Winter Tips from Qualified Arborists

Many people don’t even think about landscaping or getting their trees inspected until late spring. Winter is cold and most people think more about settling inside with a heater and hot drink than doing any gardening.

Despite the cold, winter is actually an ideal or even vital time to think about your garden, particularly your larger trees. Straight from a qualified tree arborist, here are a few key reasons why it is important to take care of your trees.

Convenience – As the weather warms tree professionals become inundated with jobs as people turn their attention to their garden. By getting a head start on your tree trimming, it is often easier to get any tree servicing done quickly.

Healthier trees – Many deciduous trees are better to prune during winter when they are typically dormant. Not only does this make it easier to see and prune dead or diseased branches, it also reduces the detrimental impact on the tree. Pruning during the dormant season allows trees to heal properly before they start flowering or growing leaves again.

Mulching – Your tree and plants need nutrients all year long, so it is important to talk to a professional as winter starts to discuss any fertilising needs. Winter can also make it easier to spread the mulch while the undergrowth has died off from the warm months.

Safety  – During winter, the weather is often unpredictable and wild which can create more problems for weak or damaged trees. It is important before and after any wild weather that you get a professional to inspect your trees. This will ensure that they are kept in optimal condition, preventing property damage and personal injuries.

The Exceptions  – One of the major exceptions to winter tree pruning is fruiting or flowering trees. Orchards should only be pruned after the crop was picked and flowering trees should be cut back as soon as they drop their blossoms. This is because the tree’s flower buds and budding fruit is set the previous year and any winter pruning can significantly reduce your crop.

During colder months trees are more prone to damage and so keeping up a regular tree service is vital to ensuring your garden is healthy come summer.

While it might seem counter-intuitive to think about tree servicing during the wet and rainy winter, ultimately you will be thankful when your garden is in peak condition for your enjoyment during warmer months.

Call Hollands Tree Services today to arrange for a free quote and advice on 0800 220 990, www.hollandstreeservices.co.nz