Orchard Management
Orchard management and restoration is a specific area of expertise from Momentum Tree Experts. We work with many historic orchards and individual trees exceeding 100 years old! This special area of focus within arboriculture guides cultivation and maintenance of fruit-bearing trees.
The work of our arborist in orchard management involves a range of tasks, including selecting and planting the appropriate tree species for a particular location, pruning snow damage and bear activity and developing long lasting form within trees to encourage healthy growth and maximize fruit production. This paired with managing pests and diseases such as Fire Blight commonly found in our orchard ecosystem can offer an orchard legacy to those who follow.
Momentum Tree Experts works with the orchard owner to develop specific management and restoration goals that are uniquely tailored to the age, size of the tree, stem count in the orchard, and the challenges faced in the fruit trees of Southwest Colorado.Â
Tree Swings and Fun With Trees!
Installing tree swings can provide a range of physical, emotional, and social benefits for both children and adults. Some of the benefits include providing a fun and engaging way for children (and adults!) to get outside and be active, which can have positive effects on physical health and overall well-being and they can spark imaginative play and inspire children (and adults!) to create their own games and stories. Spending time outdoors and engaging in physical activity can have mood-boosting effects and help reduce stress levels. This comes from an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty and wonder of trees and the natural world. Which is great because swings can also be enjoyed with family members or friends, promoting social connections and strengthening relationships. And most importantly, tree swinging gently on a tree swing can provide a peaceful and meditative experience, allowing for a break from the stress and chaos of everyday life.
Interested in creating this experience like this in your forest? Reach out to Momentum Tree Experts, this service can be a great add-on to your pruning project!
Property Development and Tree Protection
Trees and Construction: The best time to protect the tree from construction damage is before the construction starts! Before the start of the project, Root Protection Zones should be established. This largely decreases damage to fine root fibers, soil compaction, and grade change. If you are planning an addition or remodel to favor the view of a close proximity tree, please protect it ahead of time. The negative effects of construction damage can lead to the decline of your cherished tree and often lead to challenging and expensive removals!
Lightning Protection Systems
Lightning protection systems installed in trees are effective in reducing the risk of damage to trees by lightning strikes. The system protects trees by providing an alternative path to the ground. Instead of lightning passing down a tree, a conductor is used to take the lightning from the top of the tree to a ground away from the trunk. Properly installed and maintained systems are extremely effective at preventing serious damage sustained from our afternoon thunderstorms.
Root Care & Soil Amendments
An estimated 80% of aboveground issues in trees are caused by issues underground, primarily related to root and soil health. A focused assessment of the root flare with attention given to pruning stem girdling roots can be the difference between longevity and entering the decline spiral. Trees that have turf removed and are mulched to the drip line show increased root growth of 3-5x with greater resilience to fluctuating soil temperatures, moisture variations, and anaerobic environments.Â
A healthy root system anchors a tree in place, and extracts nutrients and water from the soil necessary for proper growth. Soil compacted around your treeâs roots, from heavy wheel or foot traffic, can cause incredible stress to these vital systems, and usher in a host of problems. Momentum’s Arborists use a specific scientific process to break up soil compaction around the root system. Following this, our trained arborists can begin remediation through nutrient management and proper mulching tailored to your trees specific needs. Mulching and composting are a tailored process involving peeling back any lawn or other barrier and spreading organic matter directly over your tree’s root system. Our trained arborists will blend and apply the correct combination to help revitalize your treeâs root system.
AirSpade and Soil Decompaction
Airspade work and soil decompaction are crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of trees in a forested community. The root flare, where a tree’s trunk transitions into its roots, should be visible above the soil line. When this area is buried, it can lead to problems such as poor oxygen exchange, increased vulnerability to pests and diseases, and structural instability. The Airspade tool uses compressed air to safely expose the root flare without damaging the tree, allowing us to correct planting depths and ensure optimal conditions for tree growth. Adjusting the grade for proper tree planting is essential to prevent stunted growth and stress. Proper grading can also prevent issues such as root girdling, ensuring that our community’s trees grow strong and resilient. Mulching around the base of trees helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, promoting healthy growth. When combined with the use of an Airspade tool, mulching can significantly enhance a tree’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. Soil amendments, incorporated using the Airspade tool, improve soil structure and nutrient content, benefiting tree growth and resilience. These practices not only ensure the longevity of trees but also enhance the overall aesthetic and ecological value of the community.