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At Expert Tree Service, we understand the importance of maintaining your trees while ensuring the safety and reliability of your electric service. If you’re a Central Hudson customer, you may be aware that they offer their own tree trimming and removal services for trees that threaten electric service. In this blog post, we’re going to go over the services that Central Hudson offers and how to decide whether to contact them, or to hire us for your tree trimming needs.

Central Hudson’s Vegetation Management Program

Central Hudson offers what’s called a “vegetation management program” throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley. They practice what’s known as directional pruning, which involves cutting branches where they join another branch or the trunk. This method maintains a natural appearance and reduces the risk of disease, fungus, or insect infestation.

This style of pruning is used to keep lines clear along:

• Local Roadways: Central Hudson performs routine line clearance along local roadways, ensuring a 10-foot clearance from power lines, removing overhanging limbs, and clearing undergrowth. This is crucial for maintaining system reliability, especially during winter when snow and ice can cause branches to interfere with lines.
• Transmission Corridors: For transmission corridors, Central Hudson’s Long Range Vegetation Management Plan mandates the removal of all non-compatible, tall-growing tree species within easements and the removal of hazardous trees outside the easements, with property owner permission.

When to Contact Central Hudson vs. Expert Tree Service

While Central Hudson provides essential services to protect electric lines, there are situations where hiring Expert Tree Service may be more beneficial:

1. Trees Not Threatening Power Lines: If your trees are not near power lines but need trimming or removal for health, safety, or aesthetic reasons, we can help. We offer comprehensive tree care services tailored to your needs.
2. Service Wire Clearing: Service wires are the wires that connect from the utility pole to your home. Central Hudson does NOT offer tree trimming related to these wires. However, we can coordinate with Central Hudson to safely disconnect and reconnect power lines during the tree trimming or removal process.
3. Regular Maintenance and Health: Regular trimming for tree health and maintenance is outside the scope of Central Hudson’s services. Our certified arborists can assess and care for your trees, ensuring they remain healthy and beautiful even if they’re along a local roadway.
4. Storm Debris Removal: After a storm, while Central Hudson will clear trees to restore power, but they do not remove debris.

Why Choose Expert Tree Service?

Understanding the tree removal services offered by Central Hudson can help you make informed decisions about tree care on your property. While Central Hudson focuses on maintaining electric service reliability, Expert Tree Service is here for all your other tree care needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experts help keep your trees healthy and your property safe.

As a tree services company that removes, trims and otherwise maintains trees in the Mid-Hudson Valley and Catskills region, we are deeply familiar with all of the common concerns and nuances about different kinds of trees in our area. One resource for studying this are tree inventories, which are professional surveys done by municipalities to tally up and plan for all of the trees that they have on public property and along streets and sidewalks.

In 2021, the Town of Pawling in Dutchess County received a $25,900 grant from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to conduct their own tree inventory. Below we have compiled the list, along with some tips about each kind of tree.

Whether you live in the Town of Pawling, Dutchess County, or anywhere in the region, and you need tree services, give us a call at 845-331-6782! We can go over all of the options for saving, maintaining or removing your tree, safely and soundly. On to the list:

1. Norway Spruce (Picea Abies) – 250 Trees

Norway Spruce needs to be planted in well-drained soil with full sunlight and ample space to grow, as these trees can reach heights of up to 60 feet with a spread of 25-30 feet. Regular watering is crucial for newly planted trees during the first two years, while mature trees generally thrive on natural rainfall but may need extra watering during extended dry spells. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, extending to the drip line, helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition. Pruning should be done to remove dead or diseased branches in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, avoiding heavy pruning to prevent tree stress. Although frequent fertilization is not typically necessary, a balanced fertilizer in early spring can aid slow-growing trees or those showing nutrient deficiency. Regular inspection for pests such as spruce spider mites and aphids, and treatment with appropriate insecticides or horticultural oils if detected, is essential

2. Norway Maple (Acer Platanoides) – 206 Trees

This species is adaptable but prefers loamy soils. Water newly planted trees regularly during the first couple of years to establish a strong root system; mature trees typically require less frequent watering unless there is an extended drought. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches and to maintain a desirable shape, but avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the tree. Norway Maples are prone to pests like aphids and diseases such as tar spot and anthracnose; regular inspection and appropriate treatments are important for maintaining tree health. Fertilizing in early spring with a balanced fertilizer can promote healthy growth, particularly if the soil is nutrient-poor.

