Jerry White, Author at Arborwell Professional Arborists and Tree Care

Arbor-wellness: Pink Rot

Written by Jerry White on March 22, 2019.

What is Pink rot?

Pink Rot is a disease that attacks weak or stressed palm trees. Because palms cannot repair wood tissue, they are more susceptible to diseases like pink rot when damaged or pruned too severely. It can attack any portion of the palm, including the trunk, but it most often affects new growth.

What palms does it attack?

There are a number of palm trees that are susceptible to Pink rot. We mostly see it on Washington fan palm, king palm & queen palm.

What should I do about it?

Because there is almost always an underlying cultural problem that encourages pink rot to develop, you should try to determine that and correct the problem if possible. We can help to determine that, by the way. The underlying problem could be planting incorrectly, watered improperly, poor drainage, poor nutrition or even just the wrong palm for the site. It is important to avoid wounding a palm trunk, so even nailing something to the trunk or climbing a palm with tree spikes is not beneficial. Where it is possible to correct one or more of the above problems, it will create a longer-term solution for palm rot problems.

Can I treat the palm if it has Pink rot?

Yes, there are treatments for pink rot if the disease has not progressed too much. Treatments should begin as soon after discovery of the disease as practical. This includes a systemic treatment applied to the soil and regular fertilization with a palm specific fertilizer. Also, steps should be taken to change the conditions that are reducing the health of the palm tree. It is important to remember that if the underlying problem is not improved, there will be an ongoing need to treat the palm and it may eventually fail anyway.

If you are concerned about Pink rot or other problems on your palm trees, contact your Arborwell arborist to help you create the most effective management plan for them.

arborist, palm tree, Pink rot, tree, tree care

Arbor-wellness: Tussock Moth

Written by Jerry White on March 21, 2019.

What is a tussock moth and why are they so damaging?

There are many types of tussock moths that all have distinctive clumps of bristles on their backs of the caterpillar larvae. The adults are usually a smaller dull brown or white moth. The damage is done by the caterpillar – which are voracious eaters of foliage with the capability of defoliating entire groups of trees. On the west coast the most important species are the Western Tussock moth, the Douglas-fir Tussock moth and the Pine Tussock moth.

Why are they so numerous?

Most caterpillar species like the tussock moth go through population swings, building up a population level for several years, then seemingly disappearing for several years before returning in large numbers again. The presence of predators of these pests plays a large role in those population swings. For the Tussock moth, the overwintering cocoon in the trunks of trees can help indicate the potential of a population outbreak.

Are there safe methods of keeping their population low?

At Arborwell, we strive to find the safest, most effective solutions to pest problems. For the Tussock moth and other caterpillars, we use a commercial version of a biological suppression product that is effective on caterpillars. This fits most LEED and organic type programs. Timing is very important to be effective so often we recommend two or more treatments in a given year. Preventative treatments are available that work inside the tree – eliminating the need to spray the canopy of the tree.

If you are concerned about Tussock moth or other caterpillar problems in your trees, contact your Arborwell arborist to help you create the most effective management plan for caterpillar damage on your trees.

arborist, plant health care, spring, tussock moth

Large Tree Care Challenges

Written by Jerry White on March 15, 2019.

The Challenges of Large Tree Care

A large, well established tree can present many challenges that the average person may not be aware of. Arborwell Professional Tree Management has ISA Certified Arborists that know how to address the needs of mature trees and can help you maintain these beautiful works of nature.

When it comes to large tree care, trust Arborwell to keep your trees healthy and looking their best. We know the challenges they can pose, and our experts have the experience to care for your trees.

Tree Trimming Is Crucial

With larger trees always keep in mind your local tree requirements. Trees must be trimmed to a certain distance from sidewalks, driveways and especially electrical lines. If a tree is planted too close to these things and it can’t be fixed through trimming, it may need to be moved to a new location. Our arborists in your area can educate you on local requirements and what options are available.

Its also important to know that mature trees require regular trimming to get rid of dead branches, diseased areas and to make room for new growth. With larger trees, it is vital to maintain the weight of branches. Trimming can help to avoid snapping and breaking of larger branches. Arborwell arborists know how to properly trim trees so they stay at optimal health.

