The Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make When Trimming Their Trees

Kelsey T. • September 18, 2020

 Maintaining trees in a way that allows property to be protected is something most homeowners value and do on their own from time to time. Consistent trimming and pruning will allow the tree to live longer by preventing disease caused from dead tree limbs. Continuing to trim improperly will harm the tree more than it will benefit it. This post will go over some of the biggest tree care no-no's that are seen all too often throughout the world. 

Slicing Through the Branch Collar

It is important to outline what the branch collar is before diving into the details. The branch collar is the closest part of the branch that shares itself with the base of the tree. It is composed of vascular tissue which will release sap if it is cut into. The wound caused by it will take a long time to heal and can lead to infection throughout the tree. The reason this mistake occurs so often is because people who try to cut the limbs themselves will often try to cut limb so that it is flush with the trunk of the tree. Doing so will remove or damage the branch collar, causing complications. The best way to trim a tree limb is to leave the branch collar unaltered by leaving at least a one inch nub from the branch and the base of the tree.

Transferring Disease

Like their human counterparts, trees can receive transferable diseases through various forms of bacteria and fungal spores. The most common vehicle that these spores travel on is through un-sanitized sheers used on other trees. A simple method that goes a long way in tree health is to simply disinfect shears between trees. This will kill any unwanted parasites on the blades and keep the disease from transferring. 
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On a side note, keeping the foot of the tree clear of any fallen branches, foliage, or debris will also ensure that disease can harbor near the root system. When trimming a tree, make sure that the pile of removed limbs are kept away from the root system or completely disposed of. 

Using Unsharpened Shears

Hacking a tree with aged or dull scissors can cause complications down the line for the branch collar. Having to cut multiple times on a branch will take longer for the tree to heal. These serrated wounds will open up an entry point for rot and disease to enter into. If trimming your own trees, invent in a set of lopping shears that sharp enough to chop through branches with ease. Getting old shears sharpened is another option as well. 

Cutting the Wrong Tree Branch

Cutting away to many branches can cause the base to weaken overtime and disform as a result of over-pruning. As a rule of thumb, analyze the tree in question and remove dead or decaying branches before moving onto any other limbs. Branches that form a V-shaped angle are candidates for removal after the dead limbs are removed. From this point, it is important to assess the status of the tree and decide whether or not to continue cutting. If needed, remove smaller branches first before chopping off larger limbs. 

Trimming at an Improper Time or Season


Certain species of trees are best to be left alone as certain times of the year. The bleeding sap from an exposed limb can attract petulant insects which can then spread disease throughout the tree or take it to other trees. This can also cause the bloom of fruit or foliage to be impeded or stopped completely. Late winter is often the best time for trimming for trees to do not bloom. For those that do bloom, it is best practice to wait until the tree has stopped blooming to prune. Throughout the year, dead limbs can be removed whenever they might occur.

If you have any questions about taking care of trees the right way, make sure to call our licensed arborist for all of your tree care questions. We have the proper knowledge of Colorado native trees and can consult and advice in tree care practices. 

