ARBORIST PRUNING TOOLS

Transcription

1 NEWS FOR THE RESIDENTS OF THE DOMINION VOLUME VII ISSUE XI NOVEMBER 2015 ARBORIST PRUNING TOOLS As a consulting arborist, it is my privilege to meet property owners who love trees as much as I do. I enjoy meeting and sharing the knowledge I ve acquired through many years of intensive studying and application of that knowledge in the field for the past decade. Frequently, the clients curiosity extends into the area of the tools I use to perform my work. There are many tools available for purchase; yet, I have found certain ones to be tried and true as the best of the best for tree work. With that said I converse with many peers in the industry as well as peruse the newest tool releases to evaluate and compare with what I am currently using. This article covers the tools I regularly use and can be great tools for property owners who wish to do some of their own tree pruning at home. The backbone of my pruning is the STIHL PP 800. Approximately 75% of my pruning is with this tool. It is a telescoping manual operated pole saw with three 6 extensions. It is fairly light and has the range of approximately 24 with the average size operator s own height included. No more chainsaw or ladder injuries! The blade is 16 and can therefore cut sizeable branches as well as giving you a good workout while doing so. In addition, the blade is flexible and tapered allowing you to make a correct collar cut on challenging branches with the blade under flex. A shorter and even lighter pole saw may be preferred; the STIHL PP 600 is the one you want. Both of these poles can take an additional heavy duty lopper head attachment, which I use regularly for detailed pruning. For smaller trees and shrubs I recommend buying the hand saw that you feel suits you best made by a company named SILKY. I use the model named Sugoi. For bypass hand pruner shears, the best - hands down - is made by FANNO SAW WORKS (Item # FI-8PR). You may ask how I paint the oak trees to protect from Oak Wilt without a ladder if I m using such a tall pole saw. This challenge is easily addressed with a triple extension Mr. Long Arm paint pole coupled with a Spectracide Pruner s Pal. Three 8 extensions plus 5 body height gives you a ceiling of approximately 29, which more than covers any cut you might make with the pole saw. Often natural breaks occur on oak trees from wind, that if not dealt with quickly, can put your trees at risk from Oak Wilt. Having these tools on hand is of critical value for your protection against the Oak Wilt disease. Contractors rarely can address the pruning and painting within the time range when natural breaks occur. With the right tools on hand, you can perform the pruning and painting quickly protecting your trees from potential Oak Wilt. I should mention that the price of equipment plays no role in my selection of equipment. My clients expect the best and I use the best whatever the price. The functional capacity and excellence of these tools more than pay for themselves in my estimation. Finally, this equipment is dangerous; I strongly encourage you to read plus watch any safety material and videos on the tools covered in this article. Questions or comments this article or previous articles have generated, may be directed to me at: kevin@arborcareandconsulting. com Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc. The Outlook - November

2 IMPORTANT NUMBERS EMERGENCY NUMBERS EMERGENCY Fire Ambulance Police Dept Non-Emergency Fire Dept Non-Emergency DOMINION SECURITY Chief of Security Main Gate or North Gate South Gate or CITY City Customer Service Solid Waste (Trash) OTHER NUMBERS Cedar Elm Postal Office NEWSLETTER PUBLISHER Peel, Inc Advertising... MISSION STATEMENT The Outlook, For The Dominion The mission of The Outlook is to provide The Dominion Community with one source of local news content that is written by Dominion residents. Our goal is to help build the community by connecting local businesses with residents and residents with relevant neighborhood information. "Be the community." ADVERTISING INFO Please support the advertisers that make The Outlook possible. If you would like to support the newsletter by advertising, please contact our sales office at or The advertising deadline is the 8th of the month prior to the issue. ARTICLE INFO The Outlook is mailed monthly to all Dominion residents. Residents, community groups, churches, etc. are welcome to include information about their organizations in the newsletter. Personal news for the Stork Report, Teenage Job Seekers, recipes, special celebrations, and birthday announcements are also welcome. To submit an article for The Outlook, please it to The deadline is the 20th of the month prior to the issue. Mealybugs Mealybugs are pests of landscape plants and houseplants. They are often active during times of warm, dry weather, but can also become a problem indoors at any time of year. Infestations usually start at the base of stems and then spread from there as populations increase. Mealybugs are a type of unarmored scale insect. They are sexually dimorphic (males & females look different). Males have wings while females remain wingless and nymph-like throughout their life. Females are oval, soft-bodied and covered with a white waxy powder. These insects have piercing-sucking mouthparts which they use to penetrate plant tissue and suck out juices. This can lead to chlorosis (yellowing of the plant), wilting and distortion. With larger infestations, the insects may cause stunted growth, premature leaf drop or death of the plant. Mealybugs are also known for secreting honeydew, a sweet, sticky substance on which a fungus called *sooty mold may grow. *Sooty mold is a fungus that grows on honeydew excretions. Sooty mold can indirectly harm the plant by covering plant surfaces and reducing the amount of sunlight that reaches plant tissues, resulting in reduction of photosynthesis. Since all but male mealybugs are wingless, adult females have to be placed near a host plant for them to infest it. They can crawl short distances to plants. Immatures can be blown to new locations by the wind, move by water or be transported by animals. Tips for mealybug management: Conserve beneficial insects; there are many insects that will feed on mealybugs or parasitize them **Use high pressure water sprays to dislodge the insects from the plant **Insecticidal soap **Horticultural oils **Insecticides labeled for mealybug control For severely infested plants, it may be best to throw the plant away and buy a new one **If treating houseplants, move plants outside during treatment then move back inside once treatment has dried. For more information or help with identification, contact Wizzie Brown, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Program Specialist at Check out my blog at The information given herein is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Texas AgriLife Extension Service or the Texas AgriLife Research is implied. Extension programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. 2 The Outlook - November 2015 Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc.

