Tree care and tree service tips written by a certified arborist:

  • what is the best season to prune a tree
  • best and worst trimming techniques
  • pest and disease prevention
  • planting and caring for trees
  • stump removal

 

climate change and eab

Climate Change and the EAB

Climate change and the emerald ash borer (EAB) collectively pose a significant threat to North American ash tree species. The EAB, an invasive beetle that originates from Asia, has caused the destruction of millions of ash trees in the United States and Canada since its discovery in 2002. This has not only led to a…

Boxeleder Flowers

Native Tree Planting

Native tree planting has enormous benefits for people, animals, and the ecosystem at large. The benefits include ecological, economic, and social benefits. However, the benefits gotten from native trees exceed those from non-native trees by far. The two main categories of native trees include: Evergreen species Deciduous species Evergreen native trees are always green throughout…

wood decay in silver maple

Wood Decay in Chicago’s Urban Forest: Understanding, Managing, and Preserving Tree Health

Wood decay poses a significant challenge to Chicago’s area urban forest, impacting tree health, safety, and longevity. This article explores the complexities of wood decay in urban trees, from its biological underpinnings to advanced management strategies. By understanding the interplay between trees, fungi, and the unique urban environment of Chicago, we can better protect and…

tree pruning in Chicago

Why Tree Pruning Is Important

Many times throughout my career I have had clients ask why it is necessary to prune mature trees. A common misconception is due to the idea that woodland trees survive just fine without any care, why should anyone pay to have a large, mature tree trimmed? While it is true that trees survive just fine…

Oak Tree Service

Oak Tree Service & Removal

Oak trees are beloved by property owners – the presence of one or two such trees greatly adds to the aesthetic appeal and even the value of a property. Oak trees are not just beautiful but also hardy, and with proper care, they can exist on a property for ages. Despite their hard nature, oak…

cicada in the grass

How Do Cicadas Affect Chicago Area Trees

The 2024 cicada emergence in Illinois is a rare and historic event that will captivate the attention of residents and entomologists alike. This article delves into the fascinating world of periodical cicadas, their impact on the ecosystem, and the preparations needed to protect trees and landscapes during this extraordinary occurrence. Introduction: A Rare and Historic…

pine wilt nematode disease

Pine Wilt Disease: Prevention and Mitigation

Pine Wilt Disease (PWD), caused by the pinewood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is a severe threat to non-native pine trees. This disease can rapidly kill trees within a growing season. Progressive Tree Service is committed to equipping homeowners and property managers with the knowledge and tools to combat this disease. Pine wilt, primarily impacting non-native pines,…

Magnolia Tree

Magnolia Scale Treatment

What Is Magnolia Scale? Magnolia scale is a ½ inch long insect that attacks tulip trees, magnolia trees and hybrids. Some of the tree species attacked by the magnolia scale are: Lily magnolia Star magnolia Cucumber tree magnolia Saucer magnolia Magnolia Scale Treatment Quote Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. What Does Magnolia Scale…

Tree Hit By Lightning

Tree Struck By Lightning

Lightning strikes a huge number of urban trees each year. Recent storms in the Chicago area have shown that there are no shortcuts to tree maintenance or prevention techniques. Tree Inspection Or Removal Quote Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. Can a tree survive a lightning strike? Yes. It depends on where the tree…

Spring Tree Care

Spring Tree Care

Spring Tree Care Winter is finally gone, and it is that time you’ve been looking forward to; time to do some gardening. However, it is also the time that there is torrential downpour and flooding becomes a common thing. If you have trees on your property, you are wondering if they are going to survive…