New Heights Tree Care

05/25/2026

Something I see a lot lately is companies posting about pine bark beetles and immediately recommending removal of pine trees based on signs they believe point to beetle activity. Some cases may absolutely be legitimate — some may not.

With the drought conditions we’ve experienced over the last few months here in South Carolina, the threat of pine bark beetles is very real. But it’s important to understand that bark beetles are often secondary pests that move into already stressed trees. Drought stress, root damage, soil compaction, lightning strikes, disease, and other underlying issues can all play a role.

Too often, removal becomes the fast “problem solving” method instead of properly diagnosing what’s actually happening with the tree.

Not every pitch tube, hole in bark plates, or bit of woodpecker activity automatically means a pine tree needs to come down.

Before making a major decision, consult with an ISA Certified Arborist who can properly assess the tree and the site conditions. Fear-based sales tactics and pushing removals without proper evaluation is unfortunately something homeowners need to watch out for. That’s not the sign of a true professional.

You can verify credentials and find qualified arborists through TreesAreGood.org. ISA credentials are designed to help consumers identify trained and knowledgeable tree care professionals.

05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day from your friends at New Heights Tree Care.

Today we take time to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Their courage, service, and sacrifice helped shape the nation we call home.

We are grateful for those who gave everything in service to our freedom 🇺🇸

05/04/2026

04/25/2026

Drought conditions don’t just slow trees down—they put them under real stress. When water is limited, trees shift energy away from growth and into survival. This can lead to thinner canopies, increased susceptibility to pests and disease, and a higher likelihood of branch or whole-tree failure over time.

Plant health care during drought is about more than just watering. It’s about improving soil conditions, reducing stress, and supporting the tree’s natural defenses. Strategic treatments, proper mulching, and growth regulation can all play a role in helping trees withstand heat and water shortages.

This is where working with a qualified professional matters. An ISA Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ) arborist brings a trained eye to both tree health and safety. They can identify early signs of decline, prescribe targeted care, and assess potential risks before they become costly problems.

At New Heights Tree Care, our owner and operator holds both credentials—setting a higher standard for the care and management of your trees. When conditions get tough, professionalism and experience can make all the difference.

04/22/2026

Happy Earth Day from New Heights Tree Care

Today is a reminder that the work we do matters—not just for our clients, but for the environment we all share. Healthy trees mean cleaner air, stronger ecosystems, and a better future for the next generation.

Whether it’s planting, preserving, or properly caring for trees, every step counts.

Take a moment today to appreciate the trees around you—and if you can, give one a little extra care.

04/18/2026

Couple of thing I observed this week with several newly planted trees that will likely lead to long-term health problems. Many of these concerns appear to stem from improper planting practices as well as pre-existing nursery stock issues.

Some of the key observations included girdling roots, mechanical damage above the root flare, and root flares that were either buried too deep or not set at the proper grade. In several cases, trees were planted with burlap still tightly enclosing the root systems, which can restrict root expansion and proper establishment.

These types of planting and installation issues can significantly impact tree stability, vigor, and overall longevity if not addressed early.

This isn’t a knock on planting trees—I fully support it, especially with the major canopy loss we’ve experienced after Helene and the continued expansion of new developments. However, successful planting requires more than just getting trees in the ground. Too often, the focus is on removal and quick installs rather than long-term care and preservation.

That said, proper installation is critical. Vetting the contractor and thoroughly inspecting nursery stock before and during planting is essential to ensuring long-term success.

04/12/2026

The Importance of Watering & Monitoring Your Trees During a Drought
From New Heights Tree Care

With the ongoing drought conditions here in South Carolina, proper tree care—especially watering—has never been more important.

Why Watering Matters
• Water is the #1 factor in successful tree establishment
Drought stress can lead to:
• Leaf scorch and dieback
• Increased susceptibility to pests (like borers & beetles)
• Long-term decline or failure
• Trees under multiple stressors (heat + drought + transplant shock) are at high risk

How Much Water Should You Apply?

A solid industry guideline:

1–1.5 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter (DBH) per watering 

Example:
• 2” tree → 2–3 gallons per watering
• 4” tree → 4–6 gallons per watering

During drought, this may need to be applied multiple times per week depending on soil and heat.

Watering Frequency (General Guide)
• First few weeks: Every 1–3 days
• First growing season: 1–3 times per week
• Established trees: Deep watering during extended dry periods

Best Practices
• Water slow and deep (not quick surface watering)
• Focus on the root zone, not the trunk
• Add 2–3” of mulch to retain moisture (keep off the trunk)
• Don’t rely on rainfall alone—drought conditions often mean insufficient soil moisture

Monitoring is Key

Don’t just water—check your trees regularly:
• Dry, cracking soil = time to water
• Wilting or dull leaves = stress signal
• Overwatering signs matter too—roots need oxygen

Final Thought

Trees are a long-term investment. The care you provide during drought—especially in the first few years—directly impacts their health for decades to come.

If you’re unsure whether your trees are getting enough water or showing signs of stress, New Heights Tree Care is here to help with professional assessments and care plans.

04/05/2026

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter from all of us at New Heights Tree Care!

Grateful for the season of renewal, growth, and fresh starts—just like the trees we care for every day. Hope your day is filled with family, sunshine, and a little time outdoors.

03/30/2026

We’ve been busy, but continuing education is always a priority. Last Thursday we attended the Spring Trees SC Arborist Workshop in Irmo and took away some great insight from this year’s speakers. Staying current on best practices allows us to better serve our clients and strengthen our community.

03/21/2026

This live oak has been part of this family’s story for years, so when they called asking how we could help, it meant a lot to be trusted with its care.

We performed weight reductions, installed bracing rods and cables, and wrapped it up with some Tree Growth Regulator. All with one goal in mind—preserving what matters.

This tree is ready to keep standing strong, providing shade and making memories for many more years to come. Thanks for the help on this one !