Many of us would agree that trees are Mother Nature's gift to us. They don't only provide natural shade and clean the air that we breathe; they also add to the beauty of your yard. To some, trees are family because of the memories they've shared over the years.

That is why deciding to get rid of a tree is not an easy job for a homeowner. It can have physical, mental, and even emotional effect on the homeowner the moment the tree is gone. Imagine looking out on your window and not seeing the lush that used to provide you with cool breeze gone forever. Some people even get emotional just by the thought of not having their precious tree in their yard. Often, it's not the physical benefit that trees give us that we miss but the comfort and peace they make us feel.

Sadly, no matter how much we hold them dear, there are situations when we simply cannot compromise the safety of our loved ones and property. When there is no other option but to remove a tree, leave it to the professional hands of certified arborists.

Before you get a chainsaw and remove your tree, there are physical signs that you can check to help you decide whether the tree needs to be eliminated or if it can still be saved.

When It's Time to Remove a Tree
Don't miss the roots. Before working your way up, begin by checking the roots and base of the tree. Expert arborists suggest looking out for six vital signs of tree damage to tell if the tree requires immediate removal.

1. High ground at the base of the trunk and below the canopy.
2. Presence of fungi such as mushroom, at the tree's base
3. Cracks and damage in the trunk
4. Hollows and cavities in the trunk or large scaffold branches
5. Dead or hanging limbs in the canopy
6. Thin twigs without living buds near the tips of the branches

Keep in Mind
Just like any other living organisms, trees gradually decline. As they mature, the benefits they provide us also grow and increase. It is essential to keep your landscape safe from the beginning to prevent situations where tree removal will be needed. A certified arborist can help you determine whether your tree is under stress and needs immediate attention. If a tree can still be saved, it should be done at all cost, but if it no longer serves it purpose and poses a threat to your safety, it's probably time to bid goodbye to it.

It could be a challenge for a typical homeowner to realize if a tree is in dire need of a good trim. One of the easiest ways to tell when the tree requires trimming is its appearance, but aside from that, finding out whether pruning is necessary could be difficult. The good news is, trimming and pruning go beyond the aesthetic advantages but also improves the entire welfare of the tree. So, there is more than enough reason why your tree should be trimmed.
 
Types of Tree Trimming

• Fine Pruning is done to enhance the overall appearance of the tree by getting rid of its small limbs.
• Standard Pruning is more aggressive in terms of the number of branches to be trimmed. It is performed to improve the branch structure of the tree.
• Hazard Trimming is a type of trimming done when a tree causes safety issues to the surrounding area.
• Crown Reduction Trimming entails the elimination of primary branches. One should keep in mind to never trim more than a third of the tree's crown. This type of trimming is especially necessary when there is dieback, severe storm damage, or its branches or limbs entangle power lines.

6 Benefits of Tree Trimming

1. If done correctly, trimming can significantly improve the health of your trees. Eliminating dead, damaged, or dying branches that pose a danger to your property and safety can prevent the problem from getting worse.
2. Trimming enhances the look and structure of your tree. It prevents weak branches from sprouting and growing as well as crossing branches that can be detrimental to the tree's appearance and overall health.
3. Air circulation and sunlight are two critical factors for a tree's health, and trimming tends to improve both. Make sure to look for signs of sun damage that can be rampant among leafless deciduous trees, especially in the cold season.
4. Fruit trees will benefit a lot from pruning as it can improve the yield in terms of quantity and size. Fruit-bearing trees should be trimmed at the last leg of winter for better exposure to sunlight and enhanced shape.
5. Young trees should be pruned early to train the tree for better shape as it grows.
6. Trimming your trees will make them more attractive, thus improving your property's view and up the overall value of your home.

When to Trim Trees: Summer vs. Winter
Winter Tree Trimming
You might have heard before that trimming is best done during the winter, and it is for a good reason. Trimming a tree in its dormant state improves new growth come spring. This can result in a fuller, better-looking tree in the years to come. It is commended to plan pruning after the coldest part of winter has passed.
 
Summer Tree Trimming
Trimming in summer is not a very popular practice, but it is ideal if you want to stunt the growth of a tree. A tree's roots will be stronger if trimmed in summer because more food is produced in the leaves that are sent directly to its roots. This is also a good time to prune limbs that are damaged due to dense foliage which can be hard to see during winter.

