Caring for your trees is not a one-time task. Just like lawns or flowerbeds, trees require year-round attention to ensure their long-term health and beauty. Understanding how trees respond to the changing seasons and adapting your care routine accordingly is key to helping them thrive. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for seasonal tree care in Tennessee and explain how proactive maintenance can make all the difference.
Spring is the season of new growth. After a long, dormant winter, your trees awaken with fresh energy—but they’re also at their most vulnerable.
The first step to spring tree care is conducting a thorough inspection. Look for:
If any structural damage is evident, reach out to a certified arborist for professional assessment.
Spring is a great time for light pruning to remove dead or damaged branches. Be cautious not to over-prune, especially as new buds are forming. Removing diseased limbs early helps prevent further infection.
Add a fresh layer of mulch around the base of your trees, taking care not to pile it against the trunk. Organic mulch regulates soil temperature and moisture. A slow-release fertilizer will also support new growth during the active season.
Keep an eye out for common Tennessee tree pests like aphids, bagworms, and borers. If you spot signs of infestation, schedule treatment immediately to avoid long-term damage.
The heat and humidity of a Tennessee summer can put significant stress on trees, especially younger or newly planted ones.
Deep, infrequent watering is ideal for trees. Water at the root zone early in the morning to prevent evaporation and fungal growth. Pay special attention during droughts.
Replenish mulch as needed to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Remember, mulch should form a ring, not a mound, around the tree’s base.
Summer is a prime time for fungal diseases like powdery mildew, anthracnose, and root rot. Keep a lookout for discolored or spotted leaves and contact a tree care specialist at the first sign of trouble.
Summer storms can bring high winds and heavy rain. Check for unstable branches and consider tree cabling and bracing to reduce the risk of storm damage.
Fall is all about preparing your trees for the winter months ahead. This is the time to strengthen their defenses and reduce the risk of cold-weather stress.
As leaves fall, you’ll get a clearer view of your tree’s structure. Remove any weak or crossing limbs that could break under the weight of snow or ice.
Fallen leaves and dead branches can harbor pests and diseases. Rake regularly and dispose of any diseased material.
Give your trees a thorough watering before the first freeze. Moist soil holds heat better and helps roots survive colder temperatures.
Late fall is an ideal time to apply a balanced fertilizer. Nutrients will be stored in the roots and used for a healthy start in spring.
Fall is a great time to plant trees in Tennessee due to the cooler temperatures and adequate rainfall. Be sure to choose native species and consult with a local arborist.
Though tree growth slows in winter, your trees still require care to stay healthy and safe.
Use tree wraps to prevent frost cracks or sunscald on young trees with thin bark. These wraps also help deter rodents.
Heavy snow and ice can break limbs, especially on trees with a dense canopy. After storms, inspect your trees and remove any broken branches promptly.
Winter is the best time for major pruning, especially for deciduous trees. Without leaves, it’s easier to assess the tree’s structure and make clean cuts. This also reduces the risk of disease transmission.
Deicing salts used on roads and sidewalks can harm tree roots and soil. Use salt alternatives when possible, or create barriers to protect root zones.
Whether you notice issues or not, having a certified arborist inspect your trees annually can catch potential problems early and save you money down the line.
When pruning or caring for trees yourself, use sanitized tools and follow proper techniques to avoid causing unnecessary stress or injury to the tree.
Stay proactive. Spotting symptoms early can mean the difference between minor treatment and major tree loss. For more examples of warning signs, check out our article on 10 Signs Your Tree Needs Professional Attention.
We regularly publish helpful seasonal tips on our tree care blog. Be sure to follow along for the latest expert guidance specific to East Tennessee.
Every season in Tennessee brings its own challenges and rewards when it comes to tree care. At Pree’s Tree Specialists, our certified arborists understand the unique conditions of East Tennessee and provide custom care to ensure your trees stay healthy all year long.
Whether you're dealing with storm damage, planning preventative maintenance, or just want to keep your property beautiful, our tree service in Greenback, TN has you covered.
For expert tree maintenance and personalized service, contact us today to schedule an inspection or seasonal care plan tailored to your landscape.