Houston Landscaping Companies Specializing in Tree Care

Why Houston Properties Need Professional Tree Care

Types of Commercial Tree Care Services in Houston

Tree Health & Disease Management

Long-term stability for Houston trees is only possible through proactively keeping roots and soil in good shape while staying ahead of Southwestern pests. What’s the number one threat to oak trees in Texas?

Oak wilt. The way to fight it and shield your trees is via early detection, preventing root graft transmission, and approved treatments when needed. Certified arborists make those calls by doing regular inspections on oaks. That can include taking samples and following specific protocols aimed at saving individual trees and those nearby. 

Other threats to trees are:

• Bagworms
• Webworms
• Scale insects
• Borers

Battling those destructive insects is best done through integrated pest management. This process is eco-friendly and includes monitoring of insect populations, applying targeted treatments only when absolutely necessary. It’s safer for the trees, environment, and people.

Fertilization matters greatly for tree health and longevity, too. Your local provider should understand Houston’s soil conditions broadly, as well as your site-specific soil (it can differ section by section sometimes). Soil testing will inform the correct fertilizer formula and the timing. Weakened trees can’t afford miscalculations since they can be “shocked” by strong fertilizers.

As for tree roots and soil health, a professional arborist will be checking for girdling roots, construction damage, and bad drainage issues. If the drainage isn’t on point, the roots can be suffocated and be inviting to decay.

Three services that might be recommended include:

1. Aeration
2. Root collar excavation
3. Drainage improvements

Storm Preparation & Recovery (Hurricane Season)

Prevention is the key, especially in an area like Houston that’s been rocked by tropical storms on many occasions. Wind damage can often be minimized by hurricane tree prep Houston. Wind resistance is reduced by techniques like canopy thinning. Weak and already-damaged branches should be trimmed as well. 

Areas where branches should be removed to reduce storm damage later on:

• Limbs near roofs
• Branches overhanging parking lots
• Limbs over powerlines

After a storm, a quality Houston tree service will do more than remove uprooted trees. They’ll handle debris clean-up, prune damaged limbs at the correct points, and decide which trees can be saved without being a threat during the next storm. Their expertise can be the difference between losing a live oak and saving it. 

Here’s another reason professional arborists mean so much to property owners. They not only can spot hidden damage on a tree, but their post-storm reports are invaluable. These reports ensure you have the documentation you need for insurance claims.  

Tree Removal & Stump Grinding

Tree removal is risky business. Only licensed and insured companies should be managing the removal of dead, diseased, and hazardous trees. Top companies have expensive heavy equipment and proper tools to bring trees and giant limbs down in a controlled fashion - a must for protecting your structures, utilities, and pedestrians. 

Some tools of the trade are below:

• Bucket trucks
• Chippers
• Stump grinders
• Chainsaws
• Polesaws
• Dump trucks

What is stump grinding? This service takes the remaining part of a felled tree down below ground level. It makes it possible to replant turf or greenery or a new tree in that space. Without stump grinding, the aesthetics suffer, and it would be difficult to re-landscape the space. The wood chips from grinding and chipping should be recycled when possible. 

Arborists are vital after the downed tree is cleaned up because they offer professional advice on what to replant. You’ll get guidance on native species that might fit Houston’s soil and environment better. Or the arborist might suggest adding a landscape bed instead as a safer alternative, depending on the site details.

Tree Planting & Installation

A few best practices for planting trees in Houston are below.

• Choose a native or well-adapted species

• Consider tree size at maturity

• Root structure matters with hardscapes and underground utilities

• Right planting depth, right species

• Dig wide holes

• Loosen soil for quick establishment

Young trees need higher levels of care. Mulching has to be precise. A shallow layer kept away from the tree trunk helps hold moisture and regulate temperatures while preventing root rot. Staking can be helpful to stabilize (but allow some movement) newly planted trees in some situations. Roots can benefit in these staking scenarios too. 

What about proper irrigation in Houston’s daunting heat? Watering must be done deeply, slowly, and infrequently to grow deeper, stronger roots. Patience is crucial because overwatering will often lead to root problems and unstable trees. Unstable young trees often never make it to mature trees. 

Emergency Tree Services

A tree service that doesn’t have the ability to respond immediately 24/7, is not a reliable option. You want a provider that’s calling you before a major storm to prepare, not after the damage is done. 

Quick response means fallen trees can be removed in time to avoid disrupting your business operations. More vitally, it means hazardous leaning trees and hanging limbs can be safely removed. 

“In 2024, a tragic auto accident was due to a large falling tree limb.” ~Atlanta News First

After the storm clean-up is over, a certified arborist will document damage (with photos, notes, and even video). All their documentation can be used to determine which trees can be saved. You’ll understand the follow-up work they recommend as well. This process helps property managers work with their insurance company without the hassle and confusion that they’d face otherwise.

Key Factors When Choosing Houston Tree Care Companies

Budget-Conscious Tree Care Strategy

Budget comes into play with tree care, of course. With preventive maintenance, you typically save money in the long run due to avoiding the high costs of emergency services (e.g., fallen tree blocks loading dock entrance).

