Archive for November, 2009

What In the World is an Anti-desiccant Spray?

Published by Mr. Tree on November 29th, 2009 - in Landscaping, Plant Health Care, Trees

What is an anti-desiccant spray you say?  When do you do it and why?

The typical anti-desiccant spray creates a barrier on needles or evergreen leaves that helps slow the loss of water during the winter.  Moisture loss through needles due to exceedingly dry, cold air, and wind can create an unhealthy environment for many evergreen tree and shrubs.  An anti-desiccant spray slows this process down a great deal, creating a glossy shield on plants such as rhododendrons, yews, holly, or arborvitae.  This can especially hold true when more than one spray is completed, typically three provide maximum results from fall until spring.

If you have exposed shrubs or small trees that might benefit from this type of treatment, be sure to let us know.  This kind of treatment begins in November and ends in March.

These Tree Statistics Speak Loudly

A recent news event in NH outlined a tree falling on a teenage boy, resulting in his death.  This is a tragic event that bears closer investigation.  The birch tree involved was dead and a hazard.  Most people are not able to recognize a dangerous tree or predict a future failure such as the one leading up to an actual death.

A recent study published by the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reported that of all professional tree care companies’ employee deaths between 1992-2007, nearly half involved the tree falling on or a portion of the tree hitting the employee.  Of that number, nearly 60% of the incidents occurred in companies with 10 or less employees.

Major points that can be drawn from these statistics are clear.  First, be sure you are hiring a reputable, skilled, qualified arborist company with the kind of knowledge that will enable the job to be done safety. We believe companies accredited by the Tree Care Industry Association adhere to the very highest safety standards. Second, if professionals are being injured or killed, why take the chance yourself?

If you have not had your property inspected for dangerous trees or limbs have us take a look today for free.  The implications of waiting are potentially deadly and just not worth the risk to you, your family, or friends.

To find other TCIA accredited companies near you, enter your zip code at this link:  http://www.treecareindustry.org/index.aspx

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