Imagine you've just purchased a beautiful property, complete with a lush, tree-filled landscape. Before you even think about chopping down any of these trees to make way for a pool or a new extension, you'll want to know exactly which species are protected under local law.

Violating these laws can land you hefty fines, not to mention the wrath of your eco-conscious neighbors. So, you're probably wondering, 'What trees can't I cut down' Well, you're about to find out, and it might surprise you just how many there are.

Understanding Tree Protection Laws

While you may be eager to start your landscaping project in Lakeland, it's important to understand the city's tree protection laws to avoid hefty fines and penalties. You've got to know that tree protection laws are pretty strict. They're not just about preserving the city's natural beauty, but also about maintaining a healthy environment.

Under these laws, you can't just cut down any tree that's over 5 inches in diameter. You'll need a permit for that. And if you're thinking of removing a tree that's designated as a 'heritage tree', you'd better think twice. You're looking at a more rigorous permitting process, and you mightn't even get the approval.

Moreover, you've got to take care of any trees on your property. If you let a protected tree die due to neglect, you could be in for a fine.

Protected Tree Species

Let's explore the details of the protected tree species to ensure you have a clear understanding of what you're dealing with. Lakeland's regulations safeguard several species. You can't cut down Live Oaks, Southern Magnolias, Bald Cypresses, or Eastern Red Cedars without a permit. These trees are considered heritage trees due to their size, age, or species.

Live Oaks are cherished for their broad-spreading crowns and longevity. Southern Magnolias, with their glossy green leaves and large, fragrant white flowers, add beauty and shade. Bald Cypresses, known for their unique, water-loving nature, are vital to local ecosystems. Eastern Red Cedars, with their dense, evergreen foliage, serve as important windbreaks and habitats for wildlife.

You need to recognize these species not just by their looks, but by their value to the community. They're not just trees; they're part of its identity. They provide environmental benefits, enhance property values, and contribute to the city's unique character. So, before you decide to cut down any tree, make sure you're well-informed about its species and whether it's protected. You'll be safeguarding the city's natural heritage and avoiding potential fines.

Penalties for Unlawful Tree Cutting

If you're caught unlawfully cutting down a protected tree, you'll face stiff penalties. The city takes violations of its tree protection laws seriously. Fines, community service, or even jail time are potential consequences for illegal tree removal.

The severity of the penalty largely depends on factors like the size, species, and location of the tree. For instance, cutting down a large, rare species in a public park will likely result in a heftier fine than removing a smaller, more common tree from private property.

When it comes to fines, you're looking at anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Repeat offenders can expect these fines to significantly increase. If you're ordered to do community service, you'll likely spend your time replanting and caring for trees. In extreme cases, you might even face imprisonment.

Navigating the Tree Removal Permit Process

To avoid penalties, you'll need to understand how to navigate the tree removal permit process in. First, identify if the tree you want to remove is protected. If it's a protected tree, you'll need a permit before any action is taken.

Start by downloading the Tree Removal Permit Application from the city website. Fill it out, providing information on the type, size, and location of the tree. Be sure to include the reason for removal. If the tree is diseased or poses a safety risk, you'll need to provide proof. This could be a report from a certified tree service professional or pictures evidencing the issue.

Apply along with any supporting documents to the city's Urban Forestry Division. There's a fee for the permit, typically ranging from $25 to $75, depending on the tree's size.

Once you've applied, wait for the city's response. It may take up to 10 business days. If approved, you can proceed with the tree removal. If denied, you'll need to appeal the decision or leave the tree standing. Careful navigation of this process ensures compliance with local laws while preserving the lush landscape.

Exemptions to Tree Protection Laws

While most trees require a removal permit, there are a few exceptions to this rule. You can cut down trees that have fallen due to natural disasters without obtaining a permit. This is to facilitate quick clean-up and recovery efforts. However, you're required to notify the city after the fact.

Dead trees are also exempt from permit requirements. You're allowed to cut these down for safety reasons. Still, it's a good idea to consult with a professional tree service professional to confirm the tree's health status before you proceed.

