Winter Tree Care

Winter in Southern California means cooler temperatures and, crucially, our rainy season. While many trees enter dormancy, this is the most active and important season for arborists to perform structural corrections and preventative care.

What causes the problem? Heavy winter rains combined with high winds put immense mechanical stress on tree canopies. Soils become saturated, reducing root friction and increasing the risk of whole-tree failure for trees with poor structure or heavy end-weight.

Long-term consequences: Ignoring structural defects or delaying pruning until spring can result in catastrophic branch failure during winter storms, potentially causing severe property damage or the loss of a valuable estate tree.

Winter Priorities

• Primary FocusStructural Pruning
• Key ActionStorm Preparation
• Disease RiskOverwintering Spores
• Pest RiskOverwintering Eggs

Structural Pruning

With leaves gone from deciduous trees, arborists can easily see and correct structural defects, crossing branches, and co-dominant stems. Pruning during dormancy also minimizes stress on the tree.

Dormant Sprays

Applying horticultural oils and dormant sprays now smothers overwintering insect eggs (like aphids and scale) and fungal spores before they can emerge in the spring.

Irrigation Management

Turn off automated irrigation systems during periods of heavy rain. Saturated soil combined with continued irrigation leads to root rot and increases the risk of tree failure.

Recommended Services

Winter care focuses on mitigating risk and setting the stage for a healthy, pest-free spring.

• Crown Reduction & ThinningReducing end-weight on long, heavy branches to prevent breakage during winter storms.
• Dormant Oil ApplicationsSafe, effective treatments to eliminate overwintering pests without harming beneficial insects that emerge later.
• Tree Risk AssessmentsEvaluating large trees near homes or structures to ensure they can withstand saturated soils and high winds.