From the Arborists

Expert Tree Care Resources from Seattle Arborists

Download educational guides, articles, and reference materials from Seattle Tree Care's Certified Arborists covering tree health, wildfire preparedness, tree emergencies, hazard assessments, pests, diseases, and more.

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  • My heritage tree was damaged in a storm. Is it still worth saving, or should I consider removal?

    By Ethan Childs | August 27, 2026 | Comments Off on My heritage tree was damaged in a storm. Is it still worth saving, or should I consider removal?

    Storm damage doesn't automatically mean a heritage tree needs to come down. If the damage is limited to a few branches and the rest of the tree is healthy and structurally sound, it may still have many years left. Damage to the trunk, major limbs, or roots is more concerning, especially if the tree is…

  • Do I need a permit to remove an invasive tree in Seattle?

    By Ethan Childs | August 27, 2026 | Comments Off on Do I need a permit to remove an invasive tree in Seattle?

    Yes, even if a tree is invasive, you generally still need approval from the City of Seattle before removing it. Being invasive doesn't automatically mean the tree can be removed without going through the city's tree removal process. Seattle encourages homeowners to remove invasive species such as English holly, English laurel, and European mountain ash…

A storm-fallen tree on a house damaging the whole property and needs an emergency clean up

What to Expect After a Tree Falls on Your Property

By: Michael Black

Know exactly what to do after a tree falls, from insurance claims to cleanup and recovery.

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How Artificial Turf Affects Trees

By: Steve Clary

Learn how artificial turf can impact tree roots, soil health, drainage, and the long-term health of your landscape.

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Preparing for Seattle's Growing Wildfire Risk

By: Michael Black

Discover why wildfire risk is increasing in the Pacific Northwest and what homeowners and communities can do to prepare.

Broken tree limbs and storm-damaged branches hanging in the canopy of a mature tree.

What to Do When a Tree Becomes Dangerous

By: Michael Black

A hazardous tree doesn't always mean removal. See how arborists determine the safest path forward.

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How Arborists Assess Hazard Trees

By: Michael Black

Learn how Certified Arborists identify tree defects, evaluate failure potential, and determine the level of risk.

STC-fact-sheet-woman-calling-phone

What to Do During a Tree Emergency

By: Michael Black

Learn what steps to take after storm damage or a tree failure and when it's time to call an arborist.

Hands prepping a seedling to be planted

Post Planting Guide

This proactive approach diminishes future pruning requirements for mature trees.

pear_rust

Pear Trellis Rust

The disease exhibits a complex life cycle involving two
host plants, Pear and Juniper.

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Sequoia Pitch Moth

This chewing moth feeds on coniferous trees such as pines, firs, and spruce.