6 Essential Tree Care Tips to Prepare for Spring

Essential Spring Tree Care Tips from Gregory Forrest Lester, Inc. As winter fades and spring approaches, it’s time to give your trees the care they need to thrive. Cold temperatures and winter storms can take a toll on your trees. Early spring is the perfect time for a check-up. As a trusted Cincinnati tree company, Gregory Forrest Lester, Inc. is here to help with expert tree services from our certified arborists. Follow these essential spring tree care tips to keep your trees strong and healthy all season long.

1. Inspect Your Trees for Pests and Damage

Winter is hard on trees. Along with the insects and animals that may have made their home in your trees, you may also see signs of disease or damage from winter storms. If you’re unsure about what you’re seeing, let our experienced arborists assess your trees' health.

They can help identify any issues and recommend the best course of action.

2. Add a New Layer of Mulch

Cold winter temperatures surely dried out the soil around the base of your trees and their roots. One effective way to add moisture back to your trees is by applying a helpful layer of mulch. This protects against dry soil and weeds. Make sure the mulch stays around the base of the tree and does not touch the trunk. We recommend applying 3 to 4 inches of mulch—more than that can create a 'mulch volcano' and be detrimental to the tree's health.

3. Prune Your Trees

Just like getting a trim helps your hair grow, tree pruning is a great way to prepare your trees for spring. The best time to prune is just before the trees begin to turn green. This practice allows you to remove dead or diseased branches and prevent overcrowding in the tree's canopy.

4. Fertilize Your Trees

Give your trees a boost with a round of fertilizer! Spring is an excellent time to fertilize your trees to help them grow and blossom beautifully through the spring and summer.

5. Give Them a Drink

Your trees will be thirsty after the cold winter. They will continue to need water as the hot summer months approach. Each tree requires different amounts of water based on its species, size, and age. Watering deeply is advised over frequent light watering. Tree roots often extend 18-24 inches below the surface, so aim for deeper soaking to help them retain moisture.

6. Remove Dead Trees and Plant New

Removing dead trees are crucial for preparing your yard for spring. A tree assessment from our arborists will warn you about potential hazards later in the season. If you need to get a tree removed due to disease or because it affects your landscaping plans, you can always plant a new tree to bring new life to your yard.

Spring is a season of renewal, and your trees deserve the best care. Whether you need tree pruning, pest assessments, or professional tree removal, our certified arborists are here to help. As a trusted Cincinnati tree company, we’re committed to providing expert tree service to keep your landscape looking its best. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!