Tree Care Tips
Healthy trees start with proper care. Explore practical advice on pruning, fertilization, cabling, watering, debris removal, and other proven techniques that help Minnesota trees thrive through every stage of life.
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Jim Ostvig | August 14, 2026 | Updated: August 17, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
Plant Health Care Programs: What’s Included & Why You Should Enroll
Plant health care keeps trees healthy for years. Discover what’s included in a PHC program, why they save money compared to removal, and how to get started.
Jim Ostvig | August 14, 2026 | Updated: August 27, 2026 | Seasonal Tree Care, Tree Care Tips
Best Time to Prune Trees in Minnesota (And When to Avoid)
Discover the best seasons for tree pruning in Minnesota. Learn why winter is best for most trees, plus species-specific exceptions and disease risks to avoid.
Jim Ostvig | September 27, 2025 | Updated: September 23, 2026 | Seasonal Tree Care, Tree Care Tips
Deicing Salts and Trees
As Minnesota winter sets in, tons of chloride salts are spread on sidewalks and streets to keep people safe. But these salts can cause serious harm to trees and shrubs—burning evergreen foliage, damaging roots, and even raising soil pH to toxic levels. Barriers, careful snow piling, and spring soil flushing can help reduce salt damage. Our arborists at Ostvig Tree Care have decades of experience protecting trees from winter salt injury and using organic solutions to restore soil health.
Jim Ostvig | February 8, 2025 | Updated: August 27, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
The Science of Mulching: Proven Ways to Boost Soil Health and Plant Growth
Mulching is a scientifically supported practice that offers multiple benefits, including moisture conservation, temperature regulation, weed suppression, soil health improvement, erosion control, and enhanced crop yields. Implementing appropriate mulching techniques can lead to more sustainable and productive agricultural systems.
Jim Ostvig | December 6, 2023 | Updated: September 4, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
How do I know if something’s going on with my tree that I can’t see?
To diagnose tree issues, carefully observe symptoms that may indicate diseases or insect infestations. Watch the video below as Jim Ostvig, owner of Ostvig Tree Care, talks about how Ostvig Tree identifies tree diseases and issues.When it comes to diagnosing tree issues, it’s essential to observe specific symptoms that can indicate diseases or insect infestations….
Jim Ostvig | October 1, 2023 | Updated: August 27, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
No Trees Left Behind
No tree left behind. At Ostvig Tree/, we offer a comprehensive range of tree care solutions to ensure the health and beauty of your trees. With our team of highly skilled arborists and state-of-the-art equipment, we are committed to providing top-notch services that go beyond just basic tree maintenance. Our services include tree pruning, trimming,…
Jim Ostvig | May 19, 2022 | Updated: September 4, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
Understanding Tree Watering Systems
You may think watering your trees is a job best done by Mother Nature but, if you want the trees in your landscape to stay healthy, you will need to step in from time to time. Watering your trees is an essential part of the tree care process and will better prepare your trees to…
Jim Ostvig | June 2, 2019 | Updated: September 23, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
How to Choose the Best Certified Arborist
In your quest to have the ultimate landscape, you may find that you need to call on a certified arborist. But with so many options, how do you select one?
Jim Ostvig | April 15, 2019 | Updated: September 23, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
How Do We Start A Tree Planting Activity
Tree planting key points. Plant trees the right way.
Jim Ostvig | March 31, 2019 | Updated: September 23, 2026 | Tree Care Tips
All About Certified Arborists
What is a certified arborist and what sets them apart from other tree care professionals? Learn more about how to become and choose a certified arborist and its benefits.