Alright, let us talk about trees. Specifically, we will talk about how you, as a homeowner here in Inglewood, might be setting yourself up for a headache when it comes to Tree Pruning. Oasis Tree is not here to scare you. We just want to give you the straight goods from someone who has been in this Tree Service business a long time. Our team at Oasis Tree has seen it all. A little knowledge upfront can save you a lot of regret down the line.
Mistake #1: Falling for the 'Storm Chaser' Trap
This is a classic problem, especially after a good windstorm rolls through Inglewood. Suddenly, you will have folks knocking on your door. They will say they noticed a branch that 'looks dangerous'. They will also say they 'just happen to be in the neighborhood' with their equipment. These people will offer you a 'today-only' deal that seems too good to pass up. This is a red flag, folks. It is a huge red flag for Tree Service work.
Reputable Tree Services, like Oasis Tree, are usually booked up. We do not need to go door-to-door looking for work. We do not use high-pressure tactics either. These storm chasers often lack proper insurance as well as training. They might not even have a permanent business address. If someone gets hurt on your property, you could be on the hook. This also applies if they damage your house or your neighbor's property. Always ask for proof of current insurance. This includes liability insurance as well as worker's comp insurance. You must verify it. Do not just take their word for it. Do not accept a blurry photocopy either.
Mistake #2: The Dreaded 'Topping'
Oasis Tree cannot stress this enough. DO NOT LET ANYONE TOP YOUR TREES! Topping is when they cut the top of a tree off. They also cut branches back to stubs that are too small to support new growth. It might seem like a quick way to reduce a tree's height. However, it is one of the most harmful things you can do to a tree in Inglewood.
When a tree is topped, it stresses the tree out big time. You are removing a huge chunk of its leaves. The leaves are the tree's food factories. The tree then tries to recover by pushing out a bunch of weak, fast-growing shoots. These shoots are called 'water sprouts' or 'suckers'. These new branches are poorly attached. They are much more prone to breaking, especially with our Santa Ana winds here in Inglewood. In addition, those big, open wounds from topping are an open invitation for insects as well as disease as well as decay. The City of Inglewood even prohibits severe pruning, topping, or pollarding that disfigures a tree's natural form. If a company suggests topping for your Tree Service, thank them for their time and send them packing.
Mistake #3: Ignoring City Regulations (Especially for Protected Trees)
Did you know Inglewood has rules about what you can and cannot do with certain trees? This is true. If you have a 'protected tree' on your property, you might need a permit just to trim it. This includes many trees required to be planted as part of zoning or development conditions. You might also need a permit to remove it. The city wants to make sure Tree Service work conforms to International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards.
You definitely do not want to get a fine. You also do not want to be forced to replant a tree because you did not check first. A good, local Tree Service will be familiar with these regulations. Oasis Tree can help you navigate them. Our team always makes sure we are in compliance. We will advise you if a permit is needed for your specific Tree Service project.
Mistake #4: Choosing the Cheapest Bid Without Asking Why
Everyone wants to save a buck. Oasis Tree understands this. However, with Tree Service work, the cheapest bid is almost never the best. Tree work is dangerous. It requires specialized equipment as well as skilled labor. If a price seems unbelievably low for Tree Service in Inglewood, there is usually a reason.
- They might not be insured. This leaves you liable.
- They might not have the right equipment. This can lead to damage or an incomplete job.
- They might not be trained in proper pruning techniques. This can lead to long-term harm to your tree, like topping.
- They might cut corners on safety. This puts themselves and your property at risk.
- They might ask for full payment upfront. This is a big no-no. Reputable companies usually get paid upon completion.
Get multiple quotes for your Tree Service. Do not just compare the numbers. Compare what is included. Ask about their process. Check their credentials. A detailed, written quote is important.
Mistake #5: Pruning at the Wrong Time or Too Much
Timing is everything when it comes to Tree Pruning. Most deciduous trees in Inglewood do best with pruning in late winter. This is when they are dormant. Pruning at the wrong time can stress the tree. It can make it more vulnerable to pests as well as diseases. It can even reduce flowering and fruit production.
Also, resist the urge to over-prune. Removing too much of a tree's canopy can seriously weaken it. This means removing more than 25% in a single season. It reduces the tree's ability to make food. This leaves it vulnerable. A good arborist knows how much to take off and when. Oasis Tree always keeps the tree's health as well as structural integrity in mind. We use methods like crown cleaning as well as thinning as well as raising. Our team always follows the 25% rule to avoid shocking the tree during Tree Pruning.
Your trees are a big investment. They are also a beautiful part of your Inglewood home. Do not let a bad Tree Pruning job turn them into a liability or an eyesore. Do your homework. Ask the right questions. Choose a professional Tree Service who knows what they are doing. It will make all the difference for your trees.