The city also makes an exception for fruit trees. You can prune or remove these without a permit, as long as they're on your private property and not within a public right of way.

Furthermore, trees that pose an immediate threat to life or property can be removed without a permit. However, you may need to provide proof of the imminent danger if asked by city officials.

Conclusion

So, you now understand Lakeland's tree protection laws, know which trees are off-limits, and grasp the penalties for unlawful cutting.

You've also learned about the permit process and exemptions. Remember, it's not only about adhering to the law but respecting nature.

If you're unsure whether a tree is protected, always check first. It's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to preserving its beautiful, natural landscape.

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Have you ever pondered the expense of pruning an oak tree in Lakeland, FL?

It's not as simple as you might assume. Numerous factors influence the cost, such as the tree's dimensions, its condition, and even the season.

Professionals consider all these variables and more when calculating the price.

You're likely curious about the average costs, and how they might relate to your majestic oak.

Don't worry, we're going to unravel this complex topic and provide clarity on how much you can expect to spend on your tree maintenance.

Understanding Oak Tree Trimming

To properly maintain your oak tree, it's essential to understand the basics of oak tree trimming. It's not as simple as just cutting off branches willy-nilly. You've got to know what you're doing, or you could end up damaging your tree, or worse, causing it to die.

First off, timing is crucial. Ideally, you should trim your oak tree during its dormant season, typically in late winter. You see, during this time, the tree is less susceptible to diseases, and any wounds from trimming can heal more quickly.

Next up, you've got to consider which branches to trim. Any dead, broken, or diseased branches should be your first target. After that, look for branches that are growing too close together or crossing each other.

Factors Influencing Trimming Costs

Navigating the terrain of oak tree trimming costs, you'll find several factors that can influence the final price. Firstly, The size of the tree is a major determinant. Larger trees require more effort to trim, resulting in increased costs. Additionally, the health of the tree is crucial.

Secondly, the tree's health is a crucial factor. If your tree is diseased or infested, it'll need more care and thus, more expenses. The location of the tree also matters. If it's near power lines or buildings, the job becomes riskier and requires more precautions, translating to increased costs.

The timing of your request can also impact the pricing. If you require services after a storm or during peak season, expect to pay more due to increased demand.

Lastly, the company you choose impacts the cost. Different companies have varying rates, and while it's tempting to go for the cheapest, you're better off ensuring they're licensed and insured for your peace of mind.

Average Cost for Oak Trimming

Having considered the various factors that can influence the cost, let's now focus on the average cost of oak tree trimming services. On average, you'll find that the cost ranges from $300 to $800. This variation depends on factors we've previously discussed- like the tree's size, its health, and the complexity of the job.

You might wonder why there's such a broad range in price. Here's why - the smaller, healthier, and easier to reach your oak tree is, the cheaper it'll be to trim. So, if your oak tree is small, in good health, and easily accessible, you're probably looking at the lower end of the price range.

On the other hand, if your oak tree is large, diseased, and difficult to access, the cost could hit that higher end. Remember, professionals might've to use specialized equipment or take extra safety precautions in these cases, which will drive up the cost.

Therefore, it's important to consider these factors when budgeting for oak tree trimming in Lakeland, FL. Ultimately, investing in professional tree trimming helps maintain your oak tree's health and your property's aesthetics.

Cost-saving Tips for Tree Maintenance

Looking for ways to save on tree maintenance costs? Here are some cost-saving tips you can employ.

First, it's all about prevention. Regularly check your trees for signs of disease or damage. Early detection can save you from expensive repairs or removal down the line.

Next, consider doing minor maintenance tasks yourself. This can include watering, applying mulch, and minor pruning of low-hanging branches.

Another tip is to time your tree maintenance right. Did you know you can save by trimming trees in the late fall or winter? During these periods, tree services are less in demand, hence rates are usually cheaper.

Lastly, always get at least three quotes from different tree service providers. Rates can vary considerably, so it's worthwhile to compare prices. Also, remember to inquire about any possible additional fees.



