
Tree Service in Des Moines, WA
Living near Puget Sound means your Des Moines property faces unique challenges. Salt spray from the water, constant wind exposure, and the marine climate all affect how trees grow and age. We serve homeowners throughout Des Moines, from the waterfront neighborhoods along Marine View Drive to the hilltop areas near Zenith and Woodmont. Our team understands how coastal conditions impact tree health and we bring the right solutions to keep your property safe and beautiful.
Get a Free Quote
Our Services
Des Moines properties deserve specialized tree care that accounts for the coastal environment. Our experienced crew handles everything from wind-damaged trees to salt-stressed shrubs with the equipment and knowledge your property needs.

Tree Removal
Safe removal of hazardous, dead, or unwanted trees using advanced rigging and crane techniques.

Tree Trimming & Pruning
Expert pruning to improve tree health, structure, and appearance while reducing safety hazards.

Stump Grinding & Removal
Complete stump removal and grinding to reclaim your yard space and prevent regrowth.

Emergency Tree Services
24/7 rapid response for storm damage, fallen trees, and urgent hazardous tree situations.

Land & Lot Clearing
Comprehensive land clearing for construction, development, or property improvement projects.

Tree Health & Maintenance
Preventive care, disease treatment, and ongoing maintenance to keep your trees thriving.

Arborist Consulting
Expert assessments, risk evaluations, and tree care planning from certified arborists.

Shrub & Hedge Trimming
Precision trimming and shaping to maintain beautiful, healthy shrubs and hedges.
Coastal Tree Care Challenges in Des Moines
Des Moines sits right on Puget Sound, which means your trees deal with salt spray, strong winds off the water, and soil that drains differently than properties further inland. Trees near the marina and beach areas get constant exposure to salt, which damages needles and leaves over time. We see this especially with evergreens like Douglas fir and spruce that show brown patches on the side facing the water. These stressed trees become vulnerable to disease and pest problems.
The steep slopes throughout Des Moines create another challenge. Many homes are built on hillsides with views of the Sound, but these sloped lots make tree work more complicated. Trees growing on slopes often have uneven root systems because they are fighting gravity, which makes them more likely to fall during windstorms. Properties along the bluff need regular tree assessments to catch stability issues before they become dangerous. Your local tree service should understand these specific Des Moines conditions.
Wind is a constant factor here, especially during fall and winter storms. Trees that are not properly maintained become hazards when wind speeds pick up. We regularly help Des Moines homeowners with emergency storm damage, but the better approach is preventive trimming that reduces wind resistance and removes weak branches before they fail. Strategic pruning keeps trees healthy while making them safer in high winds.
Tree Species That Thrive and Struggle in Des Moines
Not all trees do well in the Des Moines coastal environment. Shore pines and madrona trees are native to this area and handle salt spray and wind much better than species brought in from elsewhere. Many Des Moines properties have maples, alders, and ornamental trees that were planted 30 or 40 years ago without considering the marine climate. These trees often develop problems as they mature and may need removal if they are too stressed or poorly located.
The compact lot sizes in older Des Moines neighborhoods mean trees were often planted too close to houses, driveways, and property lines. A tree that looked small at the nursery can grow to dominate a yard, with roots lifting sidewalks and branches scraping against roofs. We handle lots of tree removals where the tree is healthy but simply in the wrong spot. Sometimes partial removal or crown reduction can solve the problem without taking down the entire tree.
Fungal diseases spread quickly in our wet climate, and Des Moines is no exception. Trees with dense canopies that do not get good air circulation are prone to moss growth, mildew, and various fungal infections. Regular pruning opens up the canopy, improves air flow, and reduces disease pressure. We also remove infected branches before problems spread to the rest of the tree or to nearby plants.
Working in Des Moines Neighborhoods
Des Moines has a mix of mid-century homes and newer construction, each with different tree care needs. The older neighborhoods around downtown Des Moines have mature trees that provide shade and character but require careful management. These established trees can have hidden decay or structural issues that only become apparent during a professional inspection. We use advanced assessment techniques to evaluate tree health and stability so you can make informed decisions.
Access can be tricky in Des Moines because many properties have narrow driveways, steep approaches, or limited street parking. Our crew plans each job carefully to ensure we can bring in the right equipment without tearing up your lawn or blocking your neighbors. For difficult locations, we use smaller specialized equipment or manual rigging to get the job done safely and efficiently.
Property views are important in Des Moines, especially for homes with water views. Many homeowners want to trim or remove trees that block their sight lines to Puget Sound, but they also want to maintain privacy and wind protection. We can help you find the right balance through selective pruning or strategic removals that open up views while keeping your property comfortable. This kind of work requires experience and an eye for both aesthetics and function.
Our Process
Free Assessment and Quote
We visit your Des Moines property for a thorough evaluation of your trees and landscaping. Our certified arborist checks for wind damage, salt stress, root problems, and structural concerns that are common in coastal properties. We explain our findings in clear terms and discuss your options for addressing any issues. You get a detailed written estimate that covers all the work with transparent pricing. We also flag any trees that might need attention down the road so you can budget accordingly.
