Winter can be a challenging time for trees, especially when temperatures drop and storms bring snow, ice, and wind. Proper care during this season is essential to maintaining the health and safety of your trees and property. At Westcoast Tree Care, we understand how vital winter care is for your landscape. That’s why we’d like to guide you through the do’s and don’ts of winter tree care in Bellevue, Washington, to ensure your trees thrive when spring arrives.
Do Inspect Your Trees Regularly
Winter offers a unique opportunity to assess the health of your trees. With the leaves gone, you can clearly see the structure of branches and identify potential hazards like cracks, deadwood, or weak limbs. Regular inspections help catch problems early, preventing costly damage during storms. At Westcoast Tree Care, our certified arborists can assist in evaluating your trees and determine the best course of action to keep them safe and healthy.
Don’t Ignore Deadwood
Dead or dying branches are particularly vulnerable during winter storms. The weight of snow and ice can cause these branches to snap, potentially harming your property or loved ones. Ignoring deadwood can also lead to pest infestations and disease, which may spread to other parts of the tree. Removing deadwood promptly not only enhances the safety of your property but also supports the tree’s overall health.
Do Prune Trees During Dormancy
Winter is one of the best times for tree pruning. Trees are dormant during this season, which means pruning causes less stress and promotes healthy growth in the spring. Removing weak, damaged, or overgrown branches now allows your tree to focus its energy on developing strong, vibrant foliage when the weather warms up. At Westcoast Tree Care, our certified arborists know how to prune correctly to encourage healthy growth and maintain a tree’s natural shape.
Don’t Overprune
While winter pruning is beneficial, overpruning can harm your tree. Removing too many branches or cutting too close to the trunk can weaken the tree, making it susceptible to disease and environmental stress. It’s essential to strike the right balance, which is why hiring a professional arborist is recommended. At Westcoast Tree Care, our certified arborists understand how much to prune and where to cut to preserve the tree’s health and stability.
Do Protect Roots from Freeze Damage
Roots are the foundation of a tree’s health, and they’re just as vulnerable to winter conditions as branches. Applying mulch around the base of your trees helps insulate the roots and maintain soil moisture. A layer of mulch also prevents the soil from freezing and thawing repeatedly, which can damage roots. Be sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to avoid trapping moisture that could lead to rot.
Don’t Pile Snow Against Tree Trunks
After shoveling snow, it might seem convenient to pile it around your trees, but this can do more harm than good. Snowbanks around trunks can trap moisture and create the perfect environment for fungal growth and pests. Additionally, road salt, often mixed with snow, can seep into the soil, harming the tree’s roots. That’s why it’s important to keep snow piles away from your trees to avoid these issues.
Do Address Ice Dangers Safely
Ice can build up on branches during winter storms, increasing the risk of breakage. While it’s tempting to knock ice off with a pole or tool, doing so can cause additional damage to the tree. Instead, let ice melt naturally or consult a professional arborist for safe removal. At Westcoast Tree Care, our certified arborists have the expertise and equipment to handle icy conditions without harming your trees or risking personal injury.
Don’t Forget About Gutter Maintenance
Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which may freeze around your trees’ base and create hazardous conditions. Frozen water near the roots can disrupt the tree’s access to oxygen and nutrients. Keeping your gutters clean during winter not only protects your roof but also helps maintain a healthy environment for your trees.
Tree Care in Bellevue, Washington
Caring for your trees during winter requires attention to detail and an understanding of their unique needs. At Westcoast Tree Care, we specialize in helping Bellevue, Washington, homeowners protect their trees and properties during the colder months. Whether it’s pruning, deadwood removal, or assessing storm damage, our certified arborists are here to ensure your trees remain healthy and safe year-round. Contact us by filling out our online form or calling 1.800.767.8733 for a no-cost, no-obligation quote, and let us help you keep your landscape in excellent condition this winter.
