Jacaranda Tree
August 1, 2020
August 1, 2020
The Jacaranda mimosifoila
The Jacaranda mimosifoila or more commonly known as just Jacaranda, with its large vibrant lavender colored flowers, is one of the more popular trees in Florida.. These large trees may start out looking somewhat odd when young but by the time they grow to close to 20 feet, their branches form a domed crown-like shape. They are one of the most distinctively beautiful trees as their new foliage and enormous bright purple flowers usher in springtime here in Florida.
The Jacaranda is a large tree best suited as a focal point for a medium sized yard or anywhere on a larger property. It can grow up to 40 feet tall rather quickly. It prefers plenty of room and placement in partial to full sun. Jacarandas can take a long time to flower when grown from seed and can take 5 to 7 years before flowering when planted from grafted cuttings like the ones bought at a nursery.
Jacarandas should be planted an optimum of 20 feet from your home to give ample room for the tree’s wide expansion and to avoid possible damage from falling branches. They should be placed at minimum of 15 feet from driveways, walkways and other concrete slabs so the roots won’t cause problems in the future.
Caring for the Jacaranda is fairly straightforward.
Whatever the tree related questions, Mid FloridaTree Service with its knowledgeable staff and experienced Certified Arborists, is here to help get you information you look for and to come up with a plan of action specific to your property.
The Jacaranda is a large tree best suited as a focal point for a medium sized yard or anywhere on a larger property. It can grow up to 40 feet tall rather quickly. It prefers plenty of room and placement in partial to full sun. Jacarandas can take a long time to flower when grown from seed and can take 5 to 7 years before flowering when planted from grafted cuttings like the ones bought at a nursery.
Jacarandas should be planted an optimum of 20 feet from your home to give ample room for the tree’s wide expansion and to avoid possible damage from falling branches. They should be placed at minimum of 15 feet from driveways, walkways and other concrete slabs so the roots won’t cause problems in the future.
Caring for the Jacaranda is fairly straightforward.
- You should stake your young tree for its first year as they can be blown over in winds quite like the kind we see in Florida with our regularly passing rain storms.
- Since the bark of the Jacaranda is thin, it can be easily damaged by yard equipment such as lawnmowers or weed-whackers. You should leave a fairly large space around the base of the tree filled in with mulch or a bed of small plants to help avoid possible damage.
- Adding peat moss or top soil to the hole when you plant your tree, as well as adding composted cow manure, will help enrich the soil around the rootball.
- Jacarandas should be fertilized approximately 3 times per year … once in the spring, once in the summer and again in the fall
- Once established, Jacarandas are fairly drought-tolerant. They should, however, be watered regularly during their first year then continued on a schedule that allots time for the plant to dry out between waterings.
- Trimming isn’t truly necessary but you will get a denser growth if you trim the ends of the branches after the flowering cycle is over
- Pruning will need to be done to make room when low-growing branches impede walkways or driveways
Whatever the tree related questions, Mid FloridaTree Service with its knowledgeable staff and experienced Certified Arborists, is here to help get you information you look for and to come up with a plan of action specific to your property.


By Mid Florida Tree Service
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January 15, 2026
HOA communities rely on consistent, professional landscape care to protect property values and resident safety. Trees are one of the most visible and valuable assets in a neighborhood, but without a structured maintenance plan, they can quickly become a liability. We work with HOA boards and property managers in Wesley Chapel to develop long term tree maintenance programs that reduce risk, control costs, and keep communities looking their best. Why HOAs Need a Tree Maintenance Plan Tree care in a large community cannot be handled on a reactive basis. Waiting until branches fall or complaints arise often leads to higher costs and increased liability. A planned approach allows boards to stay ahead of problems and budget responsibly. A structured maintenance plan helps: Reduce emergency service calls. Identify hazardous trees before they fail. Maintain consistent appearance across the community. Spread costs predictably over the year. Protect the HOA from avoidable liability claims. Planning ahead creates stability for both the board and the residents. What a Professional HOA Tree Plan Includes Every HOA has different needs depending on tree species, age, and layout. We tailor each plan to the specific community after a full evaluation. A typical maintenance plan may include: Scheduled inspections by certified arborists. Routine pruning to manage canopy growth and visibility. Removal of dead or declining trees before they become hazards. Storm preparation pruning in high risk areas. Post storm evaluations to assess damage and safety. Written documentation for board records and insurance needs. This approach ensures trees are managed consistently rather than piecemeal. Supporting Board Decisions With Professional Evaluations HOA boards are often required to justify maintenance decisions to residents. Having professional assessments helps remove uncertainty and emotion from the process. Our arborists provide clear explanations and written recommendations that help boards: Understand which trees pose real risk. Prioritize work based on safety and urgency. Communicate decisions clearly to homeowners. Demonstrate responsible management practices. This transparency builds trust within the community. Budget Predictability and Cost Control One of the biggest advantages of a maintenance plan is predictable budgeting. Scheduled care reduces the likelihood of costly emergency removals and allows boards to plan expenses in advance. With a maintenance plan, HOAs benefit from: Fewer unexpected expenses. Better long term cost control. Reduced damage from storms due to proactive pruning. Improved vendor accountability. Consistency leads to fewer surprises and better financial planning. Experience With HOA and Municipal Standards We work with HOA communities throughout Hillsborough County and eastern Pasco, including Wesley Chapel. Our team includes certified arborists who participate in Tampa’s Self Certified Private Arborist Program. This experience allows us to align tree care practices with local standards and regulatory expectations. Boards can be confident that recommendations are based on professional training and industry best practices. A Long Term Partner for Your Community Tree maintenance is not a one time task. It is an ongoing responsibility that requires experience, consistency, and clear communication. We focus on building long term partnerships with HOA boards and property managers who want reliable service and professional guidance. Schedule a Community Tree Evaluation If your HOA is reviewing contractors or planning future maintenance, a professional evaluation is a strong first step. We can assess your community’s trees and propose a maintenance plan that fits your goals and budget. Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule an HOA tree maintenance consultation in Wesley Chapel.

