Plant Health Care

(Tree Treatments)

Plant Health Care & Integrated Pest Management in the San Francisco Bay Area

At Ned Patchett Consulting, Inc. (NPC), we specialize in Plant Health Care (PHC) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as essential strategies to protect and preserve the urban forest. Serving communities across the Peninsula and greater Bay Area, we offer science-based, environmentally responsible solutions that help trees thrive in the face of growing environmental stress and invasive pests.

Our Certified Arborists understand the unique challenges facing Bay Area landscapes—including the increasing threats of Sudden Oak Death (Phytophthora ramorum), Armillaria root rot (Armillaria mellea), and Invasive Shot Hole Borer (Euwallacea spp.). These pathogens and pests can be devastating to native tree species such as coast live oak, bay laurel, sycamore, and many other tree species. Without early detection and targeted management, they can spread rapidly, leading to widespread tree mortality and costly removals.

That’s why NPC emphasizes a proactive, preventive approach. We focus on enhancing the overall health and resilience of your trees—because a healthy tree is naturally more resistant to disease and pest infestation. Stressed trees, on the other hand, are far more susceptible to decline due to poor soil conditions, drought, improper pruning, or root damage, and impacts from construction.

Our Localized PHC & IPM Services Include:

Identification and treatment of Sudden Oak Death, Armillaria, and Shot Hole Borer
Tree and shrub pest diagnosis and custom treatment plans
Disease monitoring and seasonal inspections
Soil testing, nutrient management, and organic fertilization
Root zone enhancement and deep root watering
Eco-conscious pest control and tree injections
Ongoing health assessments and maintenance programs

Whether you own a residential home in an urban setting or manage a larger estate in Los Altos, Woodside, or Atherton, NPC provides expert tree care solutions tailored to your landscape’s specific conditions. Our goal is to preserve your property’s ecological integrity, safety, and beauty today and for future generations.

Protect your trees from pests and disease. Partner with NPC for expert plant health care and integrated pest management in the Bay Area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should trees on my property be inspected?

We recommend homeowners have their trees inspected twice a year in Spring and Fall, with additional checks after storms or when you notice changes in health or structure.

How often should I water my trees?

Water needs vary by species, soil type, and weather. As a guide, thoroughly water established trees during dry spells, allowing the soil to soak into the feeder root zone (12-18 inches). Avoid frequent shallow watering.

What are the signs that a tree is diseased or dying?

Look for leaf discoloration, thinning canopy, dead branches, fungi on or near the base, and cracking or exfoliating bark. Tip die-back—when the ends of branches or twigs die while the rest of the branch remains alive—can indicate serious problems with the tree’s roots or vascular system. These symptoms signal that the tree may be stressed or declining and warrant a professional assessment.

Can trees recover from bark damage or wounds?

Trees can compartmentalize and heal some wounds over time. However, severe damage increases susceptibility to pests and decay, and may require professional evaluation.

How do I protect my trees from pests and diseases?

Regular inspections, proper pruning, good watering and mulching habits, and integrated pest management help prevent many issues before they become serious.

What are the benefits of mulching around my trees?

Mulch conserves soil moisture, regulates temperature, reduces competition from grass, and improves soil structure when applied correctly around the root zone.

About Us

Tree Care Services

Ned Patchett Consulting, Inc. is a family-owned tree care business specializing in sustainable solutions. Our certified arborists provide expert care, balancing natural landscapes with urban growth for long-term tree health and safety.