
Frequently Asked Questions
Inquiring minds would like to know the answers to some common and maybe some not so common questions about various tree services.
Click the the links below to jump to the correct section for your question, whether that is tree and plant health care section, you can easily find the answer you seek! I
Tree and Plant Health Care Questions
Can I prune my trees by myself?
Depending on the location, height and how much of your tree needs pruning – you may be able to do it yourself. If any pruning requires use of a ladder or you climbing the tree, the answer is no, consult a professional.
Also, pruning isn’t just about aesthetics but about improving and maintaining the overall health of your tree. To ensure proper pruning practices that encourage your tree to grow and be healthy, consult a professional.
When is the best time to prune my trees?
The best time to evaluate the health of your trees is in summer, but the best time to actually prune your trees is during the winter months. As the trees are dormant during the colder weather and there are no insects or pests out, the risk of your newly pruned tree becoming infected or diseased is greatly reduced.
How Often should i prune my trees?
Younger trees require more frequent pruning, usually every 2-3 years, while mature or older trees only need to be pruned every 3-5 years. The location of your trees can also impact how often a prune is needed.
Why isn’t my lilac flowering?
Your lilac may not be blooming due to a lack of nutrients in the soil or due to improper or a lack of pruning. As soon as you realize your lilac is not blooming or only has a few blooms, which is usually noticeable in late spring or early summer, contact a certified Arborist for a free consultation to ensure beautiful blooms next year!
How to prepare for a tree removal?
There is not much for a home or business owner to prepare for prior to the removal of a tree from your property. However, we do recommend removing any decorations or furniture in the immediate vicinity. This includes birdhouses, yard décor, statues, etc… Our team will then utilize specialized equipment to control the removal of your tree to minimize damage and they’ll ensure a clean environment following the removal.
The tree I want removed is in a hard-to-access area, can you still remove it?
Yes! Our team is trained and has the specialized equipment necessary to remove any size tree from any location with minimal impact to your property.
How To tell if my tree is at risk for diseases or infestations?
Catching any infestations or diseases early is always best for the health of your trees and the safety of your property. Keep a lookout for any of the following symptoms to know if your tree is at risk of falling prey to disease or infestations. Schedule a free tree analysis immediately if any of these symptoms are present:
- Sawdust at the base of your tree
- Holes, cavities or cracks forming in the trunk or limbs
- loss of leaves or bark
- Yellowing of leaves
- Oozing wounds or injuries to the bark of the tree
- Heavy number of sticks surrounding the tree
How to know if my tree needs to be removed?
To determine if your tree needs to be removed, check to see if any of the following conditions apply. If you notice any, contact a certified Arborist immediately!
- Trunk is hollow
- Cracks or breaks amongst the branches
- If there are several dead, dying or broken branches or limbs
- Tree is to close to your home, deck or other structures
- A large limb overhangs across your home, garage or other structure
- If the ground near the base of the tree starts to heave or uproot, this is a sign your tree is close to falling over and needs immediate attention!
Is my tree infected with Emerald Ash Borer?
Keep an eye on your ash trees so they don’t become infested with Emerald Ash Borer. If you notice any of the following symptoms, don’t fear! Call Sorenson Companies immediately for a treatment plan to reduce the spread of Emerald Ash Borer and help protect your trees.
- Noticeable small holes in the bark of the tree. These are usually a sign of woodpeckers feeding on the Emerald Ash Borer or other insects.
- Loss of bark or flaking of bark off the tree
- Squiggly ‘S-shaped’ lines that appear in the soft flesh of the tree underneath the bark
- D-shaped holes that appear in the bark, usually in June or July, as the adult Emerald Ash Borer leave the tree after maturing
Can I prune my neighbor’s tree if it is encroaching on my property?
Yes, you can prune your neighbors tree if it is encroaching on your property and as long as it doesn’t affect the overall health of the tree. However, we always recommend having a conversations with your neighbors prior to scheduling a tree pruning service.

Have a Question?
Do you have a question about tree or plant health care services that we haven’t addressed? Please let us know and we will be happy to provide an answer!