New Year, New Approach: Essential Preventative Tree Maintenance Tips for Your Property

Starting a new year is the perfect time to rethink how you care for the trees on your property. Healthy trees add beauty, shade, and value to your home, but they require regular attention to thrive. Preventative tree maintenance helps avoid costly damage, supports tree health, and keeps your landscape safe and attractive. The Maryland Licensed Tree Experts at Arundel Tree Service are ready to guide you through the best practices that will keep your trees strong for years to come.

Healthy oak tree with well-maintained branches

Why Preventative Tree Maintenance Matters

Trees face many challenges throughout the year, from weather extremes to pests and diseases. Without proper care, small problems can quickly become serious. Preventative maintenance focuses on early detection and intervention to:

• Reduce the risk of falling branches or tree failure

• Improve tree health and longevity

• Enhance the appearance of your property

• Protect nearby structures and power lines

• Save money by avoiding emergency tree services

  
  

Taking a proactive approach means your trees will be better prepared to withstand storms, drought, and other stresses.

Key Preventative Tree Maintenance Practices

Regular Inspections

Schedule routine inspections at least twice a year, ideally in early spring and late fall. Look for signs such as:

• Dead or dying branches

• Cracks or splits in the trunk

• Fungus or mushrooms growing near the base

• Leaning or unstable trees

• Insect infestations or unusual leaf discoloration

  
  

If you notice any of these issues, contact a licensed tree expert to assess the situation.

Proper Pruning Techniques

Pruning is essential to remove deadwood, improve structure, and promote healthy growth. Follow these guidelines:

• Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches promptly

• Thin crowded branches to increase air circulation and light penetration

• Avoid topping or excessive pruning, which weakens trees

• Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts

• Prune during the dormant season to reduce stress on the tree

  
  

The Licensed Tree Experts at Arundel Tree Service can help with all you pruning needs.

Soil Care and Mulching

Healthy soil supports strong roots and overall tree vitality. Maintain soil health by:

• Testing soil pH and nutrient levels every few years

• Applying mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature

• Avoiding piling mulch against the trunk, which can cause rot. This is sometimes referred to as a "Mulch Volcano", it can be fatal to trees long term.

• Watering deeply during dry periods, especially for young trees

  
  

Mulch should be spread in a 2-4 inch layer extending to the tree’s drip line.

Pest and Disease Management

Early identification of pests and diseases prevents widespread damage. Common issues in Maryland include:

• Emerald ash borer affecting ash trees

• Aphids and scale insects

• Fungal infections like powdery mildew, Hypoxolyn Canker

• Spotted Lantern Fly (Invasive and new to our area, but at record highs in the last 12 months.

  
  

Use integrated pest management strategies such as:

• Encouraging beneficial insects

• Applying treatments only when necessary

• Removing infected branches promptly

  
  

Consult with tree care professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment plans.

Protecting Trees from Construction Damage

Construction activities can harm tree roots and trunks. To protect your trees:

• Install protective barriers around the root zone before work begins

• Avoid soil compaction by limiting heavy equipment near trees

• Do not store materials or dump waste near trees

• Plan construction to minimize root disturbance

  
  

Preserving root health is critical for tree stability and nutrient uptake.

Seasonal Tree Care Tips

Winter

• Inspect for broken branches after storms

• Avoid salt damage by using alternatives near trees

• Water trees during dry spells if the ground is not frozen

  
  

Spring

• Prune dead branches before new growth starts

• Fertilize if soil tests show nutrient deficiencies

• Monitor for early signs of pests and diseases

  
  

Summer

• Deep water during hot, dry periods

• Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds

• Watch for heat stress symptoms like leaf scorch

  
  

Fall

• Remove fallen leaves to prevent fungal growth

• Prepare trees for winter by watering well before the ground freezes

• Schedule major pruning after leaf drop

  
  

When to Call Maryland Licensed Tree Experts

Some tree care tasks require professional knowledge and equipment. Contact Arundel Tree Service if you need:

• Large tree pruning or removal

• Emergency storm damage cleanup

• Diagnosis and treatment of complex diseases

• Soil and root care beyond basic maintenance

• Tree planting advice for your property

  
  

Our Maryland Licensed Experts bring experience and safety to every job, ensuring your trees receive the best care.