Today, I visited a job site to consult with a customer who was concerned about the health of a tree that had been significant to him for the last seven or eight years. This tree wasn’t just part of the landscape; it had a personal connection to the customer. Every day, when he arrived at work, he parked under this tree’s shade. Over the years, it became part of his routine, offering shade and a comforting presence during breaks and lunch hours. Naturally, when the tree began to show signs of distress, he wanted to know what was going on.
The tree in question, a Drake Elm, had an unhealthy appearance. While there was some green in the crown, much of the tree was dead. After examining the tree, the issue became clear. A landscape company had previously removed several nearby trees, including a tallow tree. However, instead of removing the tallow tree’s stump completely, they drilled holes into it and applied either herbicide or salt—the exact substance wasn’t certain.
Unfortunately, this herbicide likely transmitted through the shared root system to the Drake Elm, leading to its decline. Additionally, the removal of two or three other trees nearby involved grinding out their roots, which may have inadvertently damaged the Drake Elm’s root system. Upon closer inspection, I found cracks in the root flare and trunk of the Drake Elm, further evidence of stress and damage.
Trees in close proximity often share root systems, which allow them to communicate and even transfer nutrients. This interconnectedness is both a strength and a vulnerability. In this case, the shared root system became a pathway for herbicide transmittal and was disrupted by aggressive stump grinding. The result? The unintended death of a tree the property owner had wanted to keep. Unfortunately, this loss could have been prevented.
1. Hire a Licensed Arborist: Before undertaking tree work, ensure the professionals you hire are licensed, insured, and experienced. A certified arborist has the expertise to assess potential risks and execute the work properly.
2. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the methods and materials being used. Understanding the process can help prevent unintended consequences.
3. Be Mindful of Shared Root Systems: When removing trees, consider the impact on nearby trees. Proper planning and care can preserve the health of untargeted trees.
This cautionary tale underscores the importance of hiring qualified professionals for tree care. A lack of expertise can lead to unintended damage, not only to trees but also to the emotional connection we have with them. If you’re planning tree work, take the time to research and hire the right team. It can make all the difference—for your trees and your peace of mind.
Louisiana Tree Service (LATSC) is a professional tree care company serving the Greater Baton Rouge Community. Located in Baton Rouge, LATSC specializes in total tree care, from tree pruning and removal to tree mulching and tree installation.
For many years, Louisiana Tree Service has provided the residents of the Greater Baton Rouge with safe, reliable, and knowledgeable tree care services. We take immense pride in the esteemed reputation and relationships that we have cultivated within our community.
Our team is led by Senior Arborist Scott Courtright, a Louisiana Licensed Arborist with a Bachelor’s in Forest Management and a Master’s in Urban Forestry and decades serving in professional arboricultural organizations such as The American Society of Consulting Arborists, The Louisiana Urban Forestry Council, The Louisiana Arborist Association and Friends of The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden. Our Production Manager, Certified Louisiana and Arborist Jim Eaves, has over 30 years of experience in the industry and leads a team of experienced climbers and groundmen to make sure the site is taken care of before, during and after the job.
The LATSC team consists of highly knowledgeable and experienced Arborists, Urban Foresters, Horticulturists and Tree Safety Specialists. We provide comprehensive services, including tree removal, pruning, stump grinding, storm response, tree planting, and tree plant health care solutions.
LATSC is equipped with the latest tree care equipment and technology to provide the highest level of tree care to the Greater Baton Rouge Community. In cases of storm-related property damage or hazardous conditions, a single phone call will ensure a prompt response, exceptional customer service, and a level of expertise you can trust.
If you're searching for an experienced arboriculturist or require expert advice, call Scott Courtright with Louisiana Tree Service at 225-978-1018.
Scott Courtright has a Bachelor of Science in Forest Management from Louisiana State University and a Master’s Degree in Urban Forestry from Southern University and has been a licensed arborist in Louisiana for nearly 30 years.
With extensive experience and specialized knowledge of the unique climatic conditions of South Louisiana, Mr. Courtright has provided arboricultural consultation services to numerous residents, as well as industrial and commercial clients, throughout his nearly thirty years of professional practice. Since 2015, he has been pivotal in delivering continuing education to arborists in Louisiana in partnership with the LSU Agricultural Center and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry. As an active Louisiana Urban Forestry Council member, Mr. Courtright has served on the Executive Board, including a term as President. Furthermore, he is an esteemed member of the International Phytotechnologies Society and the American Society of Consulting Arborists.
