Owen Tree Service
Integrated Pest Management
Owen Tree Service: Your Trusted Tree & Shrub Specialist in Michigan
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Trees and Shrubs
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a widely used approach in tree care, combining the most effective methods to limit pest damage to landscape plants. IPM treatments address both insect and disease control for trees and shrubs, aiming to manage pest populations at levels that don’t cause significant harm. Fertilization can also be a part of an IPM program to support overall plant health.
Pest control, whether for insects or diseases, may be necessary for both young and mature trees. Some homeowners worry that treatments for trees and shrubs could harm their lawns, but these products typically have no negative impact. In fact, many fungicides and insecticides used for tree care are also used in lawn care.


The Importance of Timing and Technique in IPM
Timing is crucial in an IPM strategy. Treatments must target the correct part of the plant at the right time. For example, controlling a foliar disease requires treating the leaves, while controlling tree borers involves spraying the trunk and larger limbs.
In some cases, soil or trunk injections are effective alternatives for insect or disease control. These treatments often provide a longer application window compared to tree spraying, offering more flexibility in managing pests.
Expert Pest Management in Michigan
At Owen Tree Service, our ISA Certified Arborists are experts at identifying the pests affecting trees and shrubs throughout Oakland, Macomb, Genesee, Lapeer, and St. Clair counties. We also know which plants are more likely to face pest problems. For instance, while Red Maple trees in Michigan have few insect or disease issues, they may develop Manganese Chlorosis if the soil pH is too high.

Tips for a Healthier Landscape
Many tree stresses caused by pests can be avoided with proper planning and landscape design. Here are some tips to help create a healthy landscape:
- Choose native plant: Plant trees and shrubs that are native to Michigan or the surrounding region, as they are more suited to the local climate.
- Test your soil: A soil analysis will reveal the pH level, helping you choose plants that thrive in either acidic, neutral, or alkaline conditions.
- Consider sunlight: Make sure the plant you choose is suited to the amount of sunlight in its intended location.
- Research pest susceptibility: Certain plants are more prone to pest problems. For example, some Crabapple varieties are highly susceptible to Apple Scab, while others are resistant. Consulting an ISA Certified Arborist can help you choose the right variety.
- Plant correctly: Ensure that the root flare is at ground level when planting. Planting too deep can stress or kill the tree.
An experienced arborist from Owen Tree Service can help you identify your plants and determine the best methods to manage pests. Consulting a tree care expert will ensure that you make informed decisions to protect your landscape from insects and diseases.
Counties we Serve
What Our Customers Are Saying
Tim Nyquist
Responsiveness, Punctuality, Quality, Professionalism, Value
The folks at Owen Tree Service took such good care of my family. We had a massive tree fall on our house and cars, completely upending our lives, and Dave Kidd, Kay Sicheneder, and their whole crew working on it not only did a great job evaluating and removing, but also spent a good deal of time chatting with us, consoling us, offering advice, and generally putting our minds at ease. I sincerely appreciated everything they did for us and would highly recommend them if you’re looking for a good tree service. I can’t thank them enough.
Tonia Burns
Responsiveness, Professionalism
Called about having a 17ft tree placed in our yard. Received a call back from Trish you was incredibly gracious with her time and information. Unfortunately, trees that are over 6ft can't be planted by them. However, Trish gave me more than enough info to be confident about having a tree of that sized planted. I'd definitely call and use them for any other future services.
Brandon Rowley
Professionalism
Great people and they always do a nice job. We have used Owen Tree Service for years for various things like tree trimming and lawn care.
Rick Stomps
Responsiveness, Punctuality, Quality, Value
Owen Tree Service did an outstanding job. The crew trimmed up the treeline and removed several. Did a great job of cleanup too. Extremely professional, informative, helpful & friendly. Thanks so much to the great crew - Ron, Skip, Tim & Doug ... you were incredible. Thanks so much. I'll tell folks about you! (BTW - the guys deserve a few extra $$)
Linda Janiszewski
Punctuality, Quality, Professionalism, Value
We are very happy with the work they did. We had a large birch tree trimmed that had power lines on each side. There were 4 workers and they worked well together as a team to get the job done. They cleaned up the yard around the tree and did a professional job. They also asked us if we liked it before they left. We would highly recommend Owen Tree Service!
Andrew Lapeer
I hired Owen to do a tree removal and some pruning for me. Extremely happy with the care they used on my property. I am also using them for my lawn fertilization this year. Arborist seems very knowledgeable.