Before the Storm: Seven Ways to Protect Your Trees, Home, and Family

July 22, 2026

Storm season can arrive with little warning, but preparing your property doesn't have to be a last-minute scramble. Healthy, well-maintained trees are less likely to fail in high winds, heavy rain, or ice storms. Taking proactive steps before severe weather hits can help protect your home, reduce property damage, and keep your family safe. At Xylem Tree Care, we believe preparation is the best defense against storm-related tree damage. Here are seven ways to prepare your landscape before the next storm.

1. Schedule a Professional Tree Inspection

Not every tree hazard is easy to spot.

Trees may appear healthy while hiding internal decay, structural weaknesses, or damaged root systems. A professional inspection can identify problems before they become an emergency.

ISA Certified Arborists know what to look for. They assess tree structure, branch attachments, signs of disease and insect activity, and other conditions that may increase the risk of failure during severe weather.

An inspection provides valuable information that helps homeowners make informed decisions before storm season begins.

2. Remove Dead or Damaged Branches

Dead branches are often the first to fall in a storm.

Even small limbs can damage roofs, vehicles, fences, or power lines when strong winds arrive.

Routine pruning removes weak, damaged, or dying branches before they become hazardous. Proper pruning also improves the tree's overall structure and reduces wind resistance.

Tree pruning should always follow industry standards to protect the tree's long-term health.

3. Watch for Trees Growing Too Close to Your Home

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property. However, large branches that extend over your roof or grow near your home warrant extra attention before storm season.

During severe weather, heavy limbs can break unexpectedly, damaging roofs, gutters, windows, or siding.

A professional arborist can recommend selective pruning or other measures to reduce risk while preserving the tree's health and appearance.

Small adjustments today may prevent costly repairs tomorrow.

4. Don't Ignore Signs of Tree Stress

Trees often show warning signs before they fail.

Look for cracked trunks, leaning trees, mushrooms near the base, exposed roots, large cavities, or branches without leaves during the growing season.

These signs do not always mean a tree must be removed, but they should be evaluated by a qualified arborist.

Addressing problems early is often safer and more affordable than waiting until after storm damage occurs.

5. Keep Your Landscape Well-Maintained

Storm preparation goes beyond caring for large trees.

Loose branches, overgrown shrubs, and yard debris can become airborne in high winds. These materials can damage windows, vehicles, or neighboring properties.

Regular landscape maintenance reduces storm hazards and improves your property's overall appearance.

Simple tasks such as removing dead limbs, securing outdoor furniture, and cleaning gutters can make a significant difference when severe weather arrives.

Preparation often begins with routine maintenance.

6. Know When Tree Removal Is the Best Option

Not every tree can — or should — be saved. Sometimes, removal is the safest choice.

Trees with severe decay, significant structural damage, or major root problems may pose unacceptable risks during storms.

Removing a hazardous tree before severe weather hits is often safer than handling an emergency removal after it falls.

A professional arborist can help determine whether a tree can be preserved or whether removal is the safest option for your property.

Making that decision before storm season provides peace of mind for your family.

7. Have a Storm Recovery Plan

Even with proper preparation, storms can still cause damage.

Knowing whom to call after severe weather can reduce stress and speed recovery.

Choose a reputable tree care company before an emergency occurs. Save key contact information and avoid hiring unqualified contractors who appear after storms.

Professional tree care companies have the equipment, training, and experience to safely remove damaged trees while protecting your property.

Planning ahead helps you respond with confidence when unexpected situations arise.

Healthy Trees Are Stronger Trees

Healthy trees are generally more resilient in severe weather.

Regular pruning, proper watering, mulching, soil care, and routine inspections all contribute to stronger root systems and healthier branch structure.

Preventive tree care also enhances the beauty, safety, and long-term value of your landscape.

Investing in your trees today helps protect your home for years to come.

Protect Your Property Before the Next Storm

Storm season is unpredictable, but preparation is within your control.

Xylem Tree Care has helped homeowners and businesses protect their landscapes for decades. Our ISA Certified Arborists provide professional tree inspections, pruning, tree removal, plant health care, and emergency tree services throughout the Mid-Atlantic.

Whether you need a routine inspection or want to prepare your property for storm season, our team is here to help.

Taking action now can reduce risk, protect your investment, and provide greater peace of mind when severe weather arrives.

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Are Rock Beds Cooking Your Tree Roots?

