rd-tree-service

Emergency Storm Tree Services in Stanislaus & Merced County

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 20:10:39 GMT

As winter weather approaches, homeowners and commercial property managers across Turlock, Modesto, Merced, and Atwater are preparing for heavy winds and rain. Storm season can place tremendous stress on trees—especially those that are aging, poorly pruned, or structurally weakened. At R&D Tree Service, we offer 24/7 emergency storm response and preventative arborist consultations to help you stay safe before, during, and after severe weather.

Why Emergency Storm Tree Service Matters

Storms can create dangerous situations quickly. High winds, saturated soil, and heavy rainfall can weaken a tree’s root system or break major limbs without warning. Common risks include:

Fallen trees blocking driveways, sidewalks, and access roads
Branches landing on roofs, vehicles, or fences
Uprooted trees damaging foundations or utilities
Hazardous limbs hanging overhead after a storm

Our team responds rapidly to secure your property and eliminate risks. With fully licensed and insured crews—and an ISA Certified Arborist (#WE-15483A) on staff—you can trust that your storm emergency will be handled safely and professionally.

Our Emergency Storm Services

R&D Tree Service provides complete storm support for both residential and commercial clients:

Preventative Tree Care: Your Best Defense Before Storm Season

You don’t need to wait for an emergency to take action. The safest—and most cost-effective—approach is to schedule a pre-storm arborist consultation.

During your inspection, we evaluate:

Structural weaknesses
Root zone health
Previous improper pruning
Branch weight distribution
Signs of disease or decay
Clearance from roofs and power lines

If needed, we recommend corrective pruning, weight reduction, bracing, or tree removal to reduce risk before the storms arrive.

A proactive appointment today can prevent thousands of dollars in damage tomorrow.

Why Choose R&D Tree Service?

Local, family-owned business serving the Central Valley
ISA Certified Arborist on staff
Fully licensed, insured, and equipped for emergencies
Rapid response throughout Stanislaus & Merced County
Trusted by homeowners, HOAs, farms, and commercial properties

We know this region, we know the storms, and we know how to protect your property.

Serving Turlock, Modesto, Merced, Atwater & Surrounding Areas

R&D Tree Service proudly supports communities across:

Stanislaus County – Turlock, Modesto, Denair, Hughson, Ceres
Merced County – Merced, Atwater, Livingston, Winton

Our crews are positioned locally so we can respond quickly when you need us most.

Book Your Tree Inspection Today

Whether you want to prepare for the upcoming storms or need immediate help after a difficult night, our team is here for you.

Keep your family, property, and community safe this storm season.

Fall Tree Care in the Central Valley

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 20:16:00 GMT

Why Fall Tree Care Matters

Fall in the Central Valley means cooler mornings, crisp evenings, and finally — a break from the triple-digit heat. But while we’re all enjoying sweater weather, your trees are working hard underground to prepare for winter. At R&D Tree Service , we like to call fall the “reset season” for your trees. After the dry summer months, this is when roots recharge, branches recover, and your trees prepare to take on wind and rain.

The Benefits of Fall Tree Care

Roots Keep Growing: Even though leaves are falling, your trees’ roots are still growing strong. Cooler temps and warm soil make this the best time to help your trees recover.
Prepare for Valley Winds: If you live in Turlock, Modesto, or Merced, you know the Central Valley gets windy. Pruning weak branches now helps prevent storm damage later.
Prevent Pests and Disease: Removing dead branches and cleaning up fallen leaves stops pests and fungi from overwintering and spreading next spring.
Improve Soil Health: Mulching helps your trees hold moisture and protect their roots from our dry winters.
Great Time to Plant: Fall is one of the best times to plant new trees — the mild weather helps roots establish before spring growth.

Central Valley Fall Tree Care Checklist

Here’s your go-to list for keeping trees healthy before winter hits:

Inspect Your Trees — Look for cracks, dead branches, leaning trunks, or mushrooms at the base.

Light Pruning — Remove broken or hazardous limbs but wait for full dormancy before major pruning.

Deep Watering — Give your trees one last long soak, especially evergreens and younger trees.

Mulch Smart — Add 2–3 inches of mulch (but keep it a few inches away from the trunk).

