If you’ve got a Norway maple growing in your yard, you’ve probably admired its wide canopy and dense shade in the summer. But while it’s a popular choice for suburban landscapes, this tree benefits from regular pruning, and skipping it can lead to bigger issues over time. When you need pruning services in Mount Kisco or throughout Westchester County, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service . Why Pruning Matters Norway maples grow fast, often reaching heights of 40 to 50 feet. Their dense growth can create crowded branches and poor air circulation, which makes them more vulnerable to pests, disease, and storm damage. Regular pruning helps maintain the tree’s health by thinning out excess branches, improving airflow, and allowing sunlight to reach lower limbs and nearby plants. Another reason to prune is structural integrity. Young Norway maples are known to form weak branch attachments, especially when multiple trunks or limbs grow close together. Over time, this can lead to splitting or limb breakage. Strategic pruning early on helps shape the tree, reducing the risk of future damage. When and How Often to Prune In Westchester, the best time to prune your Norway maple is late winter or early spring, before new growth starts. This timing helps minimize sap bleeding and reduces stress on the tree. Minor pruning, like removing dead or broken limbs, can be done any time of year. Plan to prune your Norway maple every 2 to 3 years, especially during its early growth stages. Mature trees still benefit from occasional thinning and the removal of problematic limbs. Call a Professional When Needed Because of their height and potential for structural issues, larger Norway maples often require a professional touch. An ISA-certified arborist can identify weak points, use proper techniques, and keep your tree safe and healthy for the long term. Tree Pruning in Mount Kisco, NY While trimming focuses on shaping and controlling size, pruning is a precise technique used to remove dead, diseased, or structurally weak branches. Proper pruning encourages stronger growth patterns, improves airflow, and prevents decay from spreading. Our team of certified arborists assesses trees and applies targeted tree pruning in Mount Kisco to protect trees from future damage while ensuring their continued vitality. Call Walter Soto’s Tree Service at  914-252-8208  to make an appointment.

Trees are an essential part of Westchester County’s natural charm, but even the healthiest trees can fall victim to pesky invaders. Besides being an eyesore, pests can weaken, damage, or even kill your trees if left unchecked. Knowing what to look out for in this region can help you protect your landscape year-round. When you need a tree pest infestation assessment or treatment in Mount Kisco or throughout Westchester County, contact Walter Soto’s Tree Service. Common Tree Pests in Westchester County Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) This metallic green beetle may be tiny, but it packs a devastating punch. The larvae burrow beneath the bark of ash trees, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients. If you notice thinning leaves, bark splitting, or D-shaped exit holes, your tree could be in trouble. Gypsy Moth (Spongy Moth) These moths might look harmless at first, but their caterpillars love to feast on oak, birch, and willow leaves. A heavy infestation can defoliate trees, leaving them stressed and vulnerable to disease. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Targeting the hemlock trees common in Westchester forests, these tiny pests suck sap from the twigs and needles. Look for white, cotton-like patches on the undersides of branches, which are an early warning sign of infestation. Asian Longhorned Beetle While not as widespread in Westchester as some other pests, this invasive beetle is a serious threat. It targets hardwood trees like maples and elms. Keep an eye out for perfectly round exit holes and sawdust-like material at the base of trees. Scale Insects These sneaky pests cling to branches and bark, often going unnoticed until they cause yellowing leaves or branch dieback. They suck sap and secrete honeydew, which leads to sooty mold growth. Don’t Let Pests Take Root Tree pest problems can escalate quickly, so early detection and treatment are key. Regular inspections by a certified arborist can catch problems before they spread. In many cases, pest management strategies like pruning, natural predators, or targeted treatments can keep your trees thriving and your yard looking great. Tree Pest Infestation Assessments in Mount Kisco, NY Insects and pests can cause significant harm to trees by feeding on leaves, burrowing into bark, or spreading fungal infections. Identifying infestations early allows for effective pest management strategies, such as targeted treatments and preventative care, to protect trees from long-term damage. If you’re concerned about a possible tree insect infestation, call Walter Soto’s Tree Service at  914-252-8208  to schedule an assessment.