Wood chips are more than just a byproduct of tree maintenance. They are versatile materials that can be used in various ways to enhance the beauty and functionality of your property. From mulching to erosion control, wood chips can be very useful. Here’s a look at four beneficial ways to use wood chips on your property. Mulching Mulching is one of the most common and beneficial uses of wood chips in landscaping. By spreading a layer of wood chips around trees, shrubs, and garden beds, you can conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Wood chips act as a natural insulator, keeping the soil cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Also, as wood chips decompose, they enrich the soil with organic matter. Pathways You can create charming pathways through your property using wood chips. This eco-friendly alternative to traditional paving materials enhances aesthetic appeal while also providing a soft surface for walking. Wood chip pathways are particularly well-suited for woodland gardens and backyard trails. Playground Surfacing For families with children, using wood chips as playground surfacing is a great choice for safety and aesthetics. Unlike concrete or gravel, wood chips provide a cushioned surface that absorbs impact, reducing the risk of injuries from falls. They can also reduce the amount of mud in the playground area, ultimately helping you to keep your home cleaner. Erosion Control Erosion can be a significant issue in landscapes with sloping terrain or areas prone to heavy rainfall. Wood chips can serve as a helpful erosion control measure by stabilizing soil and reducing runoff. By spreading a layer of wood chips on slopes or bare areas, you can reduce soil erosion caused by water and wind. As the wood chips decompose, they contribute organic matter to the soil, further improving its stability as you add a fresh layer of wood chips on top. Arborist in Tampa, FL For an arborist in Tampa, FL and the surrounding area, contact Pete & Ron’s Tree Service. Feel free to request a free estimate for tree services in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding area!

As beautiful and majestic as large and mature trees can be on your property, they can also cause damage if not properly cared for. Read on to learn more. As beautiful and majestic as large and mature trees can be on your property, they can also cause damage if not properly cared for. It's important to be aware of the signs that your trees may be affecting your home, whether through root damage or other means. In this blog post, we'll discuss some common signs that your large trees are causing harm to your property and what steps you can take to address the issue. Visible Root Damage One of the most common signs that your large trees are affecting your home is visible root damage, including large roots protruding from the ground near your home's foundation, driveway, or walkways. These alarming exposed roots could be a sign that the roots are causing damage to these structures. In some cases, tree roots can even invade underground pipes and utility lines as well, leading to costly repairs. Significant Tree Lean A tree leaning dangerously towards your home can be a sign of instability and could pose a risk of falling and causing damage. All it takes is a single storm to knock a tree over or to have a tree break partially on your home as a leaning tree is not very balanced or stable. It's important to have a professional arborist assess the tree and determine if it needs to be removed for safety reasons. Tree Decay or Disease Decaying trees are more prone to falling or dropping branches, which could cause damage to your home or injure anyone nearby. Diseased trees can affect other trees on your property and pose a hazard to your yard as well. If you notice any unusual changes in the appearance or health of your tree, including missing leaves or discoloration in the bark, it's best to have it inspected by a professional to determine the best course of action. Don't attempt to cut loose or bald branches on your own. What to Do If You Want to Keep Your Trees If you're hesitant to remove a large tree on your property but still want to address the issues it may be causing, there are alternative solutions you can explore with your tree specialist. One option is to have a professional tree service prune affecting trees to reduce size and weight, making them less likely to cause damage. Additionally, you can also consider installing root barriers to prevent tree roots from encroaching on your home's foundation or other structures. These barriers can be put in place without killing the tree. Another option to consider is implementing regular tree maintenance practices, such as watering, fertilizing, and trimming, to keep your trees healthy and prevent any potential damage. By staying proactive and addressing any signs of tree issues early on (especially in sensitive and mature trees), you can help ensure the safety and longevity of your landscape while also protecting your home from potential damage. Large trees can be a beautiful and valuable asset to your property, but it's important to be aware of the signs that they may be affecting your home. By keeping an eye out for visible root damage, tree lean, decay, or disease, you can take proactive steps to address any issues before they become more serious. Whether you choose to have the tree removed or explore alternative solutions to keep your yard looking its best, it's crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of your home and property. Remember to consult with a professional arborist for guidance and assistance in maintaining healthy and beautiful trees on your property. Our team of specialist at Pete & Ron's Tree Service, Inc. can help you keep all your trees in their best condition today.