As we move into November and the season of gratitude, it’s the perfect time to pause and appreciate one of the greatest assets in our Loudoun County landscape — our trees. From the historic oaks that line Middleburg’s streets to the maples brightening Leesburg neighborhoods, trees add beauty, character, and life to our community year-round.

Beyond their charm, trees quietly perform essential work every day. They clean our air by absorbing carbon dioxide and filtering out pollutants. Their shade helps cool our homes, reduce energy use, and lower summer temperatures. Along our streams and open spaces, trees also help reduce erosion and protect local waterways that feed into the Potomac.

If you’ve been out in the yard lately and noticed a strange bug with spotted wings and a flash of red when it flies, chances are you’ve come across the spotted lanternfly. These pests, originally from Asia, are invasive and they’ve made their way into our area. They feed on the sap of trees and plants, leaving behind a sticky residue that can attract mold and weaken your trees, vines, and shrubs. In other words—they’re bad news for both homeowners and the environment.

So, what can you do about them? Luckily, there are a few remedies, both natural and chemical, that can help keep them in check.

Tree topping, often mistaken as a quick fix to control tree size, is one of the most harmful practices in tree care—and yet, it’s still commonly done today. As a professional tree care company, we’ve seen firsthand the long-term damage topping can cause, both to trees and property owners’ wallets.

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration—cookouts, fireworks, and quality time with family and friends. But while you're enjoying the festivities, don’t forget to think about your trees. Dry weather, sparking fireworks, and heavy foot traffic can create hidden risks for your landscape. Here are a few easy steps you can take to keep your trees safe while still enjoying the holiday.