Greenwood Lake & Orange County, New York Tree Service LLC Customer Reviews Blog

When a tree dies, it can quickly become a hazard. A dead tree may fall without warning, potentially damaging structures or injuring people nearby. Knowing how to identify a dead tree can help you take timely action to remove it before it causes problems. At Orange County Tree Service, our local arborists can identify and safely remove dead trees. Here are four signs that a tree is no longer alive. No Leaves During Growing Season One of the most obvious signs that a tree is dead is the absence of leaves during the growing season. If it's spring or summer and a tree that should have foliage remains bare, it may no longer be living. While some trees leaf out later than others, a tree that never develops leaves or has very sparse growth should be evaluated. Even deciduous trees that lose leaves in fall will begin to show buds or leaf growth when healthy once the weather warms up. Brittle Branches That Snap Easily A living tree has branches that bend with some flexibility. When a tree dies, the branches dry out and become brittle. If you try to break off a small branch and it snaps cleanly with no resistance, that’s a red flag. Dead branches also often appear dry, grayish, or lack any green tissue inside when snapped open. If most of the branches are like this, the tree is likely beyond saving. Large Sections of Missing or Peeling Bark Healthy bark is usually firmly attached to the trunk and replenishes itself as the tree grows. In contrast, a dead tree may have bark that peels away in sheets or flakes off easily when touched. In some cases, entire sections of bark may be missing, exposing bare wood underneath. This exposure can attract insects and fungi, accelerating the decay of the trunk. If you notice large bare patches and the bark doesn’t seem to regenerate, the tree could be dead. Fungal Growth at the Base The presence of fungi growing around the base of the trunk can indicate internal decay. Fungi feed on decomposing wood, and their presence often means the structural integrity of the tree has been compromised. While not every fungus signals a dead tree, a significant fungal presence often appears after the tree has stopped supporting itself biologically. Tree Removal in Orange County, NY For tree removal in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at 845-288-1340 . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake!

Wood chips are an excellent natural resource that can be used in many ways to enhance your landscape and improve soil health. They provide practical and sustainable solutions for various outdoor applications. At Orange County Tree Service, we provide wood chips in the greater Greenwood Lake, NY area. Here’s a look at four beneficial ways to use wood chips on your property. Mulch Garden Beds One of the most common uses for wood chips is as mulch in garden beds. A layer of wood chips helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weed growth. Over time, as the chips break down, they enrich the soil with organic matter, improving its overall health. This method can be effective for flower beds, vegetable gardens, and around trees and shrubs. Create Natural Pathways Wood chips are a great material for creating soft and natural-looking walkways. They provide a comfortable walking surface, reduce mud, and improve drainage. Unlike gravel or stone, wood chips decompose over time, adding nutrients to the soil beneath. Regular replenishment keeps pathways visually appealing while maintaining a rustic charm in your landscape. Protect Tree Roots Applying wood chips around the base of trees provides protection for the roots. Mulching with wood chips helps insulate roots from extreme temperatures, conserves moisture, and prevents soil erosion. It also reduces competition from weeds and grass. To avoid issues with moisture buildup and fungal growth, it is best to keep the mulch a few inches away from the tree trunk. Reduce Soil Erosion Wood chips can be a helpful tool for controlling erosion on sloped areas of your property. By covering exposed soil with a thick layer of wood chips, you can slow water runoff and improve soil stability. This is especially beneficial in areas prone to heavy rain, where topsoil can be easily washed away. Over time, the decomposing wood chips will also enrich the soil, promoting healthier vegetation. Wood Chips in Orange County, NY For wood chips in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at 845-288-1340 . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake, NY!

Without proper care, trees can become more vulnerable to diseases, pests, and structural issues that threaten their health. Taking proactive steps to maintain tree health can prevent serious problems and help ensure that your trees thrive for years to come. Here are five tips for keeping trees healthy and preventing major issues. Monitor for Pests and Diseases Insects and fungal infections can quickly weaken trees if left unchecked. Regularly inspecting the tree for signs of distress—such as discoloration or unusual growths—can help catch problems early. Some pests bore into the tree, while others feed on leaves and sap, causing progressive damage. If you notice symptoms of disease or infestation, consulting with an arborist can help determine the best course of action to prevent further harm and protect surrounding trees. Correct Pruning for Strong Growth Removing dead, diseased, or weak branches helps to reduce the risk of infections spreading throughout the tree. Proper pruning also improves air circulation and allows sunlight to reach all parts of the tree, which is essential for strong growth. Hiring an experienced arborist is the best way to ensure the pruning is done correctly. Deep Watering During Dry Spells Water is essential for tree health, especially during droughts or extended dry periods. Many health issues take hold when a tree is stressed due to inadequate water. Deep watering encourages strong root growth, allowing trees to access nutrients and moisture more effectively. Avoid Soil Compaction Around Roots Healthy roots are the foundation of a strong tree, but compacted soil can suffocate roots and prevent water and nutrients from reaching them. Construction and vehicles parked near trees can contribute to soil compaction, leading to weakened root systems and declining health. Provide Proper Nutrition Trees need a balanced supply of nutrients to stay healthy. Poor soil quality can lead to nutrient deficiencies, making trees more vulnerable to disease and environmental stress. A soil test can identify any nutrient imbalances and help determine the best fertilization strategy. Using organic compost or slow-release fertilizers provides trees with essential nutrients while avoiding over-fertilization. Tree Care in Orange County, NY When you need tree services in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at 845-288-1340 . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake, NY!