Be Smart with Water Use

There is a big difference between the water needs of young trees vs old trees. While a young tree needs frequent watering as it is growing very quickly, larger trees benefit from less frequent, yet deep and soaking irrigation. The best form of irrigation for a large tree is soaker hoses, which provide slow watering. Speak with our arborists about what type of irrigation is best for your tree.

Be Vigilant about Pest Control

Large trees have much more foliage than smaller trees and it can take longer to notice pest infestations. Because larger trees grow much slower and it can be more difficult to identify pests, there is a greater chance of devastating infestations. Our arborists know how to identify and prevent pests from damaging your trees.

Choose Arborwell For Your Large Tree Care Needs

Arborwell Professional Tree Management knows how to take care of your mature trees. We know that larger trees can have a unique set of challenges and we want to educate you on how to properly take care of them. Call us today at or click here to visit us online and request an estimate.

large trees, pest control, tree health, tree root management, tree trimming

Changing Seattle Weather is Affecting its Trees

Written by Jerry White on February 20, 2019.

Weather in the Seattle area plays a crucial role in the health of its trees and as it continues to grow warmer it is negatively affecting the tree population. Over the past few years climate change has begun to drastically change weather patterns that have been around for hundreds of years. Our experts at Arborwell can help you understand how these weather fluctuations are affecting your trees.

Weather in the Seattle area is trending towards hotter, drier, and longer summers, while the winters are becoming warmer and wetter. These conditions are unfavorable to many of the trees that grow in the Seattle area, leading to new problems regarding tree health.

Hot and Dry Summers

The biggest concern of hotter summers is the worsening drought conditions. The Seattle area is accustomed to experiencing some summer drought, but over the past few summers the droughts have become longer and drier. There isn’t enough rainfall to properly sustain the trees and many are sick or dying because of it.

Young trees are especially at risk. They have shorter roots and can’t reach as far into the ground as mature trees to soak up water. Our arborists have plenty of tips and tricks to help your trees survive drought conditions.

Warm and Wet Winters

Winters in the Seattle area have become wetter over recent years. While the increase in rainfall may seem beneficial, what the trees really need is snowfall. That snow becomes lifesaving snowmelt in the summer, helping to keep trees nourished when rainfall is scarce. The decrease in snowmelt over the past few years has exasperated drought conditions in the summer.

Insect populations have also been flourishing as the warm winters allow more to survive. Many pest populations that otherwise would have died off are surviving the winter and attacking already weakened or dying trees, sapping them of the nutrients they need to survive. Winters are also seeing more severe storms. These rough storms are causing excessive damage to already crippled trees. All these factors are culminating in creating poor conditions for trees in the Seattle area.

Our Tree Experts Know How to Help

These new weather conditions in the Seattle area are significantly affecting its trees and are creating a need for different strategies for tree care. Arborwell Professional Tree Management has ISA-certified arborists who can create a plan to keep your trees healthy and looking their best, no matter the weather. Call today or click here to make an appointment with an arborist in the Seattle area.

seattle, tree care, weather

Tree Selection Ideas

Written by Jerry White on February 14, 2019.

Determining what type of tree to plant can be a complicated choice. There are plenty of considerations to take into account when planting a tree that, with the proper care, will go on to live for decades. At Arborwell our experts can help you navigate these choices and select the right tree for your HOA, municipal, campus or commercial property.

Our knowledge and years of experience with trees is a great asset for your company when it comes to choosing what type of trees to grow and where to grow them. A fully grown, mature tree not only looks beautiful but can add significant property value. It is a long-term investment that requires specialized planning and knowledgeable care, something Arborwell Professional Tree Management excels at.

What Should You Consider When Choosing a Tree?

Our ISA-certified arborists can help you figure out the right tree type for your landscape in a way that is simple and easy to understand. Here are some considerations to keep in mind.

How much space does the species need?

