Tree Trimming in Ann Arbor, MI

Tree Regulations and Permits

Do I need a permit?

In Ann Arbor, many private-property tree projects don’t require a permit, but there are important exceptions. The City’s Tree Protection Ordinance governs removal or pruning of protected trees—especially those in city rights-of-way, on city land, or designated as significant. Before you trim or cut, check with the City Planning & Development Department or Parks Department to confirm whether a permit is needed. Even if a permit isn’t required, certain pruning work must follow local standards and may trigger review if the tree is in a protected category.

What trees are protected or require review?

• Trees located in the public right-of-way (street trees, curbs, sidewalks) or on city-owned property.
• Trees designated as significant or protected under the Tree Protection Ordinance.
• Trees in historic districts or those subject to specific local designations.
• Specimens identified by the City as environmentally important or vulnerable.
• Any tree work that could affect utility lines, drainage, or adjacent properties may prompt city review.

Note: the official list and thresholds are published by the City of Ann Arbor. If your tree might fall under protection, it’s safer to assume review is possible and check the official page.

How to apply for a permit

1) Visit the City of Ann Arbor’s official tree protection pages to determine if your tree is regulated.

2) Gather required documents: a site plan showing tree location, photos, a description of the proposed work, and a replacement-planting plan if required.

3) Submit the permit application through the city’s permit system or the Planning & Development Department, per the current process.

4) Pay any applicable fees and respond to any requests for additional information.

5) Expect review by city staff, and possibly consultation with a city arborist. Conditions may include work limits, timing, or a replacement tree requirement.

6) If approved, complete the work by the permit’s stated window and keep records of the project.

Review timeline and conditions

Times vary depending on district, workload, and the complexity of the project. Historic districts or complicated removals may take longer. Conditions commonly include site protection measures, limits on pruning intensity, and a required replacement planting plan.

Working with a pro and safety

• Hire a certified arborist or ISA-certified professional when doing tree work that may be regulated.
• Provide the arborist with the permit status and any city-requirement notes.
• Follow best practices for pruning (balanced cuts, proper wound care) to minimize impact on tree health.
• Always call Miss utility or local utility location services before digging to avoid utility damage.

Special cases: street trees and historic districts

• Street trees (in the right-of-way) are often under stricter oversight. Pruning or removing them typically requires city authorization.
• In historic districts or near protected properties, additional review steps and approval conditions may apply.

Warnings and penalties

• Removing or pruning a protected tree without the proper permit can incur fines, mandatory replacements, or civil penalties.
• Improper work can increase risk of injury, property damage, or neighbor disputes, especially during storms or heavy winds.
• If work creates damage to sidewalks, drives, or utilities, you may be liable for repair costs.

Resources and where to start

• Official Tree Protection Ordinance and permit information: visit the City of Ann Arbor’s website and search for “Tree Protection,” “Tree Removal Permits,” or the Tree Protection Ordinance.
• Permits and planning questions: https://www.a2gov.org/departments/Planning-Development/Pages/default.aspx
• General city services and contact: https://www.a2gov.org
• For utility locations and safety before digging: call MISS DIG at 811 or visit https://www.missdig.org

Warnings about local risks: weather events, aging infrastructure, and nearby properties increase tree-work risk. If a tree is leaning, cracking, or threatening structures or power lines, contact local authorities or emergency services immediately. Always verify permit needs with official city sources before starting work.

Common Tree Species in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor sits near the Huron River with a mix of old-growth avenues, university campuses, residential streets, and shaded backyards. The area experiences a humid continental climate: cold, sometimes snowy winters and warm, occasionally humid summers, with rainfall fairly evenly distributed but prone to summer droughts and spring storm activity. Soils vary from compacted urban fill to well-drained loams, often with clay pockets and limited rooting space under sidewalks and foundations. These conditions shape how trees establish, how roots spread, and how branches handle wind, drought, and road salt. In practical terms, that means choosing species with good street-tree resilience, planting in proper soil, and maintaining a disciplined pruning and watering routine.

