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Jim Ostvig | August 22, 2013 | Blog, Tree Types
Including Ornamental and Unusual Trees in Your Landscape
One of the truly delightful traits about Minnesota is our scenic landscape, filled with lakes and trees of all shapes and sizes. Whether you live in Minneapolis or Chanhassen, Minnesota, there are plant options that will blend in nicely with your existing landscape. Planting trees that are ornamental and unusual make lovely additions to the…
Jim Ostvig | August 15, 2013 | Beyond Tree Care, Blog
More than tree care: Why do cats climb trees?
At Ostvig Tree Care, we are more than the basics of tree care. We enjoy discussing common occurrences that come with having trees, like what to do when a cat climbs a tree. We all know the classic scenario: a neighborhood tabby is pretending she is feral, spots a bird and goes for it. Before…
Jim Ostvig | August 8, 2013 | Blog, Tree Planting
From the Tree Nursery to Your Yard: How trees are grown before they’re ready to be planted
Believe it or not, we are quickly approaching fall which is a busy season for tree nurseries. Tree seedlings are typically planted during the late summer or early fall. Tree planting occurs during the spring and fall. Now that you’ve had the summer to grow accustomed to caring for your existing trees, we suggest taking…
Jim Ostvig | July 11, 2013 | Blog, Tree Planting
Studies Link Forestry to Low Crime Rates
While we at Ostvig Tree Care might seem biased on the benefits of planting trees on your property – whether it’s a private or shared space within your community – you’d be hard-pressed to argue with independent studies that support the fight for foliage. Recent studies in Baltimore and Philadelphia, both published in the journal…
Jim Ostvig | June 28, 2013 | Blog, Storm Damage
The Cause and Aftermath of Uprooted Trees
The recent storms that hit the Chanhassen, Minnesota area left tree damage on many homes and vehicles. In assessing the damage in your area, you may have noticed that some trees were uprooted and others were not – even on the same block. But why does this damage mirror a game of roulette? There are…
Jim Ostvig | June 27, 2013 | Blog, Storm Damage
How to Manage Property and Tree Care After Severe Weather
We’ve discussed ways to prepare your home for severe weather, which those in the St. Paul, Minnesota area experienced over the weekend. But if yours was one of the homes or vehicles that experienced property damage, you need to know what to do now. From insurance coverage to tree removal, it is important to know…
Jim Ostvig | June 26, 2013 | Blog, Storm Damage
How to Prepare for Severe Weather
Summer announced its arrival this year with severe weather and substantial damage to trees, bushes and shrubs in southeastern Minnesota, including Stillwater. While it’s difficult to predict when weather of such severity will hit, there are steps you can take well in advance and on the day to minimize the damage to your home –…
Jim Ostvig | June 6, 2013 | Blog, Tree Care
Helpful Tips for Mature Tree Care
While proper tree care is important for the growth and nurturing of new, young plantings, it is equally imperative to care for the mature trees on your property. Mature trees often stand out, becoming the identifying characteristic of our yards. For many of us, they signify home. They also add value to your property and…
Jim Ostvig | May 30, 2013 | Blog, Tree Care
Learn About Emerald Ash Borer
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is a pest infestation that has become a major problem in the U.S. over the last 10 years. The outbreak of these tree pests has forced a quarantine to be placed on Ramsey, Hennepin, Houston and Winona counties, as cases of EAB have been found in areas close to Woodbury, Minnesota,…
Jim Ostvig | May 23, 2013 | Blog, Tree Planting
Trends in Tree Planting: Shade Trees
When it comes to adding new trees to your landscape, including those with an abundance of shade is a great decision. These trees not only shield the sun from us while we’re outside, but also shade and cool our homes. This natural air conditioning system can cut down on cooling costs during particularly warm months….