3. Sugar Maple (Acer Saccharum) – 133 Trees

Plant Sugar Maples in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with full sun to partial shade. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, and annual mulching can help maintain soil moisture and health. Prune in late winter to remove dead or diseased branches and promote a strong structure, and monitor for pests like the Asian longhorned beetle and diseases like tar spot.

4. Black Cherry (Prunus Serotina) – 92 Trees

Black cherry trees love well-drained soil with full sun for optimal growth. Regularly water young trees and mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce weed competition. Prune in late winter to remove dead or diseased branches, and watch for common pests like tent caterpillars and diseases like black knot.

5. Black Locust (Robinia Pseudoacacia) – 74 Trees

These trees enjoy well-drained soil with full sun. Regularly water young trees until established, then reduce frequency as they are drought-tolerant. Prune in late winter to remove dead or damaged branches, and keep an eye out for pests like locust borers and diseases such as leaf spot.

6. Red Maple (Acer Rubrum) – 72 Trees

Red maples are adaptable to different site conditions in moist, well-drained soil, with anything ranging from full sun to partial shade. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry periods, to maintain healthy growth and vibrant fall foliage. Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak branches, and watch for pests like aphids and diseases such as verticillium wilt.

7. Ash (Fraxinus) – 54 Trees

Ensure that ash trees are planted in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Regularly monitor for signs of the emerald ash borer, a prevalent pest that can severely damage these trees. To help maintain their health, water deeply during dry spells and prune during the dormant season to remove any dead or diseased branches.

8. Red Oak (Quercus Rubra) – 52 Trees

Plant red oaks in well-drained soil and provide full sun exposure. Water them deeply, especially during dry spells, to help them establish a strong root system. Regularly inspect for signs of pests like oak wilt and prune dead or diseased branches during the dormant season to maintain tree health and structure.

9. Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus Virginiana) – 38 Trees

These trees thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sunlight, so it’s crucial to plant them in locations that meet these requirements. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape, promotes air circulation, and reduces the risk of common diseases. Additionally, applying a layer of mulch around the base of the trees annually not only helps retain moisture but also protects them from harsh winter conditions and potential pests.

10. Black Birch (Betula Lenta) – 36 Trees

Black Birch typically thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers partial shade to full sun.

One of the top questions that we get as a tree services company in the Hudson Valley is about cutting a tree down vs. trimming it. It may be tempting to defer maintenance on trees and save money, and only remove a tree when it is clearly dying.

But the truth is, the death of a tree is NOT inevitable. You can greatly extend the life of your trees by hiring tree experts to strategically trim them.

If you want to discuss trimming your tree and you live in Ulster County, Dutchess County, Columbia County or Greene County in New York State, give us a call at 845-331-6782!

Here are some of the ways that getting your tree trimmed can help extend the life of your tree and the safety of you, your loved ones, and your property:

1. A Neglected Tree Can Damage Property, Hurt People and Worse

It’s understandable that many homeowners would like their trees to remain up as long as possible. But when a tree is suffering from disease, invasive species, or hidden damage from storms and aging, it can be a ticking timebomb. At some random moment, a large branch could fall down, or the tree could tip over when the wind hits it just the right way. A little maintenance can go a long way toward preventing nightmare scenarios from happening.

2. Maintenance Promotes Healthy Growth

Tree trimming services involve removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Doing so will prevent decay-producing fungi from penetrating and infecting other areas of the tree. By eliminating these problematic branches, you can encourage healthy growth and improve the tree’s overall structure.

