Expert Seasonal Tree Service Tips from Certified Arborists
Winter
BEST TIME TO PRUNE TREES
Remove trees as needed
Prune fruit trees and oaks/elms up until April 1
Inspect trees for structural problems
Remove buckthorn and treat larger stumps to reduce and prevent resprouting
Spring
Avoid pruning oaks and elms after April 1; limit fruit-tree pruning.
Prune or remove trees as needed and remove tree wrap from young thin-barked trees in early April.
Begin deep-soak watering and apply 3–4 inches of woodchip mulch.
Fertilize high-value trees and shrubs from April through mid-July.
Apply preventive treatments for emerald ash borer, apple scab, anthracnose, spruce needlecast, and pine needle blight.
Summer
Limit fruit-tree pruning unless necessary.
Prune or remove trees as needed.
Continue deep-soak watering.
Apply 3–4 inches of woodchip mulch.
Start site inspections to monitor tree and shrub health.
Begin Dutch elm disease and oak wilt root-flare injections.
Continue preventive treatments for emerald ash borer and other borers.
Limit fruit-tree pruning unless necessary.
Prune or remove trees as needed.
Continue deep-soak watering.
Apply 3–4 inches of woodchip mulch.
Start site inspections to monitor tree and shrub health.
Begin Dutch elm disease and oak wilt root-flare injections.
Continue preventive treatments for emerald ash borer and other borers