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Howard County, Central Maryland, Washington, D.C.
Northern Virginia and Surrounding Areas
During the winter months, most people are content to be indoors, and don’t give much thought to their yards or trees. However, you might consider inspecting your trees once the leaves have fallen. There are many reasons that winter is an excellent time to prune deciduous trees.
Here are some advantages to winter pruning:
Improved Visibility and Safety
The absence of leaves makes it easier for arborists to assess the overall structure of the tree. This enhanced visibility allows for more accurate and precise pruning, leading to better results. This also creates a good opportunity for cabling and bracing due to branch visibility and canopy structure. Removing dead, diseased or damaged branches during winter reduces the risk of them falling during storms, heavy snowfall, or high winds, which can enhance safety on your property.
Dormancy
During winter, most trees are in a state of dormancy, so they are not actively growing. Trees pruned or trimmed during winter will recover more quickly in the spring when growth resumes as energy stores will not be wasted on unhealthy material. In addition, cut wounds have the opportunity to compartmentalize without the risk of attracting sap-loving insects.
Disease and Pest Management
Tree diseases and pests are less active or dormant during winter. Conducting tree work during this time can help prevent the spread of diseases and reduce the risk of infestations. Arborists can also look for pests at this time and treat for overwintering insects in late February through March. Trees can also be inspected for Sooty Mold, a byproduct of heavy insect feeding.
Frozen Ground
In some cases, the ground may be frozen during winter, providing a protective layer to the roots and minimizing soil compaction. This can be advantageous when heavy equipment needs to be used for tree work, as it reduces the risk of damaging the root system and surrounding lawn.
Removals
Winter is also a good time for tree removals, due to the decrease of debris from leaves, frozen ground, and reduced risk from falling limbs.
Although not all tree work is suitable for winter, consulting with a certified arborist is recommended to determine the best course of action for your specific trees. Our arborists at Mead Tree & Turf Care are available to inspect and make recommendations for your trees. Call 301-854-5990 to request an evaluation.
Click here for more information on winter pruning
Howard County, Central Maryland, Washington, D.C.
Northern Virginia and Surrounding Areas
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