Tree care services in Oregon

Tree services include pruning of various types to suit the needs of our clients as well as the needs of the tree. We also remove and plant trees, install cables and braces and perform stump grinding.

Regular Services:

Thinning and Pruning
Lifting the Crown
Windsail and Canopy Reduction
 Crown Restoration
Aesthetic Pruning
Crown Pruning
Grooming/”Detailing
 Root Pruning
Structural Pruning and Safety
Vista Pruning

Below are descriptions of the different types of pruning and other services. Use the links in the menu above to get to the different sections, or simply scroll down this page.

Thinning and Pruning

This is one of our specialties that we use in various circumstances. For example, it could be used in formally designed gardens such as Japanese gardens. Sometimes it is a solution for problems such as limited yard space: in order to keep a Monterey pine (which has the genetic potential to get 80 to 100 feet tall and 30 to 40 feet wide) from overwhelming a 25 foot lot, the tree could be trained to maintain a smaller size. The limbs could also be cloud pruned while vista pruning in order to give an interesting view through the tree from a deck or window.

Lifting the Crown

 This is done to clear sidewalks, roads and/or buildings. This involves removing the lower limbs to give the needed clearance.

Windsail and Canopy Reduction

This is pruning for the purpose of reducing the overall size of the tree’s canopy. This may be required for various reasons such as reducing the weight on limbs, reducing the windsail or making the tree safer and less prone to damage or failure. Crown reduction can also be done to restore the view or to keep the tree restricted within a limited yard space.

Crown Restoration

This restores the shape of a tree that has been improperly pruned in the past as in cases of topping. It is a process that takes two or more prunings, depending on the severity of the past treatment.

Aesthetic Pruning

This can be done to trees and shrubs in different ways, depending on the circumstances. Trees can be controlled to a very definite line such as in the pruning of hedges, or as in the umbrella shapes seen on some street trees that are used to reduce the size of the crown. A more loose and natural shape may be desired when the crown is reduced. The shape is maintained as it would grow naturally.

Crown Thinning

This is the removal of material (branches and foliage) throughout the inside of the tree. Thinning reduces windsail and weight and can also be used for restoring the view through the tree. We also call it “daylighting” because it brings more light to the inside of the tree as well as to the garden below.

Grooming or “Detailing”

This is one of the basic activities in our work that keeps your trees healthy and attractive.Sometimes limbs will die, become diseased and damaged from nature or man or grow in a deranged manner which can cause problems with the tree in the future. If grooming is started when the tree is young, most future problems can be avoided.

Root Pruning

 This is sometimes necessary if the roots are interfering with infrastructures such as sidewalks, pools or other structures. Existing tree roots may have to be cut if a new building or landscaping is being added. Knowing how much to cut without jeopardizing the survival of the tree requires an experienced certified arborist. Making the cuts on the roots in a proper fashion is as important as making proper pruning cuts on the upper limbs of a tree. Sometimes trimming the crown of a tree in conjunction with root pruning is necessary to create balance for a tree.

Structural Pruning and Safety

One of the first things we assess when we visit a job site is the need for pruning for safety and structural purposes. We look to prevent danger from limbs or trees falling on people and/or structures as well as damage to the tree itself. When limbs break off a tree, they may create injuries that jeopardize the health and the structural integrity of the tree. Saving a tree is an asset to the property value and the aesthetic attachments people have to the presence of the tree.

Vista Pruning

 A vista is defined as a “pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening. As it relates to tree care, vista pruning is essentially the pruning of trees to create a pleasing view, whether through a series of trees or over a series of trees. The Portland area has some of the most beautiful vistas in the world. Part of the view is the tree itself. We feel that it is vital to preserve the beauty and health of the tree during the process of restoring one’s view beyond the canopy of the tree. Thinning a tree is a common pruning practice, as it improves light and air flow making for a healthier tree; however, thinning can also be used when vista pruning to open up views through the trees. This is common along water-front properties when homeowners are looking to improve their views without cutting down the trees that add both appeal and privacy to their property. Trees can be vista pruned year-round; however, the winter months are the best for vista pruning because the limited foliage allows for clear sight lines and the firm ground allows for easier access with pruning equipment. We recommend vista pruning every two years or so but some properties may need it more frequently in order to maintain those desirable views.

Additional Tree Services:

 Cabling and Bracing

This is done only after corrective pruning to reduce the load on weaker systems in the tree. By providing correctly-placed support, cabling and/or bracing can help to reduce the risk of tree or branch failure. Of course, any kind of cutting or drilling on a tree creates a wound that induces a protective reaction. Thus, the fewer and smaller the wounds stronger and more beautiful grows the tree.

Planting the right tree and installing it correctly

Correct installation is crucial in order to provide a successful future for the tree. Our certified arborist will help you select the best species for your location and climate, as well as ensure that the chosen specimen is healthy. With correct planting procedures you will have a strong and beautiful tree in the future.

Landscape Restoration

Removing a tree is necessary under certain circumstances. When cutting down a tree it is critical to exercise care to protect people, structures, and other plants on your property.

Stump Grinding

Stumps may be removed for aesthetic reasons or prevent interference with new planting or construction. We can provide this service while we are removing the tree. Of course we are also ready to remove a stump that has been hanging around for awhile. Link to “Contact Us for a Consultation” Link to “Contact Us for Services or Strategies”