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Frequently Asked Questions

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Learn more about our expert tree and plant services!

Trees are a key part of your landscape, but caring for them often requires professional experience and specialized expertise. Our team at WillowStone is here to help, and we’ve designed this FAQs page to answer common questions our team receives. Whether you have questions about our team and how we operate, concerns about tree trimming, removal, or disease, or simply want to learn more about proper tree care, we hope you’ll find the answers you’re looking for here. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please reach out to us so that we can provide the information you need!

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What types of tree and plant care services do you offer?

We’re proud to provide a comprehensive lineup of key arboriculture services, including structural pruning, tree removal, hedge trimming, and stump grinding. We also offer complete plant health care, such as deep root fertilizing, disease identification and treatment, and pest management.

What areas do you serve?

We serve customers located in and around Thornbury, The Blue Mountains, Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Owen Sound, Flesherton, Creemore, Glen Huron, and Mulmur, Ontario.

Are the arborists on your team certified?

Yes, our team includes International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists, which helps us ensure every cut made and treatment plan follows the highest industry standards.

Is your team insured?

Absolutely – we carry comprehensive liability insurance and WSIB coverage. We know how hazardous tree work can be, so we take every precaution to ensure the safety of our crew, our clients, and client property.

How does your estimate process work?

You can get an estimate by calling our office to discuss your project or by filling out our online contact form. We’ll schedule a time for one of our experts to visit your property and conduct an assessment, and then send you a detailed, transparent estimate to review.

Do you work with both commercial and residential customers?

Yes, our team provides tree and plant care for a diverse range of customers. From small backyard projects to complex commercial properties, we’re ready to handle it all.

Why should I work with your company?

Most landscaping companies focus on aesthetics, but we believe that a science-first approach is more effective. We have specialized insights and expertise that help us understand how to manage large-scale risks, diagnose complex diseases, and provide a range of tree and plant care services that promote long-term growth and health. Our team uses proactive care rather than reactive solutions, using information like soil composition, targeted nutrition plans, and early pest and disease detection to save you money and preserve your trees.

Do you provide emergency tree services?

Yes, we know that urgent situations are dangerous for everyone, so we provide rapid responses to situations like leaning, fallen, or severely compromised trees.

What time of year should I prune my trees?

Late winter and early spring are the most popular times to schedule tree pruning here in Ontario. This is because pruning during the dormant season helps to reduce stress on the tree and also minimizes the risk of certain diseases spreading.

How can I tell if a tree should be fully removed?

Issues like large dead branches, fungus growing at the tree base, deep cracks in the trunk, or significant leaning often indicate that removal is necessary. Our arborists will assess the tree, and if they determine it is a safety hazard or damaged beyond recovery, we will work with you to create a removal plan.

Are there laws surrounding tree removal?

In many places, including Mississauga and Oakville, yes. Certain areas have strict private tree protection bylaws, but our team can help you navigate the removal application process, including delivering the necessary arborist reports to the appropriate city officials.

What is “structural pruning”?

Structural pruning is a process wherein specific branches are removed to improve the overall architecture of the tree. This process can help reduce wind resistance and prevent co-dominant stems, which are prone to splitting during heavy ice or high wind.

Does your team handle removing the debris from a pruning or removal?

In most cases, yes. We take great care to clean up after ourselves, but if you would like to keep the wood for firewood or have the chips left for mulch, just let us know during your consultation, and we’ll be happy to leave it for you.

Do you offer stump removal?

Yes, we can remove a stump after felling a tree, or as a standalone service for a nuisance stump on your property. We have specialized machinery that grinds down the stump well below the surface, so you can easily replant grass or add a new landscape feature in the area where the stump once stood.

What is deep root fertilizing, and why should I consider it?

Deep root fertilization delivers essential nutrients directly into the root zone, which allows the tree to more easily absorb them. The process can help combat soil compaction and give a much-needed energy boost for growth and pest/disease defense for your trees.

Do you help with Emerald Ash Borers or similar pests?

Yes, we can provide specialized treatments for Ash trees to protect them from EABs, and we also assist with managing other common pests like Boxwood Psyllid, Magnolia scale, and Gypsy Moths.

Can you provide arborist reports for construction and development?

Yes. If you are planning a new home or business, we can provide the professional arborist reports and tree protection plans required for your building permits.

Can you assist me with choosing trees for my property?

We would be delighted to assist you! We can provide expert advice on species selection based on factors like soil type, light levels, and available space, helping you choose trees that will thrive on your unique property.