Crape myrtle bark scale is a serious pest of crape myrtle, or crepe myrtle, trees. As the pests feed on new growth, tree branches begin to die. Flowering is reduced and, if left unchecked, an infestation will eventually kill the tree. Multiple generations can occur in a single growing season with populations, and the resulting damage, continuing to increase. Crape Myrtle Species and Cultivars There are many species and cultivars of crepe myrtle (Lagerstoemia spp). These are popular trees in USDA hardiness zones 6-9 because they tolerate hot weather and a variety of soil conditions. Of course ..read more

Iron deficiency in trees and shrubs is a common problem that can have a serious impact on plant health. All trees and shrubs need nutrients to grow and develop. Iron is one such essential nutrient that trees need.   Why is Iron Important for Trees Trees need iron for the production of chlorophyll in leaves. When iron is lacking, plants cannot produce the necessary chlorophyll. As a result, that tree or shrub cannot make enough food. Ultimately, the affected tree or shrub will suffer from reduced health, an increase in disease, and a shorter lifespan. Iron deficiency is common in areas wh ..read more

Research scientists at the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories – the research arm of Bartlett Tree Experts – have broken new ground to protect beech trees by developing novel Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to treat Beech Leaf Disease (BLD). Dark green stripes on leaves are an early symptom of beech leaf disease. Dr. Andrew Loyd, plant pathologist and mycologist leading Bartlett’s BLD research commented, “At times in the past seven years, while researching beech leaf disease, I’ve felt as if there would be no hope for management. But through painstaking and tedious work, we have no ..read more

Spongy moths (formerly called gypsy moth) feed on many plant species, but do tend to favor certain trees and shrubs. When pest populations are high, you can expect to see damage on the leaves of many plants. However, researchers have extensively studied and observed this voracious pest to determine the susceptibility of various species. If you live in an area where spongy moth is common, consider planting unfavored hosts. If you already have the favorite “foods” of these caterpillars on your property, preventative treatments are a good way to help in management and minimizing leaf damage. Spo ..read more

Everyone looks up when observing trees. However, you’ll often find arborists looking down! That’s because when it comes to assessing tree health, one of the most critical factors is a healthy root system. Focusing solely on noticeable issues in the canopy, like yellowing leaves, may cause you to miss the culprit responsible for those issues, which is often found below ground. Common Root and Soil Issues There are many concerns for tree roots. Disease is often found in the root system. One widespread example is root rot. Trees with root rot may have stunted growth, discolored leaves or dieback ..read more

During spring, we celebrate trees and the important role they play in our local communities! The holidays of Earth Day and Arbor Day both occur in April and provide many opportunities to get involved. Tree Planting and Tree Care As a tree service company, maintaining tree health is the core of our business. It’s what we do every day and what we love to do. That’s why it makes so much sense that we’re excited when April’s holidays come around. Earth Day helps raise awareness of protecting our natural resources, including trees of course! Arbor Day is a special time completely dedicated to the p ..read more

This spring Bartlett Tree Experts announced the development of a new arboretum and research lab centre in the United Kingdom. The facility will be located in Spencers Wood, a village south of Reading in the Borough of Wokingham, Berkshire, England. This addition underpins Bartlett’s dedication to world-class tree research and establishing robust tree collections. In fact, it will complement two existing sites in the U.S.: The R.A. Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories and Arboretum in Charlotte, North Carolina as well as an arboretum property located in Cornelius, Oregon. A rendering of the new ..read more

Depending on where you live, the landscape may already be bursting with flowering trees and shrubs. Or, maybe you’re still anxiously awaiting for signs of the season. Whichever is the case, trees and shrubs that flower are often some of the earliest harbingers of spring. At The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories and Arboretum, we have a fully equipped diagnostic laboratory, scientific test plots, an education center and an arboretum with over 15,000 plants. Throughout the year, the arboretum’s specimens showcase their beauty. Of course, in spring, they put on a particularly spectacular show ..read more

Tree topping is a method often used to reduce the size or height of a tree. With this method, the top of some or all of the branches from a tree’s crown are cut straight off, leaving large stubs. Unfortunately, tree topping hurts trees, causing stress and irreparable damage. Given the harm it can cause, this is not a practice we recommend. An Unhealthy and Unappealing Approach Industry standards agree that tree topping is harmful. It destroys the natural shape and growth habits of a tree, which can never fully recover. Above all, a topped tree simply does not look good and the practice results ..read more

Frost cracks are vertical cracks in a tree that are caused by temperature changes. They occur during winter when the daytime sun warms the bark causing tissue expansion. Later, when the sun goes down and the temperature drops quickly, the outer layer cools and contracts faster than other portions. This expansion and contraction results in vertical cracking. Cracks can be several feet long and a few inches wide. Imagine being outside and exposed to cold temperatures all winter. Sure, trees are adapted to outdoor living. However, they are not always well suited to being alone in the open. Exposu ..read more