Hiring a Professional Tree Specialist

When it comes to taking care of your oak tree, you might find it's worth your while to hire a professional tree specialist. It's not just about the tree's aesthetics. It's about its health and longevity. A tree specialist has the knowledge and skill to trim an oak tree precisely, ensuring it remains healthy and continues to thrive.

You're probably asking, 'What's the cost?' Rates can vary based on the tree's size, location, and health. For a small oak tree, you're looking at around $150 to $450. But if it's a larger tree, expect to pay between $200 and $1000. Keep in mind, that these figures are approximate. It's essential to obtain a personalized quote based on your unique circumstances. Although the cost may appear high, consider the value. 

You're investing in your tree's health, which could prevent expensive damage in the future. Plus, a well-maintained tree can even boost your property's value. So, before you grab the clippers, think about hiring a pro. It could be a smart investment.

Conclusion

So, you're wondering about oak tree trimming costs in Lakeland, FL? They can vary, depending on several factors like tree size, location, and health. On average, expect to shell out between $200-$1000.

Remember, regular maintenance can help reduce costs in the long run. If you're not up for the task, hiring a professional tree specialist might be your best bet. They're trained to do the job safely and efficiently, offering you peace of mind.

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Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or a first-time property buyer in Lakeland, Florida, you'll find that tree care is an integral part of maintaining your home's aesthetic appeal, safety, and overall value.

Now, you might be wondering when is the best time to schedule tree services, and it's a great question to ask. After all, knowing when to prune, fertilize, and inspect your trees can mean the difference between a lush, healthy garden and a barren, lifeless one.

As we navigate through the unique climate conditions, I'll give you insider tips and expert advice on optimal tree care schedules. However, the answer isn't as straightforward as one might hope, and as we unravel this topic, you'll discover why.

Understanding Lakeland's Unique Climate

Before you schedule tree service, it's essential to grasp the city's unique climate, which plays a significant role in tree health and maintenance. Lakeland has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, rainy summers and cool, dry winters. This climate type is particularly favorable to a wide variety of trees, but it also brings unique challenges.

During the hot, wet summer months, your trees are subject to excessive moisture, which can lead to fungus and disease. It's crucial to monitor your trees closely during this time and take steps to prevent these problems before they start. Pruning, for instance, can help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease.

On the flip side, the cool, dry winters can stress your trees, causing them to become susceptible to pests and disease. You might want to consider watering your trees during prolonged dry spells and applying mulch to protect the tree's roots from temperature extremes.

Understanding its unique climate isn't just about knowing what the weather's like. It's about understanding how that weather affects your trees and what you can do to help them thrive. Be proactive, and your trees will thank you.

Spring: Ideal Time for Pruning

So, with a firm grasp of its unique climate, let's discuss why spring emerges as the perfect pruning season for your trees. As temperatures rise, trees begin to shake off winter's dormancy, prompting new growth. This means spring is the ideal time for you to prune, shaping your trees and ensuring their health for the rest of the year.

Pruning in spring allows you to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches that could become a liability in summer storms. It's also your chance to enhance your trees' shape and promote robust, balanced growth. You're essentially guiding your trees' energy towards the healthiest branches, encouraging a more vibrant canopy.

But remember, pruning is more than just cutting. It requires skill and knowledge to do it right. You've got to know which branches to cut and which to leave, to preserve your tree's health. Over-pruning can stress your tree and stunt its growth.

Summer and Tree Health Maintenance

When summer rolls around, it's crucial to shift your focus to maintaining your trees' health. This season, with its intense heat and occasional storms, can be challenging for your green companions. Your trees need particular attention and care to thrive under these conditions.

Firstly, ensure your trees are well hydrated. Water them deeply but infrequently to encourage root growth. However, don't overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Secondly, keep an eye out for pests. Summer is prime time for insects, and an infestation can quickly damage or even kill your trees. If you notice any signs of pests, it's best to call a professional tree service immediately.

Also, mulch around the base of your trees to help retain moisture and control weeds. But remember, avoid piling mulch against the trunk, which can cause rot. Lastly, continue monitoring your trees for signs of disease or stress. Scorched leaves, stunted growth, or sudden leaf drops can indicate a problem.