3 SmartER. FastER. EasiER. Emergency care has never been easier. Your care process begins within You ll see a provider within Schedule your emergency room visit in two simple steps! 1. Select your appointment time 2. Confirm your appointment CHRISTUS Santa Rosa offers round-the-clock EMERGENCY SERVICES 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our highly trained clinical care team handles all types of emergencies from chest pain and stroke symptoms to high blood pressure and general children s emergencies. VISIT CHRISTUS SANTA ROSA EMERGENCY SERVICES AT CHRISTUSSANTAROSA.ORG/MCER. Hospital-Medical Center We strive to meet our 5/30 commitment. There may be times when critical emergencies, epidemics, and diversions impact our performance Babcock Road, San Antonio, Texas Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc. The Outlook - November

4 Twelve Top Travel Tips When Traveling with Your Pet Traveling with your pet can be fun and rewarding especially when you re prepared. In addition to the pet travel basics (safely restraining your pet, allowing adequate time for potty breaks, bringing comforting items from home, and so on), several additional simple practices can help make every trip easier and more pleasant for both you and your pet. 1. Schedule a veterinarian visit to insure overall health and current vaccinations. Ask for a health certificate and vaccination records, especially if you re traveling out of state. 2. Make sure your pet s identification tags are up-to-date and legible. Also, be sure his rabies tag and vaccinations are current. 3. Include your destination address and/or phone number on your pet s tags and cage/crate (if applicable). 4. Remember to pack water to prevent dehydration. To help insure convenient feedings bring along a collapsible food bowl. 5. Pack all medications and supplements to avoid missed doses. 6. Pack a first aid kit to insure readiness in the event of an injury or medical emergency. 7. Exercise your pet prior to departure. A tired pet is typically much more amenable to travel. Also, bring a lead or harness to allow exercise during pit stops. 8. Feed your pet at least four hours prior to departure to prevent car sickness. If the trip is long, feed a smaller amount that normal at least two hours before you leave. 9. Use a travel remedy, if necessary. If your pet is extremely anxious about travel, try a soothing non-prescription calming product. 10. Trim toenails to prevent snags and injury, especially if your pet will travel in a cage or crate. 11. Cover your car seats to keep them clean and free of hair shed on your trip. 12. Know your travel rules and restrictions, especially if you will travel on an airplane. At no time will any source be allowed to use The Outlook contents, or loan said contents, to others in anyway, shape or form, nor in any media, website, print, film, , electrostatic copy, fax, or etc. for the purpose of solicitation, commercial use, or any use for profit, political campaigns, or other self amplification, under penalty of law without written or expressed permission from Peel, Inc. The information in The Outlook is exclusively for the private use of Peel, Inc. DISCLAIMER: Articles and ads in this newsletter express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Peel, Inc. or its employees. Peel, Inc. is not responsible for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. The publisher also assumes no responsibility for the advertising content with this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be taken up with the advertiser. * The publisher assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. * Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and/or misprints, the publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. * Under no circumstances shall the publisher be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to liabilities stated above. * The Dominion HOA does not endorse any of the advertisers contained in The Outlook. NOW HIRING Advertising Sales Representative Description: The position includes marketing our community newsletters to local and area businesses. It is a flexible position that allows you to work from home and set your own hours. Roles: Stimulate new advertising accounts in our community newsletters. Maintain current accounts assigned to you by Sales Manager. Service your accounts by assisting them from ad design to final proof approval. Skills: Excellent communication through and phone, with high level presentation and relationship-building skills. Strong prospecting and business development skills are a must. Previous sales experience preferred but not required. Benefits: Commission Based Apply by sending resume to jobs@peelinc.com 4 The Outlook - November 2015 Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc.

