Category Archives: Tree Service Springfield MO

Spring Tree Planting Selection and Placement

Professional Tree Planting in Springfield, MO & Nearby Areas

When Punxsutawney Phil predicts six more weeks of winter, spring tree planting isn’t usually at the forefront of many homeowners’ minds. However, a thriving, robust landscape takes considerable thought, planning, and execution that shouldn’t be put off until the last minute. So, if you’re thinking about giving your curb appeal a boost, it’s crucial to start thinking ahead. But you don’t have to do it alone.

All About Trees is Springfield, MO’s premiere partner in all things trees and plants. With years of industry experience and a team of certified arborists, we help homeowners just like you create the outdoor space of their dreams. When it comes to planting trees, we’ll guide you every step of the way, from species selection to securing your yard’s new additions firmly in the ground. Plus, we offer ongoing support with pruning services and additional solutions to preserve and prolong the life of your trees.

Contact us today if you want to plant trees that make your landscape stand out! Now let’s get into what factors into our tree planting services.

Tree Selection and Placement

When selecting a tree for planting, many important considerations come into play, such as the tree’s intended function, location, common pests, geographic regions, hardiness zones, and more. Below are some factors our arborists will take into account to get a better idea of the vision you have for your lawn. This will allow us to make personalized recommendations and formulate the best strategy to get your trees planted.

What purpose will the tree serve in your yard? Is it for shade, privacy, aesthetics, or another function?
Which tree size—small, medium, or large—will best fit the designated space? Are there any overhead or underground utilities that could affect the growth of a large tree or even the viability of planting a tree at all? How much clearance will be required from sidewalks, patios, or driveways?
What is the quality and condition of the soil in the chosen location? Is there enough high-quality soil to support a tree’s healthy growth as it matures?
What ongoing maintenance will the tree need, and who will take on this responsibility? For instance, will the tree receive regular watering, fertilization, and pruning after planting?

Tree Function

Planting the right trees can provide a wide range of benefits for your property and the surrounding environment. Large, mature trees are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they can also increase the value of your home.

Deciduous shade trees, for example, offer cooling relief in the summer by blocking the sun’s rays, while allowing the warming winter sunlight to filter through after their leaves have fallen. On the other hand, evergreen trees with persistent foliage can act as a windbreak or provide year-round privacy screening.

For a touch of seasonal color and visual interest, ornamental trees with showy flowers, vibrant leaves, or attractive bark can be a stunning addition. And for the more practically-minded, fruit-bearing trees and shrubs can supply fresh produce for you and local wildlife.

When it comes to trees that line your street, the benefits extend beyond just the individual property. These urban plants help reduce glare from pavement, absorb stormwater runoff, filter air pollutants, and replenish oxygen – all of which contribute to a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing neighborhood. By carefully selecting the right trees for your needs, you can maximize the visual appeal and functional value they provide.

Form and Size

A basic principle of modern architecture is “form follows function.” Selecting the right form (shape) to complement the desired function (what you want the tree to do) can significantly reduce maintenance costs and increase the tree’s value in the landscape. In addition, mature tree size determines the level of benefits received. Larger trees typically provide the greatest economic and environmental returns.

For example, a low, spreading tree may be the ideal choice for planting under overhead utility lines, as its compact shape will avoid conflicts with the wires overhead. On the other hand, a narrow, columnar evergreen could be perfect for creating a living screen between two buildings. And for areas where you want to create an impressive focal point, such as over a driveway or city street, a large, vase-shaped deciduous tree can make a bold architectural statement while providing valuable shade.

With hundreds of potential form and size combinations available, you have the flexibility to find the right tree for any site restrictions or design goals.

Site Conditions

Selecting a tree that will thrive in a given set of site conditions is the key to long-term tree survival and reduced maintenance. We consider the following when selecting a tree:

soil conditions
exposure (sun and wind)
drainage
space constraints
hardiness zone
human activity
insect and disease susceptibility

Soil Conditions

In dense urban areas and new subdivisions, soil is often disturbed, shallow, compacted, and subject to drought. Most trees will suffer in these conditions without additional care. An arborist can take soil samples from your yard to test for texture, fertility, salinity, and pH (alkalinity or acidity). These tests can be used to determine which trees are suited for your property and may include recommendations for improving poor soil conditions.