In summer, tree maintenance requires a keen eye and proactive measures. But with diligence, your trees can flourish, providing shade and beauty all season long.

Fall: Prepping for Winter Dormancy

As autumn leaves start to fall,  it's your cue to prepare your trees for their winter dormancy. This is the perfect time to have a tree service come out to inspect your trees for signs of decay, disease, or damage. They'll be able to provide you with a plan of action to ensure your trees remain healthy through the winter.

Pruning is an essential part of prepping for winter dormancy. You'll want to remove any dead or dying branches, as they could become a hazard in winter storms. Additionally, pruning promotes healthier growth in the spring by reducing the tree's energy expenditure during dormancy.

Don't forget to mulch around the base of your trees. This helps insulate the roots from the cold, while also retaining moisture and providing nutrients. Use organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, for the best results.

Lastly, consider planting new trees in the fall. They'll have an entire winter to establish roots, giving them a head start for the spring growing season. So, take advantage of autumn, and get your trees ready for their winter rest.

Winter Tree Services: Pros and Cons

Now that your trees are prepped for winter, let's weigh the advantages and disadvantages of tree services during the cold months.

One major advantage of winter tree service is visibility. With leaves falling, tree service professionals can easily spot structural issues, dead limbs, or disease. It's also a great time for pruning, as trees are dormant and won't suffer from growth setbacks due to the trimming. Additionally, the ground is usually harder, minimizing damage to your yard caused by heavy equipment.

However, there are also downsides. The cold weather may pose challenges to the workers, slowing down the process. Plus, some services like planting or fertilizing are off the table, as they're not effective during winter.

Another con is that winter damage may not be evident until spring. This means potential issues mightn't get addressed during the winter service, resulting in additional costs later on.

Conclusion

So, when's the best time for tree service?

Spring is perfect for pruning, while summer is key for health maintenance.

Fall is great for prepping trees for winter dormancy.

Winter? It has its pros and cons. Ultimately, it's about understanding its unique climate and your tree's specific needs.

But remember, when it comes to tree service, any time is a good time to ensure their health and longevity.

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Lakeland is known for its genuine hospitality to both its visitors and locals. Whether you are looking for the finest restaurant or a homey dining hub, Lakeland has something to offer you. Here are some of the best dining selections in Lakeland's food scene.

Fred's Market Restaurant
This farm-to-table restaurant serves dishes that are slowly cooked. Fred's Market Restaurant is owned by the Johnson family, and they have been doing a great job since they opened six decades ago. Never miss the chance to taste their Market Table offering, which allows you to have their golden fried chicken smoked pork ribs, grilled tilapia, and desserts.

Harry's Seafood Bar and Grill
Harry's Seafood Bar & Grill fuses creole, Cajun, and southern flavors in their contemporary list. Located in downtown Lakeland, Harry's serves its well-known shrimp and scallop Orleans, crab crusted blackened redfish grilled chicken Baton Rouge, and French Quarter beef tenderloin.

Chef T's Garden Grill and Restaurant
If you are looking for a place to go on a romantic date, head to Chef T's in the historic Chiles house. The interior of the restaurant is sophisticated, with all the candle-lit tables and relaxing dining rooms. You can even dine outside in their garden while enjoying the views of flowers and greenery.

Loco Gringo's Cantina
This restaurant serves a unique mix of Colombian, Cuban, and Mexican cuisines in a dish. You can get your orders at the counter since they don't have waiters to serve them on your table. You can have their two-for-one margaritas during the happy hour, and from their menu, you can order their fish tacos and Turf Cha Cha bowl.

Mahan's Eatery
Mahan's Eatery is one of the best places to have breakfast in Lakeland. But you will not only come to Mahan's for their signature breakfast dishes but also their lunch and dinner offerings. If you come for breakfast, you should try their blueberry waffles or Eddie's Bennie. For lunch, don't sleep on their avocado sandwich and fried green tomatoes.

Mister Fish
Mister Fish is owned and operated by David Lee and Geneva Martin. It's been around since 1968 and still serves its popular Mister Fish sandwiches and dinner dishes that are always made fresh. Since its establishment, Mister Fish has always been a local favorite.