5 NOW TAKING RESERVATIONS FOR THE HOLIDAYS Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc. The Outlook - November

6 TENNIS TIPS By USPTA/PTR Master Professional, Fernando Velasco Owner, Manager and Director of Tennis, Grey Rock Tennis Club, Austin, TX HOW TO HIT A ONE-HANDED BACKHAND In previous newsletters, I offered tips on how to hit a Forehand and a Two-Handed Backhand. In this issue, I will give you instructions on how to execute a one-handed backhand for a right hander. This stroke is still used by many league and tournament players since it gives players a wider range of reach and flexibility to hit slices and drop shots. In this illustration, Jake Stine from the Grey Rock Tennis Club in Austin, TX shows the proper form and technique to hit the one-handed backhand stroke. Step 1: Ready position: The body is facing the net. The right hand is holding the end of the racket in a forehand grip position and the left hand is on the throat of the racket. The left hand is holding the racket slightly tighter than the right hand. Feet are shoulder width apart and the body in is good balance. Step 2: Back swing: When the opponent s ball is headed to the backhand side, the left hand takes the racket back and the right hand changes the grip with one quarter turn placing the index knuckle at the upper ridge of the handle. The body should start taking the racket back before the ball bounces. Notice the turn of the upper body and the right foot leading the left foot. Eyes are still focused on the incoming ball. Step 3: Point of Contact: The eyes now shift toward the point of contact which should be about inches in front of the right foot. The right hand is holding the racket tight. The racket has made contact with the ball and weight of the player has shifted toward the point of contact. It is important to keep the right shoulder closed and not open the left hip too early. Flexing the right knee will allow more flexibility and power on the ball. Step 4: Follow Through: Once the racket has made contact with the ball, both of the arms need to be extended for better balance. The right arm should be straight and the follow through upwards above the head. Look for next Issue: The Forehand Volley. FOR A FREE. DESIGN. CONSULTATION CALL OR TEXT Houzz.roberts2001.houzz.com/ projects 25 % OFF your purchase of $1000 or more. Exp: 11/30/ The Outlook - November 2015 Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc.

7 Mr Plumber San Antonio s Water Authority Water Heaters Slab Foundation Leaks Water Softeners Plumbing Repairs Water Conditioning (86% OF ALL PLUMBING CALLS ARE DUE TO HARD WATER!) WE OFFER FINANCING Do You Have HARD WATER? Mr. Plumberʼs License #M9582 Does Your Water Softener Need A TUNE-UP? CALL US TODAY! CALL US TODAY! mrplumber.com Water Softener Tune Up for $129 (Value: $179) Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc. The Outlook - November

8 308 Meadowlark St. Lakeway, TX PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PEEL, INC. DM LUXURY REALTOR Exceptional Results SOLD IN 2 WEEKS! LIST PRICE: $469, YRS OLD OFFERED AT $965,000 8 HENDON THE GARDENS A charming soft contemporary, with Sante Fe accents, has been recently remodeled awaits your viewing. Featuring a light and bright island kitchen with Viking gas tops & ovens. Included in the remodeling are engineered wood floors, plaster texturing by Michael Graves, paint, carpet, and updated baths. This exquisite one story has high ceilings, loads of storage, & a room that could be used as a study with a Murphy bed. Also, has a dog run, covered patio, fenced yard, mosquito nix, & a leaf guard on gutters. MLS: ALMERIA CIRCLE ANDALUCIA Built by award winning McNair Custom Homes! Grand architectural details & luxurious add-ons throughout. 5 Bedrooms each with full bath! Magnificent master suite downstairs with outdoor access. Outstanding kitchen with Bosch appliances! Spacious game room with wet bar connects to theater room with sound system - perfect for entertaining! 2 separate garages featuring epoxy floors & plenty of room for storage. Backyard has privacy wall, pool, wood burning fireplace, bar area, & built-in gas grill! MLS: NEW PRICE OFFERED AT $1,500,000 AWARD WINNING OFFERED AT $749, KINGS VIEW THE RENAISSANCE Experience the very best! This lavishly upgraded unique U shape Tuscan inspired estate home is situated on an oversized corner lot with beautiful brick and Cantera accents. Interior is breathtaking with Knotty Alder cabinetry and flooring plus exotic marbles and granites throughout. Gourmet kitchen with commercial grade appliances opens to family and breakfast areas. Be in control of lighting and audio features inside and out with Smart Home automation. Feels like you re in Italy relaxing poolside with amazing water features. MLS: ELLESMERE THE RESERVES Two-year old Award Winning Toll Brothers custom home located in The Dominion on a private over-sized corner lot with room for pool. A dramatic entry, grand staircase, and rich wood floors greet you as you enter this well cared for home. Luxurious master suite and second bedroom downstairs. Game room, three beds, and three baths upstairs. Many upgrades include: kitchen and appliance upgrade, custom cabinetry, solid core doors, upgraded light fixtures, ADT security, cameras, sound system, plus smart lighting, and more! MLS: LOTS FOR SALE: 3 Villers St Paul - MLS: $249, Chaumont - MLS: $249, Montivillers - MLS: $249,900 4 Chaumont - MLS: $250,000 3 Avalon Pk. - MLS: $175,000 3 Walden Elms - MLS: $375, Vintage Trace - MLS: $225,000 REALTOR, GREEN, GRI, CHMS, SRS, CLHMS, CNE Call or Text: Dominion Dr. 257matthew@gmail.com TexasHomesSA.com 8 The Outlook - November 2015 Copyright 2015 Peel, Inc.