Exposure

The amount of sunlight available will also affect tree and shrub species selection for a particular location. Most woody plants require full sunlight for proper growth and flowering. Some do well in, or even prefer light shade; however, few species perform well in dense shade. Wind exposure is also a consideration. Wind can dry out soils, damage tree crowns, and uproot newly planted trees. Special maintenance, such as staking or more frequent watering, may be necessary to establish young trees on windy sites.

Drainage

Tree roots require oxygen to develop and thrive. Poor drainage limits oxygen availability to the roots and may ultimately kill the tree. If drainage is an issue on your property, ask a local arborist about what can be done to correct the problem.

Hardiness

Hardiness is the plant’s ability to survive in the extreme temperatures of the particular geographic region in which you are planting the tree. Plants can be cold, hardy, heat tolerant, or both. We use tools like maps of hardiness zone ranges to check hardiness information for your specific region.

Space Constraints

Many different factors can limit the planting space available to the tree: overhead or underground utilities, pavement, buildings, other trees, and visibility. The list goes on and on. We make sure there is adequate room for the tree you select to grow to maturity, both above and below ground.

Human Activity

Often an overlooked aspect of tree selection, the reality is that the top five causes of tree death result from things people do. Soil compaction, underwatering, overwatering, vandalism, and the number one cause — planting the wrong tree — account for more tree deaths than all insect- and disease-related tree deaths combined.

Pest Problems

Every plant has its particular pest problems, and the severity varies geographically. These pests may or may not be life-threatening to the plant, but selecting trees resistant to pest problems specific to your area is the best choice.

Species Selection

Personal preferences and site constraints play major roles in the selection process. Taking into consideration the factors listed above, we ensure the tree you plant grows and functions as desired. Remember, the beautiful, mature specimen trees you see in historic neighborhoods and in landscape photography would never have reached their full potential if planted in improperly matched sites.

Popular Tree Species Among Springfield, MO Homeowners

Homeowners in the Springfield, MO, region often choose tree species that thrive in the area’s unique climate and soil conditions while adding beauty and shade to their landscapes. Popular selections include the majestic oak, valued for its sprawling branches and durability. Maple trees, especially the Red Maple, are also widely planted for their vibrant autumn colors that bring a splash of red and orange to neighborhoods in the fall.

Dogwoods are another favorite, known for their delicate spring blooms and moderate size, making them suitable for yards of various sizes. The Eastern Redbud stands out with its striking pink flowers in early spring, providing homeowners with an eye-catching display. Finally, native varieties like the Bald Cypress and Black Gum offer added resilience and beauty while also supporting local wildlife.

These trees not only enhance curb appeal but also add a natural charm to outdoor spaces around Springfield and surrounding areas.

What the Tree Planting Process Looks Like

Our tree planting process is crafted to give every tree the best chance to thrive in its new environment. From selecting the ideal location to providing essential care, we handle each step with the attention trees need to grow strong and healthy. Every planting site and tree species receive a personalized approach to ensure the successful establishment, enriching your landscape for years to come.

Below are the steps we take to get your new tree planted properly:

Site Assessment: We begin by evaluating the planting area, considering factors like soil quality, sun exposure, and space. This ensures the selected tree species will have optimal conditions for growth.
Tree Selection: Based on the site assessment, we choose a tree species that aligns with the landscape’s characteristics, climate, and aesthetic goals, promoting resilience and longevity.
Soil Preparation: We prepare the soil by loosening it, adding essential nutrients if necessary, and making sure it’s well-drained to give the new tree a strong foundation.
Tree Planting: The tree is carefully positioned at the correct depth and orientation, allowing roots to expand naturally. We take care to pack the soil firmly around the base, reducing air pockets and ensuring stability.
Watering and Mulching: After planting, we give the tree a deep watering to settle the soil, then add a protective layer of mulch. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Staking (If Needed): For young or top-heavy trees, we install stakes to provide support while the roots establish themselves, preventing damage from wind and other elements.
Post-Planting Care and Follow-Up: We provide guidance on aftercare, including watering schedules and maintenance tips, and follow up to ensure the tree is adapting well to its new environment.