Like all living organisms, trees are susceptible to diseases. Identifying the early signs of tree disease is crucial for preventing the problem from spreading and potentially saving the tree. At Orange County Tree Service, we can identify trees that are suffering from diseases and then determine the appropriate course of action. Here are five common signs that a tree may be suffering from a disease. Leaf Issues In many cases, the first signs of tree disease appear in the leaves. If you notice leaves that are discolored, have spots, or show signs of wilting/curling, it could indicate a fungal, bacterial, or viral infection. Leaves that fall prematurely or fail to grow back during the growing season are also red flags. Unusual Growth Patterns Disease can cause abnormal growth in trees, such as stunted or misshapen branches, or swollen areas on branches and trunks. These unusual growth patterns are often caused by pathogens or environmental stressors weakening the tree's structure. Fungal Growth The presence of fungi, such as mushrooms or bracket fungi, on a tree's trunk or around its base is a potential indication of disease. These fungi often signal internal decay, as they thrive on dead or dying wood. If fungal growth is extensive, it may compromise the tree's structural integrity. Bark Damage or Cankers Healthy bark serves as a protective layer for a tree. If you notice areas where the bark is cracked, peeling, or has sunken spots known as cankers, the tree may be fighting an infection. Excessive Deadwood or Branch Dieback A tree suffering from disease may have branches that suddenly die back or fail to produce leaves. Deadwood is a common symptom of disease and can also pose a safety risk if the branches become brittle and fall. Regularly inspecting the tree for dead or decaying branches is essential for spotting early signs of illness. Arborist in Orange County, NY When you need tree services in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at 845-288-1340 . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake, NY!

At Orange County Tree Service, we’re proud members of the local small business community, and we strive to earn our customers’ satisfaction by doing exceptional tree work at fair prices. No matter how big or small the job, our team will work meticulously to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re thankful when our customers provide feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Mauricio and his team are awesome! Fast, reliable and excellent work. Affordable prices and excellent service quality. Will recommend their services.” — Fiorella D. “We had a great experience with Orange County Tree Service LLC. We had to remove 12 huge trees in my property, they gave the best quote from all other companies which we called for quotes. Reasonable price. The crew did a fantastic job. We would recommend them for their great work.” — Kandamula J. “Mauricio and his crew are incredibly professional. I saw the great work they did for a neighbor and had them trim back some trees soon after. His team was very careful, organized, professional and CLEAN. They care very much about the quality of their work and it shows. They had all of the proper equipment along with a cherry picker and larger wood chipper. Also, unbeatable price. I will definitely recommend them to everyone I know.” — Angelina K. “Quick response to my original request, made it to the house on short notice, and gave a competitive quote. 5 days later my two dead trees were removed and yard looked like it hadn’t been touched (superb cleanup!). The crew aligned with me on arrival, confirmed a few points, asked where they could park safely…and then they were off to work. Not only were they friendly and speedy, but they were still careful and respectful of my property. I’ll definitely work with them again should my trees need additional attention. Thank you!” — Brenton D. “The crew showed up at 8:30 and got right to work. They did a great job and an excellent clean up. I will definitely use them again!” — Kate C. Arborist in Orange County, NY When you need tree services in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at 845-288-1340 . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake, NY!

Trees can be beautiful property features, but they can also pose serious safety risks if they’re in poor health. Recognizing when a tree has become a potential hazard is essential for protecting people and property. At Orange County Tree Service, our local arborists can identify hazardous trees and safely remove them. Here are five signs that a tree is creating a safety risk. Large, Dead Branches Dead branches are among the most obvious signs that a tree is unhealthy or even dying. When branches die, they become brittle and more likely to fall during storms, high winds, or even without warning. If you see large dead branches, particularly if they are located above walkways, driveways, or near structures, it's time to consider pruning or removing the tree. Visible Cracks or Splits in the Trunk Cracks or splits in a tree’s trunk can indicate structural instability. Large cracks often mean the tree has been weakened, possibly due to disease or storm damage, making it susceptible to breaking. Large vertical cracks are strong indications that the tree could break, causing damage or injury. Leaning Trunk While some trees naturally lean, a sudden or excessive lean can signal root or structural issues. If a tree has started leaning recently or appears to lean heavily to one side, this could be due to root damage, which compromises its stability. A leaning tree, especially if it’s moving in the direction of buildings or areas with high foot traffic, should be evaluated by an arborist to determine if it’s at risk of falling. Fungal Growth at the Base Fungi growing around the base of a tree are a potential sign of internal decay. This type of decay weakens the tree from the inside, making it less stable and more likely to fall under stress. If you spot mushrooms or other fungi at the tree’s base, it's wise to have it inspected. Excessive Leaf Loss or Discolored Leaves Leaves are a strong indicator of a tree’s health. Excessive leaf loss or leaves that are discolored/wilting can indicate that the tree is under stress. This could be due to disease, poor soil conditions, or root damage. When trees lose leaves prematurely, it can be a sign of a deeper issue affecting their stability and safety. Tree Removal in Orange County, NY For tree removal in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at 845-288-1340 . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake!