Spring Tree Care Checklist for Athens, GA Homeowners
Spring is the most important season for Athens tree care. The actions you take in March and April set up your trees for the whole year. Here's the checklist we recommend to every Athens homeowner.
1. Inspect every tree from the ground
Walk your property. Look at each large tree. Note any dead branches, fungi, cracks, leans, or recent storm damage. Take photos for comparison next year.
2. Complete dormant pruning by mid-March
Late winter pruning windows close fast. By April 1 in Athens, you should be done with major pruning of oaks and most deciduous trees. After that, wait until next year.
3. Mulch properly
Apply 2–3 inches of mulch in a ring around each tree out to the drip line (where possible). Keep mulch a few inches AWAY from the trunk — 'mulch volcanoes' kill trees. Good mulch retains moisture, regulates temperature, and slowly feeds the soil.
4. Check for sucker growth and water sprouts
Remove suckers growing from the base of the trunk and water sprouts (vertical shoots from branches). These drain energy from the tree.
5. Watch for spring pests
Aphids, scale insects, and tent caterpillars all show up in Athens in spring. Early intervention is much easier than late.
6. Schedule needed work before storm season
May–September is Athens storm season. Get hazard tree removals, cabling, and major pruning done in spring before the first severe weather.
7. Plant new trees now
March is the best time to plant new trees in Athens. They have a full growing season to establish before next winter.
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