Trees are living organisms that respond to their environment, especially the shifting conditions brought by seasonal change. In North Texas, extreme weather, variable rainfall, and a wide variety of pests and pathogens present year-round challenges. Understanding how the needs of your trees evolve from season to season is essential for maintaining their health and beauty.

At Texas Tree Surgeons, we take a holistic and proactive approach to tree health care. Our Certified Arborists offer seasonal care plans that are tailored to your landscape, tree species, and soil type. Let’s walk through the unique pressures and opportunities presented by each season and how to care for your trees year-round.

Spring: Awakening and Growth

As days grow longer and temperatures warm, trees exit dormancy and begin a new season of growth. Spring is the ideal time to:

• Conduct soil testing and apply fertilizers to correct nutrient deficiencies
• Perform structural pruning, especially for oaks before Oak Wilt season (avoid pruning Feb-June)
• Apply preventative treatments for diseases like anthracnose and pests such as aphids or caterpillars
• Mulch to conserve soil moisture and regulate root temperatures

Spring is also the time to monitor for early signs of pests and diseases. Our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plans focus on proactive inspections and the use of targeted, low-impact treatments to reduce risk and protect beneficial organisms.

Summer: Heat Stress and Pest Pressure

North Texas summers can be brutal, with prolonged heat and drought stressing even mature trees. Summer tree care should prioritize:

• Deep, consistent watering, especially during dry spells
• Early morning irrigation to reduce evaporation
• Mulching to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Monitoring for common pests such as borers, aphids, mites, and webworms
• Diagnosing and managing summer diseases like powdery mildew, cankers, and blights

Trees under heat stress are more vulnerable to insects and pathogens. That’s why our holistic approach includes soil care, watering plans, and precise applications by licensed TDA applicators who follow all state guidelines.

Fall: Transition and Preparation

As trees slow down and prepare for dormancy, fall offers a vital opportunity for restoration and protection:

• Prune dead or damaged branches to reduce disease and storm hazards
• Apply compost and organic matter to improve soil health
• Fertilize to replenish nutrients depleted during the growing season
• Plant new trees and shrubs for optimal establishment
• Prepare the root zone for winter by refreshing mulch

Fall is also ideal for clearing fallen leaves that may harbor overwintering fungal spores and pests. Composting fallen leaves can support soil health, but only if disease-free.

Winter: Dormancy and Planning Ahead

Though growth slows in winter, important tree care tasks continue:

• Inspect trees for structural issues while leaves are off
• Prune trees (except oaks) for shape, safety, and clearance
• Protect young or sensitive trees from freeze damage with wraps or covers
• Continue deep watering during dry periods to prevent root desiccation
• Remove fallen branches and dead wood to reduce disease spread

Winter also provides an excellent window to assess your landscape and plan treatments for the year ahead. Soil amendments, root collar inspections, and dormant season sprays can all be part of a strategic plan to ensure healthy spring growth.

Year-Round Tree Health Tips

No matter the season, the following best practices help maintain healthy trees:

• Adjust watering schedules to match seasonal needs
• Monitor soil moisture levels to prevent drought or overwatering
• Inspect for pests and diseases regularly
• Remove dead or dying branches as needed
• Apply mulch appropriately for insulation and moisture conservation
• Hire a Certified Arborist for expert assessments and care plans

A Holistic, Customized Approach to Tree Health

At Texas Tree Surgeons, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every tree is different, and so is every landscape. That’s why our Tree Health Care programs are tailored to your trees, their species, the site conditions, and the challenges of each season. From managing Oak Wilt in spring to drought stress in summer and structural pruning in winter, we offer year-round support grounded in science and sustainability.

Let us help your trees thrive through every season

At Texas Tree Surgeons we love trees. We offer different tree health care plans all year long that are tailored specifically to your tree and soil type. There is no one fits all for tree health care and we are proud to provide a holistic approach to tree care.