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Nashville’s Summer Weather Fluctuation: How to Tell When Your Trees Have Had Enough Summer Fun

March 7, 2024July 13, 2013 by The Parke Company

Fourth of July has come and gone this year. And for many Nashvillians who stayed in town, we all know it was a tad wetter and cooler than last year’s Independence Day. So instead of boating on Percy Priest Lake or enjoying a picnic in Centennial Park, most people enjoyed their holiday inside. And while the Parke Company is sure you all made the best of the rainy situation, it just goes to show that Mother Nature can be a fickle woman, and it’s important to keep your trees healthy and ready for anything.

Last year, Nashville was at a daily record high of 103 degrees Fahrenheit with rain nowhere in sight, and there is no telling what it is in store for our Fourth of July festivities next year. That’s why it’s important to be ready for the fluctuation of the heat and precipitation of weather and keep an eye out on your trees for any signs of distress throughout the summer.

Some things to keep an eye out for:

Loss limbs or deadwood
Insect infestations or nests
Invasive plant species
Dehydration during draughts
Flooding and excessive water
Signs of disease or other problems

The summer is only half way over, so your trees still have some time to spend out in the heat. If you see signs of disease or distress, call the Parke Company for a consultation. Not only can they assist you with your piles of deadwood from your summer storms, firewood, stump grinding and tree removal services, but they can also perform extensive health analyses of your trees if anything calls for concern during these unpredictable months. For more information or questions in Middle Tennessee call the Parke Company, please call (615) 405-6548.

4 Signs You Need a New Landscape & Irrigation System in Nashville, TN

March 7, 2024July 1, 2013 by The Parke Company

irrigation-system-leaks-nashville-tn Change can be hard. We’re creatures of habit, and sometimes buying a new pair of tennis shoes can be just as difficult as deciding on a new career. Spending money on a new piece of equipment for your home or lawn is no different. Knowing when to overhaul an existing irrigation system requires sufficient research and proper planning. In Middle Tennessee, our landscape & irrigation systems need timely renovations to ensure uninterrupted business.

Don’t let your irrigation system fall under the threat of indecisive decision-making. Here are 4 signs that you need a fresh start:

How old is your irrigation system? If you’re operating with an irrigation system that is 20+ years old, it’s time to consider the sum of its parts and the effectiveness of the system. These systems typically last 10-30 years, so it’s important to take inventory on a consistent basis. Twenty years isn’t a do-or-die date for a replacement, but it’s a good guide for checks and balances.
Are you getting leaks? If your lawn is suffering from too much water it could mean that the heads are inconsistent and that broken pipes may exist. Pay close attention to the level of irrigation that your lawn is receiving, and use that information to analyze the overall health of your system. How does it compare with similar lawns? Use aerial shots to view the lawn in its entirety to get a better idea.
Who installed the system? It doesn’t hurt to check up on past vendors at your site. A simple Google search of a company will provide you with countless customer reviews. Using this information you can decide whether your irrigation system may be in need of an overhaul sooner rather than later. Always be sure to use a certified irrigation contractor.
How do costs compare to previous years? This is one of the most telling signs that you need a new system. If costs are going up it means something is out of whack. Compare maintenance and water prices to the previous year’s budget. Have there been any spikes in cost? If so, this means that something isn’t operating properly and an irrigation auditor might be needed.

It’s important to document the negative effect an aged irrigation system is having on your lawn. Typically, investing in a new irrigation system is a group effort, and showing the ailing parts and high costs will go a long way in convincing your partners to invest in a new system. In Nashville, Tenn., The Parke Company is available at (615)-207-8390 to answer any questions about aged irrigation systems.

What to Look for in a Tree Service Company in Middle Tennessee

March 7, 2024June 26, 2013 by The Parke Company

When it’s time to contract a reputable tree service company in Nashville, most people know the obvious. Make sure the company is qualified, professional and is great at customer service. But sometimes there are some things that are less obvious, such as proper insurance and class codes. It’s important to do your research. Not only are reputable companies important for a good experience, but it also keeps you from unnecessary hassle. Here are some things to look for when hiring the tree service company.

