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Jim Ostvig | September 6, 2016 | Blog, Tree Care, Tree Disease and Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites on spruce, oaks and shrubs The moist weather conditions that are creating a bumper crop of mosquitoes are also benefiting other pests in the Twin Cities. The Japanese beetle population this year was higher than the last two years combined. According to Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension Entomologist, all signs point to…
Jim Ostvig | July 27, 2016 | Blog, Tree Disease and Pests
The Asian Invasion (or Japanese beetles are damaging trees)
Japanese beetles are again wreaking havoc on trees, shrubs, vines and flowers throughout the Twin Cities. While adult beetles can be found congregating and feeding on many flowers, including roses (Figure 1), they also feed on the foliage of many species of trees including some conifers. (Figure 1) Preferred…
Jim Ostvig | July 21, 2016 | Blog, Pruning and Trimming
Avoid These Common Tree Pruning Mistakes
If pruning is an essential part of caring for a tree, then why are so many of us doing it wrong? We uncover five of the most common tree pruning mistakes. Avoid making these and get ready to reap the benefit: beautiful, healthy trees. Topping Topping is the act of removing large branches at the…
Jim Ostvig | June 9, 2016 | Blog, Tree Care, Tree Planting
How to Correct Aggressive Tree Roots
Trees are hardy plants, and their roots fight back against man-made limits around them. In the urban and suburban landscape, tree roots often are forced to grow between buildings or under driveways and walkways. As roots grow, they can break walls, pipes and patios, causing damage to properties. Plan Before You Plant “Before you plant…
Jim Ostvig | May 15, 2015 | Blog, Videos
How do trees add value to a landscape or campus?
In this video blog, Jim Ostvig of Ostvig Tree Care discusses Minnesota’s climate zones and some of the best trees you can add to increase the value and enjoyment of your property. Contact Ostvig Tree Care by email (info@ostvigtree.com) or phone at 952-473-0534 (West Metro) or 651-653-9930 (East Metro) for a FREE consultation! Learn more…
Jim Ostvig | January 19, 2015 | Blog, Tree Types
The Sweetest Maple Trees in Minnesota
Have you ever wondered where maple syrup comes from? Probably not – the name kind of gives it away. But have you ever wondered what the characteristics are of maple trees that produce syrup? From identifying a handful of maples that produce syrup to how to tap your own tree, we will discuss a variety…
Jim Ostvig | December 8, 2014 | Blog, Tree Planting
Top 5 Reasons to Add Trees to Your Corporate Campus
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] How much have you invested in the landscaping of your corporate campus? No, really… it is an investment. Trees offer a variety of benefits to corporate campus owners and users. In addition to enhancing the aesthetics of the property, trees lower heating and cooling costs and reduce noise and air pollution. Read about the…
Jim Ostvig | November 4, 2014 | Blog, Tree Types
How to Identify Oak Trees
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] There are many types of oak trees: northern pin oak, bur oak, northern red oak…the list goes on and on. But with so many native oak species, how do we Minnesotans tell them apart? Before you can identify these different oak trees, you need to know what you’re looking for. Learn about the identifying…
Jim Ostvig | October 6, 2014 | Blog, Tree Care
How to Choose the Best Certified Arborist
In your quest to have the ultimate landscape, you may find that you need to call on a certified arborist. But with so many options, how do you select one? Before choosing a certified arborist, a property owner should look at many things including the company’s Better Business Bureau grade, insurance, credentials and reputation. Better…
Jim Ostvig | April 24, 2014 | Beyond Tree Care, Blog
Pros and Cons of English Ivy
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] When you think of English Ivy, you may only have positive words to describe it. Its presence often reminds people of highly respected educational institutions or cottages with old world charm. But its presence can result in damage – and sometimes death – of its surroundings. You need to understand the threat the vine…