Question 1

What is the 10-20-30 rule for tree planting?

Accepted Answer

The 10-20-30 rule states that no more than 10% of the trees planted during a project should be members of the same species, while no more than 20% should be members of the same genus, and no more than 30% should belong to the same family. This guideline (which is generally applied to city- or park-wide projects) is intended to help promote diversity, which will help eliminate the mass die offs that have occurred when an invasive pest or pathogen arrives in an area, as occurred when chestnut blight, Dutch elm disease, and most recently, the emerald ash borer arrived in the U.S.

Question 2

When should you prune trees in North Carolina?

Accepted Answer

There are a variety of factors that should be considered when identifying the optimal pruning timing for a specific tree, including its species, health, and the goals you have. However, as a general rule, late winter and early spring are the best times to prune trees in Central North Carolina.

Question 3

Do you need a permit to remove a tree in North Carolina?

Accepted Answer

Tree permit requirements are generally implemented and enforced at the city or county level, so your specific location will help determine whether or not you need a tree-removal permit. But you don't have to worry about this — the Lubbers & Sons Tree Care team will be happy to help you navigate the permitting process and ensure full legal compliance.

Question 4

What is the most common tree in North Carolina?

Accepted Answer

It's difficult to identify the most common tree species in North Carolina, but the white pine (Pinus strobus), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), red maple (Acer rubrum), northern red oak (Quercus rubra), and American sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), are all contenders for the crown.

Question 5

What is the fastest growing tree in North Carolina?

Accepted Answer

The fastest-growing species found in North Carolina is unfortunately the princess tree (Paulownia tomentosa) — a destructive invasive that may grow as much as 10 feet or more in a year. Meanwhile, the fastest-growing native tree is likely the loblolly pine or the tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera), which often produce 3 feet or more of growth per year.

Question 6

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A member of our team will be happy to evaluate your trees, discuss your concerns, and provide a complimentary estimate outlining the services needed. If you need a more thorough examination of your tree, along with a written report, you'll likely need a formal assessment by one of our ISA-certified arborists, which is a paid service that we offer.

Question 7

How can I get a tree removed for free?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, there aren't many legitimate ways to have a tree removed for free. Some utility companies will provide free removals for hazardous trees that threaten infrastructure, but others do not offer this kind of service. In exceptionally rare cases, a sawmill or woodworker may be willing to remove a particularly valuable tree (such as an old-growth oak) for free.

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