fallen tree is significantly reduced. You have to be specific with the tree company if you want the tree hauled away or just chipped off into small segments.
• Tree branch removal costs $300- If you don't need your entire tree to be removed, but there are dead branches here and there, you can ask the tree company for their branch removal service. You may need to contact your utility service if the branches interfere with electrical lines. This may save you money, but if you need them removed for aesthetic and health purposes, a tree removal company is who you need to get in touch with.

While it is true that the tree removal cost is significant, it still doesn't amount to the safety and efficiency a professional tree service company can do.

Trees benefit us in many ways that we can't even imagine. Although Mother Nature can give trees the right amount of care that it needs, it doesn't mean they don't need caring from us. A little trimming can go a long way when it comes to the health of our trees. Here are five essential benefits of tree trimming:

1. Healthier Trees- When dead or diseased branches are eliminated, your tree will have more chance to thrive. Sun and much-needed nutrients can go directly to the healthy parts of the tree which can promote good health for the entire tree. Trimming can also prevent the disease from spreading to the healthy parts of the tree.
2. Better Looking Trees- Trimming can drastically change the appearance of your tree from overgrown to a well-structured and balanced tree. When your single tree looks good, it will impact your landscape as well.
3. Bigger Crop- Trimming can increase both flower and fruit yield. Particular types of trees need trimming at the right season for it to have the best result. If you want to see more crops or fruits from your trees, a proper trimming will do the trick.
4. Fewer Injuries- The last thing we want to happen is your tree falling onto your property and causing injury to anyone. To prevent this from happening, you should regularly trim the delicate parts of the tree such as limbs and branches. You should also make sure your tree doesn't grow too close to power lines due to the danger it can cause.
5. Better View- Overgrown trees can cause obstruction to your view of the environment. Trimming can help you get rid of branches and limbs that are in the way of your view. You will be able to see the mountains and the sky clearly after trimming is done.

Call Timberlake's Tree Service for a fast, free tree trimming estimate.  We can keep your tree healthy and looking good in your landscape.  

Many of us do not know exactly what arborists do. We know that they deal with trees, but what exactly about trees do they deal with?

An arborist's job is to maintain the health of trees and shrubs with pruning and trimming. They specialize in the art of arboriculture which is the practice of tree trimming with the goal of protecting power lines, streets, and sidewalks from damages trees can cause. Arborists use specialized climbing methods and special equipment to perform the job.

Arborists evaluate a tree's health and give advice as to what the tree needs in order to thrive and grow. They can tell you what particular methods need to be done to treat a diseased tree. Arborists typically work with a tree service company that is skilled to do the job of tree care.

Arborists utilize different equipment in doing tree care. Some of this equipment includes chainsaws, tractors, chippers, sprayers, and trucks. They use equipment only when it is needed. They handle dead and obstructive tree limbs by cutting them away. Arborists often require climbing trees using ladders or aerial lifts.

Further, they cut dead branches that can cause risk to power lines and sidewalks. They also help in improving the aesthetics and well-being of your trees. Some arborists specialize in the beautification of decorative trees and shrubs.

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certifies arborists who passed the evaluation of their knowledge in arboriculture and keep their credential by maintaining involvement in the ISA through seminars, workshops, and classes. If you have any more questions about what an arborist can do, you can visit their website at www.isa-arbor.com.

Arboriculture is a service that you cannot expect from your regular gardeners because it is the specialized horticulture of trees. An average gardener can further hurt a diseased tree. Letting a landscaper or gardener do tree service in your lawn might not be the best idea because arborists can do this with efficiency. You have to remember that arboriculture is a type of job that not everyone can perform due to the danger it comes with.

​Call Timberlake's Tree Service for all your tree service needs.  

​Before you pick up the phone to call a tree trimmer, you should educate yourself about a  few things. Below are 4 area you need to consider before hiring a  tree trimming service in Chesapeake, VA:

​Before engaging a tree service company to trim your trees, hire a local arborist to inspect the trees you wish to have trimmed.  Typically, you should have your trees assessed every 5-7 years.  Inspections will help you reduce risk, such as potential damage from storms, as a tree specialist can identify trees that could be prone to damage in the near future.   Further, an arborist can also inspect your trees for existing damage, disease, and insect infestation.  

Tree service companies that trim and remove large trees should provide evidence of two characters of insurance: 1) worker's compensation, which covers any medical costs and lost wages due to injuries sustained on the job; and, 2) liability coverage, which covers the cost of any property damage that might occur during the job.   Without both of these policies, as the property owner, you could be held liable for any injuries or accidents that happen.  

​Just as you are responsible for cleaning up your neighbor's leaves that fall on to your property in autumn, you are also responsible, or within your rights, to trim tree branches that come across your property's lines.    With this said, you cannot cut a tree back any further than your property boundaries.  

​In some cases, tree trimming is the responsibility of your local municipality.  This can be the case where trees are within a few yards of street or power lines.   Therefore, always call the county, city, and energy provider office to ask about their responsibility for tree trimming on your property.  You don't want to pay a local tree service company for work that is already covered by your tax or utility dollars.  

Call Timberlake's Tree Service for all your tree trimming needs.  With nearly two decades of experience in the tree service industry, we promise that we can professionally yet affordably trim your trees to perfection.  

​Choosing a qualified tree service contractor in Chesapeake, VA doesn't have to be hard if you follow the suggestions described below.  Each of these tips will aid you narrowing down the tree businesses in the Hampton Roads area helping you select both the best qualified as well one that offers you the best assurance against injury or accident.  