• Local resources you can reference: Michigan State University Extension (MSU Extension) and University of Michigan Extension (UM Extension) offer region-specific guidance on feeding, pruning, and disease management. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map places Ann Arbor in the 5b–6a range—useful for selecting hardy species. For permits and tree-care regulations, check with the City of Ann Arbor’s Urban Forestry program.

Sugar Maple

• Local prevalence and challenges: A staple of Ann Arbor streets and large yards thanks to its striking fall color and robust form. In our urban soils, sugar maples can struggle with compacted soils and drought stress during hot summers. They’re also prone to anthracnose in wet springs and, less commonly, Verticillium wilt. Road salt exposure near sidewalks can aggravate winter injury.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Prune in late winter to early spring before sap runs (minimizes stress). Avoid heavy topping or removing large limbs that create weak future structure. Maintain a wide mulch ring to protect shallow roots from compaction and heat.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Remove if there are multiple signs of advanced decay or a high risk of limb failure, particularly near structures or power lines. Permits are typically not required for private yard removals, but confirm with the City if the tree sits on or near public right-of-way.

Red Maple

• Local prevalence and challenges: Very common along residential streets due to tolerance of varied soil moisture. They tolerate a range from wet to moderately dry soils, but can suffer during summer droughts. Leaf scorch and aphid or scale pressures can appear in hot, dry periods. They’re less durable against windstorms when young.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Keep structural pruning to establish a strong central leader early on; avoid heavy pruning in late spring and early summer. Water newly planted trees deeply during dry spells and apply a 2–3 inch mulch ring.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Remove if there are significant cracks, trunk damage, or pest/disease decline affecting safety. Permits generally not required for private yard removals, but check local ordinances if near sidewalks or public spaces.

White Oak

• Local prevalence and challenges: Oaks are long-lived and valued for their durability and shade. In Ann Arbor, oaks face oak wilt risk in some Midwest regions and can be vulnerable to drought during hot summers if soils are compacted. They also respond poorly to poor pruning timing.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Prune oaks only in winter dormancy or during dry spells in late fall to avoid sap-wungling and infection risk (avoid pruning in spring/summer when oak wilt spores are active). Mulch away from trunk, and water deeply in drought periods.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Removal is rare unless there’s extensive rot or structural failure. If considering significant work on public-property oaks, consult the City for any required permits.

Red Oak

• Local prevalence and challenges: Common in larger yards and street plantings; similar to White Oak in disease risk and wind stability. Red oaks may show drought stress sooner on stressed urban soils and can suffer from heavy limb breakage in storms if not properly pruned.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Prune in winter to preserve branch structure and reduce disease exposure. Avoid excessive heading cuts; support a well-spread branching pattern with a strong central leader when young.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Remove only when structural failure or extensive decay is evident. As with other oaks, check for any local permit requirements before work on public-rights-of-way.

American Elm

• Local prevalence and challenges: Older neighborhoods still feature elm-lined streets, though Dutch elm disease (DED) dramatically reduced their numbers. Showy, vase-shaped elms may persist if they’re disease-resistant cultivars. Watch for DED symptoms (rapid canopy decline, twig death) in stressed trees.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Prioritize proper pruning to maintain a strong, open crown and remove defective wood promptly. Avoid wounding during drought or heat waves; provide deep, infrequent irrigation during dry periods.
• Removal/major-work considerations: If a tree shows signs of DED or other severe decline, consider removal and replacement with disease-resistant species. Permit considerations apply if work is on public property or near utilities.

Green Ash

• Local prevalence and challenges: Once a mainstay of streetscapes, many green ashes were decimated by emerald ash borer (EAB). If you have an ash, assess EAB risk (sudden thinning of upper canopy, vertical bark cracks, dieback). Replacement planning is prudent in Ann Arbor’s urban setting.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: If you retain an ash, prune while the tree is still healthy to maintain good structure, but avoid invasive, heavy cuts that stress the canopy. Consider proactive removal and replacement planning as EAB pressures continue.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Given EAB pressure, plan removals when risk of sudden failure is high or the tree is losing vigor. If the tree is on public property, coordinate with the city for permits.

