Root awakening: spring tree tips
[March 28, 2025]
As winter fades and the first signs of spring emerge, it's time
to give trees the care they need to thrive. Trees, like all living
things, require attention and maintenance, especially as they transition
from dormancy to the growing season. Help trees recover from winter
damage, boost their health, and promote strong roots and lush leaves
throughout the spring and beyond.
Assess Winter Damage
The first step in spring tree care is assessing any winter damage that
may have occurred. Start with a visual inspection of the trees. Look for
broken branches, frost cracks, and other physical damage that might have
been caused by heavy snow, strong winds, or even salt damage. This may
be discolored or scorched-looking leaves or even tip dieback. Deep
watering prior to spring growth and during dry periods can help leach
excess salt from the soil. Pay close attention to signs of disease or
pest damage, such as unusual growths or other symptoms of insect
activity. More subtle injuries may not become evident until new growth
appears.
Next, check the soil and root health. Winter can affect soil moisture
levels, so ensure that the soil around the trees is neither too dry nor
too waterlogged. Frost heaving can occur when the soil freezes and thaws
repeatedly, pushing newly planted trees out of the ground and exposing
their roots. Damaged roots can cause foliage that is wilted, discolored,
delayed, or smaller than usual.
Boost Tree Health
Once the winter damage has been assessed, take steps to boost tree
health. Pruning may be a crucial part of this process. Prune with a
purpose, whether it is removing damaged or dead branches, encouraging
new growth, or improving the tree's overall structure. Use proper
pruning techniques to avoid causing further harm to the tree.
Fertilization is another aspect of spring tree care, but only when a
soil test reveals there is a nutrient deficiency. If fertilization is
needed, apply the right type of fertilizer just after leaf expansion.
Consider organic fertilizers, which release nutrients slowly and improve
soil health over time. Synthetic fertilizers can also be effective but
should be used with caution, as over-fertilization can harm trees, and
excess fertilizer can affect water quality.
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Watering is vital for tree health, especially during the spring when
trees are actively growing. Different tree species have different
watering needs, so it's important to research the specific
requirements. Deep, slow watering is more beneficial than frequent
shallow, heavy watering. Be careful not to overwater, as this can
lead to root rot and other issues.
Mulching helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature,
suppress weeds, and add organic matter to the soil. Apply a 3-inch
layer of mulch around the base of the trees, but avoid piling it
directly against the trunk, as this can cause rot and attract pests.
Organic mulches, such as arborist wood chips or compost, are
excellent choices.
Additional Tips for Thriving Trees
Pest and disease management is crucial in the spring, as many pests
and diseases become active during this time. Watch for common spring
pests and diseases, and take preventative measures or treatments as
needed. Integrate management practices to consider cultural or
mechanical methods before turning to a chemical approach.
Protecting trees in the winter from wildlife and environmental
stressors can also make a significant difference in their health and
longevity. This may include practices in fall, like wrapping trunks
to avoid frost cracks or sunscald, covering evergreen foliage to
prevent winter burn, or caging young tree trunks to avoid deer
damage.
By following these tips, trees can recover from winter and thrive
throughout the growing season. Regular maintenance and attention to
detail ensure trees will remain healthy for years to come.
[Sarah Vogel, horticulture educator, University of
Illinois Extension]
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