Post-Planting Shrub Care & Tree Services We Also Offer

Our tree and plant health care services are designed to keep your landscape fresh and thriving, covering everything from shaping to safety. Our tree pruning solutions are like a health boost for your trees, helping them grow stronger and stay resilient against the elements. For trees that need a bit of extra support, our tree cabling and bracing techniques offer hidden strength, keeping branches stable and secure. And when a tree’s time is up, or it’s creating risks, we handle tree removals with expert care, while our stump grinding ensures a clean, polished finish—no awkward stumps left behind. Whether it’s growth or goodbye, we’ve got your greenery covered.

Schedule Your Tree Planting Service in Springfield Today!

Have you been on the hunt for stand-out plant health care and tree service in Springfield, MO? Your search ends with All About Trees. When you hire us to plant some new trees in your yard, we do an excellent job making sure everything is in peak condition, from the root system to the top of the canopy. So contact us today for help finding the best species for your vision and landscape!

Tree Planting FAQs

How long does a tree planting service take?

Tree planting generally doesn’t take long, but the exact time can vary based on the tree and the site. We make sure the process is thorough, giving the tree a solid foundation for growth.

Why should I hire an arborist to plant a tree rather than do it myself?

Hiring an arborist ensures your tree is planted in the best possible location and at the proper depth, which is crucial for long-term health. Arborists also assess soil quality, choose the right species for your landscape, and handle any challenges like pests or poor drainage—giving your tree a strong start.

What is the usual growing season for trees in Springfield, MO?

In Springfield, most trees grow actively from early spring through late summer. Planting in early spring or fall is ideal, as moderate temperatures and rainfall give young trees the best conditions to establish roots.

How can you prevent erosion in a newly planted tree?

We protect against erosion by using mulch to stabilize the soil, retain moisture, and prevent runoff. In sloped areas, we might also add support like erosion mats or barriers to keep soil in place while the tree takes root.

What are some indicators of tree health I should watch for?

Signs of a healthy tree include bright green leaves, steady growth, and a stable trunk. Watch out for yellowing or wilting leaves, dead branches, or any unusual spots on the bark. These can be early signs of stress or disease, and catching them early helps keep your tree strong.

©2011 (1998, 2004) International Society of Arboriculture. Developed by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), a non-profit organization supporting tree care research around the world and dedicated to the care and preservation of shade and ornamental trees. For further information, contact: ISA, P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826-3129, USA. E-mail inquiries: isa@isa-arbor.com

Wood Recycling – Springfield, MO

Wood Recycling in Springfield MO

Wood is one of the most valuable recyclable materials because it can be transformed into a wide variety of secondary products. All About Trees has a 100% recycle policy on our wood waste from tree removal and tree trimming. We are happy to give away our wood chips to people who can use them, if they have a convenient place to dump a truck full of them. Many of our chips are donated and used in the local tree nurseries.

Many tree services dump their wood and brush into a pile and burn it to dispose of it. At All About Trees, our logs and brush from tree pruning and tree removals are hauled to a site where they are ground into mulch or compost.

This practice costs more in transportation and disposal fees, but we feel the satisfaction of knowing that our wood waste will continue to be used in a practical and environmentally friendly way, and will eventually break down into biological matter.

Recently, we started an exciting new way to recycle wood. We cut down a bunch of old Oak trees and used our new mill to turn those Oak logs into something useful. When we got done we left our customers with a large pile of freshly milled Oak lumber.

Reuse and Recycle!

Structural Pruning Young Trees

Structural pruning is a type of pruning typically performed on young to middle-aged trees. The objective is to create a strong and healthy structure so that trees are sturdier under wind and less prone to failures. Structural pruning helps trees live full and useful lives.

https://www.facebook.com/allabouttreesmo/videos/10154517304268509/

Earlier this week, Noel lead a crew at Drury University and decided to use the job site as a chance to teach us all some tree knowledge and give us a view from the sky! Thank you, Noel!

