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Liriope’s Muse: Tree Care Tips from a Master Arborist

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Liriope's Muse: How can I know if  my plant was damaged during a freeze?

This image shows how freeze damage can present as the blackening and crisping of leaves, the browning of leaves, and the dropping shriveling and soggyness of non-native plants.

A plant's survivability chances are based on its species, as each plant and/or tree has their own unique freeze tolerance levels.


In order to identify whether or not your plant will be damaged by an upcoming freeze, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the species and cold hardiness zone of your plant. This is because each species of plant has 3 separate tolerance survivability levels, the first being the temperature in which causes foliage loss, second, the temperature in which causes plant death, and third, the temperature in which causes root and/or bulb loss.

This image shows the Zone Map for the United States, this helps gardeners and arborists know when and where to plant.

What is a cold hardiness zone and why does it matter? 

The USDA plant hardiness zone map creates a standard by which gardeners and growers across America can determine which plants, crops, and trees will most likely grow and thrive in their zone or location. This is an essential tool that is divided into 10* Fahrenheit zones and updated yearly to ensure accuracy for the coming year.


Freezing temperatures can be very detrimental to your plants, some common signs of damage to look out for after a freeze are droopy and shriveled foliage, like that of an underwatered plant, that is soft and mushy to the touch. Foliage that has turned brown or purplish in color and begun dropping. Additionally, during prolonged freezing temperatures, you may notice your plant and/or trees bark splitting. And if you happen to see this, the chances are you will be burying your plant for the second time... this time without resurrection.


Check out his article to LEARN MORE about what freezing temperatures can do to your plants.


How can I prevent from losing my plants in the future? Plant more native plants! Plants are adapted to the environment or zone they are native to and provide essential food and shelter resources to native wildlife. So keep this in mind the next time you are shopping for leafy beauties, could a tropical hibiscus be able to thrive in a dry cool climate like yours?

