Helpful hints for encouraging your trees to break out of dormancy.
Helpful hints for encouraging your trees to break out of dormancy.
We’ve just made it through another winter in Wisconsin! Is there anything I can do to assist my trees as they wake up from dormancy? Here are some Helpful hints for encouraging your trees to break out of dormancy.
Trim & Prune before Budding
Spring is an ideal season for pruning trees and shrubs in Wisconsin. By cutting back dead or unnecessary branches now, you can effectively shape the growth of new ones. While most species thrive with a trim in late winter or early spring, some may do better with a trim in the summer or fall. Additionally, early pruning of fruit trees can result in a healthier and more plentiful harvest. If you’re unsure which trees and shrubs would benefit from a spring trim, feel free to reach out to Johnson Ops Tree Care for assistance, one of our ISA Certified Arborists can meet with you and go over your concerns.
Remove Winter Wraps
Although an early April snowstorm can still happen in Wisconsin, the worst of the winter weather is likely over. If you have young or newly planted trees, you may have them wrapped. It’s crucial to remove tree wraps, as they can trap condensation and moisture from melting ice and snow. This excess moisture can harm your young trees, leading to rot or the development of tree diseases.
Mulching
Young trees and shrubs may also benefit from spring fertilization to encourage rapid growth during these optimal growing conditions. Most trees only require a springtime fertilization once every two to three years while young.
Applying a first layer of mulch to your trees and shrubs in early spring is a fantastic idea. Mulching is often underestimated, yet it plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy root system. Many people opt for breathable landscape fabrics, which facilitate proper gas and water exchange while helping to prevent weed growth. It’s best to avoid using plastic sheeting beneath your mulch, as it can lead to root suffocation.
Need an assessment of your landscape? We’re here to assist! Reach out to Johnson Ops Tree Care for a thorough evaluation of your outdoor space.
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