Trees play a vital role in Louisiana’s landscapes, providing shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, due to the state's humid climate and frequent storms, trees can be vulnerable to disease, decay, and structural instability. Regular tree health assessments by professionals help maintain their longevity and safety. In this guide, we explore the importance of tree health assessments and how they benefit homeowners and property managers.

1. Oak Wilt

• Symptoms: Wilting leaves, brown veins, rapid leaf loss.
• Causes: Fungus spread by beetles and root grafts.
• Treatment:
  • Remove infected branches and avoid pruning in spring.
  • Use fungicide treatments on high-value trees.
  • Prevent root grafts between infected and healthy trees.

2. Powdery Mildew

• Symptoms: White or gray powdery coating on leaves.
• Causes: High humidity and poor air circulation.
• Treatment:
  • Improve air circulation by pruning dense branches.
  • Apply fungicides if the infection is severe.
  • Avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry.

3. Root Rot (Phytophthora and Armillaria)

• Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, wilting, mushy roots.
• Causes: Excess moisture and poor drainage.
• Treatment:
  • Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
  • Remove and replace severely infected trees.
  • Apply fungicide to protect nearby healthy trees.

4. Anthracnose

• Symptoms: Dark brown or black spots on leaves, twig dieback.
• Causes: Fungal spores spread by wet conditions.
• Treatment:
  • Rake and dispose of infected leaves.
  • Prune affected branches to promote air circulation.
  • Apply copper-based fungicides if necessary.

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5. Bacterial Leaf Scorch

• Symptoms: Leaf edges turn brown while veins remain green.
• Causes: Bacteria spread by insects like leafhoppers.
• Treatment:
  • Improve tree health with deep watering and fertilization.
  • Use insect control methods to reduce disease spread.
  • No cure, but proper care can prolong tree life.

​Before Hurricane Season

• Ensuring trees are structurally sound before severe weather can prevent storm-related damage.

Signs of Disease or Decay

• If you notice discolored leaves, peeling bark, or dead branches, it’s time for an assessment.

Post-Storm Evaluations

• Storms can weaken trees in ways that aren't immediately visible. A professional evaluation helps identify hidden damage.

Routine Annual Checkups

• Regular health assessments ensure trees remain strong and vibrant year-round.

Expert Knowledge

• Certified arborists understand Louisiana’s tree species, soil conditions, and climate challenges.

Proper Equipment & Techniques

• Professionals use advanced tools to diagnose tree health and perform necessary treatments safely.

Long-Term Cost Savings

• Preventative care and early intervention reduce the need for expensive tree removals and property repairs.

Who to Call For a Tree Health Check?
Regular tree health assessments are essential for maintaining a safe, beautiful, and thriving landscape. By identifying risks early and taking preventative measures, property owners can protect their trees and surrounding environment. If you need a professional tree health evaluation, contact Big Bark Tree Care today to ensure your trees remain strong and healthy for years to come.

​Hurricanes are a common threat in Baton Rouge, bringing strong winds and heavy rains that can severely damage trees and landscapes. Proactive tree care before storm season can minimize risks, protect your property, and reduce cleanup costs. In this guide, we’ll cover how to assess and prepare your trees for hurricane season to keep your landscape safe and resilient.

Before a storm hits, it’s important to evaluate the condition of your trees to identify potential hazards.
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Look for Weak or Dead Branches

• Weak, dead, or broken branches are more likely to break off during high winds.
• Regularly inspect your trees and remove unstable limbs to reduce potential damage.

Check for Structural Defects

• Trees with multiple trunks or weak branch unions are more susceptible to splitting.
• Leaning trees may indicate root damage or instability and should be assessed by a professional.

Inspect for Disease or Decay

• Trees affected by rot, fungus, or insect infestations are more likely to fall during storms.
• Addressing disease and pest issues before hurricane season strengthens tree resilience.

Routine tree maintenance is key to reducing storm-related damage.
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Regular Pruning

• Trimming trees properly can reduce wind resistance and prevent overgrowth.
• Removing excess branches ensures trees are less likely to break under high winds.

Deep Root Watering & Mulching

• Strong roots help trees stay anchored during storms.
• Applying mulch around tree bases improves soil moisture and root stability.

Bracing and Cabling

• Weak trunks and heavy branches can benefit from structural support.
• Professional bracing and cabling can reinforce vulnerable trees, reducing breakage risk.

Some tree species are better equipped to withstand hurricanes than others.

