Tree Care in Southlake, TX

Tree Care for Southlake Homes

Southlake sits in the Eastern Cross Timbers, so many yards hold native post oaks and blackjack oaks along with cedar elm, live oak, Shumard red oak, pecan, bur oak and eastern red cedar. These trees shade homes and define neighborhoods like Shady Oaks and the wooded edges of Timarron. Post oaks are sensitive to root damage, grade changes and soil compaction, so construction, new patios and even heavy traffic can stress them over a few years.

Oak wilt is the biggest concern. Trees in the red oak group, including Shumard, Spanish and blackjack oaks, are extremely susceptible, and live oaks can be badly affected through connected roots. Post and bur oaks are more resistant. The safe rule is to avoid pruning oaks in spring, roughly February through June, and to paint fresh wounds right away. Emerald ash borer has been confirmed in Tarrant County, and the county is under a hardwood quarantine, so ash trees should be checked and firewood should not be moved.

Trimming keeps trees healthy and safe. Crews remove dead wood, lift canopies over roofs, drives and pools and thin crowns so wind passes through during spring storms. Removal makes sense for dead, dying or hazardous trees, but Southlake has a tree preservation ordinance, so check city tree rules before removing large trees. Stump grinding clears the ground for lawn or beds. Call to set up a tree visit.