Soil Amendments for Improved Plant Health
As a company delves into PHC, exploring the potential to be tree physicians rather than just tree morticians (general tree care), the array of possibilities can be overwhelming. The initial tendency is to focus on ways to control key insects or diseases that may show visible signs or symptoms on your customers’ properties. However, abiotic […]
The Epicormic Conspiracy
Despite the tremendous volume of literature and material available on tree biology and tree biomechanics, one of the most common sentiments heard from tree workers and salespeople goes something like this: “We’ve gotta remove those suckers because they steal energy away from the tree!” This type of statement is expected from homeowners who aren’t well […]
Downsizing Spray Options: Good Things in Small Packages
Originally, Bob Houser’s wheel-mounted IPM Caddie was a tool for his own use. Then people started asking him about it. Now it’s part of a new business venture. The IPM Caddie is a wheel-mounted, portable spray system that includes a gas-powered pump and a 5-gallon tank on a cart. “It’s almost like a gas-powered backpack, […]
40 Years of Tree Work and PHC – Part 3: Recordkeeping, Sales and Marketing
This is the third and final part of a series by the author. Part 1, “Musings on Tree Work and Plant Health Care After 40 Years in the Industry,” (TCI, October 2020) covered his getting into the industry, the importance of mentors and the education and training needed for a career in PHC. Part 2, […]
40 Years of Tree Work and PHC – Part 2: Programs, Treatments and Fertilizers
This is the second of a three-part series by the author. Part 1, “Musings on Tree Work and Plant Health Care After 40 Years in the Industry,” (TCI, October 2020) covered his getting into the industry, the importance of mentors and the education and training needed for a career in PHC. In this article, we’ll […]