As you can see in the video above, the crew’s work for the day consisted of hazard pruning some big older trees and structural pruning some younger trees. Jacob, one of our arborists, climbed a Maple tree to reduce co-dominate leads. He also worked out a Willow Oak. The Willow Oak had 3 leads competing for the top. Structural pruning helps eliminate this issue. Noel climbed a Willow Oak as well. He structurally pruned the tree to create one dominant leader. There used to be 6 leads! In order to make the remaining lead boss, Noel reduced the other 5 leads. These co-dominate issues should have been taken care of years ago. Noel also climbed an old Sweet Gum tree that was encroaching into the Willow Oak. The goal was to make a little more room for the next generation of trees.

There are three basic steps to developing and maintaining a dominant leader. The first step is to identify the stem that will make the best dominant trunk. It should be in the center of the crown, and free of cracks, openings, mechanical damage, large pruning wounds, cankers, or other defects that could compromise its strength. The second step is to identify the stems and branches that are competing with this stem. The last step is to remove competing stems and branches back to the trunk, or subordinate by shortening them with a reduction cut. Be sure to remove branches that are clustered together and growing from the same point on the trunk. Ideally, only one large branch grows from one position on the trunk.

Our arborists have years of experience and can help determine if any of your young trees need structural pruning. Call us at (417)863-6214 for a free estimate!

NEVER Pre-Pay for Tree Work!

NEVER pre-pay for tree work of any kind! I just can’t believe that this is the 4th or 5th story to make the news this year on people getting ripped off by fly-by-night tree service companies in Springfield. At All About Trees, we strongly recommend to never pre-pay for tree work. With nearly all of our jobs, we require payment upon completion of the work. Be wary of any tree care company that requires pre-payment.

Click here to read an example:
http://www.ky3.com/content/news/Cut-and-Run-Tree-trim-service-leaves-Springfield-homeowners-with-brush-piles-407674365.html

Why Hire an Arborist:
An arborist is an individual trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care. Hiring a tree doctor is a decision that should not be taken lightly.

Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well-cared-for trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability, as they are prone to breakage, disease, and failure. This can lead to significant property damage in the event of a storm. Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Tree work should be done only by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees!

We have two ISA Board Certified Master Arborists, as well as seven Certified Arborists. We will be able to get your tree work done safely and efficiently, to improve the quality of your yard.

To view a full list of our services, please go to https://allabouttrees.com/tree-services-tree-trimmers-springfield-mo/

If you would like to schedule an estimate, please give the office a call at 417-863-6214. If you miss us, please leave us a detailed voicemail message with your name, address, phone number, email, and tree concerns. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

Bradford Pear Removal

Field of invasive Bradford pears

When people ask me what to do about their overgrown Bradford pears, I always say, “Cut it down and put a better tree here!”. Here are some of the reasons why:

https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/life/2016/12/12/bradford-pear-next-worst-thing-since-kudzu/95344290/http://www.wcnc.com/news/local/regional/bradford-pear-the-next-worst-thing-since-kudzu/37045711

Bradford pears, also called Callery pears, are an invasive species within the United States. They were introduced from China and Vietnam in 1964 as a fast-growing ornamental species. Due to this, they were quickly adopted by landscapers and gardeners. However, what they did not know at the time is that Bradford pears are incredibly invasive. After decades of widespread planting of this tree, we are still feeling the effects. The pears strangle out native trees and plant life, which is devastating to the ecosystem.

This is why we recommend removal of Bradford pear trees if at all possible.

If you would like to know more about our tree removal services, click here.

All About Trees is a locally owned, full-service tree care company in Springfield MO serving a 20-mile radius around the Springfield area. We offer many services, including tree pruning and trimming, tree removal, planting, stump grinding, cabling and bracing, shrub trimming, and consultation. All About Trees is caring for Springfield’s urban forest, one tree at a time.