​Best Wind-Resistant Tree Species

• Live Oak – Strong, deep-rooted, and highly wind-resistant.
• Bald Cypress – Flexible, flood-tolerant, and resilient in storm conditions.
• Southern Magnolia – Dense wood and strong structure make it more durable.

Avoid Trees Prone to Storm Damage

• Water Oaks – Weak wood and shallow roots make them highly susceptible to storm damage.
• Pines – Tall and brittle, prone to snapping in strong winds.
• Shallow-Rooted Species – Trees with weak root systems can easily topple over in storms.

Spacing and Placement Strategies

• Avoid planting trees too close to power lines, structures, or driveways.
• Space trees properly to allow for strong root development and wind flow resistance.

Once the storm has passed, evaluating tree damage is crucial for safety and recovery.

Assess Tree Damage

• Look for hanging branches, split trunks, and exposed roots.
• Trees leaning significantly may pose a risk and need immediate attention.

Remove Hazardous Trees Safely

• If a tree is at risk of falling, consult a professional for safe removal.
• Avoid handling large fallen limbs or uprooted trees on your own.

Tree Recovery Tips

• Proper watering, mulching, and pruning can help stressed trees recover.
• Monitor tree health for signs of delayed damage in the weeks following the storm.

Get Prepared For Storm Season
Preparing your trees before hurricane season can protect your landscape and property from severe damage. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and choosing storm-resistant tree species can make a significant difference. If you need assistance with tree preparation or post-storm care, contact a professional tree service to ensure your trees remain strong and resilient year-round.

​Proper tree care is essential for maintaining a beautiful and healthy landscape. Two common practices, tree trimming and tree pruning, are often used interchangeably, but they serve different purposes. Understanding the differences between these techniques can help homeowners and property managers maintain their trees more effectively and prevent unnecessary damage. In this guide, we’ll explore the distinctions between trimming and pruning, their benefits, and when to use each method.

Definition
Tree trimming involves cutting back overgrown branches to maintain a tree’s appearance and ensure proper growth.

Purpose

• Enhances the tree’s aesthetic appeal.
• Controls overgrowth to prevent interference with buildings, power lines, and other structures.
• Improves air circulation and sunlight penetration for nearby plants and trees.

Common Applications

• Removing excess foliage to give the tree a well-manicured look.
• Cutting back branches that extend too far, obstructing driveways, windows, or rooftops.
• Keeping hedges and shrubs in shape for a polished landscape design.

Definition
Tree pruning is a selective process that removes dead, diseased, or weak branches to improve a tree’s health and structure.
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Purpose

• Prevents the spread of disease and decay by removing affected branches.
• Encourages healthy growth and strengthens the tree’s overall structure.
• Helps shape young trees for long-term stability and resilience.
• Enhances flowering and fruit production for fruit-bearing trees.

Common Applications

• Removing branches that show signs of disease or decay.
• Shaping trees to maintain structural integrity and prevent potential hazards.
• Cutting back branches that may cause safety concerns during storms or high winds.

​Tree Trimming

• Best performed during the growing season (spring/summer) when trees are actively growing.
• Recommended for trees with excessive foliage or overgrown branches.
• Ideal for maintaining the appearance of ornamental shrubs and hedges.

Tree Pruning

• Best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
• Necessary when trees show signs of disease, decay, or have weak or broken limbs.
• Helps improve the tree’s resilience to storms and extreme weather conditions.

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Why Professional Tree Care is Important

• Ensures proper cutting techniques to prevent disease and structural damage.
• Reduces the risk of injury and property damage from falling branches.
• Professionals have the expertise to determine the best approach for each tree species.
• Specialized tools and safety equipment make the process more efficient and effective.

Conclusion
Both tree trimming and pruning are essential for maintaining healthy, attractive trees, but they serve different purposes. While trimming keeps trees aesthetically pleasing and under control, pruning improves their health and longevity. Knowing when and how to perform these tasks can make a significant difference in the well-being of your landscape. For expert assistance, consider hiring Big Bark for professional tree care services to ensure your trees receive the best possible maintenance.

Trees play a vital role in Louisiana’s landscapes, providing shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, due to the state's humid climate and frequent storms, trees can be vulnerable to disease, decay, and structural instability. Regular tree health assessments by professionals help maintain their longevity and safety. In this guide, we explore the importance of tree health assessments and how they benefit homeowners and property managers.

