Winter does a lot more damage to your trees than you give it credit for. From heavy snow and ice to high winds, your trees go through a lot during winter. And while most trees can withstand these conditions, some don’t fare well. That’s why it’s important to do a tree checkup in the springtime. By closely examining your trees, you can spot any damage that may have been done over the winter and take steps to fix it. But what exactly should you look at? While checking an entire tree three times over might be possible when you have a single tree in your garden, the same cannot be said for homeowners with multiple trees. So, we have gathered a checklist of things you should go over every spring to ensure that your trees are ready for the spring.
Sunscald Damage: One of the most common problems trees face in the spring is sunscalding damage. Sunscald occurs when the tree’s bark is exposed to direct sunlight, causing it to dry and crack. This is usually caused by the sun reflecting off of snow or ice. To check for sunscald damage, look for cracks or splits in the bark. If you find any, you can try to repair them with a tree wrap or paint.
Wind Damage: High winds can cause all sorts of problems for your trees, from broken branches to uprooting entire trees. To check for wind damage, look for broken branches or hanging limbs. If you find any, you should remove them as soon as possible to prevent them from causing further damage. You should also check the tree’s roots to see if the wind has loosened them. You will need to replant the tree as soon as possible if they have.
Water Damage: Water damage is another common problem that trees face in the springtime. This is usually caused by heavy rains or flooding. To check for water damage, look for any signs of mold or mildew on the tree’s bark or leaves. If you find any, you should remove them immediately to prevent them from spreading. You should also check for any erosion around the base of the tree. If there is any, you will need to replant the tree in a new location.
Check for diseases and pests: Trees are more susceptible to diseases and pests in winter. So, it’s important to check for any signs of these in the springtime. Look for any discoloration or die-back on the tree’s bark or leaves. If you find any, you should remove them immediately to prevent them from spreading. You should also check for any holes or tunnels in the tree’s trunk or branches. These could be made by insects or animals and can cause serious damage to the tree if left unchecked.
Prune your trees to reduce risk: One of the best ways to reduce the risk of damage to your trees is to prune them in the springtime. This will help to remove any damaged or dead branches that could fall and cause damage. It will also help to improve the tree’s overall health and appearance. When pruning, use sharp, clean tools and cut at a 45-degree angle.
Have Problematic Trees Removed from Your Property: When an apple starts to rot in the sack, the best way to preserve the rest is to get rid of it. The same goes for trees. If you have a tree that is dying, has already died, or is posing a risk to your property, the best thing you can do is to have it removed. This might seem drastic, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. When removing a tree, hire a professional tree service to do the job. They will have the experience and equipment necessary to remove the tree safely and without damaging your property.
Plant a defensible space around your home: This is for the spring months. A defensible space for tree planting is an area around your home that is clear of any trees or vegetation. This will give you a better chance to spot a fire before it gets too close to your home and also give firefighters a clear area to work in if they need to fight the fire. The defensible space’s size will depend on your home’s size, but as a general rule, it should be at least 30 feet around your home.
While most trees can withstand the winter months, some don’t fare so well. That’s why it’s important to do a tree checkup in the springtime. By closely examining your trees and following this checklist, you can spot any damage that may have been done over the winter and take steps to fix it. Doing this will help to ensure that your trees are ready for the spring and summer months ahead.
