4 Tree Questions We Get All the Time in Austin
From your local arborist pals at Blade Runner Tree Services
We’ve been in the tree game here in Austin for a while now, and if there’s one thing we know—it’s that people have a lot of questions about their trees.
Totally fair. Trees are a big deal in Central Texas. They’re part of what makes this place feel like home, and taking care of them can get confusing fast.
So today, we’re laying out four of the questions we hear from homeowners all the time—and giving you honest, local-expert answers you can actually use.
1. Do I really need a permit to cut down a tree in Austin?
Yes. If your tree is big enough, the city definitely wants to know about it.
Here’s the deal: in Austin, a tree with a trunk that’s 19 inches or more in diameter is considered a Protected Tree. And some species—like Live Oaks and Pecans—become Heritage Trees at 24 inches, and those are even more tightly regulated.
So before you go at it with a chainsaw, it’s a good idea to talk to a pro. We’ll handle the permit paperwork and make sure everything’s up to code.
Our tree removal and tree trimming services include permit help—we’ve navigated Austin’s rules more times than we can count.
2. When should I plant a new tree in Austin?
Think fall. Late fall through early spring is prime time.
Why? Because it gives the roots a chance to settle in before our legendary Texas summers hit. You know the ones—hotter than a metal seatbelt in July.
Some tried-and-true tree picks for Austin:
- Cedar Elm – Tough as nails
- Chinquapin Oak – Gorgeous, and loves our alkaline soil
- Texas Red Oak – Great shade, amazing fall color
- Mexican Plum – Flowers like a dream in spring
We help with tree selection and planting and offer expert advice on the best native and drought-tolerant species that will actually thrive in Austin’s tough conditions—not just survive. If you’re not sure where to start, we’ll walk your property and help you make a smart, long-term choice for shade, privacy, and curb appeal.
3. What is oak wilt, and should I be worried?
Short answer: Yes.
Oak wilt is a ruthless fungal disease that’s been wiping out oak trees across Central Texas for years. It spreads underground via root systems and overland via beetles that love fresh cuts on oak trees.
How to stop it:
- Don’t prune oaks from February through June
- If you do have to trim, seal the wounds immediately (yes, even with basic latex paint)
If you’re seeing odd leaf patterns or sudden die-off, it might be time for a check. We offer oak wilt diagnosis and treatment and can catch it early—before it spreads to neighboring trees.
Want to dive deeper into how oak wilt spreads and how it’s managed across Texas? The Texas A&M Forest Service has an excellent resource that’s worth a look.
4. What are the best trees for shade that won’t die in a drought?
We get this question a lot. People want trees that provide shade (understandably—it gets hot) but also survive those long, dry stretches we get in Central Texas.
Our go-to favorites:
- Live Oak – A Texas classic
- Texas Ash – Grows fast, great canopy
- Mexican Sycamore – Big leaves, big shade
- Texas Mountain Laurel – Smaller but beautiful and hardy
Want help picking the right one for your yard? We’ll come out, take a look, and give honest recommendations based on your soil, space, and sunlight.
We also offer tree planting services if you’d like us to handle it start to finish.
Why Work With Blade Runner Tree Services?
We’re local, family-owned, and a little obsessed with trees (in a good way).
Whether we’re trimming back overgrowth in Round Rock, diagnosing oak wilt in Leander, or planting a new shade tree in Pflugerville—our goal is always the same: to do it right.
- Fully insured
- ISA-certified arborists
- Friendly, responsive, and on time (every time)
We proudly serve Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Cedar Park, Leander, and surrounding areas.
Got Tree Questions? Let’s Talk.
If something in your yard has you stumped, don’t stress—we’re here for you. Reach out to Blade Runner Tree Services for expert help, fast quotes, and friendly service that makes you feel taken care of.
Call (512) 945-6011
Request a free quote
