Littleton, CO headlines

This past week, all three Bartlett offices in the Rocky Mountain Division participated in the annual Saluting Branches day of service. The event provides volunteer tree work to chosen locations that need it the most. This year, our teams participated at the Cheyenne VA Medical Center and the Fort Logan National Cemetery. We are grateful to our veterans for their service and sacrifice, and proud to participate in this incredible event.

Fertilization is the single most important proactive measure you can take in caring for your trees this season. Soil care and fertilization in autumn dramatically improve growing conditions and provide the nutrients required for vital tree root development.

Trees under stress display key symptoms indicating a serious problem may exist. This includes wilting or loss of leaves/needles, yellowing of leaves or browning of needles, premature autumn color, early leaf drop and sappy spots on branches. Correctly identifying the underlying cause is critical to addressing tree health issues.

Our Colorado offices had the privilege of sponsoring and participating in the One Leg At A Time Charity Golf Tournament, hosted by Boomerang Links Golf Course in Greeley, CO. The event's proceeds help fund Quorum Prosthetics incredible work providing access to prosthetics for individuals who need it most. We are proud to support their mission and look forward to continuing the partnership for years to come.

Summer is a time of high activity for pests as well as tree diseases caused by fungi and other organisms. Some problems may be simply aesthetic, while others can be a real threat to tree health and vitality. As such, it is important to have an arborist check your trees to determine the underlying cause.

Given the stress from higher temperatures and lack of rainfall comon in summer, it is critical to water your trees and shrubs thoroughly. Applying a 3-4" layer of mulch, inspecting for pest infestations and scheduling fall fertilization can also help maintain tree health and vigor.

During spring, pests that have been overwintering in trees and shrubs become active. Some defoliating insects will be hatching soon. Additionally, tiny scale, aphid and mite insects will become active with populations quickly growing to harmful levels. We can provide effective treatments to minimize damage and help prevent a full-blown infestation.

Foliar diseases including anthracnose, apple scab, rust diseases and powdery mildew will be commonplace in our area this spring. These diseases result in unsightly discoloration, lesions or spots on leaves. Taking action now, before the disease can progress, provides the most effective control.

After winter ends, your trees and shrubs will be working hard to establish spring growth. A soil test in early spring can help determine the precise nutrients needed for that growth, yielding a fuller canopy and vibrant, health foliage.

Winter is the ideal time to prune many tree species. Removal of dead or diseased branches this time of year can greatly reduce the risk they pose to your home and property. Plus, pruning can improve the overall health and appearance of your trees, getting them in shape for spring.

Colder temperatures and shorter days serve as a reminder that it’s time for your trees and shrubs to have a winter check-up. Now is the time to uncover issues such as weakly attached branches, dead wood, diseases, pest infestations and other problems before they can cause serious damage in the spring.