A sapling is a lot smaller than a fully-grown tree and it may look like there is plenty of room around it, but the size and shape of the mature tree is most important. There should be enough room for the tree to grow to maturity unhindered, both above and underground. Trees must be planted away from powerlines, sidewalks, gas and water lines, as well as from other trees.

What are the climate conditions?

Climate can drastically affect tree health and longevity. If you’re planting a tree in a wet climate, consider choosing a tree that can manage high levels of water. If you regularly experience droughts, choosing a drought-tolerant tree is preferable.

Does the species need maintenance?

Different trees require different levels of care. Be sure to choose a species that you can afford to maintain. Our experts can help you select trees with fewer maintenance requirements, ask them about it.

Is your tree species non-invasive?

Always plant non-invasive species on your property. An invasive species can spread and lead to the death of native species in the area.

Should you plant evergreen or deciduous?

Evergreen trees keep their leaves year-round, while deciduous trees lose their leaves in fall. Consider planting an evergreen if you want continuous shade and privacy. Choose deciduous if you want those beautiful fall colors and the extra light they allow during winter.

Our Team Will Help You Pick the Right Tree

We understand that choosing the correct species of tree is a complicated process. Arborwell is dedicated to helping you select the right tree for your property. Contact us to set up an appointment with an arborist in your area today.

location, planting, spacing, tree types

What Does an Arborist Do?

Written by Jerry White on January 22, 2019.

Arborwell Professional Tree Management is dedicated to offering any and all tree care services your business’s needs. Our professional arborists are ISA-certified. This means they have written and passed exams designed to test their knowledge of the full range of tree care. At Arborwell our expert arborists provide tree care services such as:

Tree planting. What trees should you plant? Where is best place on your property to plant them to increase curb appeal while maintaining lawn health and a proper shade/sun ratio? If you are developing land and aren’t sure what type of trees to plant and where, our experts can help you make the most out of your property.
Water management. It isn’t easy keeping your trees properly watered, especially in drought season. Arborwell creates favorable watering conditions using appropriate irrigation techniques and water-conserving mulch.
Tree removal. If you have a dying or unsafe tree on your property, our arborists are trained to remove it safely and efficiently.
Tree Transplanting. A tree that needs to be transplanted is in good hands with our professionals. They will take care of your tree before and after to ensure minimization of transplant shock.
Tree trimming. Trees need regular trimming to maintain peak health and beauty. Our team is outfitted with the proper equipment and knowledge to safely and easily trim your trees.
Pest control. Arborists are trained in studying damaged trees to determine if harmful insects like aphids or caterpillars are destroying them. After identifying the problem, we will create a wellness plan to help your trees recover and stay protected against pests.
Tree fertilization. Proper fertilization of your trees can help them live longer, look healthier and build resistance to pests and disease. Arborwell has the knowledge to help your trees stay happy and healthy.

Contact Us Today Regarding Tree Health

At Arborwell Professional Tree Management, we offer our services for all aspects of tree care at locations across California and Washington.

For more information about what our arborists can do for you call us at or click here to request an estimate for a complimentary tree assessment.

arborist, tree management

What Do Trees Have to Do with Landscaping?

Written by Jerry White on December 17, 2018.

Trees are an incredible asset to any landscape. They benefit our communities and environment by cleaning the air, providing protection from the elements and creating jobs. The next time you’re out, take a few minutes to appreciate the beauty of your neighborhood’s trees.

Let’s discuss the main reasons why trees are important for landscaping. You will be surprised at how much these plants have to offer our health, wellness and environment.

Trees are Aesthetically Appealing

Trees are visually beautiful. Some have lived on our planet for thousands of years and tell stories through their branches, leaves and bark. Some families plant trees for sentimental reasons, such as the birth of a child or the death of a loved one. As the tree grows, it represents that individual. Trees are alive, which adds to their beauty and tranquility.

They Provide Privacy and Sun Protection

Many homes today are built in busy neighborhoods, and the best way to create shade and privacy is by planting trees. Their structure blocks noise, light and unsightly views. Plus, their shade protects people from the sun’s rays and helps homes and businesses consume less energy. By planting trees strategically, homeowners can enjoy more private, efficient homes.

