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7 Ways You Can Prepare Your Trees for Spring Rain

Close-up view from the ground of rain falling on pavement

Spring is a time for growth and renewal but also a time for rain. Trees do need water to thrive, but too much can impact their health. When you have long periods of constant rain, that rain can fill the pores in the soil and stop the tree roots from getting the oxygen they need. This can lead to suffocation or root rot. 

More than average rainfall and poorly draining soil can also be a problem for your trees. Too much rain can affect a tree’s ability to continue growing. If your trees struggle to bounce back after heavy rain, you might need to remove them. To avoid these issues, here are seven ways to prepare your trees for the spring rain.

1. Monitor Irrigation

During periods of heavy rain, trees may need less water from irrigation. That means you need to be careful not to overwater them. Overwatering can lead to waterlogging and root rot, hurting a tree’s health. Consider cutting back on irrigation during heavy rain — but remember to turn it back on once the rain stops.

2. Measure Soil Levels & Aerate the Soil

Too compacted soil can prevent water from penetrating down to the tree’s roots. Aeration, which involves creating small holes in the soil, loosens the soil and makes it easier to move. Aeration can help water and nutrients reach the roots because it is easier for them to travel through the looser soil.

If you want to be more technical with your trees, you can also use a soil moisture meter to determine how much water your tree is receiving.

3. Make Sure Trees Are Getting the Water & Nutrients They Need

While natural rainfall usually gives trees all the water they need, it’s important to ensure the rain absorbs down into the roots. During dry periods between showers or storms, check the soil moisture level to ensure your trees get enough water. Also, nutrients can be washed away by rain, so adding fertilizer to be sure your trees are getting the nutrients they need may be a good idea. 

4. Incorporate Mulch

Mulching can help the soil around your trees retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. You can apply a layer of organic mulch (such as wood chips or bark) around the tree’s base. Homeowners need to create a space and be careful not to pile it up against the trunk, which can lead to rot.

5. Pull Up Weeds Regularly

Pulling up weeds regularly around your trees is an essential step in tree care. Weeds can compete with trees for water, nutrients, and sunlight, reducing a tree’s ability to grow and thrive. Weeds also can provide hiding places for pests and diseases that can harm trees.

6. Trim & Prune Your Trees

Removing dead or diseased branches can help prevent them from falling during heavy rain or storms. Trimming and pruning reduce the risk of damage to your property or hurting people. Additionally, pruning can improve airflow and sunlight penetration, which can help air and light get deeper into your tree. 

7. See if Your Trees May Need Bracing & Cabling

Trees with weak or vulnerable limbs may need braces or cables to help protect them and your property. Bracing and cabling is when tree experts support the tree to prevent damage during a storm. A professional arborist can assess your trees and recommend what you need to do to keep your trees safe during spring rains.

Choose Bratt Tree Company for Your Tree Services

Preparing your trees for spring rain is an important step in keeping them healthy. Following these tips will help you ensure your trees get the water and nutrients they need while minimizing the impact of too much rain.

At Bratt’s Tree Service, we’re ready to help you keep your trees healthy this spring. From pruning and removal to bracing and cabling, we’re the Twin Cities-area experts in comprehensive tree services. 

For your next tree consultation in the Twin Cities, contact us today at 612-721-4153.

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Our job is never complete until you are 100% satisfied with our services.

Upfront Pricing

We offer 100% transparent pricing to all our valued customers, so you know what to expect.

Trained Technicians

Our ISA-certified arborists are trained in the most advanced industry tools and techniques.

Commitment to Community

We’ve proudly delivered trusted tree services to the Twin Cities for more than 30 years.

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