Bassett Tree Service Blog

Old tree stumps may seem harmless, but they can actually detract from the safety, appearance, and functionality of your yard. Hiring a professional to remove them is a smart investment that offers both immediate and long-term benefits. At Bassett Tree Service, we specialize in stump grinding and removal in the greater Mesa, AZ area. Here are five ways that getting rid of tree stumps can enhance your property. Boosts Curb Appeal A clean, well-maintained yard makes a strong first impression. Tree stumps, especially those that are rotting or overgrown with weeds, can make your landscaping look neglected. Removing stumps gives your yard a smoother, tidier appearance that highlights the beauty of your lawn and other plantings. Improves Lawn Safety Tree stumps pose a tripping hazard, particularly for children and anyone doing yard work. They can also damage lawn equipment if accidentally hit. As stumps begin to decay, they may develop holes or soft spots that make walking across the lawn more dangerous. By removing them, you eliminate these risks and create a safer outdoor space for everyone to enjoy. Prevents Pest Infestations As stumps decompose, they often become a magnet for insects like termite and ants. These pests may eventually spread to healthy trees, garden beds, or even your home’s structure. Removing a stump reduces the likelihood of attracting pests in the first place, helping protect your property from infestations that can lead to significant damage. Increases Usable Yard Space A leftover stump takes up valuable space in your yard that could be used more productively. Once it’s removed, you’ll have more options for landscaping, gardening, outdoor seating, or play areas. Stump removal opens the door to new possibilities, whether you want to plant a new tree or expand your lawn for recreational use. Stops Unwanted Tree Growth It’s common for new shoots or “suckers” to sprout around a tree stump. These shoots are often difficult to control and can compete with nearby plants for nutrients. Left unchecked, they can grow into messy, multi-stemmed bushes that require constant trimming. Removing the stump helps eliminate the roots’ ability to regenerate and ensures that the original tree doesn’t try to come back in unwanted ways. Stump Grinding & Removal in Mesa, AZ For expert stump removal in Mesa, AZ and the surrounding area, contact Bassett Tree Service at 480-745-2290 . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an arborist estimate in Mesa, Phoenix, and the surrounding area!

When it comes to landscaping in Mesa, small palm trees can make a big impact. Their sculptural beauty and desert-friendly qualities make them ideal for adding a touch of the tropics without overwhelming your outdoor space. Better yet, many small palms thrive in the hot, dry climate of the Sonoran Desert, making them low-maintenance and water-wise choices for your yard. When you need palm tree care in Mesa, AZ, or the surrounding areas, give the team at Bassett Tree Service a call. Pygmy Date Palm (Phoenix roebelenii) The pygmy date palm is a favorite among homeowners for good reason. Topping out at around 10 feet, it’s compact, elegant, and perfect for patios or entryways. It grows well in containers and does best with partial shade, though it can handle full sun if needed. With its feathery fronds and graceful trunk, it adds a soft, refined look to any landscape. Mediterranean Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis) One of the hardiest palms out there, the Mediterranean fan palm is both cold- and drought-tolerant, which is ideal for Arizona’s fluctuating desert weather. It grows in clusters, forming a multi-trunked shape that maxes out around 15 feet. Its fan-like leaves bring texture and structure to desert landscapes, and it pairs well with native plants and decorative rock. Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) While less common in the desert, the windmill palm can thrive in Mesa with proper placement and care. It prefers some protection from intense afternoon sun, making it great for north- or east-facing yards. With its fuzzy trunk and upright, fan-shaped leaves, it has a distinctly tropical look in a smaller footprint. It usually grows up to 20 feet, but it is often trimmed shorter. Bottle Palm (Hyophorbe lagenicaulis) For a bold, sculptural statement, the bottle palm is a unique choice. Its swollen trunk and arching fronds stand out in xeriscaped yards. Keep in mind, this palm is less cold-tolerant, so it’s best planted in a sheltered location or grown in a container that can be moved when needed. Palm Tree Care in Mesa The certified arborists at Bassett Tree Service specialize in palm tree services in Mesa and the surrounding areas. Our local palm tree experts are highly skilled at caring for all species of palms, ensuring that they remain healthy year after year. Whether you need palm tree maintenance, palm tree removal, or other services for your palms, we can help. Give us a call at 480-745-2290 to learn more about our local tree company or to request an estimate for palm tree services near Phoenix.

