Professional Tree Care in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis sits at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, where the eastern deciduous forest meets the western prairie. This transition zone creates a remarkably diverse urban forest with oaks, maples, sweetgums, sycamores, hackberries, and redbuds thriving alongside native cedar glades and river bottom forests. Forest Park alone contains thousands of trees representing dozens of species.
Top Tree Health Threats in St. Louis
Emerald ash borer has significantly impacted the St. Louis region's ash tree population. Both the city and surrounding municipalities have removed thousands of ash trees and continue replanting efforts.
Bacterial leaf scorch is a growing problem for oaks, elms, and sycamores in the metro area, causing progressive decline that can take years to kill a tree. Oak wilt, while less common than in the upper Midwest, has been detected in Missouri and poses a risk to the region's valuable red oaks.
Bagworms are a perennial problem on evergreens, particularly eastern red cedar and arborvitae. Ips bark beetles can reach damaging levels in pines during drought years. Ambrosia beetles target stressed trees, and various canker diseases affect weakened specimens.
Climate & Seasonal Care
St. Louis is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b-7a, making it one of the warmer cities in the Midwest. Hot, humid summers and variable winters with occasional ice storms define the growing conditions. The clay soils common in much of the metro area require attention to drainage and soil amendment when planting new trees.
Services Available
St. Louis arborists offer pruning, tree removal, stump grinding, plant health care, pest management, storm damage response, tree preservation during construction, and consulting for large property and park management.
Find Local Arborists
Search our arborist directory to find ISA Certified Arborists serving the St. Louis area.