Lopsided trees are vulnerable trees. Can you guess why? Uneven growth can place too much weight on one side of the structure, especially after a snow, heavy rain, or during a windstorm.
Although it's fine to burn in outdoor pits, never use your softwood branches in your indoor fireplace. They burn very fast and leave a lot of soot that can coat your chimney very quickly. Examples of common softwood are Pine, Fir and Cypress.
After winter has subsided, do a thorough check of your irrigation system. Ensure that the drip systems are not clogged and that all the valves and backflow prevention devices are working properly. Make sure that they are providing the proper amount of water for your trees as well as the lawn.
So just what is an arborist? According to the International Society of Arboriculture, an arborist is someone who is "trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees."
One of the primary causes of visits to emergency rooms is falls from ladders. Unless you have the proper protective equipment, leave the trimming of tree branches to arborists. It's a safety thing.
If you're considering planting a new tree this spring and you enjoy birdwatching, give Serviceberry some consideration. It has many varieties from short to tall and the berries will attract tons of interesting wildlife to view!