7 Springtime Tree Care Tips

During springtime, trees “wake up” after winter dormancy. This is a critical time to assess their health, address any damage they sustained during winter, and provide care to help them thrive throughout the growing season. A bit of maintenance now can save a lot of trouble down the line – and keep your trees healthy and beautiful.

Today we’ll discuss a few tree care tasks to consider this spring, from clearing away debris to inspecting for damage. This will help your trees stay in great shape for the months ahead.

1. Clear Away Debris

During the winter, it’s common for debris, such as fallen branches and leaves, to accumulate around tree bases. This creates a moist environment perfect for mold and rot – and that could also attract pests.

Take Time To…

• Remove excess organic matter from around tree trunks.
• Rake up leaves and dispose of them.
• Remove any dead or weak branches that could fall during high winds.

Keeping your trees tidy doesn’t just make them look better; it can also keep them healthy.

2. Inspect Trees for Damage

Freezing temperatures, strong winds, and ice accumulation can all take their toll on trees during the winter. A thorough inspection now that the weather is warming can help identify any damage hidden during the colder months.

Look Out For…

• Damaged or weak branches. They can be a safety hazard and should be removed promptly.
• Cracks in tree bark. These could indicate stress or internal damage, and provide easy access for pests. These can be caused by temperature changes.
• Newly leaning trees. The ground can shift during times of increased rainfall. This can cause root instability. If you notice a tree leaning in a new way, it could be at risk of falling. This requires prompt action.

It’s important to catch these signs as early as possible. If you notice any of them, act fast before they get worse.

3. Check for Pest Damage

As temperatures rise, pests become more active, and trees can be vulnerable to infestations. Certain insects overwinter in bark or soil and emerge in spring to feed on new growth.

Inspect Your Trees For:

• Holes bored in bark. These could be signs of a pest infestation.
• Chewed, curled, or discolored leaves. These could indicate pests or plant disease.
• Sticky residue or mold. This residue could be honeydew, which is left behind by sap-sucking insects like aphids or scale insects.
• “Sawdust” at the base of the tree. This can be a sign of wood-boring pests.

If you notice any of these problems, get in touch with a tree care professional for help.

4. Refresh the Soil

Healthy roots make a healthy tree, and spring is the perfect time to refresh the soil. The soil can also become compacted during winter, which can make it harder for water and nutrients to reach the roots.

Improve Soil Health By…

• Aerating compacted soil.
• Adding mulch around the tree’s base. This will help conserve water, control temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Testing your soil’s nutrient levels to determine whether you need fertilizer.

These services, especially nutrient testing, may require help from a professional.

5. Prune Trees

Pruning isn’t just about looks; it’s actually highly beneficial for your tree’s overall health. Springtime is a great time to remove any weak or dead branches that were overlooked during the winter and help your trees prepare to grow.

Pruning includes…

• Removing dead, sick, or damaged branches.
• Thinning branches to prevent crowding.
• Shaping trees to encourage balanced growth.

Proper pruning enhances tree aesthetics while reducing the risk of disease and storm damage.

6. Ensure Proper Hydration

Here in Marin County, we don’t see a lot of rain. This means your trees will need extra watering to stay healthy and grow strong.

When Watering Your Trees…

• Water new trees regularly to help them establish strong roots.
• Check moisture levels to prevent over- or under-watering.
• Deep water mature trees during dry spells to ensure they stay healthy.

A well-watered tree is more resistant to environmental stress and disease.

7. Schedule a Professional Tree Assessment

You can handle certain spring tree care tasks on your own, but an assessment from a professional will help ensure your trees get just what they need – without any wasted time or effort. A certified arborist can point out early signs of disease, pest infestation, and structural weaknesses that the untrained eye might overlook.

Benefits of a Professional Inspection:

• Pruning in just the right places to promote healthy growth.
• Pest control and disease management.
• Overall assessment of tree health and a personalized maintenance plan.

Investing in professional tree care can help you save time and money while keeping your landscape safe, healthy, and beautiful all year round.

Keep Your Trees Beautiful This Spring

Spring is a time of growth, and giving your trees a boost right as it starts will set them up for success. The Treemasters team is ready to help your trees thrive all year. Whether you need some light pruning or an in-depth assessment of your trees’ overall health, we’re here to help. Give us a call to get started with a free estimate!