Ottawa Tree Care Blog: Trimming & Removal Tips by ZZ Chop Tree Care

Trees are an essential part of Ottawa’s urban landscape. They provide shade, improve air quality, enhance property value, and create a vibrant ecosystem. But for homeowners looking to remove, prune, or alter trees on their property, it’s not as simple as picking up a chainsaw. Ottawa has strict tree bylaws in place to protect its […]

Selecting the right tree species for the Ottawa region means understanding the climate swings—from summer heat to harsh winter cold—and the local soil profile, often clay-heavy and prone to poor drainage. Native and well-adapted trees handle these stresses naturally, making them smart choices for long-term health and low maintenance. In this guide, you’ll discover which

Urban environments place trees under significant stress, as they contend with higher concentrations of air pollutants, compacted soils, and elevated heat levels compared to rural settings. These conditions force trees to adapt their growth patterns, weaken their immune systems, and struggle to perform essential functions such as photosynthesis and nutrient uptake. As a result, many

Trees may appear strong from the ground, but hidden structural weaknesses can pose serious risks—especially during storms or under heavy loads. Installing support systems like cables and braces allows a certified arborist to stabilize weakened or damaged trees and extend their lifespan. Structural support becomes necessary when a tree’s natural integrity has been compromised—whether due

Fungal growth and mold on trees range from harmless surface organisms to clear warnings of internal rot and structural decline. While lichens and some surface fungi rarely harm a living tree, the appearance of mushrooms, shelf-like conks, or repeated sooty/black mold can indicate wood decay or compromised roots that need inspection.  Knowing which signs matter

Arborists are trained tree-care specialists who focus on diagnosing, treating, and maintaining tree health—providing services like advanced pruning, disease management, and professional assessments—while a tree removal company often centers on safe felling, debris removal, and land-clearing tasks. In Ottawa, hiring an ISA-certified arborist means you get expert advice on whether pruning, cabling, or treatment can

Reporting hazardous trees in your neighborhood starts with clear documentation: take photos, note the exact location, and record visible risks like large cracks, leaning trunks, or dead limbs. Use those details when you report hazardous trees to your local municipality (call 3-1-1 or use the city’s online reporting form) or to the utility company if

Selecting disease-resistant tree species for Ottawa gardens is a smart way to protect your landscape from costly pest outbreaks and harsh seasonal stress. Choosing the right trees – native or well-adapted cultivars – reduces vulnerability to threats like emerald ash borer and cyclical defoliators, helps maintain canopy cover, and lowers long-term maintenance needs for homeowners. 

Trees enhance the beauty and value of any property, but not all trees are safe to keep. Some trees develop hidden weaknesses over time due to disease, decay, or structural damage, putting people and property at risk. Recognizing these hazards early is essential for preventing accidents and costly repairs. Many safety risks are not immediately

Cutting down a tree on your property might seem like a simple decision, but local regulations often make it more complex. Many cities and towns across Ontario have bylaws that protect certain trees based on their size, species, or location. Property owners are expected to follow these rules to maintain urban canopy health and preserve