You can save even more money with a strategic mindset. An example is prioritizing care for high-risk or high-value trees. Those may include:

• Trees near buildings

• Overhanging parking lots

• Near playgrounds

• Next to entrances

• Signature trees (live oak, for example)

Smart seasonal planning can protect your budget as well, if your provider offers lower rates in the off-season or less busy season. Combined services are more cost-efficient for landscape companies, so they may pass the savings on to you if they can prune, mow, and fertilize in one trip, for example. 

As for predictable costs, you’ll get that peace of mind with long-term maintenance contracts instead of per-service pricing. The clearer the contract details, the better you can plan for expenses throughout the year. Per-service pricing can be less predictable and spike during the busiest months.

Return on Investment

We touched on the ROI aspect of a landscape company that specializes in tree care. But there are more fine points, such as:

• Preventive maintenance can extend tree lifespan
• Healthy trees are attractive and lift curb appeal and property value
• Mature shade trees can produce energy savings
• Insurance premiums are often reduced with well-maintained trees

Houston-Specific Tree Care Considerations

 

Oak Wilt in the Houston Area

What is oak wilt, and how does it spread? It’s a fungus that causes leaf discoloration, wilting, and can kill a tree in a single season. It spreads either by beetles or through interconnected root systems. 

All oak trees in Houston are susceptible to oak wilt. However, red oaks and live oaks are the most vulnerable to the fungus. Red oaks are usually the starting point, while live oaks fuel the spread due to their extensive and shared root system with other trees.

Ways to prevent oak wilt are below.

1. Avoid non-emergency pruning in peak beetle season (February to June)
2. Seal tree wounds immediately
3. Don’t allow infected firewood on the property

Once oak wilt is affecting your trees, treatment options are trenching (to stop root spread), removing infected trees, and fungicide injections. The first step, though, is professional diagnosis. An arborist will do lab testing to be sure oak wilt is present. This can save you from expensive treatments that aren’t needed. 

A solid arborist will help Houstone commercial property owners navigate the complicated rules regarding oak wilt. Since it’s a serious threat to valuable community trees, there are numerous ordinances that cover:

• Pruning timing
• Wood disposal
• Tree service reporting
• Oak wilt treatment documentation

Houston Hurricane Season Preparation

Three things are vital for timing related to hurricane prepping. 

1. Reducing what might break
2. Securing young trees
3. Having a post-storm plan

Late spring is the right time to do pre-storm pruning (AKA defensive pruning). The focus is on identifying and removing branches that can do damage to the property or hurt someone if a storm rolls through in the months ahead. 

With young trees, a quality tree care company will check for loose stakes, weak root anchoring, and canopies that are too heavy. These young trees need help with stability, but must have some freedom to sway with high winds. 

As for an emergency response plan, the following details should be covered:

• Who to call in emergencies (including back-up contacts)
• Which access points must be cleared first
• Where equipment can be staged
• The order in which the clean-up will happen

After a hurricane or tropical storm passes, assessment and recovery procedures come next. Structural damage is one focus. Root movement and hidden tree cracks are another. Following that will be prioritized wood and debris removal, pruning, and twigs and leaves clean-up.

Drainage & Soil Issues in Houston

The drainage struggles and soil problems are well-known among Houston residents. Clay-packed soil in the city holds water after heavy rains. This produces standing water around trees. Too much of this leads to waterlogged soil that starves roots of oxygen, which can cause root rot, health decline, and unstable trees. 

“A tree’s root system keeps its trunk and canopy upright against the forces of wind and gravity.” ~Colorado St. University Extension

Luckily, soil can be improved. One way is aeration near root zones. Core aeration loosens compacted soil. This, along with adding organic matter, lets water move through the ground efficiently. The roots can then get plenty of oxygen. 

Mulching is another time-tested solution for root health, as mulch insulates roots and cuts down on evaporation. The result? Improved soil structure over time. One caveat: Mulch has to be checked regularly in Houston’s humid climate since overly-thick levels of mulch become soggy.

What about standing water around trees? Often, grading adjustments have to be made. Or a new drain installed (e.g., French drain). The goal is to move water away from tree trunks and root zones to avoid stress and disease risk.

Compliance & Regulations

Now let’s look at specific tree compliance in the area. Many Houston HOAs set up standards for tree installation, removal, pruning, and leaf clean-ups. Three example neighborhood rules are below.

1. Huntwick Forest requires owners to get Architectural Control Committee permission before cutting any tree.
2. Inwood Forest limits trees or shrubs that block sight lines near street intersections.
3. Villages of Langham Creek require homeowners to get approval from the association’s modifications committee before removing or significantly altering any front‑yard tree.

The city of Houston’s Tree and Shrub Ordinance gives property owners clear rules on minimum planting, tree preservation, and protected species. Sometimes “right-of-way” trees are also protected. See below for some specific mature species the city protects:

• Live Oak 
• White Oak
• Red Oak 
• Bur Oak 
• Southern Magnolia 

Size thresholds play a role and can vary by jurisdiction in the greater Houston area.