​Preventative Care

• Professional assessments help identify early signs of disease, decay, and structural weaknesses before they become major issues.
  
• Regular evaluations reduce the risk of costly tree removals and landscape damage.
  

Safety Measures

• Trees with unstable branches or weak root systems can pose serious risks, especially during hurricanes and storms.
  
• Assessments help mitigate hazards by identifying and addressing potential dangers.
  

Tree Longevity

• Healthy trees can live for decades with proper care and maintenance.
  
• Routine inspections ensure trees receive the nutrients, pruning, and support they need to thrive.
  

Fungal Infections & Root Rot

• Louisiana’s high humidity and frequent rainfall create ideal conditions for fungal diseases like root rot and mildew.
  
• Identifying infections early prevents widespread damage and tree decline.
  

Insect Infestations

• Common pests such as termites, beetles, and borers can weaken trees from the inside out.
  
• Professional assessments detect infestations early, allowing for prompt treatment.
  

Storm Damage & Weak Branches

• Hurricanes and heavy winds can cause stress fractures, uprooted trees, and weakened branches.
  
• Inspecting trees before and after storms ensures structural integrity and safety.
  

​​Trees add beauty and value to any property, but when they become unstable or diseased, they pose significant risks. Identifying hazardous trees early can prevent property damage, personal injury, and costly emergency removals. In this guide, we’ll discuss key warning signs that indicate a tree may be dangerous and in need of removal.

Leaning Trees

• While some trees naturally lean, a sudden or worsening lean can indicate structural instability.
• Cracked soil or exposed roots near the base can suggest the tree is losing its grip on the ground.
• Trees leaning toward structures, driveways, or walkways are particularly hazardous.

Multiple Trunks or Weak Unions

• Trees with multiple trunks or branches that form a tight V-shape are more prone to splitting.
• Weak unions, where branches join at a narrow angle, can break under heavy wind or ice loads.
• Regular inspections can identify potential weak spots before they cause damage.

Large Dead Branches

• Dead or broken limbs can fall unexpectedly, posing a risk to people and property.
• Branches that are missing bark or have no leaves during growing seasons are likely dead.
• Routine pruning can prevent hazardous branches from becoming a larger problem.

Cracks and Cavities

• Large cracks in the trunk may indicate serious internal decay.
• Cavities or hollow sections weaken the tree’s overall structure and can lead to breakage.
• A certified arborist can assess the severity and recommend whether removal is necessary.

Fungal Growth (Mushrooms at the Base)

• Mushrooms or fungi growing at the base of a tree often signal internal rot.
• Trees with extensive fungal infections may become weak and structurally compromised.

Peeling or Missing Bark

• Bark protects the tree’s inner layers; missing or peeling bark can indicate stress or disease.
• Sunken or discolored patches on the trunk are additional signs of declining health.

Sudden Leaf Loss or Discoloration

• Trees that lose leaves prematurely or have yellowing leaves outside of seasonal changes may be unhealthy.
• Thinning canopies or branches with no new growth may indicate disease or root damage.

Insect Infestation

• Termites, beetles, or other boring insects can weaken a tree’s structure.
• Holes in the trunk, sawdust-like residue, or excessive woodpecker activity are common infestation signs.

Exposed or Damaged Roots

• Root damage from construction, erosion, or disease can destabilize a tree.
• Cutting major roots during landscaping projects can reduce the tree’s ability to anchor itself.

Heaving Soil Around the Base

• Soil that appears lifted or cracked near the tree’s base may indicate root movement.
• This can be an early warning that the tree is shifting and at risk of falling.

Consult a Certified Arborist

• A professional tree assessment can determine whether a tree can be saved or needs removal.
• Arborists use specialized tools and knowledge to detect internal decay and structural weaknesses.

Pruning vs. Removal

• If only certain branches are compromised, pruning may be enough to improve stability.
• Trees with extensive decay, severe leaning, or compromised root systems often require full removal.

Emergency Tree Removal

• If a tree poses an immediate danger, such as after a storm, emergency removal services may be needed.
• Never attempt to remove a large or hazardous tree on your own—always call a professional.

Spotting the early warning signs of a dangerous tree can prevent costly damages and potential injuries. Regular inspections and maintenance can keep your landscape safe and beautiful. If you suspect a tree on your property may be hazardous, contact a professional tree service for a thorough evaluation and expert recommendations.