Fresco's Bakery and Bistro
Fresco's Bakery and Bistro is the only Bourbon Bar in downtown Lakeland. Come here on a Sunday and enjoy their delicious brunch offering. There is live music on most nights as well as hamburgers that go well with a full Bourbon bar. You can also try their eggs Benedict, bottomless, and French toast from their brunch menu.

Jimbo's Pit BBQ
Jimbo's Pit BBQ has been around for more than five decades already. It offers drive-through service as well as indoor and al fresco dining. The barbecue house serves some of the best ribs and brisket in Lakeland. The rib plate and cherry pie are a must-try.

Bay Street Bistro
Bay Street is everything American, French, and Italian. We recommend their poached pear salad, served with goat's cheese, poached pears, and balsamic glaze on top of mixed vegetables.

Contact Hawthorne's Tree Service Lakeland for more information about Lakeland, FL and local area attractions.  

Trees have more benefits than you can think of. Aside from enhancing the curb appeal of your yard, it can significantly improve the resale value of your home. Anyone will be drawn to a house with a well-kept tree. But, you have to understand that beautiful trees don't just happen; they have to be well-maintained. Proper tree care is essential for beauty as well as the overall health of your tree.
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You may have heard about the benefits of pruning, but crown reduction may be new to your ear. Not everyone knows this process and its importance. In this blog post, we will give you a guide to help you better understand what crown reduction is and how important it is for the benefit of your trees.
 
Definition of Crown Reduction
Crown reduction is the process of reducing the size of the tree's crown. However, there is more to it than what its name suggests. Crown reduction, or also called drop-crotching aims to rid parts of the tree's crown of reducing its height. The process should be done with utmost care to ensure the tree will not undergo stress that will eventually lead to its death. It has to be made sure that only a small amount of the canopy is eliminated.

Don't confuse crown reduction from tree topping because the latter is a dangerous method to use. With tree topping, a large portion of the tree's canopy is eliminated which can have a negative impact on the health of the tree.

​Benefits of Crown Reduction
A lot of tree owners are guilty of only trimming their trees when the situation dictates so. One example is if there is a broken limb that can be a threat to their safety. However, trimming, especially crown reduction can be advantageous in other ways. Crown reduction enhances the appearance of your tree. Once taller limbs from the crown have been eliminated, your tree will have a more polished look that any homeowner would love.

Crown reduction will also be beneficial if your tree is infested with fungal growth or pests. You can easily see discoloration and death among branches and the foliage of the tree when it is diseased. You can get rid of these affected branches and instantly improve the health and bring back the appeal of your tree. Through crown reduction, your tree can heal much faster.

Fungus growth can also be prevented through crown reduction. This is because when the interior limbs and the crown are trimmed, the circulation of air significantly improves which leads to less moisture build-up that can affect your tree. Moisture and fungal growths usually lead to crown rot and root rot; that is why crown reduction will be an excellent preventive method.

Further, crown reduction makes your tree less susceptible to high winds because of less resistance. Because of this, you don't have to worry about your tree toppling over your roof and damaging your property and injuring your loved ones.

Tree care is not really difficult if you only understand the right method to utilize. With a little research and help from a professional tree service company, your tree can be healthy and beautiful for a long time.

 As a homeowner, you are responsible for making sure your trees properly care for all year round. Not giving your trees the right maintenance they deserve is the recipe for a disaster that is why tree service care is crucial not just for the appearance of your tree, but for its health and your safety as well. We know that your hands are full and that you need to attend to other things in your household. The good news is, there are professional tree care services that can take handle your tree requirements. These companies live and breathe trees so you can have a peace of mind that your trees are in good hands.

Storm Damage
Storms can be different when it comes to their intensity. Some storms are mild, while some can send your cars flying to another street. No matter how strong or mild the storm is, one thing is for sure. It can cause damage to your beloved trees. High winds can cause even the sturdiest tree to topple with its force. Uprooted trees or fallen branches can damage your property and other structure in the area. It can also hurt someone you love. If you are in this situation, calling a professional tree removal service should be on top of your list. They can quickly restore the safety and organization in your home so that you can have your life back on track.
 
