As winter fades and warmer weather returns, it’s time to turn your attention to your trees. The cold, snow, and ice can take a toll on even the healthiest trees, leaving behind damage that isn’t always obvious at first glance. Performing a spring tree health check is one of the best ways for homeowners to catch potential problems early — before they turn into costly issues later in the year.
At Tree Green MD, we’ve spent over 50 years helping homeowners in Naperville, Downers Grove, St. Charles, and beyond assess their trees after winter and ensure they’re healthy and ready for the growing season. Here’s a simple guide on what to look for — and when to call in the experts.
1. Check for Signs of Winter Damage
Winter in the Naperville area can be harsh, and trees often show the effects once spring arrives. As you walk your property, check for:
- Broken branches or limbs caused by heavy snow or ice.
- Cracks in the trunk that may have formed due to extreme cold or fluctuating temperatures.
- Bark damage from animals that feed on trees in winter when food is scarce.
Even if your tree looks fine from a distance, small cracks or damaged limbs can become entry points for pests and diseases once temperatures warm up. A professional tree health assessment from Tree Green MD can catch these problems early and help protect your tree before further damage occurs.
2. Look for Early Signs of Disease
Spring is prime time for tree diseases to emerge, especially after a damp, unpredictable winter. Check for:
- Discolored or spotted leaves as new growth emerges.
- Fungal growth or strange textures on the bark or branches.
- Dead or dying branches that failed to produce buds.
Common spring diseases in our region, like fire blight, anthracnose, and apple scab, can spread quickly if left unchecked. Early identification allows for targeted treatments to stop the spread and protect the overall health of your trees.
3. Examine the Soil and Root Zone
Healthy trees start from the ground up. After winter, your soil could be compacted from snow or foot traffic, which limits water and oxygen flow to the roots. Take a close look at the area around your trees for:
- Exposed roots, which could indicate erosion or soil displacement.
- Poor drainage, which can lead to root rot.
- Excess weeds that may compete with your trees for nutrients.
Spring is also the perfect time to refresh your mulch, which helps insulate the soil, retain moisture, and protect roots from temperature swings. If you’re not sure about your soil’s health, Tree Green MD can provide a soil analysis as part of our tree health assessment.
4. Watch for Signs of Stress from Past Seasons
Trees often carry stress from one season into the next — and stressed trees are more vulnerable to disease and pests. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Stunted growth or weak, undersized leaves.
- Sparse foliage, especially at the top (crown) of the tree.
- Early leaf drop, even before summer heat arrives.
If your trees experienced drought stress or suffered from insect infestation last year, they may need extra plant health care this spring to help them recover fully. Our certified arborists at Tree Green MD can develop a customized care plan to protect your trees and set them up for a successful growing season.
5. Call a Professional for a Full Health Assessment
While homeowners can spot obvious problems, some issues are harder to detect without trained eyes. A professional tree health assessment from Tree Green MD includes:
- A visual inspection of the branches, trunk, foliage, and soil.
- Checking for signs of pests, disease, and structural weaknesses.
- Recommendations for treatments, pruning, fertilization, or other care to address existing problems and protect the tree’s future health.
Our ISA certified arborists have the experience and tools to assess even subtle signs of trouble, giving you peace of mind that your trees are ready to thrive.
Call us Today
Your trees are a valuable part of your property, providing beauty, shade, and environmental benefits. Starting the season with a spring tree health check ensures they have the proper care they need to stay healthy and avoid problems down the road.
If you’re unsure about your trees’ health or spot any signs of damage, contact Tree Green MD for a professional assessment. We proudly serve homeowners in Naperville, Downers Grove, St. Charles, Wheaton, Winfield, Glen Ellyn, and beyond. Let our team of certified arborists help your trees get off to a strong, healthy start this spring!
