Get matched with top arborists in Winnfield, LA

Since overwatering can harm mature trees just as much as a lack of water, it’s important to know the signs of an overwatered tree. If your tree’s leaves are yellowing, wilting, or dropping leaves, it’s likely that you’re overwatering. Other common signs include rotting, fungi, soggy soil, soft or peeling bark, falling leaves, and brittle roots. 

If you realize that you’ve been overwatering your mature tree, stop watering and give the soil time to dry out. Then moving forward, increase time between watering sessions. 

Though summer is not ideal, you can do some light pruning during this time of year. Just make sure it’s not excessive. Vigorous pruning will stress the tree and impact next year’s growth. Generally, August to September are the best summer-pruning months, particularly for fruit trees.

Light-bark trees are most notorious for producing lots of sap when wounded. These varieties include maples, birches, poplars, dogwoods, magnolias, and elms, and they will bleed more when the trees are dormant. That’s why it’s a good idea to prune them in the summer months rather than waiting until winter.

Licensing requirements for arborists, also known as tree surgeons, vary by state and municipality. Many areas require a license, which often involves specialized education and experience. Even if not mandated, it's wise to hire a licensed professional as they tend to have more experience. Beyond licensing, look for certifications from organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), as this indicates a higher level of expertise. Certified arborists must typically pass a comprehensive exam. Always confirm that the arborist has a business license and is fully insured to protect yourself from liability. Seeking positive recommendations from local homeowners is also a good step in finding a qualified professional.