July 29, 2026

Rock beds may look attractive and low maintenance, but they can pose serious challenges for trees during the summer months. The Problem with Decorative Stone Unlike organic mulch, rock absorbs and retains heat throughout the day. As temperatures rise, stone landscaping can: Increase soil temperatures Accelerate moisture loss Stress tree roots Create a harsher growing environment The effect is like placing your tree's root system inside an oven during the hottest months of the year. Why Trees Need Cooler Soil Tree roots perform best in moderate soil temperatures with consistent moisture. Excessive heat can: Reduce root growth Limit water uptake Increase drought stress Contribute to overall decline These issues become even more pronounced during extended dry periods. A Better Alternative: Mulch Organic mulch provides several benefits: Conserves moisture Moderates soil temperature Reduces weed competition Improves soil quality over time A two-to-four-inch layer of mulch around the root zone can significantly improve growing conditions. Just remember to keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent decay and pest issues. What's Best? Every landscape is different. If you're concerned about declining trees surrounded by decorative rock, a professional evaluation can help determine whether changes to the root environment could improve tree health. Call us today at 833-544-8733 (TREE) to schedule a free consultation and estimate.

Think Twice Before Pruning Your Trees This Summer

July 15, 2026

Many homeowners notice dead branches or overgrown limbs during the summer and immediately reach for a pruning tool. However, extensive pruning during periods of heat and drought can place additional stress on an already struggling tree. Trees Need Their Leaves Leaves are the tree's food factories. During summer, trees rely on their canopy to produce energy and support root growth, water uptake, and overall health. Removing large portions of the canopy can: Increase drought stress Reduce energy production Expose bark to sunscald Slow recovery from existing health issues When is Pruning Appropriate? Summer pruning should generally be limited to: Dead branches Broken limbs Storm-damaged branches Immediate safety hazards Removing hazardous limbs can reduce risk while preserving as much healthy canopy as possible. For many tree species, dormant-season pruning during late fall and winter is ideal. Trees are less stressed, disease pressure is often lower, and the branch structure is easier to evaluate. Safety Comes First If a branch is hanging over a home, driveway, sidewalk, or power line, waiting may not be an option. A certified arborist can determine whether selective hazard pruning is necessary now and help develop a long-term pruning plan. At Xylem Tree Care, our goal is to improve tree health while reducing risk — not simply remove branches. Call us today at 833-544-8733 (TREE) to schedule a free consultation and estimate.

June Beetles vs. Your Trees: When to Act and When to Wait

July 1, 2026

If you've noticed leaves that appear chewed, lace-like, or partially skeletonized this summer, June beetles may be the culprit. The good news? In most cases, treatment is not necessary. What Is Leaf Skeletonization? Skeletonization occurs when insects consume soft tissue between leaf veins, leaving behind a network of visible veins. June beetles and other leaf-feeding insects can create noticeable cosmetic damage, especially during peak activity periods. When Is It a Problem? Healthy, established trees can typically tolerate moderate feeding without significant long-term impacts. Treatment is usually unnecessary when: Damage is limited to portions of the canopy Trees are otherwise healthy Defoliation is light to moderate When Should Homeowners Act? A professional evaluation may be warranted when: Large portions of the canopy are affected Complete defoliation is occurring Young trees are being impacted Multiple years of severe feeding have occurred Repeated, severe defoliation can weaken trees and increase vulnerability to other stressors. Seeing insect activity can be alarming, but not every pest problem requires treatment. The best approach is often monitoring the situation and determining whether the damage is truly affecting tree health. If you're unsure whether June beetles or other insects are causing serious harm, Xylem Tree Care can provide an expert assessment and recommend treatment only when necessary. Call us today at 833-544-8733 (TREE) to schedule a free consultation and estimate.

Insect Growth Regulators: A Smarter Way to Manage Certain Tree Pests

May 4, 2026

Not every pest treatment has to work the same way. In tree care, the best solutions are often targeted, strategic, and designed around the pest’s life cycle. One tool arborists may use in the right situation is an insect growth regulator (IGR). These products do not always kill insects on contact. Instead, they disrupt development, helping prevent immature insects from becoming damaging adults. When used properly, insect growth regulators can be an effective part of an integrated plant health care plan. What is an insect growth regulator? An insect growth regulator is a product designed to disrupt the growth and development of certain insects. Depending on the active ingredient and target pest, an IGR may prevent immature insects from molting properly, maturing into adults, or reproducing successfully. In simple terms, it interrupts the pest’s life cycle. Timing is especially important. IGRs are often most effective when applied during specific stages of insect development. Why Arborists Use IGRs Some tree pests can cause significant damage if left untreated. However, not every situation requires the same treatment approach. Insect growth regulators may be recommended when arborists want a more targeted option as part of a broader pest management strategy. Potential benefits include: Targeted control: IGRs are typically designed for specific insect types and are often used when a pest issue is known. Life cycle disruption: By targeting immature stages, IGRs can reduce future pest pressure rather than addressing only what is visible at the moment. Useful in integrated care plans: IGRs can be one component of a broader plant health care program that may also include monitoring, soil care, pruning, and other treatments. Why proper diagnosis matters Not every insect issue warrants an IGR. The pest must be correctly identified, and the timing must align with the insect’s biology. That is why professional evaluation matters. An arborist will consider: Which pest is present The life stage of the insect The level of infestation The overall health of the tree Whether an IGR is the right fit for the situation Treating too early, too late, or for the wrong pest can reduce effectiveness. Part of a bigger tree health strategy At Xylem Tree Care, we take a thoughtful approach to plant health care. That means looking beyond quick fixes and recommending treatments grounded in science, timing, and the specific needs of the tree and property. Insect growth regulators can be a valuable tool in certain cases, especially when used as part of a proactive strategy to protect tree health and reduce pest pressure over time. The right treatment starts with the right diagnosis — and a plan designed for long-term tree health.

