Trent's Tree Care

05/07/2026

I occasionally get requests to shape a tree. This always causes me concern as an arborist. Usually this means there is an unrealistic expectation for the final product.

In order to "shape" a tree to meet expectations it usually requires improper pruning techniques. These are bad for the health and longevity of the tree.

Generally, we have to work with what the tree gives us. Some size and shape modifications are possible but in order to truly maintain a given shape you must start in the first few years and maintain it every year. You really can't start with a mature tree and "shape" it.

02/03/2026

Millie asked me "if you trim a dried out plum tree, is that pruning?"

12/05/2025

New windows, deck and fence. Tree was leaning 90 degrees in the wrong direction. Not a lot of room for error on this one. I wish I had taken a before picture.

07/26/2025

03/26/2025

Prevented a tree from committing su***de today. Or would that be an herbicide? This is what happens when you plant a root bound tree. Over time the roots get bigger and the tree slowly strangles itself. Fortunately, with the help of an air spade and some loppers, I was able to avert the crisis.

10/25/2024

I have used baldcypress (Taxodium distichum) in several plantings and I quite like it. Someone at a workshop mentioned dawn redwood and posted pictures. The leaves looked exactly like baldcypress. I asked how to tell them apart and never got a satisfactory answer.

Here I have planted them side by side and I think I can tell. The dawn redwood (on the left,) has dark green foliage and well-spaced, upright branches. It has a graceful, almost regal bearing. The baldcypress (on the right,) looks like it's coming off of a 3 day bender

10/21/2024

I'm free from surgeons restrictions and ready to get back to work. Maybe a little slower than before for awhile.

08/24/2024

Going through my memories on Facebook I realized I can delete all those stupid Mafia Wars posts from 15 years ago.

Also, thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers. I'm still at IHC but prognosis is good. I should be going home today or tomorrow. Both surgeries went well and I'm out of pain. I feel 100 percent better than I did.