Black Cherry

• Local prevalence and challenges: A common street and yard tree, but susceptible to wood diseases such as black knot and various cankers, as well as pests like cherry bark tortrix. Branches can become brittle with age, posing storm-related hazards in windy Ann Arbor springs.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Prune for balanced structure when trees are young; remove any weak crotches and competing leaders. Maintain even mulching and avoid soil compaction around the root zone.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Remove if cankers or extensive wood decay compromise structural integrity. Check with local authorities for any permit requirements if near public infrastructure.

Eastern White Pine

• Local prevalence and challenges: A popular evergreen for screening and windbreaks. Pests such as white pine needle scale and certain sawflies can affect vigor. Winter salt exposure from road treatment and drought stress in hot summers are notable concerns.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Prune only dead or damaged growth; avoid heavy pruning that reduces winter hardiness. Maintain regular irrigation during prolonged dry spells and mulch properly to conserve soil moisture.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Remove if there’s extensive needle blight, persistent pests, or limb breakage that threatens nearby structures or lines. Confirm any public-property permitting requirements if within rights-of-way.

Norway Maple

• Local prevalence and challenges: Extremely common in neighborhoods; very tolerant and fast-growing but considered invasive in some areas due to aggressive roots and prolific suckers. They’re susceptible to maple anthracnose and tar spot, and their wood is prone to splitting under heavy snow or ice.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Routine structural pruning while the tree is young helps prevent weak limbs. Be mindful of root zones near sidewalks and driveways; avoid soil compaction and drought stress near the trunk.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Because Norway Maples are so widespread, many municipalities encourage replacements with native or less-invasive species. Permits are rarely required for private-yard removals, but check local rules if the tree sits near public space or utilities.

American Basswood

• Local prevalence and challenges: Common in larger yards and near driveways for its generous shade and calm growth. Basswoods tolerate urban stress but have large-canopy growth that can become hazardous in storms if not properly pruned.
• Pruning and care tailored to Ann Arbor: Prune to maintain a balanced crown and remove crossing or rubbing branches when the tree is young. Mulch well and water during drought to sustain the root system.
• Removal/major-work considerations: Remove only if dead, severely diseased, or structurally compromised. Check for any municipal permit requirements if the tree is near rights-of-way.

Signs Your Tree Needs Attention in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor’s mix of urban lots, clay soils, and climate swings—from heavy winter storms and ice to hot summer droughts—puts stress on trees in our area. Saturated soils in late winter, repeated freeze–thaw cycles, and dry spells in July can all weaken roots and tissues. Road salt, soil compaction under sidewalks and driveways, and competition for limited space in suburban yards also compound problems. The signs that show up here may be subtle at first but can escalate quickly if left unchecked.

General Red Flags for Any Tree

• Deadwood or sparse, brittle branches in the canopy
• A leaning trunk, cracks in the trunk, or sudden separation of bark
• Exposed, heaving, or "mossy" roots at the tree’s base
• Unusual oozing sap, sticky resin, or fresh cankers on the trunk
• Fungus, mushrooms, or slime flux at the base or on trunk surfaces
• Cracks at joints where limbs meet the trunk or along major limbs
• Hollow or spongy wood you can feel when you tap or press on wood
• Sudden crown decline (thin canopy, fewer leaves than normal for the species)
• Structural issues in trees near structures, sidewalks, or driveways—these pose a clear hazard during storms

In Ann Arbor, these signs often appear or worsen after wet winters, rapid springs, or droughty summers, when stressed trees are less able to recover from routine wear.