Liriope’s Muse - Expert Tree Care Tips

By Liriope Putnam 08 Nov, 2024
Hiring a tree service company can be a big decision, and not all companies offer the same level of quality, safety, and reliability. Your choice of service provider can impact not only the longevity of your trees but also the safety of your property.
By Liriope Putnam 02 Nov, 2024
The post oak (Quercus stellata) is a remarkable native tree species, known for its rugged beauty, hardiness, and ecological significance. Check out this blog to learn more !
By Liriope Putnam 25 Oct, 2024
Planting trees is one of the most impactful ways to improve your landscape and benefit the environment. However, choosing the right season to plant can make all the difference in helping a tree thrive. Check out this blog to learn more!
By Eric Putnam 11 Oct, 2024
Insurance companies are increasingly pressuring homeowners to prune or remove trees under the guise of liability and safety concerns and in doing so they are murdering healthy and otherwise safe trees.
By Liriope Putnam 07 Oct, 2024
If you've ever wandered through a forest, admired a sprawling oak, or simply observed the trees in your yard, you might have wondered where these beautiful plants got their color
By Eric Putnam 01 Oct, 2024
In many landscapes, trees and grass coexist, but not always harmoniously. It is a common misconception that grass does not grow under the trees canopy due to the shade or lack of sun, which is simply incorrect. check out this blog to learn about a trees natural allelopathy.
By Eric Putnam 25 Sep, 2024
When it comes to environmental activism, Julia Lorraine Hill, also known as "Butterfly," stands out as a symbol of dedication and courage. Check out this blog to learn more about Julia and how her determination saved many historical trees.
By Eric Putnam 13 Sep, 2024
CODIT is an acronym for Compartmentalization Of Decay In Trees. This term is used in the tree care industry to describe the processes that occurs when a tree is wounded.
By Eric Putnam 09 Sep, 2024
Tree girdling is a common condition plaguing many urban trees, often going unnoticed until significant damage has been done. In this blog you'll get a greater understanding of what tree girdling is and how to avoid it.
By Eric Putnam 30 Aug, 2024
Ball moss is a small, tufted plant often found on trees in the southern region commonly mistaken to be harmless. In this article, we'll delve into the impact of ball moss on trees and what you can do to manage it.
By Eric Putnam 19 Aug, 2024
A common concern among our customers is the impact of tree roots on their yards, particularly regarding the health of their driveways and sidewalks and maintaining the overall aesthetic appeal. In this blog, we'll explore the reality of how roots interact with concrete and structures, as well as the crucial role a tree's root system plays and why it is so essential to the life of the tree.
By Eric Putnam 09 Aug, 2024
Crape myrtles are cherished for their vibrant summer blooms and striking bark. However, these beautiful trees and shrubs face a growing threat from crape myrtle bark scale. In this blog we will delve into CMBS, prevention, and management tips tho keep your crape myrtles thriving.
By Eric Putnam 01 Aug, 2024
Trees are remarkable organisms that continually adapt to their environment. Among the many fascinating behaviors they exhibit, tropic leaning and mechanical leaning are often misunderstood.
By Eric Putnam 29 Jul, 2024
Natural disasters bring out the best and worst in people... and open up communities to unscrupulous services. Read this blog to understand price gouging and how to report it in times of disaster.
By Eric Putnam 19 Jul, 2024
Living in a city doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joys of homegrown fruit! In this blog we delve into planting and care tips to keep fruit trees thriving in your yard year round.
By Eric Putnam 11 Jul, 2024
In this blog post, I’ll delve into what carbon sequestration is, how trees contribute to it, and why it’s vital for our planet’s health.
By Eric Putnam 05 Jul, 2024
In the tree industry, we are constantly coming across trees who have fallen victim to herbicide damage. in this blog we will delve into what herbicides are and their effects on trees.
By Eric Putnam 28 Jun, 2024
Do you have a dead tree in your yard and dont know what to do with it? In this blog we will explore all of your options from recycling, repurposing, and removal!
By Liriope Putnam 21 Jun, 2024
Much like humans, trees have a natural balance called mass damping. Check out this blog to see how storm pruning can throw off this balance.
By Eric Putnam 17 May, 2024
From its humble origins in the American South to its widespread popularity in landscapes worldwide, the magnolia continues to inspire awe.
By Eric Putnam 10 May, 2024
We don’t yet have the answer to this age old question and the chances are we won’t be around long enough to find out, but check out this blog for the closest answers we have.
By Eric Putnam 02 May, 2024
Ever wondered the similarities between a Certified Arborist and a Doctor? Check out this blog that details the fascinating parallels between the two industries.
By Eric Putnam 29 Apr, 2024
Phytophthora is a root rot disease that plagues plants of all kinds, causing emmense economic and environmental loss across the world. This pathogen or 'Plant Destroyer' as it kills its host starting from the roots and growing upward through the tree or plant.
By Eric Putnam 23 Apr, 2024