3. Trimming Can Improve Circulation and Sunlight Exposure

It’s also important to allow air and sunlight to get through the tree’s canopy. This will help protect the tree from fungal infections and will help dry out leaves and branches quicker after rain, which will reduce the likelihood of disease.

4. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

Just like a haircut, a trimmed tree can add beauty to your property. Shaping the tree properly will ensure that it grows in a way that can add value to your property and complement your outdoor space.

5. Damage Repair

If we trim your tree, we will remove damaged branches that are at risk of falling.

Tree trimming is not just about aesthetics; it’s a vital practice for maintaining the health and safety of your trees. Regular trimming can prevent disease, promote healthy growth, and keep your property safe. If you’re unsure about how to trim your trees properly, or if you have a tree that seems to be struggling, contact us today at 845-331-6782.

At Expert Tree Service, we often hear from customers who are considering removing trees near their pools. When there are trees looming over your pool, they can cast unwanted shade, drop leaves that you have to constantly remove, and even pose serious safety hazards. If so, it’s time to consider the numerous benefits of tree removal near your pool.

This has comes up a lot for us as a tree removal company in the Hudson Valley and Catskills region. According to publicly available data, there are many pools around here:

Safety is always a top priority when it comes to tree trimming and removal. Branches hanging over your pool or deck area can become a hazard, especially during and after storms or high winds. Limbs can and will break and fall unexpectedly, possibly causing damage to your pool, surrounding structures, or worse, endangering you and your family. Removing trees close to your pool helps reduce these risks, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

Trees near your pool can also create a lot of extra maintenance and cleaning that you have to do. Leaves, twigs, and other debris will constantly fall into the water, leading to clogged filters and skimmers. You will be constantly skimming leaves off of the water’s surface. By removing or trimming trees around the pool, you significantly reduce the amount of debris entering your pool, making maintenance a breeze.

Trees can also impact the temperature of your pool and its surrounding area. While shade may offer relief from the scorching sun, excessive shading can lower water temperatures, making swimming uncomfortable, especially during cooler months. By strategically removing trees, you can optimize sunlight exposure, ensuring your pool remains inviting and enjoyable throughout the swimming season.

Aesthetics also play a crucial role in poolside enjoyment. Overgrown or unsightly trees may clash with the look that you’re trying to maintain in your backyard.

Finally, tree roots can pose a hidden but deadly threat to your pool’s infrastructure. As your trees grow, the roots can extend far beyond their canopy, further than you can see. They can infiltrate underground pipes, causing damage to your pool’s foundation or plumbing system. By removing trees in close proximity to your pool, you safeguard against costly repairs and ensure the longevity of your investment.

Gypsy moths, also known as spongy moths, have broken out in the Hudson Valley and Catskills region nearly every summer in the recent past.

If you’ve gone hiking or even looked around your yard in the last month or so, they’re almost impossible to miss. The most prominent sign of them are fine silken threads in the air or on tree and plant surfaces. Beyond that, you may see dark, brown fuzzy caterpillars hanging on or off of trees, feeding on leaves. In wooded areas, you may be serenaded by a pitter-patter sound, similar to rainfall, except it’s the sound of caterpillar feces hitting the ground. Soon, they’ll turn into swarms of moths, and in July and August, we’ll see dark brown egg masses laid on tree trunks and other outdoor surfaces, seeding next year’s moth outbreak.

Recent posts on the /r/HudsonValley subreddit about gypsy moths include:

“What are these disgusting little caterpillars that popped up overnight?”

“Finally figured out what the rain sound is in the woods on a dry day!”

“What are these massive things on a tree?”

“How do I get rid of spongy moths when they emerge out of their cocoons?”

Caterpillars and moths aren’t necessarily a bad thing, but when the gypsy or spongy moth are especially prominent every several years, due to warm and mild winters, they can be devastating to trees. They feed on leaves, causing “defoliation.” While many trees can regrow their leaves after a defoliation, if it happens too often, it can be a death blow to trees that are fighting off disease or drought. Conifer trees like hemlock, pine, spruce and southern white cedar are especially vulnerable.