Make sure to know the proper way to trim or prune a tree before performing it to ensure the health of your tree. If not done correctly, trimming can cause significant and irreversible damage to your tree.  If you have any concerns, please call Century Trees for a free tree trimming estimate.  

Eugene, Oregon is getting more and more attention, and we are not surprised why. It is a consistent contender in the list of the best places to live in Oregon. It also gets ranks as one of the best small towns in the country.

We cannot blame you if you are planning to move to Eugene because who doesn't? Just don't pack your things yet and try to visit the city first. You will find a lot of things that will make you fall in love with Eugene, even more, when you pay a visit.

If you don't know where to begin your journey to finding a new home in Oregon, we will help you by taking you to a virtual tour of Eugene.
 
There's something about the air in Oregon
You may have heard it before, but there really is something about the atmosphere in Oregon that sets it apart from the rest. If it's your first time visiting Eugene, we can tell you that the air is the first thing you will notice the moment you land in the city.

True to its moniker, Emerald City, Eugene is surrounded by green, whether on the streets, valleys, and communities. If you're new to Eugene, you might even mistake it for a forest because of its lush green!

It is the best place to retire if you love nature and fresh air. Plus, it is a city where everyone seems to be taking their time. You can't feel the hustle and bustle of other busy towns here. We may be biased when we say this, but folks here are more patient when it's about traffic because they don't blow their horns carelessly.

Residents of Eugene found their own piece of heaven in this city.
 
Defining the Eugene Vibe
It's safe to say that things are a bit different in the Pacific Northwest, and we mean it in a good way. People are attracted to Oregon because of its culture and simple way of life. The best way to find out what makes Oregon special is by experiencing Eugene for yourself.

If you've seen the show Portlandia, you will see Portland's similarity with Eugene, OR. They're both cool in their own ways but offer different spice. While Portland has an upbeat vibe, Eugene is a bit reserved and shy.

Eugene is a breath of fresh air, with a friendly neighborhood, and unique culture. It is known for being down to earth with a touch of thoughtfulness and kindness. You can see people participating in rallies, volunteering at school events, and planting organic gardens. But the city definitely knows how to unwind with a cold bottle of beer while watching their favorite football game.

You may say we are exaggerating, but there is only one way to find out, and that is by visiting Eugene and getting to know her yourself.
 
Things to See and Do Before Moving to Eugene
If you have decided to move to Eugene, we encourage you to come here first. See for yourself why it holds such a reputation as one of the best places in Oregon. Spend some quality time here and explore all you might.

Here are some suggestions if you're still confused about where to start.
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Take yourself to our local wineries or visit one of the many organic farms in the area. Attend the annual Oregon Country Fair or go to the Saturday Market. When you get hungry from all the touring, have a sumptuous meal at Grit or Rye then join the fun at a gypsy folk show at Sam Bond's Garage.

Trees are everywhere in Eugene, so you can savor nature anywhere you go. Go cycling, hiking, or biking in the city while enjoying the site of wildflowers and lush greens. Don't limit yourself. Explore different workshops for watercolor, fiction-writing, Japanese tea ceremony, live-action role-playing, and many more. There are plenty of things in store for you here.
 
The Practical Stuff: Finding a Job in Eugene and a Place to Live
Of course, you need to make a living to survive in any city. You may want to find a job first before packing your things. The good thing is, looking for one may not be a challenge because Oregon's economy ranks 8th in the Wallethub's list of states with thriving economies.

The largest industries in Oregon are education and healthcare. Technology is also making a considerable impact nowadays. Oregon, particularly Eugene, is ideal for families with kids. Well, even if you don't have one, it's still the best place for you to settle. There is a strong sense of community in the area that adds to the warm and friendly vibe in the city.

For parents who value education without limiting their child's abilities can send their kids to South Eugene High School.
 
What You Need to Know about Eugene Real Estate
Now that you've learned why Eugene is simply the place to be, it's high time that we talk about how you can finally relocate here.

First of all, find yourself a good real estate agent because it's tough for buyers in Eugene. Due to the many wonderful things this city offers, the number of people wanting to move here continues to grow. For that reason, the real estate market is at its peak right now, and it's hard for new residents to secure their place.
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If you're really interested in living in Eugene, you need some help from an excellent agent. Look for someone who can help you make the impossible, possible.