The dry and hot conditions of Houston’s summers are hard for even the most resilient of trees to survive. Our Board Certified Master Arborist, Eric Putnam, has compiles a list of 7 tips that can help ensure your beloved trees stay healthy during this trying time.
By Eric Putnam 12 Apr, 2024
I recently took a short trip to the beautiful sunshine state of Florida (St. Petersburg) to bask in the sun and take in the nature, and thought I’d share some of my discoveries with you all in this blog!
By Eric Putnam 04 Apr, 2024
It's important to keep your trees in mind during the construction process, let us help you help preserve your trees!
By Eric Putnam 27 Mar, 2024
Spring has sprung, which means the rainy season is upon us! If your yard turns into a pond this time of year or is prone to flooding in general, you may want to consider planting a Cypress tree.
By Eric Putnam 20 Mar, 2024
Read this informative blog about the International Day of Forests and learn what part you can play in conserving our environment.
By Eric Putnam 13 Mar, 2024
Want to get your trees into tip-top shape for spring? Well now is the time to do so! In this blog, we cover the best time of the year to prune your trees!
By Eric Putnam 08 Mar, 2024
Dealing with pesky overhanging tree branches? Are they yours to trim? Read this blog now to find out your rights!
This image shows a lot of wildflowers of all colors near trees
By Eric Putnam 04 Mar, 2024
Should Roses really be number one? Read this article to find out why we think wildflowers are way more beautiful and important.
This picture shows 3 beautiful crape myrtles in full bloom that have been selectively topped.
By Eric Putnam 23 Feb, 2024
While Crape Murder is a very real thing, it might now be exactly what you think it is. Read more to find out all about the history of the trees and why they need to be pruned.
By Eric Putnam 16 Feb, 2024
Stump grinding is a highly effective and efficient method used to remove unsightly tree stumps from your property. Learn the ins and outs of stump grinding in this comprehensive blog.
This image shows someone using spurs to climb a tree
By Eric Putnam 15 Feb, 2024
In this blog we are covering the dangers of using damaging equipment on living trees and how diseases can be transferred.
Hole in the tree caused by a woodpecker, building a nest and possibly hunting for food (pests).
By Eric Putnam 15 Feb, 2024
The woodpecker is a very interesting and not often talked about species. So in this blog, we will be highlighting the fascinating life of these ubiquitous birds!
This image shows a beautiful large Chinese tallow tree local to us
By Eric Putnam 09 Feb, 2024
“I simply can’t think of another tree that is this diverse” – Eric Putnam. Read now to find out exactly why we are so in love.
This is the logo of the International Society of Arboriculture
By Liriope Putnam 09 Feb, 2024
If you're considering hiring an arborist to care for your trees, you should know what they do, why they do it, and their qualifications. Read now to find out!
This photo shows how the PH of your soil is directly affected by the tree itself.
By Eric Putnam 01 Feb, 2024
Many conditions present are similar to a PH (Potential for Hydrogen) imbalance, so it is very commonly misdiagnosed. Read to debunk the myths surrounding your tree's soil.
This image shows a headshot of Eric Putnam BCMA standing next to a palm tree with his arms crossed.
By Eric Putnam 01 Feb, 2024
Ever wonder when is the best time to call an Arborist? We are here to help with this informative blog!
This image shows someone picking up mulch with gloves because it is dirty mulch
By Liriope Putnam 09 Jan, 2024
Trees can get sick from hazards just like people and unsanitary mulch can negatively affect them. Read now to find out exactly how and why trees get sick from mulch.
This image shows the wrapping procedure for palm trees.
By Eric Putnam 04 Jan, 2024
Palm Trees in the winter need to be protected and cared for OR ELSE! If you want to know how to keep your Plam Trees safe during winter READ THIS NOW!
This image shows the Houston Texas skyline from an ariel view
By Eric Putnam 04 Jan, 2024
Texas' Gulf Coastal region has more than you may think, in this blog we will discuss the history, pop culture, geography, and fun facts about the region.
This image shows how vines that have taken over a fence were quickly killed off by a freeze
By Eric Putnam 01 Jan, 2024
Explore with us the ways in which you can identify whether or not your plant has been damaged by a previous freeze or by an upcoming freeze.
This photo shows a large lightning strike in a large forest that is fertilizing many trees.
By Eric Putnam 15 Dec, 2023
Lightning might be scary and cause damage if it directly hits something, but if it strikes near your tree it might just be in luck for a free fertilization!
This photo shows some cookies made of ginger bread shaped like trees with a snowy background.
By Eric Putnam 15 Dec, 2023
Christmas is a time of year full of various seasonally symbolic plants, trees, and flowers! We will talk about 4 festive plants to spruce up your home this holiday season.
This picture shows a bright green caterpillar inching along a tree trunk.
By Eric Putnam 01 Dec, 2023
In our profession, we often come across the most unique and beautiful of creatures. Today we had the chance to meet a Polyphemus Moth caterpillar!
This photo is of a Magnolia Tree that has suffered embolisms causing it to die.
By Eric Putnam 24 Nov, 2023
In 2023, the Houston and the Greater Houston area experienced record-breaking temperatures and low humidity leading to the death of many Magnolia trees. Find out why!
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