What Soil Sampling Can Tell You About Your Trees

May 4, 2026

If your trees are struggling, the answer may lie underground. Yellowing leaves, poor growth, thinning canopy, or general decline can all indicate stress. Before treating the symptoms, it is important to understand the cause. That is where soil sampling comes in. Soil sampling gives arborists a clearer picture of what is happening below the surface and helps guide smarter, more effective tree care decisions. What is soil sampling? Soil sampling is the process of collecting soil from around a tree or a landscape area and analyzing it for key characteristics that affect plant health. Depending on the test, results may include information about: Soil pH Nutrient levels Organic matter content Salts or chemical imbalances Soil texture and composition This information helps determine whether the soil is supporting healthy root function or creating hidden stress for the tree. Why soil testing matters Trees can decline for many reasons, but poor soil conditions are often overlooked. For example, a tree may appear to need fertilizer when the real issue is a pH imbalance, compaction, limited nutrient availability, or excessive salts. Soil sampling helps eliminate the guesswork. Instead of applying a broad treatment and hoping for the best, arborists can base recommendations on actual site conditions. This leads to more targeted care and better long-term results. What soil sampling can reveal A soil test can uncover problems that are not visible from the surface, including: Nutrient deficiencies: Trees may lack access to essential nutrients even after fertilizer has been applied. Improper pH: If soil is too acidic or too alkaline, roots may struggle to absorb nutrients. Low organic matter: Healthy soil requires organic matter to support moisture retention, microbial life, and soil structure. Excess salts or chemical residue: Road salts, de-icing products, or previous treatments can create harmful soil conditions. A smarter approach to tree care At Xylem Tree Care, we believe the best tree care starts with good information. Soil sampling helps our team build treatment plans based on what your trees actually need, not just on symptoms that appear at first glance. That might include soil amendments, fertilization, humic acid applications, pest management, or changes to watering and maintenance practices. The goal is always the same: improve growing conditions and support healthier trees from the ground up. Because when it comes to caring for trees, the soil tells an important story.

Why Soil Health Matters (and How Humic Acid Can Help Trees Thrive)

By Elissa Arnold • May 4, 2026

Healthy trees start below the surface. When people think about tree care, they usually focus on what they can see: leaves, branches, canopy shape, and signs of stress. But some of the most important factors affecting tree health happen underground. Soil health plays a major role in how well trees grow, respond to stress, and defend themselves against disease and environmental pressures. That is where humic acid can make a difference. What is humic acid? Humic acid is a natural organic compound that forms as plant and animal matter breaks down over time. It is a key building block of healthy soil and helps improve the environment around tree roots. Think of it as a soil conditioner that helps the soil function better. It does not replace proper fertilization or arborist care, but it can support healthier growing conditions and improve how trees access the resources they need. How humic acid supports tree health Trees rely on their root systems to take in water, oxygen, and nutrients. When soil is compacted, depleted, or imbalanced, roots struggle to do their job. Humic acid helps improve soil structure and encourages stronger root performance in several ways: Improves nutrient availability: Humic acid can help make nutrients in the soil more available to roots, which may improve nutrient uptake and overall tree vigor. Supports root development: Healthy roots are essential for healthy trees. Humic acid promotes a better root environment, supporting stronger growth below ground. Enhances water retention: In some soil types, humic acid helps the soil retain moisture more effectively while still allowing for better drainage and air movement. Encourages microbial activity: Healthy soil is alive. Beneficial microbes contribute to nutrient cycling and soil balance, and humic acid can help sustain that biological activity. When trees may benefit Humic acid treatments may be especially helpful for trees growing in challenging conditions, such as: Compacted urban soils Construction-disturbed areas Landscapes with poor organic matter Trees showing slow growth or stress Properties with repeated drought pressure In these environments, improving the soil can be one of the most effective ways to support tree health over time. A better foundation for long-term care At Xylem Tree Care, we know that tree health is about more than what happens above ground. Our arborists look at the full picture, including soil conditions, root health, and environmental stressors, to recommend the right care plan for your property. Humic acid can be a valuable part of that strategy, helping create a healthier foundation for stronger, more resilient trees. When the soil improves, the tree has a better chance to thrive.

