As a Hudson Valley-based tree trimming and tree removal company, we’ve seen an incredibly wide range of trees: old, young, huge, small, diseased, healthy and everything in between.
While we spend a lot of time removing trees from homeowners’ and business’ properties, we also provide services like tree trimming, cabling, feeding and more that can intervene on a tree that might be on the decline, or preventatively help a beloved tree live a longer and healthier life. There are many things that can be done during the life of a tree that can help. Give us a call at 845-331-6782 to schedule a consultation!
The trees below are from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s “Big Tree Register,” an annually updated list that showcases the largest trees in the state for every tree species. The calculation for biggest tree takes into account height, circumference and crown spread.
About 170 tree species local to New York State are counted on the list: our part of the Hudson Valley (including Dutchess County, Ulster County, Greene County and Columbia County) is the proud home to 19 of them. Here they are, organized by height, along with a tip for the top ten kinds of trees:
1. 138 Foot Dutchess County Red Hickory
To care for a red hickory tree and ensure it grows large and healthy, homeowners should start by planting it in ideal conditions. Red hickories thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, and they need full sunlight for at least six to eight hours a day. Make sure the tree has plenty of space, as it can grow up to 80 feet tall with a wide canopy. During its early years, regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. Once established, red hickories are drought-tolerant but still benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.
2. 130 Foot Dutchess County Sweetgum
Sweetgum trees typically don’t require much fertilization. However, if the soil is poor or the tree shows signs of nutrient deficiency, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring. Pruning is also important to encourage healthy growth—remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and improve airflow.
3. 126 Foot Dutchess County Black Walnut
Pests and diseases that can affect black walnut trees include walnut caterpillars, aphids, and walnut anthracnose. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of infestation or disease, and use appropriate treatments if necessary. Protecting the root zone is also key—avoid soil compaction and disturbance by keeping heavy equipment or vehicles away from the tree’s base. With patience and proper care, a black walnut tree will grow into a valuable and long-lasting part of your landscape.
4. 123 Foot Columbia County White Oak
To care for a white oak tree and encourage healthy growth, it’s important to provide the right growing conditions and consistent care. White oaks (Quercus alba) thrive in well-drained, deep, and slightly acidic to neutral soil, though they can tolerate a range of soil types. Full sunlight is essential for white oak growth, so make sure your tree receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. They have a broad canopy that spreads equally wide, ensure there is ample space around the tree for its roots and branches to expand.
5. 117 Foot Dutchess County Eastern Hemlock
Watering is essential for Eastern hemlocks, especially in their early years. They prefer consistently moist soil, so regular watering during dry periods is crucial to their health. Mulching around the base of the tree with a layer of organic material like pine needles or wood chips will help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Just remember to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to avoid potential issues like rot or pests.
6. 117 Foot Dutchess County Sycamore
Sycamore trees are typically fast-growing and do not require frequent fertilization. However, if your soil is poor, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote growth. In terms of pruning, sycamores generally require minimal maintenance. Prune dead, damaged, or diseased branches in late winter or early spring to improve the tree’s structure and airflow.
7. 114 Foot Dutchess County Cucumber Magnolia
Cucumber magnolia trees are relatively pest-resistant, but like many magnolias, they can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spots or powdery mildew. Keep an eye out for any signs of disease or pest infestations, and treat them promptly with fungicides or insecticidal soap as needed.
8. 112 Foot Dutchess County Scarlet Oak
Scarlet oaks typically do not require fertilization unless they are growing in particularly poor soils. If necessary, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Pruning should be done during late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant, focusing on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and shape the tree.
9. 104 Foot Dutchess County Red Maple
During the first few years after planting, regular watering is crucial to help the tree establish a strong root system. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging, as red maples do not tolerate saturated soils. Once established, they are moderately drought-tolerant, although they still benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce competition from weeds. Be sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.