Qualifications:

The tree service company should be properly class coded (code # 0106) within their Workers’ Compensation for tree trimming work. Other class codes for landscaping, etc. are not the same and can have legal and liable ramifications. In the event the company hired is not properly class-coded and there is a problem during tree work, the homeowner is at risk for liability.
The tree service company must also have general liability for insurance.
If the job is over $25,000, the company also needs to be licensed as a general contractor.
The tree service company should also be a certified arborist.

Customer Service:

Make sure the company will provide a written estimate.
The company should be willing to answer any and all questions.
A great quality in a tree service company’s customer service is follow-ups after completion to make sure their customers are happy.

Professionalism:

The tree service company should always show up to work on time.
The company keeps a clean environment and picks up after their work is completed.
The company is both polite and respectful.

If you have any questions about any of these points, the Parke Company is readily available to answer all of your questions. Not only does the Parke Company have years of experience, but they also meet all qualifications listed above, including insurance and class codes. The Parke Company services all of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. To schedule a service (including tree removal, stump grinding, fire wood and much more), call the Parke Company today at (615) 405-6548.

Trees and Tornadoes: Handling Severe Storms in Nashville

March 7, 2024June 19, 2013 by The Parke Company

Tornado season is underway and a real threat in many parts of the country. These deadly storms can whisk an entire piece of land away in a matter of minutes without much warning. It is important to stay cautious and be prepared if a tornado or a large storm comes through Nashville. Have an emergency kit for your home, discuss your emergency plans with your family and be sure your house is well maintained. So, is there anything you can do for your yard? Unfortunately, since the landscape can’t come inside with you, you have to be sure your trees are armed against the elements.

Have a health evaluation done on your tree regularly to ensure your tree can stand strong against large storms. The Parke Company can do a comprehensive analysis of your tree regarding insect infestation, disease, and water and soil conditions.

Remove any access deadwood or brush. This small and easy chore is necessary for many reasons, including severe storm and tornado safety. This will decrease the risk of limbs and other brush falling on your property causing damage.

If a tree does fall after a severe storm and/or tornado, call the Parke Company’s emergency services for assistance. They will be able to help you with services such as tree removal, stump grinding, clean debris, and chip and mulching to restore your home back to how it was before the storm.

From the hills of Bellevue to the neighborhoods of East Nashville, Nashville and Middle Tennessee are areas to be cautious of severe storms and tornadoes during this time of year. Be prepared for every level of severity for both inside your home and outside. For more information about the Parke Company’s services, including their emergency service, call (615) 405-6548.

Nashville Area Landscape Irrigation Associations Provide Assurance

March 7, 2024June 15, 2013 by The Parke Company

irrigation-association-nashville-tn Irrigation companies are equipped to handle most situations associated with your lawn. The Parke Company in Nashville, Tenn. provides services such as tree care, landscape construction, plant health care, irrigation and waterscapes. When considering hiring a certified irrigation contractor, it’s important to search for one who is affiliated with irrigation associations. These associations provide numerous benefits. Here are a few:

Education: Irrigation Associations develop a common core of standards for irrigation contractors and professionals. Through standardized education, certification and public policy, associations like the National Irrigation Association help ensure that the irrigation industry is competitive and exclusive.

Research: Irrigation associations provide a centralized hub for ongoing research regarding irrigation best practices. Partnering with a company that has these affiliations ensures that you’re getting access to the most current and thorough research available.

Public Policy: The government regulations regarding lawn irrigation can change quickly. To maintain an association’s irrigation license, contractors must adhere to these changing policies. This way, the customer can have confidence in the contractor’s use of the water resources, technology and management.

It’s also important to remember that landscape irrigation businesses do a lot more than just irrigation. Take inventory of all the services that are offered at the company you’re researching, and look into certification associations available. For example, at The Parke Company, we have certified arborists through the International Society of Arboriculture. Nashville-area irrigation contractors should contact The Parke Company today at (615)-207-8390 to find out more information regarding landscape irrigation association certifications and benefits.