1. Inspect Your Trees

Before you start any maintenance, a thorough inspection is vital:

• Look for Damage: Storms over the winter might have left branches broken or weakened. Check for any limbs that could pose a risk of falling.
• Check for Pests and Disease: Look for signs of pests like aphids or scale, or diseases like oak wilt which are more prevalent in spring.
• Soil Condition: Waterlogged soil from heavy spring rains can affect root health; ensure proper drainage.

2. Pruning for Health and Safety

Pruning in spring can be tricky; you want to avoid cutting off new growth but also need to address dead or diseased wood. This is why it's best to call a professional tree expert for trimming. Tree professionals will do the following:

• Remove Dead or Diseased Branches: This prevents the spread of disease and reduces hazards.
• Thin Out Overcrowded Areas: To improve light penetration and air circulation which are essential for tree health.
• Shape for Structure: Consider the tree's natural shape, promoting a strong structure that can withstand future storms.

3. Mulching for Moisture and Nutrient Management

Mulching is a simple yet effective way to care for your trees:

• Apply a Layer of Mulch: Use about 2-3 inches of organic mulch around the base, but keep it away from the trunk to prevent rot.
• Benefits of Mulching: It helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and gradually adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.

4. Fertilization

Spring is a good time to fertilize, but only if necessary:

• Soil Test: Before adding any fertilizer, test the soil to determine what nutrients are lacking.
• Choose the Right Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that matches your tree's needs, especially if you noted deficiencies in your soil test.

5. Watering

With increased spring rains, you might think watering isn't necessary, but:

• Consistent Moisture: Newly planted or young trees might still need supplemental watering if rains are uneven.
• Deep Watering: Ensure water reaches deep into the root zone, which encourages deeper root growth.

6. Pest and Disease Management

Pests and diseases flourish in spring:

• Monitor Regularly: Keep an eye out for signs of pests or early stages of disease.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Consider natural methods first, like encouraging beneficial insects or using organic treatments.

7. Professional Services

Some tasks are best left to professionals, especially if you:

• Have Large or Difficult Trees: Climbing and cutting large branches can be hazardous.
• Need Specialized Care: For diseases like laurel wilt or for arborist advice on specific species.

8. Plan for Future Growth

Think ahead:

• Space for Growth: Ensure trees have enough space as they grow to avoid future structural issues.
• Annual Check-ups: Schedule professional evaluations annually to catch problems early.