 How Do I Eliminate a Tree Stump?
Unearthing a stump takes patience and hard work, but is definitely possible. Removing a 10-inch diameter stump by hand is doable with some digging, chopping, and levering. You can eventually loosen the ground and get the stump out. This also goes with larger stumps, although it can be more labor extensive.
 
What Tools are Necessary to Remove a Tree Stump?

• Use hand shears or petrol hedge trimmer to cut bushes and clear the area around the base
• A spade is used to chop small roots and unearth soil around the roots
• Optional: pick-ax for breaking hard ground around the roots
• Ax to chop woods
• Optional: bow saw to cut roots

You don't have to use all these tools. You can use whichever you feel most comfortable with, but it would help if you have them in handy.
 
What Are the Steps to Removing a Tree Stump?

1. Get rid of any bushes next to the stump to give you space to maneuver around.
2. Reduce the top part of the trunk, but leave enough trunk for excellent grip.
3. Cut away any sod or ivy on the ground with a spade.
4. Expose the roots by digging around the trunk. Break up any hard or stony ground with a pick-ax.
5. Clear away soil below any roots you find to allow for easier cutting using a bow saw.
6. Use an ax, or a bow saw to cut the roots.
7. Cut the next root you look for.
8. Rock the trunk to loosen the roots and locate where the other roots are.
9. Keep exposing the roots and chop them off. Swing the trunk after you cutting each root.

 
Safety Precautions When Removing a Stump

• Don't begin the task without wearing personal protective equipment such as ear muffs, protective goggles, and gloves. Also, wear safety footwear to keep your feet from any injury.
• Swing the ax downwards so it won't hit your leg in case it misses the wood.
• Use safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris and soil particles that can fly to your face while you cut and dig out roots.

 
Remove Surrounding Vegetation
Using a petrol hedge trimmer or hedge shears, eliminate any vegetation surrounding the stump. It will give you enough room to move around while getting rid of the stump. Slice off the top growth of the tree and leave just enough portion for easy leverage when swinging the trunk.
Cut Away Ground Cover
Eliminate grass or ivy that covers the ground using your petrol hedge hammers or shears.
Clear Roots of Ground Cover
Clear the remaining top growth like ivy or grass using a spade. It is easier to dig the ground without the ground cover. Make sure that the spade is as sharp as possible to make digging faster.
Start to Dig Soil From Around the Roots
If the ground is hard and stony, use a pick-ax or spade to break it up. Pile the soil to one side. Keep any rocks or stones you stumble upon because you can use them for drainage for a soak pit.
Clear Soil from Under the First Root
Get rid of any soil around the base and under the roots. This will make it easier for the saw to cut through the roots.
Cut the First Root
After you have cleared the first root with any soil attached to it, begin cutting using a bow saw or an ax. Use safety glasses when you hit the root to avoid soil and stone particles from hurting your eyes. Strike the ax at a perpendicular angle to your body or downwards to keep it from hitting your legs in case you miss the wood. To loosen the roots grip on the ground, use a pick-ax or a mattock.
Uncover and Cut Another Root
Expose the roots around the stump and cut another one.
Rock the Trunk
If you are working on a small tree, making two cuts on its roots can loosen it up. Swing the leverage of the trunk back and forth to break smaller roots.
Uncover, Cut, and Lever
Keep exposing, cutting, and rocking the stump. You should be able to loosen its grip on the ground so it can be pulled out. You can use a spade, a pick-ax, or a mattock to chop off side roots to help loosen its grip on the ground. When you are dealing with a larger stump, you can find a mattock and a pick-ax handy in unearthing the stump and extracting the roots out. If you have a long steel bar, use it to lever the stump upwards. Thick boards and bricks can serve as a fulcrum when using the long steel bar. Maximize the force by keeping the pivot point as close to the stump as possible.
 
How to Remove Large Tree Stumps
Be careful not to cut flush to the ground using a chainsaw because it will dull and damage the chain the moment it strikes the ground and stones.