Phone:
417-863-6214
Hours
Mon – Fri: 8am – 4pm

Selecting Native Trees for Missouri

Many homeowners are discovering the benefits of planting native trees and plants. Native plants include all kinds of plants from mosses and ferns to wildflowers, shrubs, and trees. Native plants occur naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, or habitat without direct or indirect human intervention. Restoring native plant habitat is vital to preserving biodiversity. There are also many other reasons to embrace the use of Missouri’s wonderful native plants.

A Few Examples of Native Plant Benefits:

Supports native animals: birds, bats, possums, bees and snails and other wildlife!
Improves water quality.
Prevents soil erosion.
Provides clean fresh air.
Secures our food resources: around one-third of our food comes from plants that rely on native pollinators such as insects!
Native plants are adapted to local environmental conditions, they require far less water, saving time, money, and perhaps the most valuable natural resource, water.

Local native plants have adapted over a long period of time to the specific conditions here in Missouri. They are best adapted to grow in these local conditions and will be more likely to thrive than plants from a different region.

Native Trees for Missouri Landscapes:

Red Cedar
Short-leaf Pine
Boxelder
Red Maple
Silver Maple
Sugar Maple
Ohio Buckeye
Pawpaw
River Birch
American Hornbeam
Hardy Pecan
Shellbark Hickory
American Chestnut
Catalpa
Sugarberry
Hackberry
Fringe Tree
Yellowwood
Flowering Dogwood
Cockspur Thorn
Washington Hawthorn
Green Hawthorn
Persimmon
Honey Locust
Kentucky Coffee Tree
Black Walnut
Sweet Gum
Tulip Tree
Osage Orange
Cucumber Magnolia Tree
Red Mulberry
Black Gum
Eastern Hop Hornbeam
American Sycamore
Eastern Cottonwood
Wild Plum
Black Cherry
White Oak
Swamp White Oak
Shingle Oak
Bur Oak
Pin Oak
Willow Oak
Red Oak
Post Oak
Black Locust
Sassafras
Bald Cypress
American Linden
American Elm

For more information on native trees visit www.missouribotanicalgarden.org or www.grownative.org

All About Trees is caring for Springfield’s urban forest, one tree at a time.

Tree Planting – How To Care For Your New Tree

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR NEW TREE:

Water the tree, slowly, and deeply. It’s best to let water trickle very slowly onto the tree roots, so it doesn’t create a puddle. Let a hose drip at the lowest setting for an hour, or use a 5-gallon bucket with small nail holes in the bottom. Make sure the soil is moist, but not saturated. Once a week is plenty in the winter, but you may have to water more in the summer or periods of drought.
Keep the tree pit or tree lawn tidy. Ongoing: remove weeds, grass, and debris from the base of the tree. Annually: Gently loosen the soil to allow more water and oxygen to penetrate through the top three inches of soil. This is where most of the tree’s root hairs are and how the tree absorbs water and nutrients.
Mulch your tree. Newly planted trees need to be mulched. If it washes or blows away, add mulch. Cover the tree planting area with a couple inches of mulch, as wide as the outer dripline, if possible. Remember not to pile mulch against the trunk; expose the trunk root flare. This prevents moisture and insects from accumulating around the bark.
Keep dogs and cats from relieving themselves in the tree pit, if possible. Dog and cat urine and feces are very alkaline and can harm roots.
DON’T feed your newly planted tree or fertilize during a drought. Forcing a water-stressed tree to grow will only cause further stress. Also, granular chemical fertilizer is a salt that could dehydrate the tree.
DON’T prune heavily except to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Removing more than one third of healthy branches will substantially weaken the tree. Never “top” your tree!
Protect the tree. You may want to install tree pit guards, bollards, or other obstacles to keep your tree from being damaged by car doors, bicycles, dogs, etc. Trunk wounds can invite disease and weaken the tree.