Species-Specific Symptoms Common in Ann Arbor

• Ash trees (Fraxinus spp.)
• Thinning or patchy canopy, especially in the upper branches
• New growth at the base (epicormic shoots) and rough, ridged bark
• Small D-shaped exit holes or serpentine galleries under the bark, woodpecker activity, and eventual leaf drop leading to dieback

• Maples (Acer spp.)
• Local maples can show canopy thinning and early leaf scorch from sun and heat stress
• Ephemeral cankers or oozing bark on branches or trunk
• Dieback or dieback along a single branch system, sometimes with associated cankers

• Oaks (Quercus spp.)
• Thinning canopy with dead twig tips, especially during drought years
• Branch dieback and vertical cracks or cankers on the trunk
• Epicormic growth from trunk or roots following stress

• Elms (Ulmus spp.)
• Yellowing, wilting, or browning leaves beginning at the outer canopy
• Branch dieback and patches of bark spotting or cankers

• Birches (Betula spp.)
• Crown thinning, with upper-branch dieback and brittle, stressed growth
• Signs of bronze birch borer: thinning on upper limbs, dying shoots, and small holes or frass in the bark

Storm and Wind Damage Risks Here

• Saturated winter soils plus ice loading increase limb breakage and trunk splits during wind events
• Spring thunderstorms and summer gusts can lift and snap stressed limbs, especially those with internal decay
• Urban landscapes with tight root zones (sidewalks, driveways, and compacted soil) reduce anchorage and raise windthrow risk
• Ice and snow can cause sudden limb failure when trees are loaded; afterward, storms often reveal cracks and cavities that were hidden
• Salt exposure from winter deicing can travel through the root zone, worsening drought stress and root decline near roads and sidewalks

Tips for risk reduction in this climate:

• Inspect trees after major storms for new cracks, crusted sap, or sudden crown dieback
• Avoid piling heavy loads (swing sets, planters) near the trunk; ensure adequate space for roots to spread
• Consider soil aeration and root-zone improvements when soils are compacted around urban trees

Pest and Disease Signs to Watch For Locally

• Emerald ash borer (Ash trees): thinning canopy, increasing bark damage, and characteristic exit holes; woodpecker flocks at the trunk are a common companion sign
• Cytospora canker (maple, elm, oak): sunken, discolored cankers on trunk or major limbs, oozing resin, and localized branch dieback
• Bronze birch borer (birch): upper-crown thinning and dieback, with fine boring galleries under the bark
• Gypsy moth and other defoliators: two-year cycles of defoliation that make trees more vulnerable to secondary pests and diseases
• Oak decline and related pathogens: gradual canopy thinning, twig dieback, and bark lesions in stressed trees

In Ann Arbor, the local mix of pests and diseases tends to target stressed or recently damaged trees first. If you notice a pattern of repeated dieback, sudden crown thinning, or unusual bark cracks in a stressed tree, it’s a strong signal to have an arborist evaluate structure and health.

Authoritative resources for local diagnosis and guidance:

• International Society of Arboriculture (TreesAreGood.org) for identifying pests and obtaining care tips
• Michigan-specific information and extension guidance (extension.msu.edu) for regional disease and pest management
• US Forest Service and other federal and state sources for broader diagnostic checks and treatment considerations

Common local species and climate-appropriate care decisions benefit from regular, professional assessments, especially after severe weather events.

Best Time of Year for Tree Work in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor experiences four distinct seasons shaped by the Great Lakes, with cold, often snowy winters, a wet spring, warm humid summers, and crisp autumns. Winter averages bring steady cold and occasional ice, followed by spring thaw and frequent showers in April and May. Summers can be hot and dry at times, with afternoon thunderstorms, and autumn winds can be brisk as leaves turn. Last spring frost tends to be late April to early May, while the first frost arrives in late October to early November. This pattern influences when trimming, pruning, and removal are most practical: dormant-season work often protects tree health and minimizes stress, but local quirks—sap flow in maples, oak wilt risks, wet springs, and wind-driven storms—mean timing isn’t one-size-fits-all.

In Ann Arbor, practical scheduling considers soil moisture, ground conditions, and storm cycles. Wet winters and springs can complicate heavy cuts or operations in saturated soil, while hot, dry spells in summer increase stress on freshly cut trees. Urban conditions—root competition from sidewalks, compacted soils, and nearby structures—also push homeowners to plan around predictable windows: late fall through winter for dormancy-friendly cuts, late winter to early spring when the ground isn’t saturated, and post-bloom windows for flowering species. Booking pros ahead of peak windows helps ensure crews can respond to weather gaps and maintain proper tool sanitation to curb disease pressures.

