Tree Work in the Winter?

Winter can be the perfect time for tree work. With the absence of leaves on the trees, it is much easier for the trained eye to identify structural issues. Some structural issues may require a cable or even brace rods to secure your favorite tree in your landscape. Winter also makes a great time to observe decay, fungi, or other pathogens that may not be visible during the summer when leaves are abundant and present. Dead, diseased, and broken branches are also much more visible when the leaves are not present.

The colder months create an opportune time for tree pruning to minimize the risk of insect and disease issues. Pruning can of course be done at other times, with extra precautions taken, but for certain species and threats winter is most ideal. For oak trees and elm trees, oak wilt and Dutch elm disease are two devastating diseases that can be transmitted by insects that are attracted to fresh pruning cuts; insects that are usually not active from about mid October to the end of March. Other trees that can benefit from winter pruning is the Rosaceae family which includes apples, pears, plums, and other fruit-bearing trees. The pathogens that infect many of these trees with diseases like black knot and fire blight, are usually dormant in the winter.

Another reason for performing tree work during the winter months is the minimization of turf and landscape impact. We do lay mats down to mitigate damage from machinery, regardless of the time of year; but the colder weather provides a harder, sturdier ground that is more resilient to damage from limbs or equipment.

The winter months are preferable for certain job sites such as public parks, golf courses and street tree pruning, just to name a few, because there are typically less pedestrians, which improves concentration, reduces distractions, lowers danger, and creates a safer and more effective work environment overall.

As you can see, there are many beneficial scenarios to have tree work performed in the winter! To request a quote from our trained arborists call or text us at 757.645.5609