Ivy-covered stone building facade with rows of tall windows and brick trim

Ivy on Your Property: What You Need to Know

By Grant Cool • June 3, 2026
Ivy has a way of making almost any yard look lush and established. It creeps along fences, climbs stone walls, and fills in bare patches of ground with a carpet of dense green. But that charming appearance can hide some real problems. At Aurora Tree Service, we help homeowners take a closer look at the ivy growing on their property and decide whether it deserves a place in their landscape or needs to go. The Benefits of Ivy Ivy is not without its merits. When managed properly, it offers several genuine advantages for your yard. Ground Cover and Erosion Control Ivy spreads quickly and establishes deep root systems that hold soil in place. On slopes or bare patches where grass struggles to grow, ivy provides a reliable, low-maintenance alternative. It stabilizes the ground and reduces the amount of soil that washes away during heavy rain. Aesthetic Appeal Few plants deliver that classic, timeless look the way ivy does. It softens hard edges, adds texture to plain walls, and creates a sense of depth in any garden. Many homeowners love the way it brings a structured, mature feel to a landscape without requiring much effort. Temperature Insulation Ivy growing on exterior walls can act as a natural insulating layer. It creates a small buffer against temperature extremes, potentially keeping walls slightly cooler in summer and reducing heat loss in winter. Wildlife Habitat Dense ivy patches provide shelter for small birds and insects. If supporting local wildlife is a priority for you, ivy can contribute meaningfully to your yard's ecosystem. The Drawbacks of Ivy Here is where the conversation gets more complicated. Ivy grows aggressively, and without regular attention, it can cause serious harm to your trees, structures, and surrounding plants. Damage to Trees This is one of the most significant concerns we see at Aurora Tree Service. When ivy climbs a tree, it does not stop. Over time, the weight of thick ivy growth can stress branches and make trees more vulnerable to storm damage. Ivy also traps moisture against the bark, creating ideal conditions for rot, fungal disease, and insect infestation. It can hide serious structural problems in a tree until it is too late to address them safely. Structural Damage On walls, fences, and foundations, ivy attaches itself using tiny rootlets that work their way into cracks and crevices. As the plant grows, those rootlets expand and widen existing gaps. On older brick or mortar, this can accelerate deterioration significantly. Removing ivy from a wall after years of growth often damages the surface beneath it. Pest Concerns The dense, moist environment ivy creates is a welcoming habitat for pests you probably do not want near your home. Rodents, ticks, mosquitoes, and certain insects thrive in thick ivy beds. If your ivy grows close to your foundation, it can attract unwanted visitors indoors. Invasive Spread Ivy does not respect property lines or planting boundaries. Left unmanaged, it will smother smaller plants, spread into wooded areas, and outcompete native vegetation. In many regions, certain ivy varieties are classified as invasive species for exactly this reason. Once it takes hold, controlling it requires real effort. Maintenance Challenges Ivy is not as low-maintenance as it appears. Keeping it from overtaking trees, climbing structures, or spreading beyond its intended area requires consistent trimming. Neglecting it for even one season gives it the opportunity to spread considerably further than you intended. When to Call a Professional Not all ivy situations are alike. In some cases, a small, well-contained ivy bed along a fence adds genuine value to your property. In others, unchecked growth is quietly damaging your trees and pulling apart your foundation. The difference matters, and it is not always obvious from the outside. Aurora Tree Service evaluates the full picture. We assess whether ivy growing near or on your trees is posing a risk to their health, identify any structural concerns around your home, and help you decide whether the ivy stays with a management plan or needs to be removed entirely. We also handle safe removal when needed, making sure the underlying trees and surfaces are left in the best possible condition. Get a Professional Opinion Before Ivy Decides for You Ivy grows on its own schedule. The longer it goes unexamined, the more leverage it gains over your trees and structures. A quick evaluation now can save you from far more complicated and costly problems later. Contact Aurora Tree Service today to schedule a property assessment. We will give you an honest, expert look at how ivy is affecting your landscape and recommend the right path forward.
Moss-covered tree trunk and roots in a lush green forest