Tree Removal
There can be a number of reasons why a tree needs to be eliminated. Maybe it is damaged, or diseases, or perhaps you plan to change the look of your landscape, or it can also be that it is posing a hazard to your safety. Whatever the reason for tree removal is, a professional tree care company can help you assess the best approach to handle the situation. They will provide you with a quote that details the service to be performed, as well as the total cost, which will depend mostly on the size of the tree.
 
Tree Trimming
We can say that trimming or pruning is one of the most neglected areas of tree care. Unfortunately, not every homeowner knows that it is an excellent tool to keep their trees healthy and appealing. Trimming gets rid of dead and decaying branches that can spread across the tree. It can also be a great aesthetic tool because when the dead branches are eliminated, the symmetry and vigor of the tree will be restored. Think of tree trimming as a necessity and not just an option. If you want your trees always to be green and vibrant, trimming will do the trick.
 
Tree Surgeon
Trees are like humans. They also get diseases. Trimming will help you assess the health of your tree and prevent infections from getting worse. Find professional tree care that is certified in providing treatment for trees to make sure your tree's condition gets better. Don't try to perform the project on your own if you aren't sure what to do because it can cause more harm than good.

There are a lot of positive reasons why we plant trees in our yards. They provide shade and beauty to our property and add to the value of our homes. For trees to continue showering us with benefits, we have to take care of them properly. However, many homeowners have little knowledge about proper tree care. Some information they know is not even correct and just common myths about tree care.

Here are some of the most common myths on tree care and the facts behind them:

Myth 1: Topping is beneficial to the tree. It is the process of removing the branches from the top of the tree to prevent it from blocking sunlight or getting in contact with utility lines.
Fact: Tree experts never recommend topping because it exposes the tree to pests, diseases, and decay. Trees that have been topped become dangerous and need to be removed later on.

Myth 2: Healthy trees don't fall.
Fact: Trees can fall whether it is healthy or not and it is for a number of reasons. One example is a healthy tree with shallow roots. The roots cannot sustain the weight which can cause the tree to fall due to the weather. Trees like these look healthy on the outside but can topple anytime due to high winds and other factors.

Myth 3: Insects found on trees should be treated with chemicals.
Fact: There are types of insects that do not affect the trees negatively, so treating them chemically won't be necessary. Doing so can even impact the tree negatively. In fact, some insects are beneficial to the trees in the sense that they fight other harmful insects that live off the tree.

Myth 4: Painting or stuffing an injured tree can speed up the process of restoring its wounded tissues.
Fact: It would take time for a tree to heal its wounds, and there is no way you can speed up its healing process. Trees have rigid cell walls that make it difficult for them to improve their injuries. An injured tree undergoes the process of "compartmentalization" where it creates walls around wounded barks. This is a natural process done by the tree to protect itself from microbes and harmful insects.

Myth 5: Anyone can handle tree care as good as a professional tree service.
Fact: Tree care is not for everyone. It will be challenging for an average homeowner who doesn't know anything about tree care to manage tree work. If you want best and safe results, you should let professional a tree service company to handle tree maintenance in your property.  A certified arborist is trained to give quality care for your trees that you may not be able to provide due to lack of knowledge. Also, tree care requires proper equipment to trim or remove, which you may not have that is why it is best to leave it to the experts.

Trees need to be adequately cared for because they provide us with a lot of benefits from beautifying our homes to giving us clean air to breathe. Look for the best tree care company that can offer the best service that your tree deserves.

Healthy palm trees are beautiful and can readily make us think of a paradise island. We want to keep them healthy as much as possible so that they continue to make our surrounding beautiful.

However, if your palm tree suddenly looked unwell and seemed like it is dying, this must be an indication that something is wrong with your tree. If the leave of your palm tree is turning into yellow, continue reading to know how to restore the health of your palm tree.

What You Need to Know about Palm Trees with Yellow Leaves
Palm trees should remain green throughout the year because it is evergreen. When you see yellow palm leaves in your tree, this is more likely a point of concern.