Spring, particularly late spring after the new growing season has begun, is an important time to check in with a tree's health. There are also seasonal care tasks that must be attended to at this time.
1. Spring Fertilization
This is the season of expansive new growth, so a fertilizer application can help ensure that the tree growth is healthy. Your tree service will test the soil to determine what nutrients are needed. Then, a slow-release fertilizer, usually in the form of spikes that are driven into the ground, will be applied. Using a slow-release fertilizer means you only need to worry about this task once a year.
2. Pest Treatments
Pests can stress a tree and, in some cases, even kill it. Late spring is a key time for some pest treatments. For example, the often fatal emerald ash borer should be treated with a late spring spray. Bagworms are another common tree issue. Your pest service must remove and destroy these manually in late spring or your trees will suffer later. Your tree service can help determine what other treatments may be necessary.
3. Debris Cleanup
If spring started with bad weather, then there may be damage to the tree to attend to. Although pruning is ideally done in late winter, trimming to repair wind damage can be done at any time. It's best to remove any broken branches and clean up any bark wounds as soon as possible. Otherwise, the wounds can weaken the tree and provide an access point for fungal diseases or other pests.
4. Anchor Checks
Young trees or those that need a bit more support may be anchored to stakes. The tree ties that connect the trunk to a stake must never become so tight that they restrict trunk growth. Your tree care team will check each tie against the newest bout of spring growth. They will then adjust the tie to ensure there is sufficient space for healthy trunk growth that will continue over the summer.
5. Mulch Application
A fresh layer of mulch will brighten up the spring yard, while also benefiting the tree. In the coming summer months, the mulch will insulate the soil against the sun, slowing evaporation so that more water is conserved around the tree roots. Your tree service will put down several inches of mulch, pulling it back slightly so it doesn't touch the tree trunk.
Contact a residential tree care service to learn more.
