Are Tree and Shrub Services Worth It?

Strong, healthy trees and shrubs shape how we experience Texas landscapes. When you look at a sprawling oak savanna, a vibrant cedar elm forest, or even your local park, you instantly see the impact trees have on an outdoor space’s beauty and functionality. 

Trees and shrubs provide visual interest, structure, and shade to landscapes. Still, many property owners don’t realize how important consistent tree and shrub care is for keeping their landscape healthy, safe, and looking its best.

Below, we explain why tree care services are essential and how to tell when your landscape needs help. We also answer a common question from Texas homeowners: is tree and shrub service worth it?

Why Trees and Shrubs Struggle in Texas Yards

Even when you regularly water your trees and shrubs, they can still struggle to stay healthy. The Texas climate, soil conditions, and the risk of pests and diseases across the state can stress your plants and result in lasting damage. This is especially true when you don’t have a well-rounded tree care plan in place. 

Here’s what trees and shrubs in Texas are up against: 

• Drought and Heat: Long dry spells and intense summer temperatures strain root systems and slow plant growth.
• Compacted or Alkaline Soil: Clay-heavy or limestone-rich soils, common in DFW and Central Texas, restrict drainage and airflow.
• Temperature Swings: Sudden cold snaps and early warm spells disrupt growth cycles.
• Invasive Pests and Disease: Common threats like aphids, scale insects, webworms, and fungal infections spread fast in stressed plants.

Meanwhile, there are also region-specific challenges to tree and shrub health: 

• Houston: Frequent rain and humidity increase the risk of fungal problems like root rot and powdery mildew.
• Austin and San Antonio: Rocky soils and low rainfall mean ongoing drought stress and poor nutrient uptake.
• DFW: Heavy clay soils trap moisture and limit oxygen, which can stress or suffocate roots.

Without regular care, these conditions gradually weaken trees and shrubs, making them more 

vulnerable to disease, pests, and storm damage. Professional tree care services help prevent those problems by supporting long-term plant health from the roots to the branches.  

What’s Included in Professional Tree and Shrub Care

Texas property owners often ask, “Is tree and shrub service worth it?” After all, trees in the wild seem to survive just fine without professional intervention. 

What people don’t see is that trees in the wild and those in landscaped outdoor spaces grow in vastly different environments. For instance, forest trees have ecosystems with natural mulch, consistent shade, and self-sustaining soil conditions. 

Conversely, trees in a yard face challenges ranging from compacted, nutrient-deficient soil to human-induced stressors, like poor pruning practices, construction damage, and pollution. Professional tree care services are designed to fill those gaps and help trees thrive in built environments.

Routine service protects trees and shrubs through targeted treatments designed to strengthen roots, improve structure, and reduce pest pressure. They typically include: 

• Fertilization: Applying  nutrient blends that match your soil type and tree species to support steady, healthy growth
• Pest and Disease Control: Treating common threats like aphids, webworms, scale, and fungus before they cause long-term damage
• Pruning and Shaping: Removing dead, damaged, or crowded branches to promote healthier growth and better airflow
• Deep Root Feeding: Delivering water and nutrients below the surface, reaching roots that are often blocked by compacted soil
• Moisture Management: Adding mulch and adjusting soil conditions to help trees retain water and handle summer heat

These treatments help plants thrive despite the challenges posed by the Texas climate and the less-than-ideal growing conditions of lawns, yards, and commercial outdoor spaces. With consistent tree care services, trees and shrubs grow stronger, stay healthier through seasonal stress, and maintain their structure and appearance year-round.

Is Tree and Shrub Service Worth It?

Yes, tree and shrub service is worth it, and not just because it improves the appearance of these plants. Tree services protect your landscape investment and limit the possibility of costly repairs or removal.

Benefits of tree and shrub service include: 

• Fewer Emergencies: Healthy trees are less likely to drop limbs or suffer irreversible damage during storms or heat waves.
• Improved Resilience: Plants that receive regular care are better equipped to survive drought, cold, pests, and stress.
• Better Curb Appeal: Vibrant, well-shaped plants instantly upgrade the look of any property.
• Lower Pest Pressure: Strong trees are less attractive to aphids, beetles, fire ants, and other nuisance pests.
• Accurate Solutions: Trained technicians apply the right treatment for each issue, saving you time and money.

If you’ve been wondering if tree services are worth it, the answer is clear. They are a wise investment in your property's landscape's beauty, health, safety, and long-term value. 

Signs Your Trees and Shrubs Need Help

A thriving landscape begins with attentive care. If you notice any of these warning signs, your trees and shrubs could benefit from professional support:

• Yellowing Leaves: Discolored or spotted foliage may signal pests, disease, or nutrient deficiencies.
• Thinning Canopies: Sparse leaves and patchy growth often point to stress or root damage.
• Dead Branches: Dieback usually means the plant is struggling to recover.
• Leaf Drop: Dropping leaves outside of fall may signal drought stress or water imbalance.
• Scorched Edges: Browning tips or curled leaves often result from heat or dehydration.
• Visible Pests: Insects, webs, mildew, or sticky residue indicate that infestations have already started.

Addressing these problems early prevents further decline. A trusted provider of tree services can assess the issue and recommend the right next steps.

Tree and Shrub Care Tips by Season

Texas weather changes quickly. Your care strategy should shift with the seasons to support growth, manage stress, and prepare plants for what’s ahead.

Spring

Starting tree care services early in the year helps ensure a stress-free growing season. 

• Apply fertilizer to encourage new growth.
• Prune any winter-damaged or weak branches.
• Inspect for emerging pests before they spread.

Summer

Consistent summer care helps trees stay hydrated and healthy through intense heat.

• Mulch root zones to preserve moisture and block weeds.
• Water deeply during dry stretches.
• Watch for pests and signs of heat stress.

Fall

Fall is the ideal time to focus on root development and disease or pest prevention. 

• Deep feed roots to prepare for winter dormancy.
• Remove debris that could harbor pests.
• Lightly prune to maintain shape and airflow.

Winter

Winter care prevents branch breakage and helps trees enter the next growing season in better shape.

• Prune for structure and safety.
• Inspect bark and soil for overwintering pests.
• Plan early spring treatments while trees are dormant.

Why Homeowners Across Texas Choose Emerald Lawns

Since 2006, we’ve helped homeowners in Austin, DFW, Houston, and San Antonio care for their trees and shrubs. Every yard is different, so we adjust our service to match your soil, plants, and local climate.

Here’s what you can expect from Emerald Lawns:

• Customized treatment based on regional challenges and plant types
• Safe, targeted products that work without harming pets or pollinators
• Experienced local technicians who know Texas conditions inside and out
• No contracts required and free service calls for program customers
• Satisfaction guarantee for every service we provide

We’re committed to giving you healthier trees, stronger shrubs, and an attractive yard.

Let’s Keep Your Trees and Shrubs Thriving

Texas weather is tough on plants. With the right support, your trees and shrubs can stay strong, grow well, and add lasting value to your home.

Let Emerald Lawns help protect and restore your landscape. Contact us today to schedule your tree and shrub consultation.