Sam Hill Tree Care

This crazy warm weather might lull us into a false sense of security, but according to the National Weather Service, North Texas typically sees its first freeze around November 22. Get ahead of the coming cold snaps by moving tender citrus and potted plants into the garage or greenhouse. Tender vegetation in the ground will need protection when a freeze is in the forecast.

Ahead of a hard freeze, water the soil a day or two prior to insulate against the cold. If possible, maintain 2–3 inches of organic mulch (kept off stems/root flare), and cover vulnerable plants with frost cloth the night of the freeze.

Thinking about cutting roots for new construction, to remove surface roots, or before a transplant? Think again! Most tree roots are actually quite shallow, sitting only 1.5–2 ft. beneath the surface. Aggressively pruning the roots or pruning them too close to the trunk may loosen the root plate and compromise the tree’s stability.

Trees are opportunistic and will spread their roots where conditions are favorable. The only way to truly know where roots are is to carefully excavate. Don't assume!

Younger trees or more tolerant species can usually handle some light root pruning, but even these should be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Consider all your options and explore work-arounds first. If root pruning is unavoidable, consult a certified arborist to determine the best way to go about it. Your trees will thank you!

Texas Arbor Day is here, and with it the fall planting season has officially begun!

Although most of the country celebrates Arbor Day in April, we celebrate Texas Arbor Day on the first Friday of November. The cooler temperatures give new trees a better chance to get established before the scorching heat of the summer.

Looking to add some new green to your landscape? Sam Hill Tree Care offers concierge planting services. We'll help you pick the right tree for your site and your planting goals. Learn more at https://samhilltreecare.com/services/planting

Here’s a fun fact to round out Oaktober: ever wonder why Oak Cliff is called “Oak Cliff?” Long before Bishop Arts, the area was a small farming community called Hord’s Ridge. In 1887, developers John S. Armstrong and Thomas L. Marsalis bought the land on the south bank of the Trinity River and rebranded the neighborhood Oak Cliff—a nod to the massive oaks perched atop the green bluffs overlooking Dallas.

In fact, the original township of Oak Cliff was officially established on October 31, 1887, meaning today marks the 138th anniversary of this historic Dallas neighborhood. Happy birthday, Oak Cliff!



Photo courtesy of DeGolyer Library, Southern Methodist University

Oaktober check-up: seeing these black, tar-like spots on your oak trees? This is tar spot, a seasonal leaf disease that tends to appear late summer into fall. It is especially common on live oaks. It looks dramatic, but on established trees it’s usually cosmetic, so we rarely recommend treatment.

In heavier years, some early leaf drop can happen, most often when trees are already stressed. Maintain good cultural practices—appropriate watering, pruning, etc.—and rake the afflicted leaves if you want to reduce next year’s spots. Here’s a quick overview from Texas A&M AgriLife’s Daphne Richards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8y3Wvh-rXko