An important part of tree care is pruning, although doing it at the right time makes all the difference. Although fall seems like a good time to prune because leaves are falling and plants are getting ready for winter, fall isn't necessarily the best time to do this. We discuss the reasons behind this, with a few exceptions, below. For professional tree care in Mesa, AZ, contact Bassett Tree Service . Why Fall Pruning Can Be Harmful Pruning can disrupt the dormant phase that trees go through in the autumn. New growth, which is susceptible to harm from impending cold weather, can be stimulated by fresh cuts. Due to the lack of time for this growth to harden off before winter, the tree will be more vulnerable to stress and disease. Increased Risk of Disease Fall pruning may potentially expose trees to diseases. Open wounds on trees are easy prey for fungi and bacteria, which are more active in cooler, damp environments. In the fall, pruning wounds may take longer to heal and become more prone to infection. When Fall Pruning is Appropriate However, there are several exceptions. In general, light pruning in the fall to remove diseased, dead, or broken branches is harmless since it helps the tree concentrate on healthy growth. To prevent diseases like oak wilt, which can spread during warmer months, certain trees, such as elms and oaks, should also be trimmed in the late fall or early winter. Best Time for Major Pruning Prior to the onset of new growth, late winter or early spring is the ideal period for major tree pruning. This eliminates the possibility of disease or damage, allowing trees to recover swiftly when they resume their growth period. Tree Care in Mesa Our team of expert tree surgeons provides various tree services in Mesa and the surrounding area. With more than 15 years of experience, you can rely on Bassett Tree Service for all of your needs, whether commercial or residential. We encourage you to give our team of certified arborists a call at  480-745-2290  to chat about your tree questions or concerns, or to request an estimate for professional tree pruning, tree shaping, or other tree-cutting services in Mesa or throughout Maricopa County.

In Mesa, the sun is both a delight and a challenge. While it provides warmth and light, the relentless heat can be tough on trees. Proper care is essential to ensure your trees not only survive but thrive in this arid environment. We discuss key tips to help your trees withstand the harsh desert sun below. For professional tree care in Mesa, AZ, contact Bassett Tree Service . Choose Drought-Resistant Trees The first step in tree care is choosing the right trees for the climate. Opt for drought-resistant species like Mesquite, Palo Verde, or Ironwood. These trees are well-suited to Mesa's dry conditions and require less water than non-native species. Their deep roots and tough leaves help them withstand the scorching sun. Water Deeply and Infrequently Watering is crucial, but it’s all about the method. Shallow, frequent watering can lead to weak roots. Instead, water deeply and infrequently to encourage roots to grow deep into the soil, where they’re less affected by surface heat. A slow drip system or soaker hose is ideal for delivering water directly to the root zone. Mulch to Retain Moisture Mulching is a simple yet effective way to protect your trees from the sun. A thick layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce evaporation. To prevent rot, leave a few inches between the tree and mulch. Prune Wisely Pruning is necessary, but it should be done carefully, especially in Mesa’s hot climate. Prune during the cooler months to avoid stressing the tree. Remove dead or damaged branches, but avoid heavy pruning, as this can expose more of the tree to the sun, leading to sunburn on the bark. Protect from Sunburn Just like humans, trees can suffer from sunburn, particularly young trees with thin bark. To protect them, consider wrapping the trunk with a tree wrap or painting it with a white, water-based latex paint. This reflects sunlight and helps prevent the bark from cracking and peeling. Tree Care in Mesa Our team of expert tree surgeons provides various tree services in Mesa and the surrounding area. With more than 15 years of experience, you can rely on Bassett Tree Service for all of your needs, whether commercial or residential. We encourage you to give our team of certified arborists a call at  480-745-2290  to chat about your tree questions or concerns, or to request an estimate for professional tree pruning, tree shaping, or other tree-cutting services in Mesa or throughout Maricopa County.

