What TCIA Membership Means in Tree Service and Why It’s Different from ISA Certification
Safety & Education, Tree Care, Tree Services

What TCIA Membership Means in Tree Service and Why It’s Different from ISA Certification

Key Takeaways: TCIA membership is a company-level credential evaluating business practices, safety standards, and operational accountability. ISA certification is an individual credential awarded to arborists who pass a rigorous knowledge examination. Both credentials serve different but complementary purposes and together represent a higher standard of professional tree care. Hiring a company with both TCIA membership […]

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Oak Wilt Is Spreading in Kent County: What Grand Rapids Homeowners Must Do Before June Pruning
Tree Care, Tree Diseases, Tree Health

Oak Wilt Is Spreading in Kent County: What Grand Rapids Homeowners Must Do Before June Pruning

Key Takeaways: Oak wilt is a fatal fungal disease actively spreading through Kent County’s oak tree population. June marks the beginning of the highest-risk window for oak wilt transmission through fresh pruning wounds. Sap beetles carry the oak wilt fungus from infected trees to healthy ones through open cuts in bark. Red oaks in Grand […]

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7 Tree Diseases Grand Rapids Homeowners Should Watch For in 2026
Tree Care, Tree Diseases

7 Tree Diseases Grand Rapids Homeowners Should Watch For in 2026

Key Takeaways Emerald ash borer has killed an estimated tens of millions of ash trees across the Midwest since arriving in Michigan in 2002. Oak wilt has been confirmed in over 60 of Michigan’s 83 counties, including Kent County. The fastest-moving threats (EAB, oak wilt, Dutch elm) demand a same-week diagnosis to save neighboring trees. […]

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Seasonal Tree Care for a Vibrant Grand Rapids Landscape
Seasonal Tips, Tree Care Tips

Seasonal Tree Care for a Vibrant Grand Rapids Landscape

Key Takeaways West Michigan trees face four high-stress seasons: subzero winters, severe summer storms, drought stretches, and freeze-thaw cycles. Late winter (February to early March) is the safest pruning window for most species in Grand Rapids. Oaks must only be pruned during dormancy (typically October through April 15) to avoid oak wilt transmission. Fall is […]

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