Spring is the time when trees leave the dormant state they’ve been in all winter and prepare for the upcoming growing season. Unfortunately, this is one of the most challenging times for them. Pests, diseases, and fungi all want a piece of your vulnerable tree. If you want to see your plants flourish all season, now’s the time to give them extra TLC. We’ve compiled a list of helpful things to keep in mind as you chart your spring tree care plan. 
Spring Tree Care Tips
Start Maintenance Early
Removing dead or dying branches from trees and shrubs helps them maintain their shape, stay healthy, and avoid dangers down the road. The last thing you need is a dead branch falling on your house or car. You’ll want to do this ideally before the leaves have started growing. While these two terms are often used interchangeably, they have slightly different meanings. Pruning helps the tree divert resources away from damaged or diseased branches. Trimming is usually for larger branches – like those that hang too low over a house or garage.
Spring is the ideal time to prune because your plants have not entered full-steam ahead into the growing season. As such, you’ll be able to determine which areas need to be trimmed back more easily. While trimming, be sure to keep an eye out for tree diseases like wilt, cankers, scale, and mildew.
Fertilize, Fertilize, Fertilize
Tree care in Florida, with our sandy soils, requires extra TLC. Unlike our northern neighbors, with heavier clay-based soils, our sandy soil tends to lose nutrients faster. Consequently, fertilizing your trees is an absolute must. At Lawn Master, we’d recommend a foliar fertilizer. This method supplies nutrients directly to the tree’s leaves to encourage growth in roots, stems, and buds. Consequently, your trees will have a greater resistance to diseases and periods of drought. Another method of fertilization is deep-root fertilization. Essentially, a giant syringe is used to inject nutrients into the tree’s root system, which means your tree won’t have to compete for nutrients with garden beds or even the grass. If you have any trees that need an extra boost, this is definitely the type of fertilizer you should choose.
Mulch Around The Trunk
An easy thing you can do to benefit your trees and shrubs is to add a mulch layer around the base. There are several types of mulch, depending on your tree’s needs, but they all help preserve moisture near the delicate root system. This helps trees make it through those hot, dry days of high summer, and you won’t have to water as often. Also, the mulch will smother out grass or weeds that grow too close to the tree. While grass is a desirable feature of any yard, it can compete with the tree’s roots for nutrients if it grows too close to its base. A layer of mulch can also add some aesthetic quality to your yard. Just be sure not to make a “mulch volcano” which will hurt your trees.
Make Sure Your Tree Care Program Includes Pest Prevention
Spring tree care with pest control is only fighting half the battle. Nourishing your trees and shrubs with fertilizer is moot if diseases take hold. Unfortunately, Florida has no shortage of pests, diseases, and fungi. You can usually eradicate them if you take action quickly. There are several options, including dormant oils, granular substances, or liquid treatments. Your technician will be able to help prevent and protect your trees from a variety of pests. 
Tree Diseases And Pests In Florida
- Fusiform Rust
- Chlorosis of the leaves
- Powdery Mildew
- Leaf Spot
- Thousand Canker Disease
- Fire Blight
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Webworms
- Whiteflies
When you notice spots, scales, or pests infecting your trees, you may think your plant is beyond saving. This isn’t necessarily true. If you act quickly, there’s a good chance you can restore the health of your plant. Contacting your local tree care service will ensure the help of a licensed arborist.
Get Tree Care In Pensacola – Call Lawn Master
The expert arborists at Lawn Master will give your trees and shrubs all the care they need to flourish in springtime and beyond. Our multi-step tree and shrub care program provides nourishment through fertilization and protection from the nastiest diseases and pests. To learn more or schedule a treatment, give us a call at 850-476-1601 or contact us online here. Interested in learning more about landscaping? Be sure to read our monthly blog! To discover the latest deals and offers, like our Facebook page!