Tree Talks

Common Tree Challenges in Overland Park, KS

Written by Cartwright Tree Care | Nov 18, 2025 3:24:03 PM

Helping Trees Stay Healthy in a Fast-Growing, Weather-Prone City

With its beautiful parks, strong sense of community, and mix of established and newly built neighborhoods, Overland Park, Kansas, is one of the most desirable cities in the Midwest to call home. From the shaded streets of Old Overland Park to newer developments near BluHawk, Prairiefire, and Deer Creek, trees help define the city’s landscape — offering beauty, shade, and environmental benefits that improve every property.

But as Overland Park continues to expand, the city’s trees face increasing stress. Construction, changing weather patterns, and invasive pests all take their toll on the area’s canopy. Mature oaks and maples in older neighborhoods deal with aging roots and storm exposure, while young trees in new subdivisions often struggle to establish themselves in compacted soil.

At Cartwright Tree Care, our arbor consultants work daily with homeowners and businesses throughout Overland Park to preserve the health and beauty of their trees. We offer preventative care, targeted treatments, and long-term maintenance plans that protect both your landscape and your property’s value.

Here’s a closer look at the most common tree challenges in Overland Park — and how proactive care can prevent costly problems before they start.

1. Storm Damage

Overland Park experiences strong thunderstorms, heavy snow, and periodic ice storms that can split branches or topple entire trees. Open lots, new subdivisions, and exposed properties near Heritage Park or St. Andrews Golf Club are especially prone to wind damage.

Our storm-preparation pruning and canopy thinning services help reduce breakage risk by strengthening tree structure. After major weather events, we also provide emergency tree removal and debris cleanup to restore safety and curb appeal.

2. Emerald Ash Borer & Webworms

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) continues to impact ash trees throughout Johnson County, while webworms and bagworms attack ornamental and shade trees, leaving behind unsightly webs and defoliation. These pests can weaken trees and spread rapidly from yard to yard.

Our pest management programs include preventive trunk injections for EAB, targeted sprays for webworms, and year-round monitoring to protect your trees from recurring infestations. Early intervention not only saves trees but also prevents widespread neighborhood outbreaks.

3. Soil Compaction & Construction Stress

With Overland Park’s ongoing development, construction-related tree damage is a growing issue. Heavy equipment compresses soil, cutting off air and water to roots. Even landscaping or driveway work can stress trees near the foundation.

We offer deep root fertilization, soil aeration, and root-zone protection plans to help trees recover from construction stress and remain stable long-term. For homes in growing areas like Chapel Hill, Woods of Colton Lake, or BluHawk, this type of maintenance is essential.

4. Drainage Problems

Improper grading or heavy clay soils often cause standing water near tree bases, leading to root rot and fungal infections. This is common in older neighborhoods and low-lying yards, where poor drainage allows moisture to linger.

Our arbor consultants perform soil and drainage assessments to identify problem areas. We then recommend solutions such as root aeration, soil conditioning, or adjusted watering practices to restore balance and prevent decay.

5. Heat & Drought Stress

Overland Park’s hot, dry summers can be especially hard on trees in newer neighborhoods without mature canopy coverage. Drought stress can cause leaf scorch, early leaf drop, and increased pest vulnerability.

We provide deep watering and mulching programs that keep trees hydrated and cool while strengthening root systems for long-term resilience.

Professional Tree Services in Overland Park, KS

From the trails of Indian Creek Greenway to the lawns surrounding Corporate Woods Park, Overland Park’s trees deserve expert care to stay healthy and beautiful.

At Cartwright Tree Care, we provide full-service tree care in Overland Park, KS, including:

  • Tree trimming and pruning

  • Tree and stump removals

  • Pest and disease management

  • Deep root fertilization and aeration

  • Storm damage cleanup and prevention

  • Risk and health assessments

Whether you’re caring for a single backyard tree or managing a larger property, our certified arborists create customized plans that promote safety, health, and longevity.

📞 Contact Cartwright Tree Care today to schedule your tree assessment in Overland Park, KS — and protect your landscape with trusted, local expertise.