In Sacramento and Roseville, winters may be milder than in other regions, but that doesn’t mean your trees can be left unchecked during the colder months. Winter is a crucial time for maintaining the health and structure of your trees. Without proper care, your trees may be more vulnerable to storm damage, pests, or diseases when spring arrives.
Read on for the most important winter tree care tips to help protect your landscape and ensure your trees are ready to thrive year-round.
Why Winter Tree Care Matters In Northern California
Even without snow, winter in Northern California brings rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations that can impact your trees. Dormant trees are more receptive to pruning, and winter conditions also make it easier to identify structural issues without dense foliage blocking your view.
Proactive care during this time can prevent property damage, improve tree health, and set the stage for a productive growing season in the spring.
Tree Pruning During Dormant Season
Why Winter Is Ideal For Pruning
Winter is one of the best times to prune trees. Since most trees are dormant, trimming limbs puts less stress on the tree. Pruning also helps eliminate dead or weak branches that could break off during winter storms.
In Sacramento and Roseville, winter pruning also gives your certified arborist a clearer view of the tree’s branch structure. This makes it easier to identify potential hazards and improve overall form.
What To Prune
- Dead, damaged, or diseased branches
- Overgrown or crossing limbs
- Low-hanging branches that interfere with walkways or driveways
- Dense areas that block light or airflow
Always leave major pruning tasks to trained professionals to avoid improper cuts or damage.
Winter Tree Inspections
It’s important to schedule a professional tree inspection during winter. A certified arborist can evaluate your tree’s health, stability, and structural integrity.
During an inspection, they may check for:
- Cracks in limbs or trunks
- Signs of disease or pest activity
- Root issues or soil compaction
- Risk of falling branches
These inspections help you address small problems before they turn into serious issues.
Protecting Young & Vulnerable Trees
Newly planted trees and certain species are more sensitive to winter conditions. Adding mulch around the base of your trees can help insulate the root zone and retain moisture during dry spells.
For extra protection:
- Avoid pruning too aggressively
- Water trees during extended dry periods
- Prevent weed growth around the base
- Avoid piling mulch against the trunk
Covering small or young trees during extreme weather can also shield them from potential damage.
Avoiding Overwatering & Soil Saturation
Winter rains can oversaturate the soil and lead to root stress, especially in areas with poor drainage. If you notice standing water near the base of your trees, reach out to a certified arborist to assess drainage solutions.
At the same time, don’t forget to water if there are long stretches without rain. Even in winter, your trees need occasional hydration to stay healthy.
Prepare For Spring With Preventative Treatments
Winter is the ideal time to apply dormant oil sprays, fungus suppression applications, and systemic soil drenches that prepare trees for the growing season. These treatments help control overwintering insect eggs and fungal diseases like leaf curl and anthracnose.
Talk to your arborist about a custom plant health care plan to keep your trees protected and thriving.
Partner With Tree Care Inc. For Winter Tree Services
Tree Care Incorporated proudly serves Sacramento and Roseville with expert pruning, inspections, and seasonal plant health services. Our certified arborists follow ANSI A300 pruning standards and are committed to keeping your trees safe and healthy all year long.
Whether you need a routine inspection or a full winter maintenance plan, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your winter tree care service.