There can be penalties for removing trees without written notice. Permits might be required as well as a plan for replacing the tree. Violations can be complex to navigate since a fine might be influenced by the size of the tree (per-inch penalties). Fines can add up daily. 

That complexity and risk of costly fines makes it a wise idea to work with a knowledgeable Houston-based tree service. Finding one that offers full landscaping services is even better since you may need to replace more plants in addition to a tree after removal.

Steps for Choosing a Houston Tree Care Company

Step 1: Define Your Tree Care Needs  

• Assess current tree health and condition
• Identify problematic or at-risk trees
• Determine budget for maintenance
• List priority trees (high-value, hazardous, diseased)
• Note any specific concerns (oak wilt, storm prep, etc.)

Step 2: Research Houston-Based Providers

• Search for ISA Certified Arborists in Houston
• Check local reviews and ratings (Google, Yelp, BBB)
• Read case studies and portfolios focused on Houston properties
• Verify licensing and insurance
• Look for companies with storm-related experience

Step 3: Request Free Property Assessments

• Ask companies to visit your property
• Request written recommendations
• Get estimates for recommended work
• Ask about their approach to tree health
• Assess communication and professionalism
• Yellowstone benefit: Free assessment as part of landscaping consultation

Step 4: Ask Critical Questions

• Do you have ISA Certified Arborists on staff?
• How many years have you served Houston properties?
• What's your experience with oak wilt prevention/treatment?
• How do you prepare trees for hurricane season?
• What's your emergency response protocol?
• Can you provide Houston-area references?
• Do you handle tree care with other landscaping needs?
• What reporting and documentation do you provide?

Step 5: Compare Options & Start Service

• Compare credentials, experience, and pricing
• Check references with similar Houston properties
• Start with a trial project or maintenance plan
• Establish clear expectations and communication
• Plan for ongoing care and seasonal adjustments

Common Houston Tree Care Questions

Q: When is the best time to prune trees in Houston? 

A: Late winter/early spring (February-March) is ideal for most Houston trees. However, timing varies by species. Avoid pruning during spring growth flush. For oak trees specifically, prune in winter to reduce oak wilt risk.

Q: How can I prevent oak wilt in my Houston property? 

A: Work with Certified Arborists for proper pruning techniques, avoid pruning oaks during spring, immediately seal fresh cuts, remove infected trees promptly, and maintain tree health through proper care. Professional treatment options exist if trees are infected.

Q: What should I do after a hurricane hits Houston? 

A: Call a professional immediately to assess damage. Don't attempt removal of large trees or branches near utilities. Document damage for insurance. Prioritize hazardous trees and clearing streets first.

Q: Do mature trees really need maintenance? 

A: Yes. Mature trees require ongoing care to maintain health, prevent disease, reduce storm damage risk, and extend lifespan. Preventive maintenance is far less costly than emergency removal.

Q: How often should commercial trees be pruned in Houston? 

A: Typically every 3-5 years for general health maintenance. High-risk or diseased trees may need annual or seasonal attention. Storm prep pruning should occur in late spring before hurricane season.

Q: Can I have tree care handled with my landscaping provider?

A: Absolutely. Working with one comprehensive provider that offers both landscaping and professional tree care simplifies management, improves coordination, and often reduces costs.

Q: What's the difference between a "tree service" and an "arborist"? 

A: Arborists are specifically trained in tree health, biology, and care. ISA Certified Arborists have passed rigorous exams. Not all tree services employ arborists. Always verify credentials.

Yellowstone's Commercial Houston Tree Care Approach

At Yellowstone Landscape, we simplify landscaping for our clients while creating the healthiest landscape possible. They only have to deal with our branch manager. Property managers only have one contract to look over and get one invoice for tree care, lawn maintenance, irrigation service, mowing, etc.

It makes everything easier to navigate since the communication is consistent. No conflicts with vendors being in the way of one another, either. 

Another plus with Yellowstone Landscape is we partner with you on your overall property vision. A standalone tree service provider doesn’t have much interest in what happens to your turf after a tree is removed. They move on to the next tree on another property. 

Our arborists work with landscape designers to ensure a good plan is in place after a tree is removed.  

What Sets Yellowstone Apart?

• Experienced Certified Arborists on staff 
• Comprehensive property approach
• Houston-based with local expertise
• Long-term relationships with clients
• Storm season preparedness

Conclusion

It’s clear that tree care in Houston needs true tree care expertise. The climate and soil make the challenge too much for average vendors. Top providers give you peace of mind that your most valuable plants, trees, are defended against storms, pests, and disease.

Always go with a company with excellent references, and up-to-date certifications and insurance. Also, remember that trees cannot be considered separate from the rest of your landscape. Their shade, leaf drop, and root system affects surrounding plants. As does their health. 

So, if you want to simplify things and have comprehensive landscape maintenance that includes world-class tree care, contact Yellowstone Landscape today. We’ll partner with you to keep your trees healthy, handsome, and storm-ready.