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

Tree stumps may seem harmless, but leaving them in your yard can negatively affect the appearance and safety of your outdoor space. At Orange County Tree Service , we provide expert stump grinding and removal in the greater Greenwood Lake, NY area. Here’s a look at four ways that stump removal can enhance your property. Improves Curb Appeal One of the most noticeable benefits of stump removal is the immediate improvement in how your yard looks. A leftover stump can be an eyesore, especially if it's rotting or surrounded by overgrown grass and weeds. Removing it creates a cleaner, more polished landscape that can increase the overall attractiveness of your property. This is especially important if you're planning to sell your home, as first impressions make a big difference in how potential buyers view your property. Prevents Pest Infestations Old tree stumps can become a breeding ground for pests such as termites and ants. As the stump decays, it provides shelter and food for these unwanted guests, which can eventually spread to healthy trees or even your home. Removing the stump eliminates this habitat and reduces the risk of insect infestations. Reduces Safety Hazards Stumps can pose a tripping hazard, especially in areas where children play or people frequently walk. They’re often hard to see in overgrown grass or low light, increasing the risk of accidents. Stumps can also damage lawn equipment like mowers if accidentally hit. By removing the stump, you make your yard a safer space for your family and guests, while also protecting your lawn equipment. Frees Up Usable Space A tree stump takes up valuable space in your yard that could be used more productively. Whether you want to expand your garden, install a patio, or simply create more open lawn area, getting rid of the stump gives you the freedom to redesign your outdoor space as you see fit. Removing the stump opens up new landscaping possibilities and can make your yard more functional. Stump Grinding & Removal in Orange County, NY When you need stump 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, NY!

Big trees can become serious hazards if they are unhealthy or are not properly maintained. Sometimes, a big tree may look healthy at first glance but actually pose a threat to your home and safety. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you take action before damage occurs. At Orange County Tree Service, our local arborists can identify and safely remove hazardous trees. Here are five signs that a large tree could be putting your home at risk. The Tree Is Leaning Significantly A tree that suddenly leans or appears to lean more over time is a major warning sign. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a new or worsening lean can indicate root instability or structural weakness. If the tree leans toward your home, it could fall during a storm or even on a calm day. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk Large cracks in a tree’s trunk are often indications of internal decay or structural failure. When a trunk is compromised, it weakens the tree’s overall strength and stability. A tree with a damaged trunk is much more likely to break or collapse, especially under heavy winds or during storms. If you notice major cracks or signs of rot, it’s important to consult an arborist promptly. Large Dead or Falling Branches Dead or dying branches pose a significant risk to your home, vehicles, and family. These branches can fall unexpectedly, even in mild weather conditions. If a tree is shedding large limbs or you notice many dead branches, it could mean the tree is stressed, diseased, or dying. Regular pruning and health assessments can reduce the danger, but sometimes removal may be the safest option. Fungal Growth at the Base of the Tree The presence of fungal growth around the base of a tree often signals decay. If a tree’s root system is compromised, it becomes less stable and more prone to falling. Even if the canopy still looks green, underlying root damage can make the entire tree unsafe. The Tree Is Too Close to Your Home If a large tree’s trunk or major branches are very close to your house, it could present multiple dangers. In a storm, strong winds could drive heavy branches or even the entire tree into your roof or walls. Roots growing too close to your foundation can also cause structural damage over time. Ideally, large trees should be positioned a safe distance from buildings to prevent these risks. 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 request an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake!

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!