Trees, much like us, can fall ill. When they do, they need proper care to restore their health. Recognizing the signs of a sick tree and knowing how to treat it can save your beloved greenery and keep your landscape looking lush and vibrant. Learn how to nurse your tree back to health with our tips below. When you need tree care services in Mesa, AZ, contact Bassett Tree Service . Recognize the Symptoms Identifying a sick tree is the first step. Look for these common symptoms: Discolored Leaves - Yellowing or browning leaves can signal various problems, from nutrient deficiencies to diseases. Wilting - Leaves and branches may droop or wilt if the tree is under stress. Fungal Growth - Mushrooms or other fungi at the base of the tree are signs of root rot. Unusual Bark Texture - Cracked, peeling, or discolored bark can indicate underlying issues. Dead Branches - If branches are dying off and falling, the tree may be in serious trouble. Diagnose the Problem Once you've identified the symptoms, diagnosing the problem is next. Common tree ailments include: Pests - Insects like beetles, aphids, and caterpillars can cause significant damage. Diseases - Fungal, bacterial, and viral infections can affect trees. Environmental Stress - Poor soil, drought, or excessive water can stress a tree. Treatment Options After diagnosing the issue, you can choose the appropriate treatment: Pruning - Remove infected or dead branches to prevent the spread of disease and pests. Watering - Ensure the tree gets enough water, but avoid overwatering. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture. Fertilizing - Provide the necessary nutrients to strengthen the tree’s immune system. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid shocking the tree. Pesticides - Apply pesticides if pests are the problem. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider organic options to protect the environment. Professional Help - If the tree is severely affected, it’s best to consult an arborist. They can diagnose and treat the tree more effectively. Tree Care in Mesa Our team of expert tree surgeons provides various tree services in Mesa and the surrounding area. With more than 15 years of experience, you can rely on Bassett Tree Service for all of your needs, whether commercial or residential. We encourage you to give our team of certified arborists a call at  480-745-2290  to chat about your tree questions or concerns, or to request an estimate for professional tree pruning, tree shaping, or other tree-cutting services in Mesa or throughout Maricopa County.

Tree cabling is a technique used to support weak branches and improve the structural integrity of trees. If your tree is otherwise healthy but is leaning or has heavy branches, this is an ideal alternative to removing it. If you're unsure whether your trees need cabling, we discuss some clear signs to look out for below. If you need tree cabling, contact Bassett Tree Service in Mesa, AZ, to do the job. Weak or V-Shaped Branch Unions Branches that grow in a V-shape are more prone to splitting than those with a U-shaped connection. If you notice V-shaped unions, cabling can help prevent potential breaks by providing extra support. Heavy or Overextended Limbs Limbs that extend far from the trunk and appear heavy or weighted down may need cabling. These branches are at a higher risk of breaking, especially during storms. Multiple Trunks or Co-Dominant Stems Trees with multiple trunks or co-dominant stems (two or more main stems of similar size) are susceptible to splitting. Cabling these trees can help ensure they grow safely and maintain their structural integrity. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk or Branches Visible cracks or splits in the trunk or major branches are serious indicators that your tree needs additional support. Cabling can prevent these weakened areas from worsening and potentially causing significant damage. Leaning Trees If a tree is leaning significantly, it may require cabling to prevent it from falling. While not all leaning trees need cabling, our professional arborists at Bassett Tree Service can determine whether it's necessary based on the degree of lean and overall health of the tree. Large, Heavy Canopy Trees with large, heavy canopies are more likely to experience branch failure. Cabling helps distribute the weight more evenly and reduces the chance of branches breaking. Previous Storm Damage Trees that have sustained damage from previous storms are often weakened and may need cabling to prevent further injury. This is particularly important for trees that have lost major limbs or have visible damage to the trunk. Presence of Decay or Disease Trees affected by decay or disease are weaker and more likely to fail. Cabling can provide necessary support to these compromised trees, helping to prolong their life and maintain safety on your property. Tree Cabling in Mesa At Bassett Tree Service, you can rely on our tree doctors for professional tree cabling, which is the practice of using heavy cables to support a tree or its branches. To find out if this is the right service for a tree on your residential or commercial property, don’t hesitate to call our helpful team of certified arborists at  480-745-2290  in Mesa, AZ.

