Spring Tree Care: Essential Tips for Healthy Trees

As the winter thaws and Spring approaches, it’s time to start thinking about your trees’ health. Spring is the perfect time to give your trees the care they need to grow and thrive throughout the year. Here are some essential tips for tree care in Spring time:

Spring Tree Care Tips…

1. Inspect your trees for damage. Winter weather can cause damage to your trees, including broken branches and splits in the trunk. Inspect your trees for any obvious damage and prune away any broken or dead branches. For safety’s sake, and especially with larger sized trees, it is recommended to consult with a tree care professional or arborist for guidance. Most will have tree inspection services, and be able to cut and prune larger branches with ease.

2. Remove any debris. Clear any debris or anything around the trees such as fallen leaves, twigs, etc. This can attract pests and diseases that can harm your trees. Clear the base of the tree to promote healthy growth. Rake up any fallen leaves, pine needles, etc. that has accumulated around the base of the tree. This can help prevent fungal growth and insect infestations. Dispose of the debris properly by either composting it or taking it to a yard waste facility. Do not leave debris on the ground near the tree, as this can attract pests and promote fungal growth.
3. Water your trees. Spring time can be dry, so make sure your trees get enough water. Give your trees a deep watering once a week, or more frequently if the weather is particularly dry. Always water at the base of the tree, as watering the leaves of the tree can lead to fungal diseases. Instead, water at the base of the tree, making sure to saturate the root zone. A soaker hose or drip irrigation system can be a great way to water your trees deeply and efficiently. These systems allow the water to slowly seep into the soil, avoiding runoff and waste. Watch for signs of overwatering, as this can be just as damaging to trees as under-watering. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and fungal growth around the base of the tree.
4. Fertilize your trees. Spring is the perfect time to give your trees a boost with a slow-release fertilizer. Fertilizing trees in Spring is important because it provides the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development during the growing season. During the winter months, trees may not receive enough nutrients from the soil, and the nutrients that were there may have been depleted by the end of the growing season. Fertilizing in the Spring gives trees a needed boost of nutrients just as they are beginning to come out of their dormant phase and start new growth. Always fertilize your trees according to their needs, and be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
5. Mulch around the trees. Mulch helps to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which is important for healthy tree growth. It provides the essential nutrients as it takes on a new life as the next layer of soil promoting growth and keeping your trees and surrounding soil in good health. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your trees, making sure not to cover the trunk. Read The Do’s and Don’t’s of Mulching Your Trees for more information.
6. Hire a professional. Consider hiring a tree care professional should your trees need more advanced care. Tree care experts can assist with tree cutting, pruning, fertilizing, pest control, and other essential tree care tasks.

Spring is a critical time for tree care. By following these essential tips, you can ensure that your trees stay healthy and beautiful throughout the year. Take the time to care for your trees this spring, and you will be rewarded with healthy, vibrant trees for years to come. We hope you have found these Spring Tree Care Essential Tips informative and helpful. For further advice and your tree care needs don’t hesitate to contact us and speak with one of our tree care experts.