As the year winds down in Hampton Roads, it’s easy to lose sight of your landscaping while you focus on the holidays. But dormant growth and increased visibility of tree structure make this time of year ideal for assessment and preventive care. Carve out a little time for your trees now to help protect your home during any upcoming winter storms.
Here’s your Year-End Tree Maintenance Checklist:
1. Inspect Trees for Structural Issues
Here’s what you want to look for:
- Cracks in the trunk
- Significant leaning
- Areas of decay or hollowing
- Exposed roots
If anything looks suspicious, have a certified arborist evaluate the risk.
2. Look for Dead or Hazardous Branches
Dead or weakened branches are more likely to break during storms, posing a risk to your home, vehicles, and family. The Arbor Experts team can safely remove hazardous limbs while keeping your trees healthy.
3. Check for Pest and Disease Activity
Even in cooler months, common Hampton Roads issues like fungal infections and boring insects can still be a problem. Look for:
- Discolored needles
- Oozing sap
- Sawdust-like material around the trunk
- Black spotting or unusual growth patterns
The sooner a problem is detected, the more likely the tree can be saved.
4. Clear Debris from Around Tree Bases
Pine needles and leaves accumulate heavily during fall. A thin layer of this mulch is healthy, but too much can trap moisture and cause decay.
Aim for a 2 to 3-inch layer, keeping it pulled away from the trunk.
5. Protect Trees from Winter Stress
Young trees sometimes need extra protection as temperatures drop. Consider adding a layer of mulch before hard freezes and wrapping sensitive trunks.
6. Plan Ahead for Major Work
Now is the time to plan for that work you’ve been putting off. Winter and early spring are ideal times to schedule larger services because trees are dormant and visibility is improved. Arbor Experts specializes in handling very large trees safely and efficiently.
Start the New Year Safely
Whether you need seasonal pruning or large pine removal, the Arbor Experts team is here to help.
Contact Arbor Experts at 757-500-8733 (call or text) or submit an online request for a free evaluation. We’d love to help keep your trees – and home – safe and healthy for the year ahead.