Dealing with an ugly tree stump in your yard is inconvenient. Luckily, stump removal can be accomplished quickly and effectively using a variety of techniques. We discuss the easiest ways to help you get rid of those stubborn stumps below. If you have a pesky stump that needs to be ground or removed, contact Bassett Tree Service in Mesa, AZ, to take care of it. Stump Grinding Grinding down tree stumps is one of the simplest and most effective ways to remove them. Using a specialized stump grinder, the stump is mechanically ground into tiny wood chips. The grinder's rotating blade quickly grinds down the stump to below ground level. By reducing the stump's visible portion and grinding down the roots, stump grinding makes landscaping and replanting easier. Chemical Method Chemical removal is another fast method of stump removal. This technique expedites the stump's natural disintegration process by applying a specific chemical during stump removal. The chemicals soften and facilitate the removal of the wood by dissolving the cellulose and lignin. Although the chemical removal process is quick, the stump may take many weeks to decompose fully. Once the stump has fully decomposed, it can be removed, burned, or chopped. The stump can be removed with less effort if chemical removal is used, but care must be taken to apply chemicals carefully and effectively to avoid harming neighboring plants and wildlife. Digging by Hand Digging by hand takes longer than chemical or grinding removal. Throughout the digging process, the earth around the stump is physically excavated using shovels and other digging tools. Once the surrounding dirt and roots are visible, the stump can be pulled out of the ground and the roots can be chopped. Digging by hand offers complete control and causes the least amount of disturbance to the surrounding vegetation, but it can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, particularly for larger or deeply rooted stumps. Stump Grinding and Removal in Mesa A stump leftover from a fallen tree can be a trip hazard, a home to termites, an eyesore, disrupt land use plans, or all of the above. At Bassett Tree Service, we offer stump grinding and stump removal in Mesa, Phoenix, and the surrounding area using multiple tactics. Ultimately, we make the ground level, allowing you to use the area exactly how you wish. To request an estimate for the cost of stump removal, give our friendly team a call at  480-745-2290  .

Spring is here, and it's time to prepare your trees for the growing season. Proper tree care during this period can encourage healthy growth, improve the appearance of your landscape, and fix any issues that may have emerged during the winter months. Below, discuss some basic tree care suggestions to help you get your trees ready for spring. When you need tree maintenance services in Mesa, AZ, contact Bassett Tree Service . Start With a Clean-Up and Inspection Remove any debris around your trees' bases, such as fallen branches or leaves, to minimize moisture buildup and dissuade pests. Thoroughly assess your trees for signs of damage, disease, or pest infestations. Look for cracked or broken branches, discolored foliage, and odd growth patterns. Look for evidence of pest activity, such as gnaw marks or webs. Replenish Mulch Mulch retains soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, suppresses weed development, and improves soil health by decomposing organic matter. As spring comes, it’s important to replace mulch at the base of your trees to sustain these benefits and promote healthy development. Start by removing old or compacted mulch to improve air circulation and minimize moisture buildup, which can attract pests and cause root rot. To prevent moisture-related concerns, add a fresh layer of mulch, ensuring that it is evenly distributed and avoids direct contact with the tree stem. Fertilize Trees require critical nutrients to survive, and fertilization helps them reach their full potential. Fertilizer is best applied in the spring, when trees emerge from dormancy and begin to grow actively. Choose a slow-release fertilizer designed exclusively for trees and follow the application rates and time directions provided by the manufacturer. When fertilizing, sprinkle the fertilizer evenly along the tree's drip line, avoiding direct contact with the trunk to prevent harm. Plant New Trees Spring is a wonderful time to plant trees since the soil is usually moist and the temperatures are moderate, creating optimal circumstances for root formation and growth. Before planting, carefully select the appropriate tree species for your climate, soil type, and available area, taking into account mature size, growth rate, and desired aesthetic appeal. Choose a spot with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil, and prepare the planting hole to fit the tree's root ball. After planting, thoroughly water the tree and add a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Tree Maintenance in Mesa Our team of expert tree surgeons provides various tree services in Mesa and the surrounding area. With more than 15 years of experience, you can rely on Bassett Tree Service for all of your needs, whether commercial or residential. We encourage you to give our team of certified arborists a call at  480-745-2290  to chat about your tree questions or concerns, or to request an estimate for professional tree pruning, tree shaping, or other tree-cutting services in Mesa or throughout Maricopa County.