Keep Your Trees Thriving: The Complete Guide to Root Health

By Grant Cool • May 26, 2026
Every strong, towering tree relies on a hidden foundation. While we often admire the thick trunk and sprawling green branches, the true health of a tree always starts underground. The root system gathers water, absorbs vital nutrients, and anchors the tree firmly against strong winds. When the roots struggle, the entire tree suffers. At Aurora Tree Service, we help you protect this vital underground network. We monitor your soil and prevent common root issues before they cause permanent damage above ground. Why Root Health Matters A tree uses its roots like a giant sponge. Fine feeder roots pull moisture and minerals from the earth, sending them all the way up to the highest leaves. If this system fails, the tree slowly starves. You might notice dead branches, yellowing leaves, or a thinning canopy. By the time these visual signs appear, the root system has usually been struggling for a long time. Maintaining strong roots ensures your trees grow fast, resist disease, and stand tall during heavy storms. Common Root Problems That Threaten Your Trees Many property owners accidentally damage their trees because they cannot see what happens below the grass. We frequently help homeowners correct three major root problems. Soil Compaction Heavy foot traffic, parked cars, and heavy lawn equipment pack the dirt down tightly over time. This squeezing action destroys the tiny air pockets that roots need to breathe. Compacted soil completely blocks water and oxygen, essentially suffocating the tree from the bottom up. Root Rot Poor drainage and overwatering create soggy, waterlogged soil. Harmful fungi thrive in these overly wet conditions and quickly attack the root system. As root rot spreads, the roots turn to mush. The tree loses its ability to absorb nutrients, which causes the canopy to thin out and turn brown. Girdling Roots Sometimes, roots grow in a tight circle around the base of the trunk rather than spreading outward. As the trunk expands over the years, these girdling roots act like a tight belt. They literally choke off the flow of water and sap. This restriction leads to early leaf drop and severe structural weakness. How Aurora Tree Service Protects Your Roots You do not have to guess about the health of your soil. Aurora Tree Service provides the professional care required to keep your underground systems thriving. Comprehensive Health Assessments We inspect the base of your trees to spot early warning signs of root stress. Our experts evaluate your soil moisture, check for signs of decay, and look for visible girdling roots at the surface. Professional Soil Aeration If your soil is too dense, we use specialized tools to safely loosen the tightly packed earth. This aeration process restores critical airflow and allows water to penetrate deep into the active root zone, giving the tree exactly what it needs to recover. Corrective Root Pruning When we find girdling roots, our trained arborists carefully cut them away. We remove the choking hazard using precise techniques that protect the healthy parts of the root system. This allows the trunk to expand naturally and safely. Secure the Future of Your Landscape A beautiful, leafy canopy requires constant attention below the surface. By keeping the root system healthy, you ensure your trees remain vibrant and strong for decades. Do not wait for heavy branches to die before you check the ground beneath them. Contact Aurora Tree Service today to schedule a thorough root health evaluation. Let our expert arborists provide the specific care your trees need to thrive from the ground up.
Red autumn trees arch over a sunlit path in a park-like hillside setting.

