Spring Tree Maintenance Tips: How to Keep Your Trees Healthy This Season
As spring arrives, your trees come back to life after the colder months. Proper maintenance during this season is essential to encourage strong growth, prevent diseases, and ensure your trees remain healthy all year long. Here are some essential spring tree care tips:
1. Inspect Your Trees for Winter Damage
Check for broken, dead, or hanging branches that may have been damaged by winter storms.
Look for cracks, splits, or peeling bark, which could indicate disease or structural issues.
Inspect the roots and base of the tree for signs of decay, fungus, or pests.
2. Prune Dead or Weak Branches
Remove any dead, diseased, or weak branches to encourage new growth and prevent hazards.
Trim overgrown branches that could pose a risk to your home, driveway, or power lines.
Avoid excessive pruning—spring is a time for light shaping and maintenance, not heavy cutting.
3. Mulch Around the Base
Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of your tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Keep mulch away from the trunk (leave a few inches of space) to prevent rot and pest infestations.
4. Deep Watering & Soil Care
Trees need deep, slow watering to encourage strong root growth.
If your area has had little rain, water newly planted or young trees to help them establish.
Test the soil pH and add nutrients or compost if needed to promote healthy growth.
5. Fertilize for New Growth
Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.
Fertilizing helps replace nutrients lost during winter and strengthens trees against pests and diseases.
6. Watch for Pests & Diseases
Check for early signs of infestation such as holes in leaves, sticky residue, or chewed bark.
Common spring pests include aphids, caterpillars, and borers. Treat as needed with natural or professional solutions.
Look out for fungal infections like leaf spots or powdery mildew, especially in humid areas.
7. Protect Young Trees from Late Frost
If a late frost is expected, cover young or sensitive trees with burlap or frost blankets overnight.
Avoid pruning frost-damaged leaves right away; wait until new growth appears.
8. Schedule a Professional Tree Inspection
A certified arborist can assess tree health, recommend treatments, and ensure your trees are in top shape.
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