Clean Up Debris — Rake and remove fallen leaves to prevent disease and pests.

Check Young Trees — Wrap trunks or use guards to protect from sunscald and critters.

Schedule Your Fall Tree Check-Up

Don’t wait until the next storm hits — fall is the best time to prepare your trees for winter.

Call or Text: (209) 634-8863

Serving Turlock • Modesto • Merced • Ceres • Denair

Let’s keep your trees strong, safe, and beautiful all year long.

Spring Fertilizing - Essential to Healthy Growth

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 20:18:42 GMT

Spring Fertilizing: Give Your Trees and Lawn the Boost They Deserve

As winter fades and the weather warms up, your landscape is ready to wake up — and a proper dose of spring fertilization is one of the best ways to help it thrive. At R&D, we specialize in tree and lawn care that sets your property up for a healthy, vibrant growing season.

What Is Fertilizing?

Fertilizing is the process of adding essential nutrients to the soil to support plant growth. Over time, natural soil nutrients can be depleted by weather, irrigation, and previous seasons of growth. Fertilizer helps replenish what’s missing — especially nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — giving your trees and grass the resources they need to grow strong and green.

Why Spring Fertilizing Matters

Spring is the most critical time to fertilize your landscape. Here’s why:

• Jumpstarts Growth: After months of dormancy, trees and lawns need a nutrient boost to kickstart healthy new growth.

• Strengthens Roots: Fertilizing helps plants establish deeper, stronger roots, which improves drought resistance and overall stability.

• Improves Appearance: Proper nutrients result in greener lawns, lusher foliage, and overall better curb appeal.

• Prepares for Summer Stress: A well-fed lawn and landscape are better equipped to handle the heat and stress of the summer months.

Tree Fertilization

Trees, especially urban and ornamental ones, often don’t get all the nutrients they need from their surroundings. Our team applies the right type of fertilizer using methods like deep root feeding, which delivers nutrients directly to the root zone where they’re most effective. This helps prevent pests, disease, and weak growth during the warmer months.

Lawn Fertilization

A well-fertilized lawn is the foundation of a beautiful yard. Our commercial grade lawn fertilizers support thick, healthy grass and reduce weeds over time. Whether you’re dealing with patchy spots or just want a greener lawn, our spring fertilization services make a big difference.

How We Can Help

At R&D, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all fertilization. We assess your trees and turf, consider soil conditions, and tailor our treatments to meet your landscape’s exact needs. We use high-quality, environmentally friendly products and apply them at just the right time for maximum effectiveness.

Ready to give your landscape a fresh start this spring?

Contact us today to schedule your tree and lawn fertilizing service. We’ll help your yard look its best all season long!

Our ISA Certified Arborist and What it Means

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 20:21:18 GMT

Why Hire an ISA Certified Arborist?

When you’re choosing a tree service, picking one with an ISA Certified Arborist makes a real difference. But what does it mean, and why is it important for your trees?

What is an ISA Certified Arborist?

An ISA Certified Arborist has been tested and certified by the International Society of Arboriculture, an organization known for its rigorous standards in tree care. This certification ensures the arborist has proven expertise in tree health, pruning, soil care, and safe work practices.

Why Does Certification Matter?

Trees add beauty and value to your property, but improper care can lead to serious issues—like falling branches, disease, and long-term damage. An ISA Certified Arborist knows exactly how to keep your trees healthy, safe, and beautiful.

Benefits of Choosing an ISA Certified Arborist:

This is paragraph text. Click it or hit the Manage Text button to change the font, color, size, format, and more. To set up site-wide paragraph and title styles, go to Site Theme.

Expert Knowledge: They know how to diagnose and treat tree health issues effectively.
Safety First: Certified arborists are trained to handle jobs safely, protecting your property.
Eco-Friendly Care: Their approach is better for your trees and the environment.

If you want reliable, professional tree care that prioritizes your trees’ health and safety, reach out today! An ISA Certified Arborist on your side means your trees are in the best hands

Nurturing Growth: A Guide to Winter Watering for Young Trees

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 20:25:04 GMT

Introduction: As winter rains begin to set in once again, it's easy to assume that the water needs of your young trees diminish. However, the winter months present a critical period for these saplings, as they continue to establish their roots and prepare for the upcoming seasons.

