What is the difference between Hardwood and Softwood trees?
The terms hardwood and softwood actually have little to do with the hardness of the wood itself :
Hardwood - Refers to a category of tree species ( Angiosperm ) that have broad leaves and true flowers with the seed being enclosed. These deciduous trees loose their leaves each year. Most commonly thought of hardwood trees in the maritimes would be maple ( Acer ) and oak ( Quercus ).
Softwood - Refers to a category of tree species ( Gymnosperms ) that have naked seeds with no covering. Gynosperm species have needles and most but not all conifer species keep their needles all year long. Most commonly thought of softwood trees in the maritimes would be pine ( Pinus ) and spruce ( Picea ).
What are my trees worth ? What value to the property do they bring ?
Each and every property has its own natural beauty that is aided by what trees surround it. Trees not only add value to your property by means of a dollar amount but they hold such advantages as shade which help moderate local climate. Trees regulate wind patterns and increase wildlife habitat. Trees create an appealing outdoor environment by promoting mental well being and reduce stress levels. In summary there are 8 main reasons why we need trees on our properties :
1- Visual appeal
2- Air quality
3- Health and well being
4- Cost savings
5- Managing storms
6- Property value
7- Cooling effects
8- Reduction in wind speeds
When is the best time to prune a tree ?
Many people ask when is the best time to prune my tree? That all depends on the goals that you have in mind. Pruning involves creating an open wound on the tree. This wound then needs time to heal. Trees have the most energy before the leaves come out in the spring when the energy is stored in the root system from last growing season. Should you want to do a heavy prune it is best to do so at this time. Minor pruning and trimming can be done anytime of the year. When pruning for low hanging limbs this should be done in the middle of summer when all branches are at their lowest point and heaviest with sap in the stem and leaves on the limbs. Tree pruning and trimming is an essential step in the maintenance and health of the trees on your property.
You should have your local tree expert inspect the site
Why should a tree be fertilized ?
Fertilizer provides essential nutrients that strengthen the trees structure and immune system. Just as every living organism trees are tough but that does not stop nutrient deficiencies in the soil. As the tree grows more and more demand is put onto the soil nutrient capacity. As we sweep away leaves, twigs and organic material we are removing the recycling of nutrients into the soil. Grasses, shrubs and other trees are in constant competition for available nutrients and water supply. This is why we use a Deep Root Fertilize method to replace to the soil a slow release fertilizer to mimic years of nature replacing those nutrients lost.
Fertilizing can be done in the spring, summer and fall. Should you see signs of any of the following conditions :
Odd colour leaves
Dead branches or branch tips
Undersized leaves or leaves dropping early into the growing season
Spots forming on the leaves
You should have your local tree expert inspect the trees
What can I do with the left over mulch from my tree service? My arborist wants me to keep the mulch to save disposal costs.
Here are several ways mulch works in your landscaping
1- Mulch keeps the weeds down and makes them easier to remove
2- Slows evaporation of water, saving time & money on watering your plants
3- Insulates the soil, protecting plants from extreme temperatures
4- Gives flower beds a finished, polished look
What can i do with the left over wood from my tree service ? My arborist wants me to keep the wood to save on my service costs.
Here are several ways to deal with left over wood
1- Give the wood to your neighbour to build relations
2- Give the wood to someone in need to give back to the community
3- Sell the wood left over on the local buy and sells to help pay for the costs of the tree service.
4- Use the left over wood for stove wood to reduce heating costs
5- Use left over wood to build garden beds or flower structures to get creative with natural fertilizer
How does ATR charge for their services ?
ATR charges by the job, not by the hour. ATR takes into consideration all factors such as complexity, risks, hazards, equipment involved, clean up, disposal costs, crew requirements & more. This approach ensures the job is not rushed or cut short based on time. When you hire ATR you are investing in qualified professionals and a process built around long term results.
ATR provides free quotes, please call 902-529-0119
What makes ATR different from other Arborist companies ?
Here are several ways why ATR differs
Trees are our speciality
We are not landscapers, gardeners, or handymen. Being an arborist is more then just a career for us, it is a calling. We climb the largest trees and care for the smallest plants. Professional, scientific and precise work. Masters of our trade and jacks of none. ISA-certified, Degrees in Forestry & Forest Technicians.
Clients come first
Your happiness and satisfaction is our goal from our first interaction to the final see you next year we want you to experience the best in customer service.
We are here to stay
ATR has been in business for more than 15 years. There are many fly by night operators, untrained individuals and tiny companies offering tree work today and gone by tomorrow. ATR is not one of them. ATR is accountable today, tomorrow and everyday thereafter for our work and services. Before any job is started clients receive our insurance papers, WCB information and credentials.
Licensed and insured
Tree work is dangerous and no tree company is immune. We work on extremely hazardous trees and operate deadly machinery everyday. When you hire a company with little experience, the proper credentials or no insurance you could be held liable for any incident. ATR comes way above industrail average with WSIB, extra health and care insurance, general liability insurance.
Support local, not big box
ATR is locally owned and operated on the South Shore. We are big enough to handle the toughest projects but offer a unique experience the big box tree companies cannot. Our employees are local and ATR offers fair compensation to ensure we hire the best all year round.
Fair price guarantee
ATR believes in offering the best quality of service at the best price. However should another company offer a better price ATR offers price matching with direct competitors. When the service is the same, the tree company is certified, insured and fully established ATR is happy to try and match their price to offer our better service. ATR asks for proof to know we are comparing apples to apples.
Quality equipment
ATR will only use equipment that is tested and bought from Universal Field Supply. The crews safety, reputation and overall well being depend on this factor. ATR ensures professionalism.