General Guidelines for Most Trees

• Plan major pruning during dormancy when possible (late fall through winter) and avoid pruning during heavy rain or when soils are saturated.
• Respect weather windows: choose dry days with moderate temperatures to reduce wound stress and disease risk.
• Prioritize soil protection: avoid work when the ground is frozen and excessively muddy; use mats or stabilization if access is needed.
• Sanitation and timing matter: disinfect tools between trees to minimize disease transfer; monitor for sap bleeding and pest entry points after cuts.
• For maples, observe sap flow timing; timing affects healing and aesthetics.

Optimal Seasons for Pruning Common Local Species

• Maples (red, sugar, silver): prune in late winter to early spring before bud break to minimize sprawling growth and to control sap bleed. If pruning after sap flow begins, expect more oozing and longer wound sites; avoid heavy cuts during peak sap periods.
• Oaks: prune during dormancy (late winter) to reduce disease spread risk. Avoid pruning from mid-spring through early summer when spore activity can spread Oak Wilt and other pathogens.
• Flowering trees (crabapple, flowering cherry, dogwood): prune after bloom to preserve current-year flowers, typically late spring to early summer; for shape correction or safety, light pruning can occur in late winter if blooms aren’t a concern.
• Birch and elm: prune in late winter while trees are dormant; avoid wet springs that encourage disease entry at wounds.
• Conifers: late winter to early spring is usually fine; avoid late summer pruning that can stress trees during heat and drought.

When to Schedule Tree Removal

• Hazard removal (dead, cracked, leaning, or storm-damaged trees) should be done as soon as safely possible, regardless of season.
• Planned removals are easier in late winter or very early spring when the ground is firm and leaves are off, reducing dirt and debris, but ensure soil isn’t crusty or waterlogged.
• For large removals, coordinate with utility clearance and neighboring properties; consult licensed arborists for leaning or structurally compromised trees.

Seasons to Avoid and Why

• Avoid oak wilt-prone periods by limiting pruning in the growing season (roughly March through June in Michigan) for oaks and closely related species.
• Avoid heavy pruning in wet springs to reduce fungal infection risk and disease spread through fresh wounds.
• Avoid extreme heat pruning in mid-summer; fresh cuts can sunscald thin-barked species and stress trees during drought.
• Avoid aggressive cuts during late fall if roots or soil are still warm and active, which can encourage new growth that won’t harden off before frost.

Emergency Work and Storm Season Considerations

• Storm season (spring and summer) can produce dangerous limb failure. If limbs threaten structures or power lines, call your utility and a credentialed arborist immediately.
• After a storm, assess safety before climbing or DIY trimming; look for unstable trunks, hanging branches, and compromised roots.
• Schedule non-urgent work with an arborist who can assess wind damage, disease entry points, and root health; this reduces recurrence and protects curb appeal.

Emergency and storm-season work requires swift, professional assessment. For long-term health, balance urgent needs with the best-practice timing described here, and consider MSU Extension pruning guidelines or local arborist associations as local references for disease risks and species-specific timing.

Average Costs for Tree Services in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor’s tree work is shaped by local labor rates, equipment needs on hilly or densely built lots, and the cost to dispose of debris at nearby facilities. In waterfront neighborhoods or estates with mature evergreens, crews often need specialized rigging, which raises price. Seasonal demand spikes after storms and during peak pruning windows, and permit or utility-clearance requirements can add a layer of cost. Tall conifers and dense canopies increase crew time and safety precautions, particularly in older neighborhoods with tight access.

Prices in 2025–2026 reflect averages for typical homeowners in the area, but they can swing based on access, tree health, and the exact location of the job. In Ann Arbor, you’ll often see higher-than-average prices compared with statewide figures due to skilled labor demand, higher disposal costs at local facilities, and the premium paid for working around university-adjacent properties, historic homes, and waterfront lots. Always plan for potential weather-driven surges and potential permit needs for certain large removals.