They are Natural Food Producers

Thanks to fruit-bearing trees, both humans and animals can have fresh food to eat. Some of the most popular tree-borne foods in California include apples, cherries and citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and limes. Even in the winter, some trees continue to produce nuts, flowers and berries for birds and other wildlife.

Trees are Homes for Animals (and Children!)

Trees provide shelter to many different animals. Birds build nests on their sturdy branches, while squirrels build dens or dreys in which to raise their young. In fact, some animals need the forest to survive, including the tree kangaroo, pandas and orangutans (although you won’t find these in our California trees!). Kids, too, love to use trees to build treehouses and forts.

Cleaner Air and Water

Trees absorb pollutants and convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. Perhaps that’s why deep breathing is often associated with trees and nature. Moreover, trees prevent water evaporation and decrease water runoff. These benefits work together to produce healthy water with fewer pollutants and reduce flood damage and erosion.

There is no question that trees are an essential part of human life and existence. The next time you are looking to spruce up your yard, look no further than planting a new tree! For questions or information in regards to removing, replanting or managing the trees in your landscape, contact Arborwell today at or fill out our contact form.

landscaping, trees

What Does An Arboriculturist Do?

Written by Jerry White on October 29, 2018.

Let’s answer a common question: what does an arboriculturist do?

An Arborwell arboriculturist, also known as an arborist, studies and manages the health of trees. Their focus differs from that of other tree professionals, such as foresters, who concentrate on the management of large areas of trees.

Arborists are essential to Arborwell’s mission of preserving trees in our service areas. Conditions in urban areas stress trees. Pollution, compacted soil, traffic collisions, and root restrictions because of building foundations, roadways and underground pipes all reduce the lifespan of a tree in the city.

An arborist helps a tree thrive despite these conditions. Experienced arborists are skilled at evaluating trees by inspecting growth rate, leaf color, peeling bark, signs of mildew, growths, and oozing fluid.

They then devise a plan to bring the tree back to robust health. Strong trees are important chiefly because of their environmental benefits, which include:

Producing oxygen. An acre of trees produces enough oxygen for 18 people in a year.

Absorbing pollution. Trees act as filters, removing odors, particulates, and gases such as nitrogen oxide from our air.

Providing shade. The urban tree canopy shields us from ultraviolet rays while cooling our buildings and streets.

Slowing runoff. When it rains, trees slow water runoff, preventing soil erosion and allowing moisture to seep into the ground.

Creating homes for wildlife. Insects such as bees, squirrels, birds, possums, and other animals live in our trees and keep the ecology in balance.

Beyond the environment, trees also increase property values by adding beauty to city lots and streets and improve the attitudes of humans. Neighborhoods that are well-landscaped with trees have been shown to experience lower crime rates than barren neighborhoods.

Arborwell arborists also consider the conditions of the city in which they practice. An arborist in Sacramento, for example, looks for indications the tree is getting enough water in periods of drought. Our arborists in Seattle guard against tree diseases that exist in the northwest’s cool, moist climate.

How a Skilled Arborist Cares for Trees

Arborwell arborists in Oakland and the East Bay, San Diego, the San Francisco Peninsula, Seattle, Sacramento, and Seattle care for all types of tree species. They are experts in the areas of:

Trimming a tree is a science and an art. Precision cutting of branches removes dead wood, promotes growth, and gives a tree an appealing shape.

A planting location must meet a tree’s soil, moisture, and sun needs, as well as provide enough space for roots and the canopy spread.

Providing adequate moisture, periodic fertilization, and immediate attention to any damage keeps a tree looking beautiful and helps fight off diseases.

As a last resort, removing a tree may be sometimes be necessary. An arborist knows how to take down a tree safely and quickly when branches or roots interfere with structures or lightning, wind, vehicle collisions, or disease cause irreparable damage.

Call Arborwell For Skilled Tree Care

We hope this blog post has answered the question, what does an arboriculturist do? Put our skilled arborists to work on your property. Call today to schedule a consultation.

arborculturist, arborist, tree management

Jerry White