Winter puts trees through a lot. When temperatures drop and snow piles up, even the healthiest trees can struggle. By spring, many yards have one or more dead trees. If you spot lifeless branches, it’s time to take action. Getting rid of dead trees is a helpful landscaping tip to know because it keeps the landscaping tidy and protects other plants. Here’s what you need to know about how to deal with dead trees after winter.
Spotting Dead Trees in Your Yard
Look for clues that a tree didn’t survive the winter. Dead trees rarely grow new leaves; this is pretty obvious when surrounding trees turn green again. You might see dry, brittle branches that snap off easily or bark that’s splitting, crumbling, or peeling away. Sometimes, dead wood takes on a silvery gray color or feels hollow if you tap it. If you have doubts, try scratching off a small section of bark with your fingernail. Dead wood stays brown and dry underneath instead of green and moist.
Put Safety First Every Time
Always think about safety before you start hacking away at dead trees. Wear gloves, eye protection, and sturdy boots, even if you’re trimming small limbs. Large dead trees or those close to power lines, fences, or your house create extra risks. Don’t climb a dead tree or use a ladder on unstable ground. If any part of the job feels risky or above your skill level, call a professional tree removal service right away.
Know Your Removal Options
You have options when it comes to removal. If you’re handling very small trees or thin branches, you could tackle the job yourself. Use a sharp pruning saw or loppers to cut the tree into manageable pieces. However, any tree that’s large, leaning, or near important structures is best left to the professionals. Arborists know how to take down these hazards safely and efficiently.
Clean Up After Yourself
Branches and logs can pile up fast once you start cutting. If you want to simplify your landscaping cleanup, rent or borrow a woodchipper. Feed small and medium-sized branches into the chipper to create mulch for your garden beds or walkways. This trick not only gets rid of the mess but also leaves you with a useful byproduct that you can put to work in other areas of your landscape.
Keep Your Landscape Healthy
Dealing with dead trees quickly after winter ends will keep your yard in top shape and stop pests or diseases from spreading to healthy trees. Watch for signs of trouble as spring arrives, and take action early. When you know how to deal with dead trees after winter, you’ll keep your yard looking great and protect your investment in your property. If you notice a problem, don’t wait—book a consultation with a tree professional to give your landscape the best start this spring.