Why Winter Watering Matters:

This is paragraph text. Click it or hit the Manage Text button to change the font, color, size, format, and more. To set up site-wide paragraph and title styles, go to Site Theme.

1. Active Root Development:

Contrary to popular belief, newly planted trees don't go dormant in winter. Instead, they actively grow their root systems beneath the surface, absorbing vital nutrients and moisture to support future growth.

2. Protection Against Frost:

Winter frost can pose a threat to the sensitive roots of young trees. Adequate watering acts as insulation, helping to protect against temperature extremes and reduce the risk of frost damage.

3. Preventing Drought Stress:

Even in winter, the risk of drought stress persists, especially in regions with sporadic rainfall like our Central Valley. Proper watering ensures that your young trees receive the moisture they need to thrive.

Winter Watering Tips:

1. Deep, Infrequent Watering:

Focus on deep watering sessions rather than frequent, shallow watering. This encourages the development of a robust root system. Ensure that the water penetrates the soil to a depth of at least 12 to 18 inches.

2. Mulching for Insulation:

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your young trees. Mulch acts as a natural insulator, helping to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture. Be sure to leave a few inches of space around the trunk to prevent potential issues. One easy-to-find mulch is wood chips. R&D Tree Service commonly gives their customers the wood chips from the job site to use as mulch.

3. Monitoring Soil Moisture:

Regularly check the soil moisture levels around your trees. Use your finger to assess the soil's moisture content a few inches below the surface. If it feels dry, it's time to water.

4. Morning Watering:

Water your trees in the morning to allow the soil to absorb moisture before temperatures drop in the evening. This helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases that thrive in cool, damp conditions.

5. Adjusting to Weather Conditions:

Tailor your watering schedule to the weather. If your region experiences a dry spell, increase the frequency of watering. Conversely, reduce watering during periods of significant rainfall.

Conclusion: Proper winter watering is a vital component of a newly planted tree care, setting the foundation for their future strength and resilience. By understanding the active growth happening beneath the surface during winter and implementing these practical tips, you contribute to the overall well-being of your young trees. Embrace the winter as a season of nurturing growth, and watch your trees flourish with vibrancy and vitality in the seasons to come!

A Guide to Inspecting Your Tree for Root Rot

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 20:28:10 GMT

Introduction: Trees are not only the lungs of our planet but also integral parts of our landscapes, providing shade, beauty, and countless environmental benefits. However, just like any living organism, trees are susceptible to diseases, and one of the most common and potentially destructive conditions is root rot. Root rot can silently compromise the health of your tree, leading to weakened structures and, in severe cases, even death. In this guide, we'll explore how to inspect your tree for root rot, enabling you to identify and address the issue before it's too late.

Understanding Root Rot:

Root rot is a fungal disease that affects a tree's root system, hindering its ability to absorb water and nutrients. The most common culprit is the genus Phytophthora, although other fungi can also contribute to this condition. The disease often thrives in excessively moist soil conditions, making it crucial to monitor and manage water levels around your tree.

Signs of Root Rot:

1. Leaf Discoloration: Keep an eye on the foliage of your tree. Yellowing or browning of leaves, particularly those located closer to the base of the tree, may indicate root rot. The discoloration may spread upward as the disease progresses.

2. Reduced Growth: If you notice a sudden decline in your tree's overall growth, such as stunted branches or sparse foliage, it could be a sign of root rot affecting the tree's ability to absorb nutrients.

3. Wilting and Drooping: Root rot can impede the movement of water within the tree, leading to wilting and drooping of leaves, even in adequately watered conditions.

4. Cankers and Lesions: Check the bark for any cankers, lesions, or unusual darkening. These may be indicators of fungal infection, as the pathogen spreads from the roots to the rest of the tree.

Inspecting the Roots:

1. Exposed Roots: If your tree has exposed roots, visually inspect them for any signs of rot. Healthy roots should be firm and white, while rotted roots may appear discolored, mushy, or even black.

2. Odor: Unpleasant, musty odors emanating from the soil around the base of the tree can be a red flag. This smell often accompanies the decomposition of roots affected by root rot.

