Early Spring Tree Care: What Homeowners Should Be Doing in March

As winter fades and temperatures begin to rise, March is an important time to check in on the health of your trees. Trees are just beginning to transition out of dormancy, making early spring the perfect time to identify problems and prepare them for a healthy growing season.

Here are a few things homeowners should be doing to care for their trees this time of year.

Inspect Trees for Winter Damage

Cracks like this should be addressed before the limb fails completely.

Winter weather can be tough on trees. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and road salt can all cause damage that may not have been obvious during the colder months.

In early spring, take a walk around your property and look for:

• Broken or hanging branches

• Cracks in the trunk or major limbs

• Bark splitting from frost damage

• Dead or damaged twigs

• Possible salt build up near roads

If you notice significant structural issues or large damaged branches, it may be best to have a certified arborist evaluate the tree.

Evergreen trees often show damage like this from exposure to wind and freezing temps.

Look for Signs of Early Disease

Many tree diseases begin developing in the early spring as temperatures warm and moisture increases. Catching problems early can make treatment much more effective.

For example, fungal diseases like Apple Scab begin infecting leaves shortly after bud break. Early monitoring can help prevent severe infections later in the season.

Keeping trees healthy through proper nutrition and care can also improve their ability to resist disease.

Check the Root Zone

Tree roots are often overlooked, but they are one of the most important parts of overall tree health.

After winter, it’s a good idea to check for:

A proper mulch ring on a mature tree should look like this.

• Soil compaction from snow piles or foot traffic

• Mulch that has shifted or piled too deeply against the trunk

• Exposed roots

• Areas where soil may have been disturbed

A proper mulch ring can help regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and improve soil conditions for roots.

Consider Early Spring Fertilization

Early spring is one of the best times to support tree health through fertilization. As trees begin to grow, they rely heavily on stored energy and available nutrients in the soil.

Deep root fertilization can help:

• Improve overall tree vigor

• Encourage strong root development

• Increase resistance to pests and disease

• Support healthy leaf and shoot growth

Trees growing in urban landscapes often struggle with compacted soils and limited nutrients, making supplemental fertilization especially beneficial.

Schedule a Tree Health Evaluation

Many tree problems start below the surface or inside the tree, where they may not be immediately visible. A professional tree health evaluation can identify issues early and help create a long-term care plan for your trees.

During an evaluation, an arborist may assess:

• Tree structure and stability

• Signs of decay or internal defects

• Soil and root conditions

• Pest or disease activity

• Overall tree vitality

Addressing issues early in the season can help prevent more serious problems later in the year.

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Preparing Your Trees for the Growing Season

Taking a little time in early spring to inspect and care for your trees can make a big difference throughout the growing season. Healthy trees not only improve the beauty of your landscape, but they also provide shade, environmental benefits, and long-term property value.

If you’re unsure about the health of your trees or would like professional guidance, consulting with a certified arborist can help ensure your trees stay healthy for years to come.