The Secret Behind Stunning Autumn Leaves: Your Guide With Aurora Tree Service

By Grant Cool • May 19, 2026
When the intense heat of summer fades, a massive transformation takes place in your yard. The deep greens of your canopy give way to brilliant shades of red, orange, gold, and purple. A vibrant fall landscape completely changes how your property looks and feels. However, getting those rich colors to appear year after year requires more than just luck. At Aurora Tree Service, we help homeowners understand exactly how and why trees produce these spectacular autumn colors . We also guide you through the process of selecting, planting, and maintaining the right species to create a breathtaking seasonal display. In this guide, we will cover exactly how to build a vibrant autumn landscape. You will learn: The natural science behind why leaves change color. The best tree species for striking fall foliage. How proper maintenance directly impacts the brightness of your leaves. The Fascinating Science Behind Autumn Colors To get the best colors in your yard, it helps to understand what happens inside the leaf. Leaves do not actually gain new colors in the fall. Instead, they reveal pigments that hide beneath the surface all summer long. The Dominance of Chlorophyll During the spring and summer, leaves act as tiny food factories. They use a pigment called chlorophyll to capture sunlight and turn it into energy. Chlorophyll appears bright green. Because trees produce so much of it during the growing season, the green color covers up every other pigment inside the leaf. Revealing the Hidden Pigments As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, trees realize winter is coming. They stop making food and prepare to rest. Consequently, the chlorophyll breaks down and the green color quickly fades away. When the green disappears, you finally see the other pigments that were there the whole time. Carotenoids create the brilliant yellows and bright oranges. Meanwhile, the tree produces a new set of pigments called anthocyanins as the weather cools. These anthocyanins create the deep reds and striking purples that make autumn so famous. How Weather Controls the Show The brightness of your fall foliage depends heavily on the weather. A dry summer followed by a warm autumn can delay the color change and make the leaves look dull. The most spectacular autumn displays happen when you get a wet spring, a mild summer, and cool fall nights. Takeaway: You cannot control the weather, but you can control how healthy your trees are before autumn arrives. Healthy trees consistently produce better colors. Top Trees for the Most Striking Fall Foliage If you want a yard that stands out in October and November, you must plant the right species. Walking into a nursery and picking a random tree rarely gives you the vibrant reds and golds you want. We help our clients identify the exact trees that thrive in their specific soil while delivering an amazing autumn show. Maples for Brilliant Reds and Oranges When people think of fall colors, they usually picture a maple tree. Sugar maples produce stunning shades of yellow, orange, and bright red, often on the exact same tree. Red maples live up to their name by turning a deep, vivid scarlet. These trees act as the perfect centerpiece for any front yard. Oaks for Deep Reds and Rich Browns Oak trees provide massive canopies and incredible shade. In the fall, species like the scarlet oak and red oak turn a deep, crimson red. Later in the season, the leaves transition into rich, warm browns. Because oaks hold onto their leaves longer than many other species, they extend your autumn viewing season significantly. Ginkgo Biloba for Bright Gold If you want a massive pop of yellow, the ginkgo tree is the perfect choice. The unique, fan-shaped leaves turn a brilliant, glowing gold in the late fall. When the leaves finally drop, they fall almost all at once, creating a beautiful golden carpet around the base of the tree. Dogwoods for Purple and Crimson You do not need a massive shade tree to get great fall color. The flowering dogwood stays relatively small, making it perfect for tight spaces. While famous for its spring flowers, the dogwood also turns a rich reddish-purple in the autumn. How Aurora Tree Service Builds Your Autumn Landscape Building a colorful yard takes careful planning. A tree that looks great in a catalog might struggle in your specific soil. Our arborists remove the guesswork from the process so your landscape thrives. Expert Tree Selection Before we recommend a tree, we test your soil and look at how much sunlight your yard gets. Certain trees need highly acidic soil to produce their best red colors. If you plant them in basic soil, the leaves will look washed out. We match the exact needs of the tree to the natural conditions of your property. Strategic Planting for Maximum Sun Sunlight plays a massive role in creating bright red and purple leaves. If you plant a red maple in the deep shade, it will struggle to produce those vivid colors. We map out your yard to find the spots that receive the bright, direct autumn sunlight needed to trigger the color change. Maintaining Your Trees for Vibrant Fall Displays A stressed tree will drop its leaves long before they have a chance to change color. To get a great autumn show, you must keep your trees healthy all year long. Aurora Tree Service provides the ongoing care required to protect your investment. Deep Watering During Summer Droughts A severe summer drought destroys autumn colors. When a tree lacks water, it shuts down early to survive. We help you set up deep watering schedules during the hottest months. By pushing moisture deep into the root zone, we keep the tree fully hydrated and actively growing until the fall triggers arrive. Proper Nutritional Support Trees need specific nutrients to produce the pigments that create fall colors. We apply high-quality, slow-release fertilizers that feed the roots exactly what they need. We also use natural organic mulch to insulate the roots and lock moisture into the ground. Pruning for Canopy Health A thick canopy produces the most color. We perform structural pruning to remove dead or diseased branches that drain energy from the tree. By thinning out the heavy areas, we allow sunlight to reach the inner leaves. This ensures the entire tree changes color, not just the outside edges. Transform Your Yard This Autumn You deserve a landscape that changes beautifully with the seasons. By understanding the science of autumn colors and planting the right species, you can turn a basic yard into a stunning natural display. You just need the right guidance to keep those trees healthy and vibrant. Take control of your landscape today. Contact Aurora Tree Service for a full property evaluation. Let our expert arborists help you select, plant, and maintain the perfect trees for a breathtaking autumn show.