3. Mycelium Growth: Look for any white, thread-like structures (mycelium) on the surface of the soil or around the roots. These are indicative of fungal activity and may be a sign of root rot.

Taking Action:

1. Improve Drainage: Ensure proper drainage around your tree by avoiding overwatering and amending the soil with organic matter to enhance its structure.

2. Remove Affected Roots: Prune away any visibly affected roots using clean, sterilized tools. Make sure to cut back to healthy tissue to prevent further spread of the disease.

3. Apply Fungicides: In severe cases, consider using fungicides specifically designed to combat root rot. Consult with R&D Tree Service for guidance on the appropriate treatment.

Conclusion: Regularly inspecting your tree for signs of root rot is essential for its overall health and longevity. By catching the symptoms early and taking proactive measures, you can protect your tree from the devastating effects of this fungal disease. Remember, a healthy root system is the foundation of a thriving tree, and a little attention goes a long way in preserving the natural beauty of your outdoor space.

El Niño Storms: Why R&D Tree Service is Your Ultimate Ally

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 20:31:08 GMT

As El Niño storms loom on the horizon this winter, the importance of fortifying your trees against potential damage cannot be overstated. When it comes to reliable and comprehensive tree service, R&D Tree Service stands out as the go-to ally for ensuring the health and resilience of your landscape. In this blog post, we'll delve into the reasons why calling R&D Tree Service is a smart choice for preparing your trees for the upcoming El Niño storms.

1. Expertise and Experience:

R&D Tree Service boasts a team of seasoned arborists with extensive experience in handling a variety of tree care needs. Their expertise allows them to assess the unique requirements of your trees, providing tailored solutions to ensure optimal health and storm resilience.

2. Comprehensive Tree Care Services:

From pruning and cabling to soil inspection and emergency response, R&D Tree Service offers a comprehensive range of tree care services. Their holistic approach addresses both immediate concerns and long-term tree health, making them a one-stop solution for all your tree preparation needs.

3. State-of-the-Art Equipment:

To execute precise and effective tree care, R&D Tree Service employs state-of-the-art equipment. Whether it's pruning high branches or implementing cabling systems, their tools are designed for efficiency and safety, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your trees.

4. Emergency Preparedness:

El Niño storms can bring unexpected challenges, and having a team ready to respond to tree-related emergencies is crucial. R&D Tree Service prioritizes emergency preparedness, ensuring that they can promptly address issues like fallen branches or uprooted trees to minimize potential damage.

5. Customer Satisfaction and Reputation:

With a focus on customer satisfaction, R&D Tree Service has built a strong reputation in the community. Positive reviews and testimonials highlight their commitment to excellence, making them a trusted choice for homeowners looking to safeguard their trees.

6. Licensed and Insured:

Choosing R&D Tree Service means choosing a licensed and insured professional team. This not only provides peace of mind but also ensures that you are working with a reputable company that adheres to industry standards and regulations.

Conclusion: When it comes to preparing your trees for the impending El Niño storms, R&D Tree Service emerges as the top choice for homeowners seeking quality, expertise, and comprehensive care. By entrusting your tree care needs to R&D Tree Service, you invest in the resilience and well-being of your landscape, setting the stage for a safer and more secure winter season. Don't wait until the storms arrive – call R&D Tree Service today and fortify your trees for the challenges ahead.

Commercial Tree Care - Why R&D Tree Service?

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 20:32:48 GMT

There are many benefits to maintaining the trees on your commercial property, and it's a task that shouldn't be overlooked. Not only do well-maintained trees enhance the property's aesthetics, making it more appealing to potential customers or tenants, but they can also prevent potential issues such as structural damage or safety hazards. In this blog post, we're going to take a closer look at how commercial tree services, like those provided by R&D Tree Service, can help keep your property in top shape.

Recent Client: Monterey Village Apartments; Modesto, CA

Recently, R&D Tree Service aided Monterey Village Apartments in their preparation for the winter season by trimming over 80 trees. The trees on the property underwent thinning, canopy raising, and removal of any potential structural obstructions.

