Spring brings warmer weather and heavy, humid air. As temperatures rise, backyards bloom. But with abundant new growth comes the increased risk of tree disease and rampant pest infestations. Seasonal changes can trigger the rapid formation of fungi while expediting decay. Fallen leaves, twigs, and other damp organic matter create the perfect breeding grounds for insects. Fortunately, you can stave off common tree problems with these simple spring cleaning tips.
Get Rid of Decaying Tree Stumps
If you’ve chopped down weak, diseased, or otherwise problematic trees in the past, spring is an excellent time to remove their stumps. Tree stumps can maintain active root systems for a very long time. In fact, some tree species can maintain active root systems for several years.
Stump removal prevents stumps from resprouting. It keeps active roots away from sewer lines and other underground infrastructure, and it keeps them from stealing water and nutrients from nearby trees. It also eliminates viable food sources for termites, carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles, and bark beetles. When these insects infest tree stumps in your yard, there’s little to stop them from infesting other trees.
Clear the Area Around Trunk Bases
Carefully remove fallen fruits, leaves, seeds, twigs, and other tree debris from the base of each tree. Although there are benefits in letting these things decompose and add their nutrients to the surrounding soil, doing so often causes more problems than it resolves. As these things decompose, they trap moisture and provide excellent hiding spaces for insects. When cleaning trunk bases, remove all weeds and climbing ivy as well.
Cut Off Weak and Dying Branches
The forceful winds of winter and spring’s heavy precipitation can test weak, diseased, and dying branches to their limits. Pruning your trees to eliminate high-risk appendages is an important part of fulfilling your duty of care. Pruning prevents unstable limbs and branches from breaking off and striking people and things below. It limits the risk of impact injuries and property damage. It also prevents mold and other fungal growths.
Remove Protective Coverings
If you’ve placed protective coverings around your trees to shield them from freezing weather, spring is the time to take them off. While plastic and burlap wraps help trees retain heat when the mercury plummets, these coverings can trap moisture in when temperatures rise. Keeping your trees covered as the weather warms will keep them from “breathing” and contribute to fungal growth. By limiting sun exposure, some coverings can also diminish trees’ overall health.
Use Proper Pruning Techniques
Stressed trees are more vulnerable to disease and pests than healthy trees. Sanitize your pruning tools before cutting, and prune early. The best times to prune to minimize stress are late fall and early spring. Putting the task off for too long forces trees to expend energy and resources on healing during challenging growth stages. Never remove more than 25% of a tree’s canopy, and always keep your pruning tools sharp.
Spring cleaning your yard will keep your trees healthy and resilient. For best results, pair these spring cleaning tips with professional tree assessments and expert tree treatment for existing issues. If you have concerns or require tree disease and pest services, contact Beyond the Leaf in Pottstown, PA.
