Homeowners have a lot going on, and tree care usually isn’t front of mind. If a tree looks like it’s going to become a hazard, then that’s when the majority of people start thinking about tree removal services.
After removing a tree, it can take decades for a replacement tree to reach the same height, size and beauty, while providing less shade along the way.
But what if there was a better way for your trees, that could extend their life, increase the value of your property, and only remove them when it’s absolutely necessary? It’s not just knowing when to trim or maintain a tree, but also how. Every tree and property is different, but we’ll tell you all about it below.
Need help maintaining your trees in the Hudson Valley? Call us at Expert Tree Service; our number is 845-331-6782.
Winter (December – February): The Safest Time for Tree Removal
Winter is an ideal time for tree removal. The trees are dormant, the frozen soil minimizes wear and tear from equipment on your property. If your garden surrounds the tree, you won’t have to worry about branches damaging nearby plants during the work. It’s also much easier to bring in equipment when there aren’t delicate blooms in the way.
You’ll also have more time to move dormant plants that could end up getting too much sunlight once the tree is gone. And by scheduling the work in early winter, you’ll stay ahead of any major snowstorms.
Spring (March – May): Perfect for Pruning & Growth Checks
In the spring, trees and homeowners alike begin to awaken from dormancy. As people head outside into their yards, it is the perfect time for pruning and assessing your trees’ health after months of snow, wind, and ice.
Winter storms can cause invisible structural stress, cracked limbs, or weakened joints. Early spring pruning helps remove damaged branches before new growth starts, allowing the tree to channel its energy into healthy development. It’s also the best time to shape younger trees and improve airflow within mature canopies.
However, timing is key; avoid pruning early bloomers such as dogwoods or ornamental cherries until after their flowers fade, to ensure a full bloom season. As temperatures rise, keep an eye out for local pests emerging early, including gypsy moths, woolly adelgids, and aphids, which can quickly spread through weakened trees.
Summer (June – August): Light Trimming and Pest Prevention
The emphasis in the summer is on maintenance and vigilance. Your trees are in full growth mode, which means your goal should be light trimming, not major cuts. Heavy pruning during this time can stress the tree and make it vulnerable to pests and disease.
Instead, focus on thinning out small branches for better airflow, sunlight, and aesthetics, especially around walkways, roofs, or power lines. Inspect your trees regularly for signs of distress, such as wilting leaves, brown edges, or dead limbs that didn’t recover from spring growth.
Summer droughts are common in the Hudson Valley, so consistent deep watering is critical. Consider adding mulch (without piling it up into a dreaded mulch volcano) around the base of trees to retain soil moisture and prevent root damage. This is also an ideal time for tree feeding services, replenishing the nutrients that heat and dry soil can deplete.
Fall (September – November): Hazard Prep Before Winter Storms
Fall is the Hudson Valley’s final opportunity to prepare for the harsh winter ahead. As leaves drop and branches become more visible, it’s the perfect time to remove weak or diseased limbs that could snap under heavy snow or ice.
This is also the best season to schedule cabling and bracing services, especially for older or structurally compromised trees. Supporting vulnerable limbs now can prevent breakage and expensive damage later.
Finally, add a fresh layer of mulch around the base of trees to insulate roots and lock in moisture before the freeze sets in.
And remember, if winter storms do strike, Expert Tree Service offers 24/7 emergency storm response throughout Ulster, Greene, Dutchess, and Columbia counties.
When It’s Too Late to Wait
Some tree problems can’t wait for the right season. If you notice leaning trunks, hollow sounds when tapping the bark, mushrooms or fungus growing near the base, or cracking soil around roots, these could be signs of serious internal decay or instability.
Ignoring these red flags can lead to property damage or injury if the tree fails during a storm. When in doubt, give us a call at 845-331-6782.