Home improvement projects like new driveways, patios, and walkways can add value and functionality to a property. What many homeowners do not realize is that even small construction projects can cause serious damage to nearby trees. Tree preservation during these installations is possible with the right planning, and it often saves money and prevents long term problems. Why Small Projects Can Cause Big Tree Problems Tree roots extend far beyond the trunk, often reaching well past the canopy. When concrete, pavers, or asphalt are installed, the work frequently overlaps with the root zone. Cutting or compacting roots during installation can weaken the tree and reduce its ability to absorb water and nutrients. Common risks include: Root cutting that destabilizes the tree. Soil compaction from equipment and foot traffic. Changes in drainage that lead to water stress. Damage that does not show symptoms until months or years later. Trees often decline slowly after construction, which makes the connection easy to miss. Understanding the Critical Root Zone Every tree has a critical root zone that supports stability and health. Disturbing this area can increase the risk of failure during storms. Preserving roots during driveway or patio installation helps maintain the tree’s strength and longevity. Protecting the root zone reduces: The chance of leaning or uprooting. Stress related leaf loss. Branch dieback caused by root injury. Long term decline that leads to removal. Knowing where this zone is located before work begins is essential. How We Help Protect Trees During Installations Our certified arborists evaluate the site before construction starts. We work with homeowners and contractors to identify risks and recommend solutions that protect both the project and the trees. Our approach may include: Mapping the root zone to guide layout decisions. Adjusting the design to avoid major roots. Recommending permeable materials that allow water movement. Setting up root protection zones before work begins. Monitoring trees after installation for early signs of stress. These steps help ensure the project does not shorten the life of the tree. When Tree Preservation Is Not Considered Without proper planning, construction related tree damage often leads to expensive outcomes. Homeowners may face: Declining trees that require removal later. Increased risk of storm damage. Liability concerns if a weakened tree fails. Loss of shade and property value. Preservation is usually more cost effective than repair or removal after damage occurs. Planning Ahead Protects Both Trees and Property Tree preservation does not mean giving up on your project. It means making informed choices that protect existing trees while improving your property. With proper evaluation and guidance, many driveways and patios can be installed without harming nearby trees. Get Professional Guidance Before You Build If you are planning a new driveway, patio, or walkway, a tree evaluation can help you avoid costly mistakes. We provide practical recommendations that keep your project moving while protecting the health of your trees.  Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule a tree preservation consultation before your next home improvement project.
Oak trees are a defining feature of many Florida landscapes, but it can be alarming to see branches falling during the summer months. Homeowners often assume something is wrong, especially when the tree otherwise looks healthy. In many cases, summer branch drop is a natural process, but there are times when it signals a deeper issue. Understanding the difference can help you protect both your tree and your property. Natural Summer Branch Drop Many oak species shed small branches during periods of heat and stress. This process helps the tree conserve water and energy when conditions are harsh. It usually involves smaller limbs and happens without warning, often on calm days. Natural branch drop often occurs when: Temperatures remain high for extended periods. Soil moisture fluctuates between very wet and very dry. The tree is managing a dense canopy. In these cases, the tree is adjusting to environmental stress rather than failing. When Falling Branches Are a Concern Not all branch drop should be ignored. Larger limbs or repeated breakage may indicate a structural or health issue that needs attention. Warning signs include: Branches falling from the same area of the tree. Visible cracks or decay where limbs attach to the trunk. Mushrooms or fungal growth near branch unions. Sudden leaf loss in addition to branch failure. Branches dropping during mild weather. These signs suggest the tree may be weakened internally. Common Causes of Problematic Branch Drop Several factors can increase the likelihood of dangerous branch failure in oak trees. Hidden decay inside limbs or the trunk. Overextended branches that were never properly pruned. Soil compaction or root stress that reduces stability. Storm damage from previous seasons that weakened the structure. Pests or disease affecting wood strength. An inspection helps identify whether the issue is environmental or structural. How We Evaluate Oak Trees Our certified arborists examine oak trees carefully, focusing on both the canopy and the root zone. We look for signs of decay, weak branch attachments, and stress factors that may not be obvious from the ground. Based on what we find, we may recommend: Selective pruning to reduce weight and improve balance. Removing dead or declining limbs before they fall. Soil treatments or fertilization to support root health. Monitoring the tree over time if no immediate hazard is present. Our goal is always to preserve healthy trees while reducing risk. Reducing the Risk of Summer Branch Drop Preventive care goes a long way with mature oak trees. Regular inspections and proper pruning help maintain strong branch structure and reduce stress during the hottest months. We recommend: Routine pruning to manage canopy weight. Avoiding soil compaction around the root zone. Addressing drainage issues that affect root health. Scheduling inspections before and after storm season. Get Professional Guidance for Your Oak Trees If your oak tree is dropping branches or you are concerned about its condition, a professional evaluation can provide peace of mind. We help homeowners understand what is normal and what requires action.  Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule an oak tree inspection or pruning service.