If Google Trends are any indication, this could be a historically bad year for gypsy moths in New York State, especially on the heels of a few years of other outbreaks:

What can you do to protect your trees?

Some things that you can do to fight off spongy moths are:

• Remove them manually (while wearing gloves)
• Protect trees with a burlap “flap trap” that can be applied to the tree
• Squish or drown caterpillars and moths with soapy water
• Remove spongy moth eggs from trees in the late summer, putting them in soapy water
• Consider pesticide sprays or insectisides

Additionally, if your tree has been decimated by moth feeding, give it some extra water.

What happens if your tree is killed by gypsy moths?

According to some studies, 15% of trees damaged by gypsy moths eventually die, and it’s believed that New York State could lose around 5% of its trees from gypsy moth infestations. A dead or dying tree can be a massive hazard to you, your loved ones and your property.

Expert Tree Service, which serves the Hudson Valley and Catskills regions, has decades of experience in trimming or removing trees that have been affected by gypsy moths. Contact us today to learn more.

Since 1936, we at Expert Tree Service have gotten around the Hudson Valley and Catskills region quite a bit in our work as a tree removal, trimming and maintenance company. One of our favorite places to visit is Athens, NY, a village and town located in Greene County. It’s known as Greene County’s first incorporated village.

In 2020, it was announced in the Daily Gazette that the village of Athens was designated a “Tree City USA,” affirming its commitment to planting and maintaining trees for the good of the community. One of the requirements for being a Tree City USA is to maintain a tree inventory. In this blog post, we’re going to go over the eight most common trees in Athens.

1. Sugar Maple (51)

Sugar maples thrive in Athens’ Plant Hardiness Zone 6a, where they can benefit from the cool winters and moderate summer temperatures. To ensure your sugar maple stays healthy, water it deeply during dry spells, as consistent moisture supports its extensive root system and vibrant fall foliage. Regularly mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture and protect roots from temperature extremes, and avoid planting near roads where salt can damage the tree.

2. Norway Maple (39)

These deciduous trees grow up to 30 meters tall and feature a broad, rounded crown. To care for your Norway maple, ensure it receives adequate water, particularly during dry spells, as young trees establish their root systems. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay, but avoid direct contact with the trunk to prevent rot. Regular pruning is crucial for removing dead or overcrowded branches, which improves air circulation and reduces disease risk. Keep an eye out for the tree’s invasive tendencies and manage any unwanted spreading.

3. Callery Pear (35)

Callery pear is also known as flowering pear, and is a popular ornamental tree in Athens, NY, renowned for its stunning spring displays of snow-white flowers. To keep this one healthy, plant it in well-drained soil and ensure it receives full sun. Water young trees regularly to establish a strong root system, but be cautious not to overwater as they prefer slightly dry conditions. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain its conical shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. Watch out for fire blight, a common disease affecting Callery pears, and promptly remove any infected branches to prevent the spread.

4. Red Maple (22)

Red maple is a common and adaptable tree, making it a great choice for homeowners in Athens, NY. Known for its stunning scarlet autumn foliage, this tree thrives in a wide range of conditions, from swamps to dry soils. To care for your red maple, plant it in a location with full sun to partial shade and water it regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure healthy growth. Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak branches and shape the tree. Watch out for pests such as aphids and scale insects, and consider mulching around the base to retain moisture and reduce competition from weeds.

5. Crabapple (20)

Crabapple trees (Malus spp.) are a beautiful addition to any yard in Athens, NY, with their stunning spring blossoms and attractive fruit. These trees can live 80-100 years, growing up to 30 feet tall. Crabapples thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for the edges of forests or open areas. To care for your crabapple, prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any diseased branches. Regularly check for common pests like aphids and apple scab, and ensure adequate watering during dry periods to keep your tree healthy and vibrant.