Typical Cost Ranges for Tree Trimming and Pruning

• Small ornamental pruning (up to ~12–15 ft): $150–$350
• Medium pruning (15–25 ft): $350–$750
• Large or complex pruning (>25 ft): $750–$1,500
• Hourly guidance: most arborists bill about $75–$150 per hour, with a minimum service fee of $150–$300

Notes:

• Access and terrain matter: suburban lots with driveways and limited street access may require more rigging, while urban lots with overhead lines can push costs higher.
• Pruning is often priced per job rather than strictly by hour; the scope and risk drive the final number.

Tree Removal Costs by Size and Complexity

• Small tree up to 20 ft, easy access: $200–$500
• Medium tree 20–40 ft with reasonable access: $500–$1,500
• Large tree over 40 ft or with difficult access (deck, tight yard, or near structures): $1,500–$4,000
• Emergency or storm-related removals: typically 1.5x–2x normal rates, plus any rush/after-hours premiums
• Extra hazards (rot, disease, decay, or tension near utilities) can push prices higher

Notes:

• Waterfront or hillside properties often require extra rigging and longer cleanup, which increases both labor and equipment costs.
• If a crane is needed, you’ll see a significant jump in price.

Stump Grinding and Removal

• Small stump (6–12 inches diameter): $75–$150
• Medium stump (12–24 inches): $150–$350
• Large stump (24+ inches): $350–$700
• Optional root removal or deep root flushing: $100–$500 depending on size and soil conditions

Tips:

• Some calls include stump removal as part of the tree removal package; confirm to avoid duplication.
• If you plan to replant, consider grinding only the stump and returning the area to soil with mulch.

Additional Fees and Add-Ons

• Cleanup and debris removal: often included in full-service packages, but can be $100–$300 if charged separately
• Wood chipping and haul-away: $75–$150 per load, or higher if your property requires multiple loads
• Permits and utility clearances: $50–$150 typical for Michigan municipalities; higher if a formal permit is required
• Parking or access surcharges for restricted sites: $50–$300
• Equipment surcharges for difficult sites (cranes, bucket trucks, or rope rigging): $50–$400

Warnings and hidden-cost considerations:

• Emergency/storm surcharges and after-hours work are common; always ask for a written quote detailing any surge rates.
• Cheap bids without insurance, references, or a clear scope can mask costly damage or incomplete cleanup—verify credentials and coverage.
• Improper pruning or removal can damage your landscape or nearby structures; insist on ISA-certified arborists and request a written plan.

Ways to Save Money Locally

• Get 3–4 written estimates and compare scope, not just price
• Schedule off-peak pruning or non-emergency work in winter or early spring
• Bundle services (trim plus stump grinding, or removal plus hauling) for a packaged price
• Clarify disposal options: whether brush, wood chips, or logs stay on site versus being hauled away
• Check local disposal facilities for per-ton fees and whether they accept green waste; some facilities offer reduced rates for municipal residents or for chipped material
• Watch for red flags: low-ball bids, lack of a detailed scope, or no proof of liability/worker’s comp insurance

Key local factors to keep in mind:

• Ann Arbor’s hilly, tree-dense neighborhoods and waterfront properties can require more rigging and time
• Regional fuel costs and the local landfill/green-waste facility rates influence disposal charges
• Weather events can cause price spikes due to urgent demand for cleanup and risk mitigation

Helpful resources:

• ISA cost guidance and credential checks: https://www.treesaregood.org/
• Better Business Bureau (local business reviews and complaints): https://www.bbb.org
• Michigan consumer protection and general tips: https://www.michigan.gov/ag

By planning ahead, verifying scope and credentials, and comparing multiple bids, Ann Arbor homeowners can navigate the 2025–2026 pricing landscape with confidence while getting safe, professional tree care that protects their property and landscape.