Mature trees are one of the most valuable parts of a landscape. They offer shade, beauty, and stability that younger trees have not yet developed. Over time, though, Florida soils can become compacted or depleted of nutrients. Deep root fertilization is one of the most effective ways to support the long term health of a mature tree, especially when normal surface fertilization is no longer enough. At Mid Florida Tree Service, we use this method to strengthen roots and improve overall tree performance. What Deep Root Fertilization Really Is Deep root fertilization delivers nutrients directly into the soil near the tree’s root zone. Instead of spreading fertilizer on the surface, we inject a custom nutrient solution several inches to a foot below ground. This helps the tree access nutrients more easily and encourages deeper, stronger root growth. The process benefits mature trees in ways that surface treatments cannot. Why Mature Trees Benefit From Deep Root Fertilization Even healthy trees can suffer when the soil around them becomes compacted or when nutrients wash away during Florida’s rainy season. Mature trees often need support to maintain their canopy size and structural strength. Here are the main benefits: The tree receives nutrients directly where roots can absorb them quickly. The treatment loosens compacted soil and increases oxygen flow. It supports new root growth deeper in the soil. The tree becomes better prepared for drought or heavy storms. It improves leaf color, canopy density, and overall vigor. For older trees that may be experiencing slow decline, this treatment can help restore growth. Signs a Tree May Need Deep Root Fertilization Not every tree on a property needs specialized care, but mature trees often show early signs when the soil no longer provides what they need. Common indicators include: Thinning or pale foliage. Branch dieback at the tips. Smaller leaves than normal. Slow or uneven canopy growth. Reduced resistance to pests or disease. If a tree is showing more than one of these symptoms, a soil and root zone evaluation can help determine whether deep root fertilization is the right approach. How We Perform the Treatment We begin by assessing the tree and the surrounding soil. If the tree is a good candidate for deep root fertilization, we prepare a blended nutrient mixture designed for Florida landscapes. During the treatment: We inject the solution into the soil throughout the root zone. We distribute the nutrients evenly to avoid overcrowding or burn. We ensure the root flare remains uncovered so the trunk can breathe. We provide guidance on watering and ongoing care to support recovery. Most trees respond within one growing season, and many show improvements in as little as a few weeks. Supporting Tree Health for the Future Deep root fertilization is not a cure for every problem, but it is one of the best ways to give mature trees the nutrients they need for long term strength. When combined with proper pruning, soil care, and regular inspections, this treatment helps trees stay healthy and resilient for years to come. Give Your Mature Trees the Support They Need If your trees are showing signs of stress or you want to help them stay strong through Florida’s challenging weather, deep root fertilization may be the right solution. We can evaluate your trees and create a plan that fits their specific needs. Call Mid Florida Tree Service at (813) 588-0315 to schedule a tree health assessment or deep root fertilization service.