Method 1- Burn It Out

1. Drill holes at about ¾ inches wide into the stump. Make the hole as deep as you can.
2. Pour cooking oil into the holes.
3. Put barbecue charcoal over the holes and let it absorb oil.
4. Make sure that a fire can't spread to any near plantings or flammable materials.
5. Ignite the charcoal and let it burn until the oil has been consumed.
6. Repeat the procedure until the stump is completely burned.

Method 2- Use a Stump Grinder
When it comes to removing large tree stumps, you can use a stump grinder. This machine is a large angle grinder that is useful to mill the stump below the ground. The process entails reducing the stump as close to the ground using a chainsaw. Then, position the stump grinder above the stump, turn the power on and begin the grinding process. The blade will swing back and forth over the stump, gradually reducing its height.

Call the tree service Eugene trusts to provide professional, quality tree care.  

 When you have trees in your yard, you should not wait for the best season to take care of it because every season is the right season for tree maintenance. Trees will benefit a lot from trimming or at least simple pruning. However, some trees require more than trimming and need to be eliminated. We have come up with signs to help you determine if your tree needs to be removed or not.
 
Obvious Tree Removal Signs

• A tree that is in a poor health condition or dying should be removed immediately. A dying tree typically has brittle branches and lacks foliage.
• Storm-damaged trees should also be removed to avoid the threat it can cause. Often times, areas that have no severe damage can be resolved through proper trimming or pruning.
• A leaning tree should also be removed to protect the surrounding areas in case the tree falls.
• A tree that has grown too close to an electrical line can be hazardous and should be removed immediately. It is better to ask for assistance from a professional tree company when trying to eliminate the tree.
• If a tree is causing damage to your (or your neighbor's) property due to sap, fallen leaves, it may be best to remove the tree right away. Sap causes mildew growth on your roof that can cause damage in the long run.

Not so Obvious Tree Removal Symptoms
There are times that the symptoms of a distressed tree are not apparent, which makes it even harder to determine whether the tree needs to be removed or not. Here are some indicators of a hazardous tree.

• Infestation and Disease. Look for signs of insect and pest infestations in your tree because these may indicate your tree needs immediate attention. If this tree is not removed right away, it can affect nearby properties and even the healthy trees surrounding it.
• Rot and Decay. Ask assistance from a professional tree company and have your tree inspected. A certified arborist can tell if your tree is suffering from a disease or decay. If the tree's health is beyond recovery, the arborist can take the proper steps to remove it.
• Damage in the Main Trunk. A tree with its main trunk damaged should be removed as soon as possible. Trees like these are no longer safe to be around and can topple anytime, especially during or after a storm. Removing trees with a compromised trunk is crucial to ensure safety in your property.

 
Eugene Tree Removal Service
There are various reasons why a tree needs to be removed. As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to make sure your trees are well cared for and far from diseases and pest infestations. If you have a tree that you suspect is sick or dying, call Century Trees right away, and we will make sure to assess the situation properly and give you expert advice. Tree removal is a crucial tree care job that is why you should only ask the best tree removal service to do it

Tree removal can be one of the most challenging tasks a homeowner will ever do to keep his yard appealing and safe. However, the job can be too dangerous that just not everyone should do it. It demands the right skills and equipment to make sure the work is done right. Tree removal doesn't end in cutting the tree because you still have to plan where the tree should fall. Fortunately, some certified arborists can do the job efficiently and safely, eliminating the risk of accidents and injuries.

Trees Get Really Tall
We all know that trees can grow tall as high as a building, but we sometimes forget this fact when we've been with the tree for so long. If the tree is just as tall as you, it is much easier to remove it, but they usually don't stay that short. It will be more challenging to reach certain branches using regular tools. There may be a need to use heavy equipment, such as cranes, which can access hard to reach areas.

Trees Grow in Tight Spaces
The tree's height is not the only issue that makes it tough to remove it. Trees can grow in between buildings or in small yards. Before you know it, these trees have grown to a height that is hard to manage with just a chainsaw and a ladder. A certified arborist will bring the right equipment including a rope, pulley, and cranes to access the areas that need to be cut. Aside from the right equipment, a certified arborist also knows how the correct technique to remove branches that may cause harm to any fixed structure near them. They can get them down safely without endangering anyone.