Aftercare and Long-Term Tree Maintenance in Ann Arbor

Proper aftercare matters here in Ann Arbor because our climate and soils pose ongoing stress on trees. Wet springs followed by hotter, drier summers mean trees are repeatedly challenged to recover from pruning wounds, establish fresh roots, and cope with seasonal drought. Many yards sit on heavy clay or sandy soils that clamp down on root growth, while others face winter road salt, wind exposure along waterfronts, or shade from mature evergreens. Understanding these local conditions helps you support faster recovery, reduce disease risk, and plan smarter long-term maintenance.

Immediate Post-Trimming or Removal Care

• Do not seal wounds with paints, wound dressings, or tar. In most cases, trees heal best with clean, natural wounds and proper callus formation.
• Inspect the pruning cuts for ragged edges; clean up any torn tissue with a sharp pruner. Avoid leaving large stubs that invite pests or disease.
• Keep the trunk flare and root zone free of soil mounds. Mulch near the base, but never pile soil against the trunk.
• If a large branch was removed, monitor for bark cracks or woodpecker activity in the weeks after; call an ISA-certified arborist if you notice extensive cracking or ongoing dieback.

Watering Guidelines for Local Conditions

• Deep, infrequent watering is more effective than daily shallow watering. Aim to moisten the root zone to about 12–18 inches deep.
• In the first 1–2 years after planting or after major pruning, plan for weekly deep waterings during dry spells. Adjust for rainfall; a satchel or rain gauge helps you track total moisture.
• Clay soils drain slowly—water slowly to avoid runoff; sandy soils drain quickly and may need more frequent irrigation.
• Waterfront or salt-exposed sites can require extra attention after winter de-icing. Rains and winds can dry out exposed root zones, so check moisture levels more often in those areas.
• Mulching helps retain soil moisture; see the Mulching section for specifics.

Mulching and Soil Health

• Apply 2–4 inches of organic mulch (shredded hardwood or leaf mulch) in a wide ring extending beyond the dripline. Keep mulch about 3 inches from the trunk to prevent bark moisture issues.
• Avoid “volcano mulching” (a mound of mulch piled up around the trunk); this promotes rot and pests.
• Use locally sourced mulch when possible to support nearby green waste efforts. City programs or Washtenaw County SWCD can guide mulch and compost options.
• Soil testing is a practical step to tailor care. A simple MSU Extension soil test helps determine pH and nutrient needs before fertilizing.
• Fertilize only if a soil test shows a deficiency. Fall fertilization is generally avoided for most established trees because it can promote tender growth that winter kills.

Monitoring for Stress, Pests, and Disease

• Watch for scorch, wilting, dieback, or stunted new growth, which can indicate drought stress or root issues, especially on slope or clay soils.
• Common pests in our area include borers, scale, aphids, and occasional caterpillars. Look for unusual holes, sap flow, or honeydew.
• Disease signs include cankers, unusual cankers, or oozing sap. Early detection improves control options.
• Schedule an annual check with an ISA-certified arborist, particularly for mature trees or species known to be susceptible to pests. Use the ISA locator to find local specialists.
• Maintain good airflow and avoid over-fertilizing, which can invite disease and weak growth.

Long-Term Pruning and Maintenance Schedule

• Young trees (up to 5–7 years): light, gradual shaping, every 2–3 years, focusing on structural limbs and avoiding large reductions.
• Moderate-age trees: prune only as needed to remove deadwood, crossing branches, or hazard limbs; aim for minimal pruning every 3–5 years.
• Mature trees: prioritize safety pruning after storms; avoid heavy annual reductions. Remove dead or dangerous limbs if needed, with bracing or cabling considered for storm-prone trees.
• Storm-prone properties may benefit from preventive cabling/bracing on high-vulnerability limbs or codominant stems. Have such options evaluated by a qualified arborist.
• Annual inspection routines: visually inspect trunk flares, root zones, and canopy; note changes in leaf color, dieback, or unusual growth and address early.

