Saving the Lives of Dying Trees

Shrub Doctor was recruited by a large church in Huntersville, NC  to save the maple trees on their campus. Shrub Doctor identified 72 trees that were suffering from dehydration, lack of nutrition, and advanced infestation of gloomy scale insects. These trees are installed within the small islands of the campus parking areas. Excessive heat and lack of moisture has caused severe decline, requiring several trees to be removed prior to treatment. Shrub Doctor immediately recommended a routine watering schedule to assure proper hydration followed by a three-step restoration treatment.  A 1000 gallon watering truck has been acquired by the church to begin a scheduled watering program. Last week Shrub Doctor performed restoration treatments to the trees including deep root fertilization, treatments to kill insect infestations, and treatments to regulate the future growth of the trees. Going forward, the church  volunteers will follow Shrub Doctor’s watering and fertilization recommendations to help their trees make a full recovery.

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Smooth Patch Fungus on Oak

Shrub Doctor noticed a good example of  smooth patch fungus activity on this tree today. Also known as white patch, this fungus decomposes the corky outer bark layer of the tree. Since the patch fungus only invades the nonliving outer bark tissues, no harm is done to the tree. Smooth patch is one of many natural occurrences that can be found in our landscapes. No treatments are needed, and your tree should recover over the future seasons. If you notice concerns with your trees and shrubs within your landscape give Shrub Doctor a call. One of our ISA Certified Arborists will be glad to schedule a visit and provide solutions that will keep your plants healthy and vigorous for many years to come.

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Gutter Mulch

Never under estimate where you might find great organic mulch around your house. The decaying leaf matter in your gutters can be spread around your shrubs to provide them a rich food source.

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Spring Azaleas in Bloom!

Shrub Doctor was visiting a long time South Charlotte customer the other day, and were lucky enough to catch their azaleas in full bloom. We are now beginning our 10th season serving this customer. Hard work and  good organic nutrients have made these azaleas very healthy.

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Last Night’s Ice Storm in Charlotte

Last night’s storm left a frozen coating to the stalks and foliage of all our plants. Notice my camellia in the second photo. The weight of the ice has caused the limbs to droop and bend. Our first reaction is to shake off the snow and ice to keep our shrubs from breaking down. Shrub Doctor recommends that you refrain from this practice. Yes you may lose a limb or two by the heavy ice, but violent shaking to break off the ice may do more damage to the frozen stems of the plant. A better practice is to cover and support your shrubs prior to a predicted ice storm. (Mark Tally)

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Holly Leaf Spot

We were servicing our Shrub Doctor customers today and came across an issue with Holly Leaf Spot Fungus. In the photo you will see that this fungus does not necessarily effect just hollies. The top leaf is from a Magnolia tree, the bottom left is an Acuba shrub, and the other a holly. All three of these plants are in an area near a stream. In addition to the location, our Charlotte Metro area has experienced an abundance of rainfall this season. This issue can lead to heavy defoliation of the plants. In most cases the plants will flush new growth in the Spring. Holly Leaf Spot is a cosmetic concern and is usually not fatal. You can minimize leaf spot activity by keeping your landscape properly pruned and clean of debris. Good airflow throughout the area is vital. Its also best to keep your plants on a healthy diet of balanced organic nutrients. Healthy plants resist disease just as healthy humans. If you see this condition in your landscape, give Shrub Doctor a call. We can help you with solutions that will reduce leaf spot fungus on your shrubs and trees. Shrub Doctor Inc. 704-920-0290.

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