Considerations for spring

Spring Planting Killeen

After being dormant through snowstorms, rain showers and all other elements during wintertime; trees wake up once springtime kicks into full gear. Once consistently warm temperatures arrive, trees bloom and caring for them becomes so much easier. Here are a few things to take notice of trees in springtime. This is the easiest time to spot dead or broken branches because the leaves are coming out. The dead branches will stand out obviously because there are no buds or leaves. The canopy hasn't matured so spotting a dead branch will fairly easy at this time.

When Will Trees Start Blooming?
Different parts of the country will have variations, but generally when warm temperatures start to appear consistently. You should notice your trees responding to the sunshine and increased light duration. The longer days means more sun exposure allowing for more growth. The leaves can make more chlorophyll using sunlight and carbon dioxide to create carbohydrates which provides the nutrients for growth.

How To Tell Your Tree Has Come Out Of Dormancy 
It seems pretty obvious, but you can tell how your tree has responded to temperature changes if it has started to grow new leaves or has flowers. The winter period of dormancy is designed for the tree to survive adverse conditions. So when warmer temperatures come around, the tree's enzymes and hormones kick in to promote growth. Different varieties of trees bloom at slightly different time frames.  For example, Willow trees and Birch trees may bloom early while Oak trees and Elms will bloom later in the Spring. As long as they are green on the inside, they are fine.  

What To Do To Maintain Them
Inspect your tree for any damage or diseased branches and make sure to prune them or cable them to reduce stress damage. Add mulch to conserve soil moisture and keep weeds from taking over. Apply a slow release fertilizer to replace nutrients and improve resistance from diseases insects, and the elements.

Time To Check Your Roofline
​This is also a time to check for tree limb clearance along your roofline because with the new foliage coming in, it will weigh down the branches. Over time, the constant pressure can cause a lot of damage and simple fix like pruning the branches can become something very expensive.  The shingles can be worn and cause moisture damage. Why risk a roof repair when having tree trimming professionals handle it for a fraction of the cost.

Stinging Insects Love To Nest In Palm Trees
For whatever reason, wasps, hornets, and other stinging bugs love to make their nests in dead palm fronds.  Stirring up a hornet's nest before lunch time can be a rather comical sight to watch but no one likes to be the one having to deal with them.  So the best time to trim palm trees is also in the Spring so your family and kids can be safe in the yard from any stinging insect nests.

Spring Is The Best Time To Fertilize
The best time to fertilize your trees is in the Spring since you will be boosting the natural cycle of growth. Don't wait till the summer heat stresses them, prepare them ahead of time for any potential droughts. If you wait till summer, they may not make it.

Learn more about trees and how to maintain them regardless of the season with Texas Shade Tree Service, providing all your needs to help keep your tree looking healthy and beautiful. Contact us today for a quote on tree planting, tree trimming, tree removal, or if you’re simply looking for more info on tree maintenance. ​