Gardeners realize that any tree needs water, air and sun. An experienced gardener recognizes, as well, the value of placing any plant in suitable soil.

Homeowners that tire of looking at dead leaves can rake them up and put them in piles. Years ago, homeowners would burn those same piles, but the laws now prohibit such an activity. Hence, there are places where the collected leaves get sent to a landfill.

Topping is a term that refers to an attack on a tree’s uppermost branches. It is a process that reduces greatly the height of a towering plant. The branches that extend from the tree’s topmost level get cut off from the rest of the trunk.

Throughout most of the year, trees’ bark serves as a protection. Yet certain spots of bark could exhibit damage, during the winter season.

Shrubs can serve as a means for dividing up sections of a yard, or for separating two different yards. Yet that natural barrier loses its appeal if the shrub’s leaves turn brown.

Generally, tree roots get categorized as features that stay out-of-sight, growing under the ground. Still, some roots break through the surface of the soil. Homeowners frequently feel unsure about how to deal with an exposed root.

Most people go to a barber or a hair salon, if their hair needs cutting. By the same token, if a tree’s limbs get too long, a tree-cutting operation should be planned or scheduled. Rest-assured, a tree-trimming can be part of a successful DIY effort at yard-maintenance, if it has been done properly.

When a tree has sustained extensive damage, it makes sense to plan for its removal. On the other hand, a tree with only minimal damage shows evidence of an ability to recover from the limited amount of damaging effects.

The thought of calling an arborist, in order to handle some tree-care, might seem like an unneeded expense. Yet there are several ways that a homeowner can benefit by making an investment in the plants that add value to the same homeowner’s property.

Here in Northern California, our native oaks are some of the most magnificent trees that adorn our area. What’s better than kicking back and enjoying the shade of a sprawling oak tree?