Stump Management and Site Restoration

• Decide between stump grinding or removal. Grinding to below grade (6–12 inches) allows quick restoration; leaving a stump invites pests and may impede planter beds.
• After stump removal, fill with clean soil, compact lightly, and reseed or plant a groundcover or small native shrub to stabilize the site.
• If you leave a stump, monitor for fungal fruiting bodies or decay; talk with an arborist about removal timing.

Replanting Recommendations for Ann Arbor

• Favor native or well-adapted species that tolerate our climate, soils, and salt exposure near roads. Shade-tolerant or understory trees are good choices for lots under tall evergreens.
• Suggested native or well-adapted options: red maple ( Acer rubrum), river birch ( Betula nigra), white oak ( Quercus alba), serviceberry ( Amelanchier spp.), black cherry ( Prunus serotina), redbud ( Cercis canadensis), hornbeam ( Carpinus caroliniana).
• For waterfront or wind-exposed sites, select salt-tolerant or wind-tolerant cultivars and provide windbreaks or sheltered plantings where feasible.
• Avoid planting incompatible replacements (poor soil tolerance, invasive tendencies, or disease-prone species) in the same spot; rotate species to reduce disease buildup.
• Prepare soil with a shallow cultivation and incorporate compost to improve structure. Plant at the correct depth, backfill gently, and mulch after planting.
• Fall planting is often effective in our climate; if planting spring, ensure consistent moisture during establishment.
• Source trees from reputable nurseries and consider consulting MSU Extension resources or your local arborist for cultivar recommendations and site assessment.

Local resources to support aftercare and soil health

• Michigan State University Extension (MSU Extension) pruning and aftercare guides
• Washtenaw County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) for soil testing and mulch/compost guidance
• International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) for finding a certified arborist and best-practice maintenance
• Local arborist associations and nurseries with Michigan-recommended selections

Common mistakes to avoid

• Volcano mulching around trunks
• Overwatering or under-watering due to misreading soil moisture
• Planting incompatible replacements for stressed sites
• Relying on wound dressings or sealants for pruning cuts

Wrapping Up: Keeping Your Trees Healthy and Safe in Ann Arbor

In Ann Arbor’s mix of leafy residential streets, historic yards, and nearby woodlands, informed tree care makes a real difference. Regular attention to tree health—from root zone awareness to crown structure—helps your landscape withstand storms, pests, and seasonal shifts while minimizing risk to people and property. With thoughtful pruning, proactive monitoring, and timely professional input, you’ll protect both safety and long-term vitality.

Balancing safety with preservation is especially important here. By staying mindful of local guidelines and adapting to changing climate patterns, you support a resilient canopy without compromising sidewalks, foundations, or neighbor harmony. Preserving the evergreen and mixed forest character that helps define our area also means choosing native or well-adapted species, minimizing unnecessary removals, and planning plantings to fill canopy gaps over time.

Final reminders to keep you on solid footing:

• Schedule regular inspections, ideally annually or after major weather events.
• Work with a certified arborist for pruning, removals, or risk assessments—look for ISA certification and local references.
• Stay aware of seasonal risks: ice and heavy snow in winter, storm damage in spring and fall, and drought stress in hot summers.
• Contribute to the community canopy: plant native trees, protect existing ones, and participate in local tree programs and stewardship efforts.

Local resources for ongoing support:

• Washtenaw County Cooperative Extension (Michigan State University Extension) – horticulture, pest alerts, and soil testing guidance.
• Michigan State University Extension – tree care, pruning standards, and landscape best practices.
• International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) – find certified arborists in the Ann Arbor area.
• Michigan Arborist Association (MAA) – directory of local professionals and continuing education opportunities.
• City of Ann Arbor Forestry/Parks & Recreation resources – guidelines for street trees, permits, and neighborhood tree programs.

You're not alone in caring for our shared green space. By staying informed, collaborating with qualified professionals, and engaging with community canopy initiatives, you help ensure Ann Arbor’s trees remain a source of beauty, shade, and environmental health for years to come. Here’s to healthy trees, safe yards, and a thriving, connected neighborhood landscape.