Now that you know how to care for your new tree, you’ll be able to enjoy your tree for years to come! If you are having difficulty with your new tree, please give us a call at 417-863-6214 to set up an estimate. We would be more than happy to help you take proper care of your trees! We are a tree service, after all. To view a full list of our services, please visit https://allabouttrees.com/tree-services-tree-trimmers-springfield-mo/

For even more information on how to care for your new tree, please visit https://www.arborday.org/trees/tips/

Our Most Valuable Asset

We were recently asked what our most valuable asset is as a tree service company. This was meant to be a trick question. Our mind first went to our physical assets: trucks and equipment. But we knew that wasn’t the right answer. Our next thought was our reputation, that we have worked hard and fought for, for so many years. But that wasn’t the right answer, either.

The biggest asset in our tree service company, and many other successful companies, is our people. Our team. Our work family.

We are proud to have nine Certified Arborists in our company. Men and women who love trees and really care about making the best decisions for our customers’ trees. We are proud to spend many of our weekends together as a work family, going to tree climbing competitions, or just hanging out at the river.

When All About Trees is caring for your part of Springfield’s urban forest, we hope you will take the time to meet our most valuable asset.

To view a list of our certified arborists on staff, please visit https://allabouttrees.com/about-arborist-springfield-mo/certified-arborists-springfield-mo/

Leave us a review! http://goo.gl/9trWh6

To schedule an estimate, please give the office a call at 417-863-6214. If you miss us, please leave us a detailed voicemail message with your name, address, phone number, email, and tree concerns. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

Avoid Removing Healthy Trees

One of the most frustrating things that we see in the tree business is when we hear about trees that have been declared “rotten” by someone who does not know what they are talking about. Even worse is when it is proclaimed to be a hazard by a tree removal guy with a vested interest in selling a job. Removing healthy trees does a disservice to your yard and your pocketbook.

We’ve seen our competitors cut down some of the nicest young pin oaks in the area. Pin oaks often develop with very round canopies, sort of an “O” shape, although they should be more of an upright “A” shape for most of their life. We’ve seen trees with a strong central leader, or main trunk, with branches that were clearly branches, as opposed to multiple competing scaffolds and stems just as large as the main trunk. Trees that were 70 feet tall with a two foot thick trunk with a very pronounced flare at the interface between the ground and the tree. In other words, trees that are very nicely structured and very healthy.

To make matters worse, the companies that are removing these perfectly healthy trees are nowhere near compliant with current safety standards. Even the most basic things like wearing hard hats. One time, we finally decided to stop by after the fact to ask the homeowner about their former tree. And we found out that their landscaper and the tree guy they recommended declared the tree to be possibly rotten, because one of them saw an ant walking around on the tree last year. The mere presence of an ant is in no way indicative of a rotten tree. Also, the tree owner liked the tree. She almost called them to cancel the job the night before. It’s too bad she didn’t. The trunk was perfectly sound. No decay, or rot to be seen.

It’s OK though, the job was done really cheap. Although it was still money that the homeowner would probably had rather kept.

The moral to the story is that it pays in so many ways to call a consulting arborist before having work done on your tree. In this case the savings would have amounted to hundreds of dollars and the tree could have been preserved.

Real Customer Service at All About Trees

Where has the customer service gone in tree service nowadays?

Watch the video below on our customer service abilities.

We have noticed a common theme when we have answered the phones in our office. In today’s world of technology and instant email responses, we have found that customers are excited to actually talk to real people. Not just a computer or voicemail system.

Now we are a busy company and sometimes both of the lines in our office are busy, but the difference with our company is that if you leave us a voicemail, you’ll actually hear back from us in a timely manner. And, in addition, you will always be greeted with a friendly voice. That is real customer service.

Our tree service company looks forward to talking to you about your trees and will schedule one of our real live certified arborists to come and meet with you face to face. You can view a list of our certified arborists at the following page: https://allabouttrees.com/about-arborist-springfield-mo/certified-arborists-springfield-mo/

However, All About Trees is flexible. If you want someone to swing by and look at your trees and email you an estimate, we can do that. We can even print you a physical copy of your estimate in our truck if you wish. If you want us to make recommendations for the most appropriate plan of action for your trees, we would love to do that.

Let All About Trees show you our brand of great service as we care for Springfield’s Urban Forest, one tree at a time.