January is a great time to prune trees for shape before the spring growing season begins. It is much easier to redirect limbs away from your roof and power lines now, before they cause damage. This is also a great time to remove dead branches and broken wood. Cooler weather lessens the risk of disease and causes less stress. For deciduous trees, it is much easier to see the lines of the tree.

February is a good time to visualize the best for your yard. Call us for planning suggestions and to order trees for spring planting. We can help you map out your space and choose plants to create the results you want, whether for privacy, wildlife, shade, or beauty.

March means that spring is arriving. This is the appropriate time to determine whether fertilizer is needed to aid spring growth. We can test your soil for nutrients and pH levels to determine whether fertilizer is needed and help ensure the best possible spring for your plants.

April: Spring has sprung. Spring is one of the best times to plant new trees as most root growth occurs during the spring and fall. If you are a rural resident, be sure to ask us about Defensible Space, before the forest fire season begins. Plant a tree for Earth Day, April 22nd.

May: Check your plants to ensure that they are not being attacked by insects or mites. These pests can cause considerable damage if left unchecked. Look particularly for discolored, splotchy and partially consumed leaves.

June: If you need to water your lawn, resist the temptation to do it in the evening. Soil moisture that remains too long provides the ideal conditions for fungal growth. Water your lawn during the morning. Your plants will thank you for it.

July: If you planted trees or plants in the last few months, examine them carefully to ensure they are receiving the water they need. A slow, deep watering for trees is best because it helps them establish a deeper root system, which will greatly benefit the tree.

August: It’s hot here in central Texas, and there is little relief outside. This is forest fire season. Make sure you have roof and power line clearance. For rural residents, if you didn’t call us during April about Defensible Space and protection from forest fires, now is a good time to do so.

September: The weather is cooling off some and this is good time to think about planting again. Call us for suggestions and to order trees for fall planting. Now is also a good time to evaluate your trees for damage during the summer. Dead limbs, trunk decay and nesting holes are tell-tale signs of a potentially hazardous tree. While a healthy tree is a great asset, a diseased or dying tree can be a scary liability. Our ISA certified arborists can help you determine how to manage a damaged tree, and remove the minimum amount necessary for your well being.

October: Depending on soil moisture, this is the time to start planting trees and working on landscaping projects. Remember, native trees and plants such as live oaks and Texas persimmon are hardier and require less work and money in the future, as well as more beneficial to wildlife.

November: Call us for some free mulch to spread in your yard and around your trees. Be sure the mulch is not up against the trunk which can spread diseases and provide a convenient place for rodents to nest.

December: Now is a good time to celebrate another year with your trees and to evaluate the years growth. Work with our ISA certified arborist to determine your trees’ needs.