Pruning, feeding, proper spring care for trees

Growing season is about to begin in Northeast Ohio, so add tree care to your early spring check list and start by taking stock of the trees in your yard. Trees are easy to neglect as they lie dormant in the winter and suddenly begin to sprout leaves as weather warms, but even the hardiest trees will benefit from proper tree pruning and some fertilizer. A little attention now will ensure full, healthy trees for the summer.

Take the next sunny day to check your trees, identify them and learn a bit about their needs. If you aren’t sure, ask a professional. Fruit and shade trees should be pruned and fertilized now, before spring growth begins. You also should fertilize evergreens, including spruces, pines, cedars and arborvitae, before new growth appears.

Wait on trimming your spring flowering trees until later in the spring, after they have fully bloomed and spent blooms are dropping off. Prune carefully to shape the tree and use an appropriate fertilizer at this time. Check with a professional for specific needs of your flowering trees, such as magnolias and dogwoods.

Proper tree care in Medina, Ohio, and the surrounding area is key to keeping trees healthy through the summer. Winter storms are hard on trees. Take time to do the following before warm weather hits.

• Inspect your trees for snow and ice damage, including broken and dead limbs and cracked bark. A professional can provide more extensive pruning, tree cabling, or tree removal if necessary.

• Consider having your soil tested before choosing a fertilizer for your trees. Feeding your trees is generally a great idea but identifying the best nutrients and what is lacking from your soil can help you target your trees’ needs.

• Now is the time to treat for infestation or disease. Fungus growth or insect activity should be addressed right away. Discuss insecticide application with a professional, especially if you are treating fruit trees.

• Shaping and pruning of trees should be done while temps are still cool to encourage quick and complete healing. Consider hiring a professional for maximum benefit and health.

GP Tree Service provides a full range of tree services, including tree removal, tree pruning, bucket and crane services, as well as stump grinding and lot clearing. For answers to all your tree care questions in Medina, Ohio, and the surrounding area, contact our professionals today.