By Mid Florida Tree Service
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January 15, 2026
Tree roots and septic systems do not always coexist well. In many Florida properties, septic systems are located in yards with mature trees nearby. While trees provide shade and beauty, their roots naturally seek out moisture and nutrients, which can put them on a collision course with septic tanks and drain fields. Understanding the risks early can help prevent costly repairs and serious damage. Why Tree Roots Are Drawn to Septic Systems Septic systems create an environment that roots find attractive. Drain fields release moisture into the soil, and even small leaks from pipes can provide a steady water source. Roots grow toward these conditions and can slowly invade system components. Roots are especially drawn to: Moist soil around drain lines. Nutrient rich areas near leach fields. Small cracks or joints in older septic pipes. Consistently damp soil caused by system use. Once roots find a way in, they continue to grow and expand inside the system. Problems Tree Roots Can Cause Root intrusion does not always cause immediate failure, but it often leads to progressive damage. Common issues include: Cracked or blocked pipes. Reduced drainage in the leach field. Sewage backups or slow drains in the home. Structural damage to the septic tank. Costly repairs or system replacement. These problems tend to worsen over time if not addressed. Trees That Commonly Cause Septic Issues Some tree species are more aggressive root growers than others. Fast growing trees and those that thrive in moist soil are more likely to interfere with septic systems. Problem trees often include: Large oaks planted too close to drain fields. Willows and other water loving species. Fast growing ornamentals with shallow roots. Trees planted before septic system locations were clearly marked. Tree placement plays a major role in whether roots become an issue. How We Evaluate the Risk When homeowners are concerned about tree roots and septic systems, we begin with a careful evaluation of the property. We look at tree species, size, root spread, and proximity to septic components. Our assessment may include: Identifying the location of the septic tank and drain field. Evaluating root growth patterns and soil conditions. Determining whether roots are likely to cause future problems. Recommending management options that protect both the tree and the system. The goal is to find a solution that avoids unnecessary removal while reducing risk. Options for Protecting Your Septic System In many cases, there are ways to manage tree roots without removing healthy trees. Possible solutions include: Root pruning to redirect growth away from septic components. Installing root barriers where appropriate. Adjusting irrigation to reduce excess moisture near the system. Removing problem trees only when risk cannot be managed safely. Each situation is different, and professional guidance helps ensure the right choice is made. Plan Ahead to Avoid Expensive Repairs Tree root problems often develop slowly, which gives homeowners an opportunity to act before major damage occurs. Regular inspections and early intervention can protect your septic system and preserve valuable trees on your property. Get Professional Help With Tree and Septic Concerns If you suspect tree roots may be affecting your septic system, we can help evaluate the situation and recommend practical solutions. Our certified arborists understand how roots grow and how to manage them responsibly. Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule a tree and root evaluation for your septic system.

By Mid Florida Tree Service
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January 1, 2026
Palm trees are a common sight throughout Riverview, and while they may look low maintenance, proper pruning is essential for their health and safety. Timing matters more with palms than many homeowners realize. Pruning at the wrong time or in the wrong way can weaken the tree, increase disease risk, and even make storm damage more likely. Why Timing Is Important for Palm Pruning Unlike hardwood trees, palms grow from a single growing point at the top of the trunk. Removing healthy fronds too aggressively or at the wrong time can stress the tree and slow its growth. In Florida, palms respond best when pruning is done with a clear understanding of seasonal growth cycles. Proper timing helps: Maintain the tree’s natural strength. Reduce stress during hot or dry periods. Limit exposure to pests and disease. Improve storm resistance. The Best Time of Year to Prune Palms In most cases, palms should be pruned only when necessary and not on a fixed schedule. Dead, broken, or hanging fronds can be removed at any time, especially if they pose a safety concern. Routine pruning is often best done during warmer months when the tree is actively growing. Over pruning during cooler periods or before a growth cycle can leave palms vulnerable and slow to recover. Common Palm Pruning Mistakes Many palm problems we see in Riverview are caused by well intentioned but incorrect pruning. Common mistakes include: Removing green, healthy fronds. Cutting palms into a tight, upright shape. Pruning too frequently. Leaving large stubs instead of clean cuts. Using improper tools that damage the trunk. These practices can weaken the palm and make it more susceptible to disease and nutrient deficiencies. How We Approach Palm Pruning Our certified arborists evaluate each palm individually before pruning. We focus on safety, tree health, and long term appearance. When we prune palms, we remove only what is necessary and leave healthy fronds in place to support growth. Our process may include: Removing dead or damaged fronds. Clearing fronds that interfere with structures or walkways. Identifying signs of nutrient deficiency or disease. Recommending fertilization or soil treatments when needed. This careful approach helps palms remain strong and attractive year round. Keeping Palms Healthy in Riverview Riverview’s climate supports many palm species, but proper care is still essential. Regular inspections, correct pruning, and proper nutrition all play a role in keeping palms healthy and storm ready. If you are unsure whether your palms need pruning, or if they have been over pruned in the past, a professional evaluation can help prevent further damage. Professional Palm Care You Can Trust Palm pruning should never be rushed or done without a plan. We help homeowners make informed decisions that protect their trees and their property. Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule palm tree pruning or a tree health inspection in Riverview.