By thinning the trees, R&D Tree Service was able to improve the health and longevity of the trees on the property. Thinning helps to reduce the risk of damage from storms by removing weaker branches and allowing wind to pass through more easily. This can also increase the amount of sunlight that reaches the ground, promoting the growth of underbrush and smaller plant species.

Canopy raising, on the other hand, involves removing lower branches to allow for more clearance underneath the tree. This not only enhances the appearance of the property but also reduces the risk of injury from falling branches and improves visibility, making the property safer for residents and visitors.

Finally, R&D Tree Service ensured the removal of any potential structural obstructions. This is another critical aspect of commercial tree services, as overgrown or misaligned trees can cause significant damage to buildings, power lines, and other structures. By addressing these issues, R&D Tree Service helped Monterey Village Apartments to prevent potential problems down the line.

Conclusion: Commercial tree services provide a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing the appearance and safety of your property. With professional services like those offered by R&D Tree Service, you can rest easy knowing that your trees are in good hands. If you're in need of commercial tree services, don't hesitate to reach out to the professionals at R&D Tree Service. With their expertise and commitment to client satisfaction, you're sure to receive top-notch service.

Mistletoe: Not So Romantic…

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 20:34:02 GMT

Mistletoe? The thing that people kiss under during Christmas time right?

Yes, that is correct but it’s not just any special decoration. Mistletoe is a parasitic plant which is spread through bird waste onto trees and other shrubs. This parasite mainly affects a large number of hard wood trees like ash, birch, elder, pear, and locust, but rarely affects coniferious trees like cedars and cypress. Like any other parasite, mistletoe absorbs the nutrients and water of their host which can lead to the rapid decline of the tree.

When spread to trees, the parasite begins to grow into a green shrub like clusters throughout the limbs and branches of the tree. You can tell if it’s mistletoe as it is many times a different shape and color than the leaves of the trees. The plant is almost always noticeable during the winter time since the hardwood trees lose their leaves due to dormancy, so winter is a great time to get your tree treated!

Don’t wait until your beautiful tree is too far in it’s decline. Call R&D Tree Service TODAY to get your tree’s mistletoe taken care of!

Winter Storms Are Coming Early

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 20:57:40 GMT

It is the beginning of November and we are already seeing our first winter storm come into effect! With winter storms comes rain and strong wind which can leave your landscape needing help. Some ways you can prevent a larger mess are by controlling your sprinkler timers so there is not more excess or wasted water, cleaning up the leaves around your tree base, and most importantly pruning your trees.

Pruning your trees at this time can first of all save you lots of work in the future with fallen branches and leaves and also save you from having large dead limbs fall onto the wrong places. If your tree is seemingly too thick with branches or there are quite a few dead branches or limbs then it is a good sign you need to prune the tree. Pruning before the leaves fall can also allow the arborist to better see the dead branches and limbs which is crucial to a good cleaning.

Don't wait, and give us a call before it's too late!

R&D Tree Service gives FREE estimates and we would love to help you out.

Call us at (209) 634-8863 / rndroberth@gmail.com

Fall Is Here

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 20:59:33 GMT

As you know fall has once again arrived and we must be prepared for what comes with it! Rain, wind, and falling leaves are on the way and now is the perfect time to take action.

Getting your trees pruned for weight reduction and wind flow can drastically decrease the chances of branches and limbs breaking due to rain and wind. Weight reduction will help heavier areas in the tree be free of excess weight which can lead to failure. Thinning will lead to better wind-flow which can help branches be relieved of stress.

Pruning your trees before leaves begin to fall can also save you plenty of work and time since their would be less leaves to rake. Not only that but pruning now will help our arborist better identify the dead branches and limbs on a tree.

Don’t wait! Give us a call for your free quote at (209) 634-8863

Voted Best Tree Service in Merced!

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 21:21:43 GMT

Thank you to all who voted us the BEST!! We are honored and excited! We work hard to make sure our clients are happy. We feel we have the BEST clients.

Fall Is Coming

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 21:22:36 GMT

Fall is coming and that means rain, wind, and falling branches! Now is the best time to prune your trees to create a safe environment. Don’t procrastinate, if you don’t feel safe call R&D Tree Service TODAY and we will schedule a FREE in-person consultation to help you with your trees.