​Baton Rouge's warm, humid climate and frequent storms make choosing the right trees essential for homeowners and property owners. Selecting trees that provide ample shade while being resilient against storms can enhance property value, reduce energy costs, and protect landscapes from hurricane damage. In this guide, we’ll explore the best trees to plant in Baton Rouge that offer both shade and storm resistance.

Before planting, it's important to consider a few key factors to ensure your trees thrive in Louisiana’s climate:

• Wind Resistance: Trees with deep root systems and strong wood are less likely to be uprooted during hurricanes.
• Drought Tolerance: Baton Rouge experiences hot summers, so trees that can withstand dry spells are ideal.
• Low Maintenance: Choosing disease-resistant and low-maintenance trees saves time and effort in the long run.
• Growth Rate: Fast-growing trees provide quicker shade, while slow-growing trees tend to be stronger and longer-lived.

1. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

• Why Choose It? Live oaks are among the strongest and longest-living trees in Louisiana. Their deep roots and sprawling branches make them highly wind-resistant.
• Benefits: Massive shade coverage, low maintenance, and excellent resistance to storm damage.
• Considerations: Requires ample space due to its wide spread.

2. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

• Why Choose It? As Louisiana’s state tree, the bald cypress thrives in wet and dry conditions, making it perfect for flood-prone areas.
• Benefits: Strong, deep-rooted system; high storm resistance; unique, attractive appearance.
• Considerations: Deciduous tree that sheds leaves in winter.

3. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

• Why Choose It? Known for its beautiful white flowers and glossy green leaves, the southern magnolia is a staple in Southern landscapes.
• Benefits: Evergreen foliage for year-round shade, strong wood for storm resistance, fragrant blooms.
• Considerations: Can shed leaves and seed pods, requiring occasional cleanup.

4. Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)

• Why Choose It? A strong, wind-resistant tree with vibrant fall foliage.
• Benefits: Deep root system, good storm resilience, attractive fall colors.
• Considerations: Drops seed balls, which may require yard maintenance.

5. Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)

• Why Choose It? Though not a large shade tree, crape myrtles are extremely wind-resistant and add beautiful color to landscapes.
• Benefits: Low maintenance, drought-tolerant, colorful summer blooms.
• Considerations: Smaller in size, offering limited shade.

To ensure healthy and long-lasting trees in your landscape, follow these best practices:

• Best Planting Time: Fall and early spring are ideal for planting trees in Baton Rouge to allow root establishment before summer heat.
• Spacing & Placement: Plant trees with sufficient space to accommodate their mature size, keeping them away from power lines and structures.
• Watering & Mulching: Newly planted trees need regular watering, and mulching helps retain moisture and prevent weeds.
• Pruning & Maintenance: Annual pruning strengthens branches and reduces weak limbs that could break in storms.

Look Forward to Enjoying the New Trees
Choosing the right trees for Baton Rouge’s climate is essential for maximizing shade and minimizing storm damage. Live oaks, bald cypresses, and southern magnolias are among the best choices for their strength, shade, and resilience. By planting wisely and maintaining trees properly, you can enjoy a beautiful, sustainable landscape for years to come.
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Looking for expert advice on tree selection, planting, or maintenance? Contact our professional tree care team today for a consultation!

Have you ever looked at a tree in your yard and thought, "Is it taking a really long nap, or has it shuffled off its mortal coil?" You're not alone! Many homeowners find themselves playing the arborist version of Sherlock Holmes, trying to deduce whether their tree is dead or just very, very relaxed. Here at Big Bark Tree Care, we're all about helping you solve these leafy mysteries—with a hint of humor (just a dash, we promise).

The Great Tree Detective: How to Spot a Tree in the Afterlife
1. The Tale of the Silent Buds

In the spring, trees should be bustling with activity, popping out buds faster than popcorn at a movie theater. If your tree is more on the "silent movie" end of the spectrum, it might be time to start worrying. A lack of leaves and buds is often the first sign that your tree might be auditioning for a role in "The Walking Dead: Arbor Edition."

2. The Scratch Test: Under the Bark

Don your detective hat and gently scratch a small piece of bark from a branch. If you find green, congratulations! Your tree is alive and kicking. If it's brown and dry, well, it might be time to call in the professionals at Big Bark Tree Care. We promise to handle your tree with all the care of a beloved family pet (that doesn't need to be walked).

