How to Prepare Your Trees for Spring Growth in St. Cloud, MN

May 05, 2025

Every season involves different levels of residential tree care, but spring is especially important. As a season of renewal and growth, it presents the perfect opportunity to provide your trees with the nutrients, maintenance, and support they need to flourish. From pruning and fertilizing to watering and more, Ludivig Tree Service explores what homeowners in St. Cloud, Minnesota, should keep in mind before and during the spring season.

Before You Start Spring Tree Care

As winter fades and temperatures begin to rise, trees start shifting from dormancy to active growth. To give your tree the best chance of thriving, it’s essential to start with a little preparation. While the weather is still warming up, these early steps help set the stage for healthy spring growth:

  • Inspect for damage. Before trees start to bud or sprout leaves, visibility is at its best, meaning it’s the perfect time to inspect for damage caused by winter conditions. Check for cracks in the bark, signs of disease, rot, or insect activity. Catching these issues now means they can be addressed before they jeopardize spring development.
  • Take care of tree pruning. Early spring pruning can encourage robust growth, allow better air and light circulation, and reduce the risk of disease. Focus on removing any dead, diseased, or damaged limbs, and thin out overcrowded areas. This not only improves structure but also enhances the overall vitality of your tree.
  • Clean up dead debris. Over the winter, branches, twigs, and leaves can accumulate around the base of your tree. Cleaning up this area can help reduce the risk of pests and other problems. It will also ensure easier access when you’re handling fertilization and other spring tree care.

How To Encourage Tree Growth

Now that you’ve gotten the preparation out of the way, it’s time to get started with tree care that promotes growth. Here are just a few tips to get you started:

  • Provide your tree with fertilizer. Nutrients are integral to your tree’s health, strength, and longevity. Spring is often the ideal time for applying fertilizer, but it’s important to get the appropriate blend for your tree. A professional arborist can help determine the right formula, ensuring your tree gets the best possible start to the growing season.
  • Lay out fresh mulch. Mulching improves soil quality, retains moisture, and helps suppress weed growth. It’s a good idea to apply a layer of up to 4 inches of fresh mulch, being careful not to let it touch the trunk. You’ll typically want to mulch after fertilizer application, but this can vary, so you should always double-check with tree care professionals.
  • Establish a consistent watering schedule. Spring weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to monitor soil moisture and water as needed. Mature trees may not require frequent watering, but consistency is key. Newly planted trees will benefit from more regular hydration to help establish strong root systems.

Get Tree Services in St. Cloud, MN

When it comes to tree care, you never want to leave anything to chance. With expertise and trusted input, Ludivig Tree Service can make sure your tree has everything it needs to flourish. As certified arborists, we can assess your tree’s health, advise you on care, and implement much-needed treatments for young and mature trees alike. Backed by 45 years of experience, we offer tree inspections, corrective trimming, planting, fertilizing, and much more. We make it easy for you to enjoy the leafy green oasis of your outdoors!

Contact Us Today

Get reliable tree care from our experts in St. Cloud, MN. To receive a quote or learn more about our services, simply contact Ludivig Tree Service today.