Healthy trees start with understanding.
We look at the whole picture: the tree, its roots and soil, its growing environment, and any pests or disease. Then we recommend the most appropriate next step.
How we support tree health
The right treatment, only when there’s a reason for it.
Mulching
A simple change that can make a meaningful difference.
Proper mulching helps hold soil moisture, moderates soil temperature, adds organic matter and creates better conditions around the root zone. Where it’s appropriate, we reuse wood chips from our own tree work, putting material back into your landscape instead of hauling it away.
Soil decompaction & AirSpade
Giving roots better conditions to work.
Compacted soil restricts air and water and makes it harder for roots to grow. Where compaction or below-ground conditions are a concern, an AirSpade lets us investigate and work around roots with minimal disturbance.
Fertilisation
Used when there’s a reason, not by default.
Fertiliser can help when a tree has a demonstrated need or when growing conditions justify it. But more nutrients don’t automatically mean a healthier tree. If poor growth comes from compaction, root damage, pests or other stress, fertiliser may do little to fix the real problem.
Soil & tissue testing
When observation isn’t enough, we investigate further.
Sometimes the cause of decline can’t be pinned down by looking alone. Where it’s appropriate, soil, foliage or other diagnostic testing gives us more information about nutrients, soil characteristics, disease or other contributing factors.
Pest identification & management
Identify the issue, then take the right action.
Insects and other pests can stress or damage trees if left unmanaged. Correct identification comes first, because many problems are mistaken for pests when the real cause is something else. We focus on targeted, responsible management that supports the tree and protects beneficial organisms.
Fungal issues & disease
Some fungi help, some harm.
Fungi are part of every healthy ecosystem, but some cause decay, cankers, root problems or leaf disease. Knowing which fungus it is and how it’s affecting the tree is key. We assess how far it has gone and how much it matters, then recommend practical steps to manage the risk and support the tree long term.
Root collar excavation
What’s happening below the soil matters.
A buried root flare can hide girdling roots and decay. Air excavation exposes it without cutting roots, so we can see what’s actually there.
Watch
Root collar excavation, on camera.
A buried root flare can hide girdling roots that slowly tighten around the trunk. From the ground you might only notice a straight-sided trunk at the soil line, or thinning higher in the canopy. On London, ON properties we use air excavation so we can see what is actually there before we cut anything.
What you'll see- Finding the buried flare so the true root collar is visible
- Air excavation that moves soil without damaging roots
- Cutting girdling roots once we can see how they wrap the trunk
Root Collar Excavation: Freeing a Tree from Girdling Roots · Koala Tree on YouTube
Why we start with an assessment
Many tree problems look alike from the ground.
Thinning canopy, dieback or yellowing leaves can come from compaction, root damage, pests, disease or simple stress. The Certified Arborist Assessment works out what’s really going on before you spend money on treatment.
- $150 · one primary tree
- No obligation to hire us
Your arborist
Diagnosis before treatment.
Jason Korkidakis is the Owner & Lead Arborist at Koala Tree. He’s an ISA Certified Arborist (ON-3263A), TRAQ qualified and PPQ qualified, with a decade of experience and more than 5,000 tree assessments. He looks for the cause first, so you only pay for treatment that’s likely to help.
“The Koala team did an amazing job removing trees and trimming the growth on our property. Jason and his team are courteous and respectful while working and we were specially appreciative of the tree health advice. The Koala team shows that they really care about our Forest City in the work they do.”
Soil care as part of the Annual Care Plan
Planned, year-by-year care for mature trees, starting with an assessment.
FAQ
Questions people ask
Should I fertilise my tree?
Only if there’s a reason. If poor growth comes from compaction, root damage or pests, fertiliser may do little. We look for the cause first.
Why start with an assessment?
Because many problems have similar symptoms. The Certified Arborist Assessment identifies what’s going on before you spend money on treatment.
Can you reuse wood chips from my own tree?
Where it’s appropriate, yes. Chips from our work can go back into your beds as mulch.
How does payment work?
We offer multiple payment options, and credit card is available. Quotes are valid for 30 days.
Not sure what’s wrong with your tree? Start with an assessment.
Already know the treatment you want? Get a free quote instead.
Prefer to talk? Call 226-224-5877 · Mon to Fri, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm · info@koalatree.ca