3. Branches: The Snap Judgment

Try bending a few branches. If they snap with a sound reminiscent of eating crackers in a quiet library, they're dead. Living branches, on the other hand, are more flexible than a yoga instructor. Remember, if a branch snaps off and hits you, it might be the tree's way of reaching out for help (or it's just grumpy; trees can be moody, too).

4. Trunk Drama: A Story of Splits and Cracks

Inspect the trunk for cracks, splits, and other novella-worthy drama. These signs can indicate a tree's internal struggle, much like reading a teenager's diary. Also, keep an eye out for fungi, which are the equivalent of a tree wearing too much cologne—it's trying to cover something up.

5. The Lean of Doom

If your tree is leaning like it's trying to initiate a game of limbo, it might be unstable. This is the tree's last-ditch attempt to catch your attention—like a dramatic exit in a soap opera. At Big Bark Tree Care, we specialize in giving these trees a dignified exit, ensuring they don't accidentally take out your fence on their way down.

6. The Professional Touch: Big Bark Tree Care to the Rescue

If all this detective work sounds like a lot, fear not! Big Bark Tree Care is here to take the magnifying glass out of your hand. We've got the expertise to determine if your tree is just being dramatic or if it's truly taken its final bow. Plus, we do it with a smile and the gentle touch of someone who whispers apologies to their plants when they forget to water them.

The Final Leaf: When to Say Goodbye
Saying goodbye to a tree can be tough. It's like parting with an old friend who's stood silently by your side, offering shade and shelter (and occasionally dropping leaves all over your lawn in a passive-aggressive move). But sometimes, it's necessary for the safety of your home and family.

At Big Bark Tree Care, we don't just remove trees; we honor their memory by ensuring the rest of your garden thrives. And who knows? Perhaps there's room for a new sapling to write its own story in your yard—a story we'd be thrilled to help you start.

So, if your tree is giving you the silent treatment, showing signs of decay, or just seems a bit too "dead" for your liking, give us a call. We'll bring our expertise, and our commitment to trees (both living and departed) to your doorstep. Remember, every tree has its day—some just need a little help finding their way out.

​Trees are everywhere. They're around landscapes, businesses, homes, on the side of highways, and in the forest. Trees are beautiful, and they can do so many things. Trees are essential for our life, they have been on earth for generations, and they have helped us advance in life drastically. 

Trees are essential to humans primarily because of the well-known fact that they are involved in the exchange between carbon dioxide and oxygen. Trees have also helped us make advancements in our everyday lives. The bark from trees is used to make tables, flooring, statues, utensils, and much more. Trees can also provide shade for you and your home.
Not only that, but trees are an integral part of the environment. Trees can absorbs a large amount of carbon, carbon emissions, particles, and other gases in its lifetime. A single tree is able to absorb around 1 ton of carbon over its entire life. They can also absorb a massive amount of water per year and reduce erosion in some cases.  Besides helping you and the environment, trees also can help wildlife. They can provide animals with food and shelter.

Trees have always been important and they have been here longer than most would think. Trees date back to around 400 million years ago. During that time, plants with vascular systems were found. Vascular systems are important because it is what makes the formation of trunks and branches possible. It also allows them to grow vertically.
Later on, in time seeded plants started to show up. After that trees were found to have truly wood-like stems and gymnosperms started to appear. The first pine tree and ginkgo trees were founded around 200-150 million years ago. Later on, around 67 million years ago evidence of the first maple trees was found. As time went on the different types of trees and plants began to expand in all different types of ways.

Spring is a time for rebirth. There are so many changes occurring this time of year that it is easy to lose sight of them all. Take a moment to review these tips to see if the trees around your house could use them. Spring is the time to:

Trim Palm Trees
The threat of winter hard freezes is over. Pruning your palm trees now will have them looking great during the summer when you are by your pool.

Remove Dead Branches And Suckers
Dead branches and suckers are sapping vital nutrition from your tree. Removing dead branches and suckers promotes growth and an overall healthier tree. Dead limbs are a safety hazard and is even more of one when the weather warms up and the little ones venture outdoors to play.

Fertilize Oak Trees, Pecan Trees, And Elm Trees
Big trees need the right nutrition to be healthy. Replacing thousands of leaves lost during fall is taxing. Fertilization will keep your tree in better shape while extending its life.

Arborist Administered Insecticide Tree Injections
Caterpillar season is coming soon! Caterpillars range from an annoyance to a real tree damage dealer. Tree injections done by a certified arborist can keep these pests away.