6. Honey Locust (12)

Honey locusts (Gleditsia triacanthos) are a popular choice for landscaping in Athens, NY, due to their rapid growth and attractive foliage. These trees can reach heights of 20-30 meters and typically live around 120 years. The bright green, pinnately compound leaves turn a striking yellow in the fall. Honey locusts produce fragrant cream-colored flowers in late spring and flat legume pods that mature in early autumn. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and removes any thorny branches, which can grow up to 20 cm long. Ensure proper watering, especially during dry spells, and watch for pests like the honey locust plant bug to keep your tree healthy.

7. Silver Maple (12)

To maintain the health and beauty of a silver maple tree, ensure it receives ample sunlight, as it has higher sunlight requirements compared to other maple species. Regularly check for proper drainage, as silver maples thrive in moist environments but may suffer from waterlogged soil. Prune dead or damaged branches to promote strong growth and prevent disease. Additionally, be mindful of its expansive root system, especially when planting near structures or pathways, to avoid potential damage as it matures. With proper care, your silver maple will continue to flourish and provide its signature elegance to your landscape.

8. Black Walnut (11)

For maintaining the health and vigor of your Black Walnut tree (Juglans nigra), consider the following tips. Ensure your tree has sufficient space to reach its full height of 98-131 feet and that it receives proper sunlight, as it thrives in sunny locations. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of pests or diseases, as Black Walnut trees can be susceptible to various pathogens. Prune dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth and shape the tree as desired. Additionally, be aware that Black Walnut trees have a unique root system that produces juglone, a compound toxic to certain plants, so take care when planting other vegetation nearby. With diligent care and attention, your Black Walnut tree will provide shade, beauty, and perhaps even a bountiful harvest of nuts in alternate years.

Recently on WRRV, an important discussion from New Paltz was brought up. It quotes a Facebook conversation that asked the following:

“Sad thing: my neighbors seem to have taken down trees that should be protected by our Shade Tree ordinances”, said the recent Facebook post. “By the time anything might be done, it’s too late – the trees (perfectly healthy) are gone”, they lamented. So when is it illegal to cut down your own trees?”

Overwhelmingly, the response was that if the tree is on your property, you should be able to do whatever you want. However, local laws in New Paltz say otherwise. Because “Shade Trees” are considered a pillar of public wellness and beautification, there actually are some laws and regulations regarding tree trimming and tree removal, even if the tree is 100% rooted in your property.

As providers of tree removal and tree maintenance services in the Hudson Valley, we are not property rights lawyers, but we want to point our clients in the right direction. Below is a town by town breakdown of where to find out about your tree removal rights in the Hudson Valley and Catskills. This is not an exhaustive list, and if you want to be 100% sure, contact your local government officials to ensure that you have the latest rules and regulations.

If you don’t feel like navigating this alone, give us a call at 845-331-6782 or contact us today. We’ll make sure that everything is done the right way with regards to your tree.

Catskill

“No person shall, without first obtaining approval from the Village Board plant, remove, cut, top, prune, destroy or injure any park tree, public tree, roadside tree, street tree or any tree growing in or on a street easement or other public place. Approval for planting a tree on or bordering a public street or for removing, cutting, topping or pruning of a public tree is obtained through written request to the Village Board. In all cases, when a complaint is made every effort shall be made to preserve the tree and the least severe approach shall be utilized.”

The Town of Catskill Village government can be contacted during business hours at (518) 943-3830.

Ellenville

In the Village of Ellenville, there don’t seem to be any laws requiring notice to be provided to the Village with regards to tree removal. In the local laws, it just says:

“The owner shall keep all and every part of the premises which he/she owns free from dead or incurably diseased trees and shall be responsible to take the dead and/or diseased trees down and/or remove and destroy the diseased portion thereof.”

Hyde Park

Hyde Park has a fairly lengthy tree removal application process.

“It shall be unlawful for any person to destroy or remove any tree or shrub on Village property, either between the curbline (either existing or proposed) and the adjacent property line along any street or highway shown on the Official Map of the Village of New Hyde Park or in a Village right-of-way, or any tree or shrub planted by the Village without first having obtained a valid tree removal permit.”

