From protecting your property against the devastating Oak Wilt fungus to ensuring your trees are structurally sound for spring growth, here is why winter is the absolute best time to pick up the phone and schedule your pruning.
The Critical Shield Against Oak Wilt
In Michigan, the timing of your pruning can literally be a matter of life or death for your Oak trees. Oak Wilt is a lethal fungal disease that spreads through sap-feeding beetles. These beetles are attracted to fresh pruning cuts made during the warmer months (typically April through July).
By pruning in the dead of winter, you eliminate the risk of infection. The fungus-carrying beetles are inactive in the cold, and the tree has ample time to begin the healing process before the pests emerge in the spring. If you have majestic Oaks on your Macomb County property, winter isn’t just a convenient time to prune—it is the only safe time.
Clear Visibility for Structural Integrity
When the leaves are gone, the “skeleton” of the tree is revealed. This gives our arborists at County Tree II a clear, unobstructed view of the tree’s structure. Without foliage in the way, it is much easier to identify:
- Dead, diseased, or decaying branches that pose a safety risk.
- Crossing or rubbing limbs that can create wounds.
- Structural weaknesses that might lead to limb failure during a heavy Michigan ice storm.
Pruning during dormancy allows for more precise cuts, ensuring the tree’s energy is directed toward healthy growth once the ground thaws.
Faster Healing and Reduced Stress
Pruning is essentially surgery for a tree. When you prune in the summer, the tree is actively using its energy for growth and photosynthesis. Cutting into it during this time can cause significant stress.
In contrast, dormant trees are in a state of rest. Pruning during the winter allows the tree to “wake up” in the spring and immediately focus its energy on closing the wounds. This rapid spring healing prevents pests and other pathogens from taking hold in the fresh cuts.
Protecting Your Landscape and Soil
Michigan winters often bring frozen ground, which is a secret advantage for heavy tree work. Tree care involves heavy equipment and foot traffic. In the summer, this can lead to soil compaction and damage to your lawn or flower beds. When the ground is frozen solid, our teams can move more efficiently across your property with minimal impact on your turf and root systems.
Prepare Your Macomb County Property Today
Don’t wait for the spring rush to think about your trees. Taking care of your pruning now ensures your landscape is safe, healthy, and ready to bloom beautifully when the weather turns.
Whether you’re looking to protect your Oaks from wilt or simply want to ensure your trees can withstand the next winter storm, County Tree II is here to help. We provide expert tree services across Macomb, Michigan, with a focus on long-term health and safety.
Contact County Tree II today to schedule a winter consultation and give your trees the professional care they deserve.