Every Tree is Unique
Not all situations are the same. Tree removal is unique for each tree; that is why no one method will suit all types of tree removal. A certified arborist will be able to custom their technique to ensure they have the best solution to your tree need. Look for an arborist that has experience in various types of tree removal situations so you can be sure that they know how to handle the tree removal properly. Make sure that they have the right equipment that can correctly process the individual needs of the tree removal in your property. A quality tree care service doesn't only have the right equipment, but the proper knowledge to handle them to ensure safe and efficient tree removal.

Eugene, OR is a clean and full of scenic view city that is a dream place for many. It is a great place to begin a new chapter of your life, but before you even pack your things, make sure you consider the following characteristics of this treasured gem to know if it is the right place for you.

Beer
The city overflows with inexpensive brews that you can take advantage of. You can get yourself a drink of drought ale from Eugene's 16 Tons and City Brewing every day of your life without going broke.

Cheap Rent
The cost of living in Eugene is pretty low that you can have a two-bedroom duplex for as low as $800. Isn't that amazing?

The Oregon County Fair
The Oregon County Fair is a three-day outdoor fair popular among hippies. The OCF is a nonprofit association that aims to reduce waste by recommending to its vendors the use of metal wares.

Rain
You may think that Seattle gets the most rains in the country, but wait until you are in Eugene. The city receives more than 50 inches of rainfall yearly. There is also seasonal light snowfall that usually causes a traffic jam for a couple of days.

College Kids
Eugene is a college town which means there is a wide variety of good food you can choose from, but it also tells you that weekends are busy on campus and in the metropolis.

College Sports
If you are not yet a sports fan, you will be in Eugene because the Oregon Ducks mean so much to the town. Whether it is basketball, football, or soccer, locals go and watch them. You can expect traffic build-up when there's a game at the Autzen Stadium.

Public Schools
There are two school districts in the area of Eugene, but the public schools get the most attention from the parents of Eugene. Parents have an option for an "open-school" where they can choose where to enroll their kids without basing it on where they live.

Schools in the Eugene area provide language immersion programs for Japanese, Spanish, and French that start from kindergarten.

Mayor Kitty Parcy
Mayor Parcy has been the city mayor for almost ten years now, and everyone knows her and can't imagine the city not having her as the leader.

The Airport
Eugene has its airport named Mahlon Sweet Field. However, most residents prefer calling it the Eugene Airport. It is a small airport but can accommodate a large number of passengers. In fact, in 2013, it broke its record of the highest number of passengers for the calendar year with its 863,523 passengers.

Running
It is not surprising to see fit and active people where Nike originated. Eugene is also known as the "Track Town, USA" because most, if not all, residents are runners.

Bi-Mart
Bi-Mart is a member-only supermarket that provides buyers with every kind of need they can think of, from food to electronic items. Membership is free, which is why everyone in the city has his or her membership card.

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Storms can take you by surprise. It can come at a time that is most inconvenient and can destroy your property in no time. Further, storms can affect your trees which in turn will result to even more damages to your property. That is why it is important that you know how what to do when a destructive storm hits your property. It can be overwhelming to do the clean-up yourself, that is why using tree service can come in handy.

You can help your tree survive a storm by assessing it beforehand so that you will know the kind of care it needs. If you know that a storm is coming, inspect your trees for the following signs of disease or damage:

• Wounds in large branches or trunk
• A hollow section in the trunk
• A rotten part in the tree
• Trees in close proximity to power lines
• Fungi and mushroom on trees

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If you are not confident in assessing your tree on your own, you can ask help from a professional tree service to evaluate your tree's health. If they see any possible hazard, they should tell you and offer a solution to the problem. Some services that can be offered by them are:

• Pruning diseased branches
• Removing hazardous trees
• Removing limbs or branches that are in contact with your property

Storms can leave you with a mountain of rubbles and debris. It can be overwhelming to deal with and inconvenient as well. Do not go out there without making sure there is no more lightning and there are no downed power lines in the area. Survey your tree for damaged branches and split trunk. If you are sure that there are no possible hazards in the area, you can begin cleaning by yourself.

You can do something to help your trees recuperate after a storm. Mulching, fertilizing, and proper watering is just some of the things you can do to assist in the recovery of your tree.