​The tree service industry has various organizations and associations that offer continuing education and certifications to tree care companies.  Ask any business you are considering about their participation in these organizations such as the International Society of Arborists and Tree Care Industry Association.  

​All qualified tree service businesses should be insured and licensed.  Their Insurance should include two different coverages: liability and workers compensation.  Workers compensation protects the company's employees should an injury should occur on your property.  Minus this coverage, the liability for this will be on on the property owner.   Further, every tree care contractor must have at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance protecting clients from potential property damage that could occur.  Always be sure to ask each tree service for copies of both these policies.

​The first background check you should perform is with their past clients.  Inquire about recent references no older than 3 months - any older will not be representative of their current business operations.   Additionally, evaluate Internet references, such as the Yelp, BBB, Google, and Facebook.  These online sources will provide a good overview of their quality.  

​Do not accept only a verbal estimate.  You could risk a price increase after the tree work is done.  Additionally, does the written quote provide not just the price but also detail the work to be done?

​Compare the price of each estimate but also evaluate that the quotes are for similar work.  Occasionally, the scope of the work estimated will vary from quote to quote so you need to make certain you are evaluating apples-to-apples.  Additionally, you should think strongly prior to selecting the least expensive provider.  Quality, professional tree services are expensive to provide, with the cost of insurance, labor, and equipment to invest in.

​A professional tree service company will need to invest in quality equipment.  This equipment will include stump grinders, wood chippers, bucket trucks, and chainsaws.   Inquire about their equipment to evaluate their investment in their business.  Additionally, inquire about the maintenance and age of the equipment.  Again, maintaining tree care equipment is not a cheap operating cost.  

Most quality tree care companies will be several weeks or even a month out on being able to do your work.  This suggests the company is in demand and the areas they serve recognize their value.  Be leary of a tree company that can quickly do your job. This is not to suggest they are not a quality company, as it may just mean business is slow during the time of you need service; but, be aware of this and evaluate lead times of other businesses you are considering.  

If you follow these tips, you will greatly improve your chances of employing a professional tree service company in the area.   Regardless if you need a large tree removal or just a few tree trimmed, follow these suggestions to avoid hiring a poor tree care contractor.  

Tree trimming is one of the most basic responsibilities of people who have trees in their property. Whether you own a house, a business establishment, or a vacant lot, it is both your right and responsibility to keep your trees properly trimmed. You can choose to do it on your own, but it is best to hire a professional to get the job done right. Regardless of what path you choose for trimming, there are some basic guidelines you should follow. Here are some things you should do to ensure your trimming job is done right.
 
Learn About Your Rights
 
If the tree grows within your property, you have full rights and responsibilities to take care of it. You have full responsibility for the portions of your tree, including the leaves and branches that fall from it. You are fully responsible for trimming and clearing it in whatever way you like. However, if the tree is growing between property lines, you might need to talk with your neighbor about it. The final action plan depends on whatever agreement the two parties strike about the tree that splits their property.  
 
There Are Rules For Trees Growing Towards The Street
 
There are special rules to consider if your tree’s growth actually a few feet away from the street. In some cases, prompt action is necessary, especially if there’s threat of hitting public properties such as light posts and power lines. However, you shouldn’t take action right away, as it is possible that maintenance trimming and pruning for such plants is the responsibility of the town’s public works department. Before proceeding with tree trimming, inquire with your local public works department.
 
Insurance And Liability
 
Keep in mind that plants growing within your property are your full responsibility. In other words, if they cause damage for whatever reason (ex.: a branch or the entire tree itself falls into your neighbor’s property), it is your responsibility to compensate for damages. This is why it is smart to get insurance to cover penalties for such situations. The good news is that as long as you properly trim your plant, the odds of such scenarios happening are not that big. Still, it’s best to stay ready for such situations.
 
Tree trimming should not be that complicated if you play within the rules and you keep your plants well-groomed. If you need help in keeping your plants trimmed, you can contact us today for more info. 

Learn more here.

Trees like to grow in the most efficient way possible. While this may be true, the fact is it is not. Most trees in suburban areas are able to grow in ways that they would not grow in the woods.  A woodland setting forces the trees to compete for light.  This means they grow up instead of out. In our yards, conversely, your tree will be able to grow in every direction.  As a result, you need to know when it is time to employ a tree service company in Chesapeake, VA.  

Extended Limbs: When a tree has extended limbs there is a strong chance that it is getting too heavy to support its structure. The extended, heavy limbs may break off or cause the tree to uproot. When your maple tree starts to get too wide and extended, it is likely time to trim it.  

Crossing Limbs: Intertwining limbs may seem benign, but in reality, it can cause almost constant rubbing.  If this rubbing causes bark to come off, it may cause the tree more prone to decay. You should contemplate a Chesapeake tree trimming if the limbs start to cross one another.

Dense Limbs: The more limbs a tree has, the more wind catches it. And, the more wind that catches it, the more stress that is placed on the entire tree structure.   However, if you systematically and strategically trim limbs, you will be able to minimize the stress on your tree.

Poor Planting Placement: Sometimes limbs grow into locations where they should not be. This may include extending into your neighbor’s landscape, growing to near a power line or reaching over your roof.  Regardless, poor location is often a key reason for tree pruning in Chesapeake is necessary.  

Tree trimming is a vital tree care landscaping task, yet it is so often overlooked by most property owners.  However, if you want to maintain healthy trees in your landscape, you should hire a tree service in Chesapeake, VA