…

“Any applicant desiring a tree removal permit, as required by this section, shall submit a written application to the Superintendent, together with a filing fee in such amount as shall be determined from time to time by resolution of the Board of Trustees.”

Kingston

If the tree is in between the street and sidewalk, it’s usually a city-owned tree. In February of 2024, the City of Kingston increased the fine for cutting down a city-owned tree from $250 to $1,250. To double-check if your tree is city-owned, check with the City’s Planning Department on their website or by calling (845) 334-3955.

New Paltz

In Village of New Paltz, if your tree is a “shade tree” it is “on public or private property along any public street or thoroughfare in the space or area measured 20 feet from the edge of the curb or road pavement.”

According to the Village laws, “these shade trees cannot be removed without approval of Shade Tree Commission.” You can contact them at shadetree@villageofnewpaltz.org.

In the Town of New Paltz, the tree conservation laws are ever further reaching than the Village’s. If your tree is seven feet tall or taller, and within 55 feet of the center of the roadway, then you must “submit a complete application in writing” to the Town Building Inspector at P.O. Box 550 New Paltz, NY 12561.

“Several exemptions exist which allow for removal of trees without a permit, including
trees that have been severely damaged from storms or other natural causes and trees that
could cause public endangerment.”

Poughkeepsie

In the City of Poughkeepsie, there seems to simpler laws than in some other nearby places.

“It shall be the duty of any person or person owning or occupying real property abutting on any street upon which property there are trees to trim or remove such trees so that they will not obscure or interfere with the view of motorists entering any intersection of the city, obstruct the passage of pedestrians on sidewalks or obstruct the streetlights or traffic signs.”

Red Hook

Red Hook’s Town code includes verbiage about street tree removal requiring a removal permit.

“No person shall remove or otherwise destroy or commit any act which will lead to the eventual destruction of trees located in public parks, street trees and other trees located in Town rights-of-way identified by size and/or location and/or significance in the Community Forestry Management Plan without first procuring a removal permit from the Supervisor or his or her designee. With respect to such trees, the Community Forestry Management Plan may identify pruning practices which can be expected to lead to destruction of such trees. Any such pruning practices would also require a removal permit.”

Rhinebeck

Rhinebeck makes it easy to track down the local laws.

“Only trees within the Right of Way (in the median, or—if in the yard—within 30 feet from the center of the road) require permission from the Village to be pruned or removed. These trees are considered part of the Village’s greater good because they impact the Village’s wellbeing at large by providing shade, cooling, supporting biodiversity and natural beauty. However, Village law states that pruning or removal is the homeowner’s financial responsibility.”

The tree removal request form, to be filed with the Village Clerk, is located here.

Saugerties

In the Village of Saugerties, they say that you cannot take action without written permission on the following:

“Public trees, which are defined as any trees, shrubs, bushes and all woody vegetation on land lying within a public street or right-of-way within the Village.
Park trees, which are defined as any trees, shrubs, bushes and all woody vegetation on land lying within public parks having names and in all areas owned by the Village and to which the public has access.”

As a Hudson Valley-based tree services company, we spend a lot of time on the road visiting different towns in places like Ulster County, Dutchess County, Columbia County and Greene County. We were pleased to learn that in 2013, the City of Beacon commissioned an inventory of all 855 of their street trees (within 10 feet of the road), across 1075 sites.

Some of the recommendations of the report included maintaining an up-to-date inventory of trees, making a plan to manage the trees (such as by cutting down dead trees, and cabling and trimming existing trees), maintaining diversity of the trees so they’re not vulnerable to certain pests and diseases, and being aware of existing and emerging threats to the tree population. These recommendations also line up well for Hudson Valley property owners concerned about their trees.

The following are the most common trees in Beacon, NY, and some of our insights about how to take care of them.