If you see any more damages to your tree, you can consider the following tips when trying to figure out what to do next:

• Large branches that have been pulled out or split off the main trunk should be removed.
• The tree should be removed if more than 50% of the branches have been damaged, the tree should be removed.
• If it is apparent that the tree has been uprooted or the roots are damaged, the tree should be removed.

Cabling or bracing can save your tree if it has a toppled branch. You should not try to save it on your own because it can be dangerous and cabling requires an annual inspection.

Some people opt for the cheap solution and end up regretting it. Someone might offer you help in cleaning up, but you have to consider you and your property's safety. It is necessary to seek help from the experts who know exactly what to do in this situation.

If the clean-up damage is too extensive or dangerous, please call Eugene Tree Service for a free estimate.  

Chances are you have already seen ants crawling along a line at your house. Ants are common pests that form a conical heap where they reproduce and gather subsistence from their environment. There are different kinds of ants found and cannot be generalized. Some are harmless ants, but some cause damage. They are also harmful to the trees that you own. You should be on a lookout for the type of ants that are harmful to your trees and take measures to protect your trees.

​What are carpenter ants? Like other ants, carpenter ants are insects that have a fascination with drilling holes into wooden structures such as tree barks. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood, but instead boreholes to make tunnels and clear out wood. They do not even appear like normal ants; they are longer and larger. If you find any such ants at the base of a tree, it’s highly probable that the tree is infested with them.

​If you feel scared for the safety of your tree, don’t worry! Carpenter ants are usually fixated on dead decaying wood. If your tree is healthy, it should be clear of such pests. If your trees are infested with ants, it very likely means that the tree has a health problem, like a fungal disease and it may be decaying.   

There are a few steps you can take to ensure that your trees are protected from carpenter ants.  First, ensure that your tree is not wilting, and it is hydrated. All trees need water to live.  A tree that is deprived of water will start to wilt, and this decaying matter will attract carpenter ants as they seek protection in the tree’s rotten wood.  Second, an ant pesticide powder is an excellent measure to protect your trees. Use it around the base of your tree. These pesticide powders provide ants with toxic food which kills them. Believing to be food, they are taken to the heap where the entire colony consumes it and dies.  Third, a solution of water and peppermint oil works wonders. Spray it at the bottom few feet of your tree. This helps, as peppermint oil is an ant repellent. Ants despise peppermint, so they refrain from attacking the tree.   Lastly, proper tree trimming technique helps avoid wounds that invite insects.  

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​Trimming is one of the most underrated components of maintaining healthy trees in your garden. Timely trimming helps regulate the growth of your plant and may facilitate further blooming. Also, it is a good way to remove unhealthy branches which can cause or harbor disease. Lastly, it will make your trees fit better with your landscaping plans. Regardless of your motive, hiring the right tree trimming service will absolutely help. Here are some things that you should do before getting such services.

​A prior inspection of your plant is a good idea before proceeding with trimming. You got to check for leaves and branches that are showing signs of bloom, rot, and everything else in between. You can also assess if any of the branches can potentially hit nearby structures or may fall down on unsuspecting people. If you are not yet familiar with checking a tree, you can ask the help of an arborist to do an assessment for you.

​The general rule on this matter is this: if the plant is firmly rooted in your property, it is your 100% responsibility to keep your plant groomed. If a portion of the plant (ex.: branches) extend into your neighbor’s space, it’s up to your agreement as neighbors on how to deal with the plant trimming. If portions of your plant are extending at least a few feet away from the street, you have to ask your local public works service if they cover the trimming of these portions.

Insurance is crucial when talking about tree trimming and tree services in general. First, it is advised that you fully insure your plant so you’ll stay safe from charges in the event of an accident concerning your tree. Beyond that, you should also understand your possible liabilities as a tree owner so that you know about your rights and responsibilities as a land owner and tree grower.
​Learn about insurance coverage

​It is important that you find the best tree trimming service your money can buy. You don’t go for trimming all that often, so it is best to ensure that you get the job done right. Look for a service that has the right qualifications, complete with licenses and certifications. Also, find a service that has the right tools for the job. Last but not least, go for a service provider with a strong track record in the business.

When you need tree trimming service, call Century Trees for a fast, free estimate.  We are professional, licensed, insured, and quite affordable.