We have been in business in Santa Cruz County since 1982. Enduring droughts, recessions, earthquakes, and an area code change (from 408 to 831), we have remained intact due to our relationships with our customers that begin with honesty and trust. Many of our clientele are repeat customers or referrals, trusting our product enough to refer it to friends and family.
In 2001, the business changed from "The Tree Company", which began in 1980 in San Jose, to Koala Tree Care. Craig was a PG&E contract arborist surveying transmission lines for tree clearance. One mistake by Craig could knock 9 western states out of power! Fortunately this never happened during his tenure, and he evaluated more trees for safety in three years than many arborists evaluate in a lifetime!
In 2001, the business changed from "The Tree Company", which began in 1980 in San Jose, to Koala Tree Care. Craig was a PG&E contract arborist surveying transmission lines for tree clearance. One mistake by Craig could knock 9 western states out of power! Fortunately this never happened during his tenure, and he evaluated more trees for safety in three years than many arborists evaluate in a lifetime!
Services
Keeping your trees maintained not only improves the safety and well-being of your trees, but also increases the value of your property. Our owner, Craig Erickson is a Santa Cruz resident and has served the Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County for more than ten years. We are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture which means we understand the latest safety measures and best practices.
Trees can be tricky creatures - many of their problems do not become visible until the tree's health is in grave danger. They also have a way of growing out of control. The good news is that we are well versed at helping trees stay strong, healthy and productive. Whether you need tree pruning or tree planting, or treatment for tree diseases, our experts can offer you the best advice and service options for a wide variety of issues.
Our process for removing a stump includes grinding it into a material that will decay into a soil that is healthy and fertile, suitable to help with new planting. When we take out one tree (and the stump), we are always willing to put in a new tree for you. When we come out to give you a consultation about your tree and stump removal, we will also give you perspective about the best idea for a replacement.
Tree pruning is a necessity to maintain healthy growth patterns and to clean out dead parts of the tree. When trees are not maintained, there is an increased risk of trees losing large branches during storms or windy days. This can even happen in the still heat of summer (a condition known as sudden limb drop)!
A lack of proper nutrients is one of the biggest problems that afflicts urban trees. Providing adequate fertilization can restore nutrient levels and help overcome stress from the environment. Plants that have the right fertilizer levels can resist diseases and pests more easily.
Using deep root soil injection or other methods to fertilize your tree can boost the development of feeder roots, counteract the stress that comes from construction and other environmental events, cut down on soil compaction and boost a plant's overall vitality.We are a leader among California businesses dealing with tree fertilization.
Using deep root soil injection or other methods to fertilize your tree can boost the development of feeder roots, counteract the stress that comes from construction and other environmental events, cut down on soil compaction and boost a plant's overall vitality.We are a leader among California businesses dealing with tree fertilization.
Reviews (12)
Greg N.
Dec 17, 2021
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Jeffrey W.
Nov 13, 2021
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Total pros. They did an acre+ of fire mitigation cutting of trees and brush for us on rugged, steeply sloped terrain. Everything from limbing mature trees to felling large dead trees safely and cleanly. And it was HOT. Super impressive how they made methodical progress each and every day.
As always, up-front communication is the absolute key to a successful job so get everything agreed upon ahead of time and written into the work order.
We were very happy with the value they delivered. They're honest, they do good work, they're safe, and they actually care about how the job turns
As always, up-front communication is the absolute key to a successful job so get everything agreed upon ahead of time and written into the work order.
We were very happy with the value they delivered. They're honest, they do good work, they're safe, and they actually care about how the job turns
Tamara W.
Jul 29, 2021
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I made an inquiry on Tuesday about having an Eucalyptus tree removed that was leaning towards the house, Jess the estimator was onsite Wednesday to look at the tree in question and by the end of that same day it was removed and everything was hauled off. Now that is quick!!! I am so impressed and will definitely keep their number handy for any future tree issues I may have.
Jessica K.
Jun 23, 2021
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Dwight H.
May 06, 2021
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Koala has performed tree pruning and removal on at least three occasions for us. The latest job involved work on ten trees, some of which were or are located adjacent to buildings on the property. Koala's crew provided excellent service, communicated often with us as the owners and worked in a safe manner with well-maintained equipment. The knowledgeable and experienced crew lead, Jesse Garcia, provided clear advice on the health and condition of each tree worked on. I would highly recommend Koala.
Cyndi M.
Mar 28, 2021
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It would be much appreciated if the owner returned phone calls to clients needing help/ who are highly concerned for the potential of another CZU fire. It's ok if you're too busy; just please tell people instead of letting us wait unreasonable amounts of time to hear back from you. You can just say you're booked till October... anything is better than being ignored. I'm a single parent running my own business; I'm not perfect... but I am respectful of people's time. If you're that busy, maybe you can consider hiring help to communicate with potential customers
John H.
Jan 22, 2021
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We had a very unruly sycamore tree that had never had professional work done to it. Note that this tree is 20+ years old.We called koala tree service and ask them to come out and give us a bid and take a look at what could be done. The crew is here on time and took great care with the area around the tree.
Jesse, their arborist is a skilled artist when it comes to shaping and cleaning up the inside of a tree like this. They spent nearly 3 hours in their trimming and shaping. They brought all the necessary equipment including a bucket truck to get some of the highest areas of the tree along with
Jesse, their arborist is a skilled artist when it comes to shaping and cleaning up the inside of a tree like this. They spent nearly 3 hours in their trimming and shaping. They brought all the necessary equipment including a bucket truck to get some of the highest areas of the tree along with
J. Z.
Jan 21, 2021
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These guys were great. I needed some tree work done in the front of my house and I also needed some bushes in my backyard chipped up and hauled away. They kicked butt. I couldn't believe how quickly and efficient they were. Not only affordable but once the job was done, the front and backyards were spotless. Job well done and great work. Thanks again. I will be using Koala in the future.
Deb S.
Oct 27, 2020
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Dani H.
Oct 20, 2019
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Brett L.
Apr 03, 2019
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Got a number of estimates for tree pruning I needed done for a few trees at my house. Craig was very to easy to communicate with, responsive, and knowledgeable. He came out and gave a very fair estimate and even told me one of my trees didn't need to be trimmed at this time, saving me hundreds of dollars. He and his crew came and did the job quickly and cleaned up well afterwards. He told me my biggest tree should be good for 2-3 years. I appreciated his honesty and getting the job done quickly. I'd highly recommend Craig and Koala Tree Care.
Cat M.
May 30, 2018
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I had a very odd experience with these guys. When I called them to make an appointment for a hedge-trimming estimate, the owner immediately said it was going to cost me more than I was used to paying, because he was a business with insurance and payroll costs. Not sure why he felt I needed to know that...I hadn't said anything about what I had paid in the past.
Nevertheless, we agreed that he would come over and look at my hedge for an estimate. I told them I didn't need to be home, so I'm not really sure if they ever came. I never received a quote...I can only assume he thought
Nevertheless, we agreed that he would come over and look at my hedge for an estimate. I told them I didn't need to be home, so I'm not really sure if they ever came. I never received a quote...I can only assume he thought