Leading with Purpose: Randolph Hoover Joins TCIA Board of Directors

March 24, 2026

Randolph Hoover, CEO of XKIG, has been named to the 2026 Board of Directors for the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), bringing decades of leadership and a passion for advancing tree care nationwide. For Xylem Tree Care, part of the XKIG portfolio of companies, this recognition highlights the importance of thoughtful leadership in an industry that directly impacts the health, safety, and beauty of the communities we serve. With over 30 years of experience, Hoover has built an organization grounded in strong values, professional expertise, and a dedication to doing right by customers, communities, and the environment. As tree care continues to be essential in both residential and commercial settings, industry leadership promotes best practices, responsible stewardship, and long-term sustainability. Through his position on the TCIA Board, Hoover will support these priorities while advancing the profession as a whole. At Xylem Tree Care, we believe excellent tree care begins with strong leadership, trusted expertise, and a dedication to service. This appointment demonstrates those values in action and underscores our commitment to caring for the landscapes and communities we are proud to serve. Read the press release here: TCIA Board of Directors: Leadership Overview - Tree Care Industry Magazine

What Delaying Tree Work Until Spring Really Costs

February 9, 2026

Putting off tree work until spring often seems easy. But, it typically has hidden costs. As temperatures rise, demand sharply increases. Scheduling windows shrink, response times grow longer, and minor issues can quickly become serious. What could have been handled calmly in winter often turns into urgent or emergency work once storms and rapid growth begin. Spring foliage also limits visibility. Structural defects that were apparent in winter may once again be hidden, reducing the chances for accurate corrections. Access becomes more challenging, and the margin for error shrinks. Perhaps most importantly, waiting increases the risk. Trees weakened by decay, cracks, or poor structure are much more likely to break during spring storms. Addressing hazards early lowers the chance of property damage, service disruptions, or personal injury. The real cost of waiting includes: Longer scheduling delays Increased failures due to storms Higher emergency service costs Missed chances for preventive care Winter provides a rare opportunity for safe access, clear assessment, and proactive solutions. Acting early isn’t just more convenient. It’s smarter, safer, and more cost-effective in the end. Treatments are more effective when done early. Start your customized tree health program today and give your trees the care they deserve. Call 1-833-544-8733 to learn more. Evaluations are free.

Commercial & HOA Planning Season: Why Winter Is the Best Time

February 9, 2026

For commercial properties, HOAs, and facilities teams, winter isn’t a slow season. It’s the most strategic time to plan. Winter lets property managers review tree inventories, evaluate risks, and plan maintenance before spring demand increases. Instead of responding to issues as they happen, teams can create clear work scopes, align budgets, and schedule services ahead of time. Planning ahead provides better scheduling options and helps avoid the bottlenecks common in spring. It also decreases emergency work, which is usually more disruptive and expensive. Fixing known issues during winter ensures safer properties and smoother operations throughout the year. Winter planning also ensures clear documentation for boards, stakeholders, and insurance providers. Tree risk assessments, maintenance plans, and scheduled work show due diligence and proactive property management. Why winter planning works best: Predictable budgeting and cost management Prioritized scheduling before peak season Less emergency and storm response needed Clear communication with stakeholders For HOAs and commercial sites, proactive winter planning safeguards assets, manages costs, and ensures readiness for the busy months ahead. Call 1-833-544-8733 to learn more. Evaluations are free.

Storm Prep Before Storm Season

February 9, 2026

Storm damage rarely starts with the storm itself. In most cases, failures occur because underlying problems were already there, including weak limbs, structural flaws, or compromised trees that weren’t dealt with beforehand. Winter is the ideal time to lower storm risks before spring winds and ice events arrive. With better visibility and safer work conditions, arborists can remove deadwood, reduce canopy thickness, and fix structural issues that make trees vulnerable during severe weather. Proactive winter work greatly reduces the risk of branch or tree failure. Lowering canopy weight cuts down on wind resistance, while fixing weak attachments helps prevent breakage during ice buildup or gusts. Waiting until storm season often means reacting under pressure — limited access, unsafe weather, and urgent timelines. Winter allows crews to work carefully, safely, and cost-effectively. Effective winter storm-prep measures include: Removing dead or broken branches Reducing overly dense canopies Fixing structural issues Managing high-risk trees near buildings Prepared trees perform better during storms. Addressing vulnerabilities in winter helps property owners lessen emergency calls, safeguard structures, and enhance overall landscape resilience. Treatments are more effective when done early. Start your customized tree health program today and give your trees the care they deserve. Call 1-833-544-8733 to learn more. Evaluations are free.