Palm trees add beauty and character to yards across Mesa. However, maintaining their health and appearance requires proper care, including regular trimming. Trimming palm trees at the right time promotes optimal growth. We discuss the best timing for palm tree trimming in Mesa below. When you need palm tree care in Mesa, AZ, or the surrounding areas, give the team at Bassett Tree Service a call. Wait Until the Frond Is Completely Brown Waiting until the palm frond has turned completely brown means the frond is no longer producing nutrients for the tree and is ready to be removed. Trimming too early, while the frond is still green, can deprive the palm of essential nutrients and weaken its overall health. Additionally, waiting until the frond is brown ensures that any wildlife, such as nesting birds or beneficial insects, has had the opportunity to vacate the frond safely. What Can Happen if You Trim a Palm Tree Too Soon? When a frond is trimmed prematurely while still green, it interrupts the tree's natural nutrient flow and growth process. This can weaken the tree's overall health and vitality, making it more susceptible to diseases, pests, and environmental stressors. It can also stunt the tree's growth because palm trees can only grow one frond at a time. Additionally, premature trimming may leave behind unsightly brown scars on the trunk, detracting from the tree's aesthetic appeal. Palm Tree Care in Mesa The certified arborists at Bassett Tree Service specialize in palm tree services in Mesa and the surrounding areas. Our local palm tree experts are highly skilled at caring for all species of palms, ensuring that they remain healthy year after year. Whether you need palm tree maintenance, palm tree removal, or other services for your palms, we can help. Give us a call at  480-745-2290  to learn more about our local tree company or to request an estimate for palm tree services near Phoenix.

When a tree is removed through stump grinding, a new tree can be planted in its place. Replanting after stump removal can be a difficult task that requires some planning. We'll look at the best ways to replant and rejuvenate your landscape after stump grinding below. If you have a pesky stump that still needs to be ground or removed, contact Bassett Tree Service in Mesa, AZ, to take care of it. Post-Stump Grinding Preparation Before planting anything, ensure that the area where your stump was ground is prepared and maintained. Begin by clearing any remaining debris and wood chips from the grinding operation, ensuring that the area is clean and well-aerated. Check the soil for compaction and correct it as needed, including organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Furthermore, assessing the soil's pH levels provides useful information for choosing the right tree species. Consider adding a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature, creating a more favorable environment for root development. When Should You Plant a Tree? We recommend waiting one to two months to allow the soil to stabilize and identify any potential sinking issues. Furthermore, choosing the appropriate planting season is critical; spring and fall are often the best times as they have milder temperatures and better conditions for root development. Planting Tips Choose a tree species that is compatible with your soil, temperature, and available space but is not the same species as the stump. Dig a hole that is wide but not too deep, allowing the roots to spread freely. Ensure proper watering throughout the early stages of growth, delivering adequate moisture without overwatering. Mulching the tree's base helps keep soil temperature and moisture levels stable. Stake the tree as needed, especially for taller kinds, to promote stability throughout the early phases of growth. Stump Grinding and Removal in Mesa A stump leftover from a fallen tree can be a trip hazard, a home to termites, an eyesore, disrupt land use plans, or all of the above. At Bassett Tree Service, we offer stump grinding and stump removal in Mesa, Phoenix, and the surrounding area using multiple tactics. Ultimately, we make the ground level, allowing you to use the area exactly how you wish. To request an estimate for the cost of stump removal, give our friendly team a call at  480-745-2290  .

When it comes to the trees on your property, there's a fine line between a picturesque landscape and a potential emergency. We explore the clear signs that indicate it's time for emergency tree removal below. Contact Bassett Tree Service in Mesa, AZ when you need emergency tree removal. Damaged Roots Damaged roots compromise the tree's stability and can lead to a hazardous situation. Soil erosion, construction activities, or disease can contribute to root damage, weakening the tree's foundation. A tree with compromised roots is more susceptible to toppling, especially during storms or high winds. Keep an eye out for exposed roots, soil heaving, or a noticeable lean in the tree, as these are indicators that the root system is in distress. The Tree is Leaning A leaning tree can indicate structural instability, potentially caused by compromised roots, disease, or adverse weather conditions. While some trees naturally lean, a sudden tilt or shift in an upright tree can be a cause for concern. This change in posture suggests that the tree may be at risk of falling, posing a potential threat to property and safety. Ignoring a leaning tree can lead to unexpected collapses, especially during storms or high winds. The Tree Has a lot of Dead Branches Dead branches pose a dual threat – they not only compromise the tree's structural integrity but also create a hazard as they can fall unexpectedly. This condition could result from disease, pest infestations, or environmental stress, and it weakens the overall health of the tree. As dead branches are more prone to breakage, the risk of them falling during storms or windy conditions increases. Emergency Tree Removal in Mesa At Bassett Tree Service, our team prioritizes emergencies to ensure our community remains safe. If a tree has suddenly begun to lean dangerously following a storm or if a tree has already fallen on your property, we can remove it quickly. If a tree has caused damage to your home, business, or other property, we can work with insurance to properly remove it without causing additional issues for the structure. Call us immediately at  480-745-2290  if you need emergency tree removal in Mesa or the surrounding Arizona communities.