Pruning is essential for healthy trees, especially in Mesa’s arid climate. But when it’s overdone, your trees can suffer more harm than good. Overpruning is a common mistake among well-meaning homeowners and even inexperienced landscapers. So, how can you tell if you’ve gone a little too far with the shears? Below, we explain what to look for. When you need professional pruning services in Mesa, AZ, or the surrounding areas, give the team at Bassett Tree Service a call. Bare Branches and Sparse Canopy One of the first signs of overpruning is a tree that looks too thin or “bare.” If you can see large amounts of sunlight passing through the canopy or the tree suddenly resembles a skeleton, chances are you’ve removed too much foliage. In Mesa, this is especially risky, as the direct sun can scorch exposed limbs and stress the tree. Rapid Sprout Growth When a tree’s been stressed by overpruning, it often goes into survival mode. One way it reacts is by pushing out lots of fast-growing vertical shoots called water sprouts. These suck up energy but don’t add much beauty or strength to the tree. It’s the tree’s way of trying to recover lost energy reserves quickly. Sunburned Bark Yes, trees can get sunburned, too, especially in Mesa’s intense desert sun. If you’ve removed too many limbs or too much leaf coverage, the bark is left unprotected. This can lead to cracking, peeling, or even permanent damage to the trunk and main branches. Delayed Growth or Decline Trees need leaves for photosynthesis—the process that turns sunlight into energy. Take too many off, and your tree might stop growing, drop more leaves than usual, or even begin to decline in health. Yellowing leaves, dead limbs, and stunted growth are all red flags. How to Avoid Overpruning Stick to trimming no more than 20 to 25 percent of a tree’s canopy at a time. Focus on dead, diseased, or poorly placed branches. And if you’re unsure, it’s worth bringing in a certified arborist who understands the region’s unique tree needs and desert climate. Tree Trimming and Pruning in Mesa Trimming and pruning tree branches can often be a great alternative to tree removal, when possible. Trimming can boost the health of a tree by removing diseased areas and reducing the weight of heavy branches that cause leaning or other issues. The experts at Bassett Tree Service would be happy to provide an on-site analysis of a tree to help you make an informed decision about its future. Our team works with all species of trees! Call us at 480-745-2290 to learn more.

Maple trees may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Arizona desert, but with the right care, they can thrive in Mesa’s unique climate. While they require more attention than native desert trees, a little effort goes a long way in keeping your maples healthy, vibrant, and full of shade. When you need maple tree services in Mesa, AZ, or the surrounding areas, give the team at Bassett Tree Service a call. Water Wisely Mesa’s dry climate means water is a top priority for your maple trees. Deep watering is essential; aim for a slow soak that reaches the roots rather than frequent, shallow watering. In the hotter months, water at least once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature. Protect Against Heat Stress Maples love sunlight, but the intense Arizona heat can be tough on them. If possible, plant your tree in a spot with some afternoon shade to protect it from the harshest rays. Young trees, in particular, may benefit from temporary shade cloths during the hottest parts of the year. Fertilize Maples thrive in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Because Arizona’s soil is often alkaline, you may need to amend it with compost or a soil acidifier to maintain the right pH balance. Fertilize in early spring and again in late fall with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to encourage strong growth. Prune for Health and Shape Prune your tree regularly to help it grow strong and look its best. Remove dead or damaged branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve airflow. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Watch for Pests and Diseases Maples can be susceptible to pests like aphids and spider mites. Check the leaves regularly for signs of infestation, such as discoloration or sticky residue. Spraying the tree with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap can help keep pests at bay. Also, watch for fungal infections, especially in humid conditions, and remove any affected branches promptly. Maple Tree Services in Mesa At Bassett Tree Service, our team of expert tree surgeons provides a wide variety of tree services in Mesa and the surrounding area. With more than 15 years of experience, you can rely on us for all of your needs, whether commercial or residential. We encourage you to give our team of certified arborists a call at 480-745-2290 to chat about your tree questions or concerns, or to request an estimate for professional tree pruning, tree shaping, or other tree-cutting services in Mesa or throughout Maricopa County.

Palm trees are an iconic part of the Arizona landscape, providing a tropical touch to the desert environment. As spring arrives, it’s the perfect time to give your palms a little extra care to ensure they thrive throughout the warmer months. You can keep your palm trees healthy, vibrant, and ready to soak up the desert sun with a few proactive steps. When you need palm tree care in Mesa, AZ, or the surrounding areas, give the team at Bassett Tree Service a call. Revitalize with Proper Watering While Mesa is known for its dry climate, spring brings a bit more moisture, making it an ideal time to adjust your watering routine. Check your irrigation system to ensure your palms are receiving the right amount of water—neither too much nor too little. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering may stress the trees during their growth phase. A slow, deep watering session once a week is usually effective, especially as temperatures begin to rise. Nourish with the Right Fertilizer Spring is a season of renewal, so why not give your palm trees a nutrient boost? Choose a fertilizer specifically formulated for palms, rich in potassium and magnesium, which help promote strong growth and vibrant fronds. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm your trees. Applying fertilizer in the early spring ensures your palms have the energy they need for the coming growing season. Pruning and Maintenance Take a look at your palms for any dead or damaged fronds. Pruning these improves the appearance of your trees and encourages healthy growth by redirecting nutrients to the living fronds. Be cautious during pruning—use clean, sharp tools and remove only the unhealthy or dead sections. Over-pruning can stress the tree, so less is more. Pest and Disease Check Spring is also a good time to inspect your palms for signs of pests or diseases. Look for discolored leaves, unusual spots, or signs of infestation. Early detection can help you take swift action, whether it means using a targeted pesticide or simply removing affected areas. Palm Tree Care in Mesa The certified arborists at Bassett Tree Service specialize in palm tree services in Mesa and the surrounding areas. Our local palm tree experts are highly skilled at caring for all species of palms, ensuring that they remain healthy year after year. Whether you need palm tree maintenance, palm tree removal, or other services for your palms, we can help. Give us a call at 480-745-2290 to learn more about our local tree company or to request an estimate for palm tree services near Phoenix.