1. Red Maple (Acer Rubrum) – 106 Trees

A common tree across various Hudson Valley and Catskills municipalities, the Red Maple is renowned for having an iconic fall appearance. Regularly pruning will help to remove dead, diseased and crowded branches. Red maples have a shallow root system, so mulch regularly around the base to maintain soil moisture and keep the temperature regulated. These trees can do well with a range of soils, but it’s best to pair them with slightly acidic or neutral soils. They can fall prey to aphids or scales, and they can be hurt by diseases like anthracnose or verticillium wilt.

2. Norway Maple (Acer Plantanoides) – 70 Trees

The very popular Norway Maple is the epitome of a low-maintenance tree, which makes it very popular for municipalities alongside roads and in public spaces. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

3. Callery Pear (Pyrus Calleryana) – 70 Trees

Calley Pear trees love the sun and can do well in a number of soil conditions. They are known for standing up to pollution and city-conditions, so they can survive in cities. They don’t have a very long lifespan, known to last up to only 30 years. Another attribute is that because they form such dense thickets, they may crowd out less hardy species nearby who are in competition for the same resources.

4. Honey Locust (Gleditsia Triacanthos) – 69 Trees

Honey Locusts are another popular tree around here, and they’re beloved for their beautiful foliage and ability to work with various soil and environmental factors. They are vulnerable to honeylocust plant bugs and spider mites, so regular inspections are a must. If you notice discoloration or premature leaf drop, your honey locust maybe in need of some tree care.

5. Little-Leaf Linden (Tilia Cordata) – 45 Trees

This tree is appreciated for its fresh flowers and thick canopy, which creates much-needed shade during the warm months. These trees can sometimes be targeted by aphids, who will excrete a substance called honeydew that leads to the development of sooty mold on the leaves. Once again, regular inspections are a must.

6. Zelkova – 43 Trees

Also known as the Japanese Zelkova, these trees can sometimes reach 100 feet in height. They’re found in many urban environments in the Northeastern US. They do well with regular maintenance and pruning, and can handle different soils well. They can be susceptible to aphids and rot diseases, so be sure to inspect regularly.

7. Red Oak (Quercus Rubra) – 35 Trees

Red Oaks are fairly low maintenance once they get established. They do require regular pruning to avoid oak wilt disease.

8. Black Locust (Robinia Pseudoacacia) – 35 Trees

Black Locusts are known for being fast-growing and resilient, with rot-resistant wood and beautiful spring blossoms. They are vulnerable to the locust borer, a beetle that can significantly weaken its structure.

9. London Planetree (Platanus Acerifolia) – 33 Trees

London Planetrees are another tree that can thrive in city-like conditions. They like deep, well-draining soil the best, and thrive in full sun. It’s recommended to prune this tree down in the dormant season, which help it maintain its unique shape.

10. Black Tupelo (Nyssa Sylvatica) – 28 Trees

Also known as a black gum tree, this is an interesting one that grows very slowly, providing fruit to birds and other wildlife. It can grow up to 50 feet tall eventually, so they need some room to make it to their full potential. They require very little maintenance.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently released new Plant Hardiness Zone Maps, including for our region in the Mid-Hudson Valley and Catskills.

Plant hardiness zones are geographic areas defined by climate conditions that help gardeners and landscapers determine which plants are most likely to thrive in a particular region. These zones are based on average minimum winter temperatures and are divided into numbered zones, typically ranging from 1 (coldest) to 11 (warmest).

Plant hardiness zones affect tree care in several ways:

Species Selection: Knowing your plant hardiness zone allows you to choose tree species that are well-suited to your climate. Trees that are adapted to your zone are more likely to withstand temperature extremes and other environmental conditions.

Cold Hardiness: Trees in colder zones need to be able to tolerate freezing temperatures and winter conditions such as snow and ice. Selecting trees with appropriate cold hardiness ensures they can survive the winter without damage.

Frost Dates: Understanding the typical timing of the last spring frost and first fall frost in your zone helps you schedule tree care tasks such as pruning, fertilizing, and planting to avoid potential frost damage.

Microclimates: While plant hardiness zones provide a general guideline, factors such as elevation, proximity to water bodies, and urban heat islands can create microclimates within a region. It’s important to consider these factors when selecting and caring for trees, as they can influence local temperature and weather patterns.

Seasonal Care: Tree care practices may vary depending on the specific needs of trees in your hardiness zone. For example, trees in colder zones may benefit from winter protection measures such as mulching or wrapping to insulate roots and prevent frost damage.

Technically, changes in the environment may accelerate problems with trees that thrived in the previous Plant Hardiness Zone, but are now in a Zone that doesn’t quite suit them. But most of the Zone changes in our region have been minimal, and the timeline for things like tree removal or tree trimming services isn’t affected too much.

Here are some of the changes in Hudson Valley and Catskills communities, paired with information about that community’s most common tree:

1. Kingston, NY

2012 Plant Hardiness Zone: 5B (-15°F to -10°F Minimum Temperature)
2023 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6B (-5°F to 0°F)
Most Common Tree: Norway Maple (Safe in Zones 3-7)

2. Catskill, NY

2012 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6A (-10°F to -5°F)
2023 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6A (-10°F to -5°F)
Most Common Tree: Norway Maple (Safe in Zones 3-7)

3. Poughkeepsie, NY

2012 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6A (-10°F to -5°F)
2023 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6B (-5°F to 0°F)
Most Common Tree: Norway Maple (Safe in Zones 3-7)

4. Red Hook, NY

2012 Plant Hardiness Zone: 5B (-15°F to -10°F)
2023 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6A (-10°F to -5°F)
Most Common Tree: Sugar Maple (Safe in Zones 3-8)

5. New Paltz, NY

2012 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6A (-10°F to -5°F)
2023 Plant Hardiness Zone: 6B (-5°F to 0°F)
Most Common Tree: Norway Maple (Safe in Zones 3-7)

As the weather turns from winter to spring in the Hudson Valley, many homeowners are heading outside to their yards for the first time in months. In order to get the maximum enjoyment and value from your property while maintaining safety, it’s important to check your trees for signs of disease, damage and overall health concerns. A little tree care now could save you major headaches in the future.

Here’s a checklist for homeowners to check their trees for disease after the winter:

1. Inspect Trunks and Branches

Check for any signs of damage, including splits, cracks, or peeling bark. These could indicate disease or pest infestation.

2. Check Leaf Buds

Examine leaf buds for signs of swelling or discoloration. Healthy buds should be firm and plump.

3. Inspect Leaves

Check the leaves for any abnormalities such as spots, holes, or discoloration. Drooping or wilting leaves may also indicate issues.

4. Look for Pests

Check for signs of insect activity such as holes in the bark, sawdust-like frass, or webs. These could indicate the presence of pests like borers or caterpillars. Check our list of the most common Hudson Valley invasive species that hurt trees.

5. Assess Tree Health

Evaluate the overall health of the tree, including its growth rate, foliage density, and canopy shape. Signs of decline such as sparse foliage or stunted growth may indicate underlying issues.

6. Note Environmental Stressors

Consider any environmental factors that may have impacted the tree during the winter, such as extreme cold, ice, or snow accumulation. These stressors can weaken trees and make them more susceptible to disease.

7. Keep an Eye on Nearby Trees

Check neighboring trees for similar symptoms or signs of disease. Diseases can spread easily between trees, so early detection is key to preventing further infestation.

8. Maintain Tree Care Practices

Ensure trees receive adequate water, mulching, and fertilization to support their overall health and resilience to disease. Proper pruning and maintenance can also help prevent future issues.

9. Keep Records

Document any observations, including dates, symptoms, and actions taken. This information can be valuable for tracking changes in tree health over time and informing future management decisions. Taking a picture of your tree every year could help.

If you notice anything in your inspection of your trees, consider the next item on our checklist:

10. Consult a Professional

If you notice any concerning symptoms or are unsure about the health of your trees, consider contacting us at 845-331-6782 with any questions about your trees’ health.

Our services include:

1. Tree Removal
2. Tree Trimming
3. Feeding and Cabling
4. Storm Response