July 23, 2025
Your trees go through a lot in a year: spring growth, summer heat, fall shedding, and winter storms. If you’re wondering whether your trees are healthy and safe, you’re not alone.
In this guide, we’ll share specific, seasonal tree care tips that help residents of North Mississippi:
- Keep trees strong and healthy all year
- Avoid common seasonal risks
- Catch problems early
- Know when it’s time to call a professional
These are the same tips certified arborists use to keep trees in Tupelo safe and thriving.
Spring Tree Care Tips
Spring is the season of renewal, but it’s also when winter damage becomes most visible. Here’s what to check:
- Look for cracked limbs, split bark, or signs of rot.
- Prune any dead or damaged branches before full leaf-out.
- Add a fresh layer of mulch around the base (but not against the trunk).
- Water deeply if spring rains are low.
Tip: This is the best time to schedule a professional tree inspection.
Summer Tree Care Tips
Tupelo summers can be hot and dry, so it’s important to help trees handle heat stress:
- Check leaves for yellowing, browning edges, or early drop.
- Water less frequently, but soak deeply to reach the roots.
- Avoid heavy pruning during extreme heat, unless it’s a safety issue.
- Watch for limbs growing too close to your home or power lines.
Fall Tree Care Tips
Fall is the ideal time to prep your trees for winter:
- Rake and remove leaves to reduce the risk of fungus or pests.
- Prune after leaf drop to improve structure and visibility.
- Test soil moisture before the first frost. Trees still need water.
- Fertilize if recommended by your arborist based on soil condition.
Winter Tree Care Tips
Cold weather puts stress on trees, especially younger ones. Protect them with these steps:
- Avoid using salt-based deicers near tree roots.
- Wrap young or thin-barked trees to prevent cracking from freezing.
- Perform structural pruning or removals while trees are dormant.
- Watch for ice buildup on limbs that could pose safety risks.
Tree Care Checklist by Season
Here’s a quick-reference table you can use throughout the year to stay on top of seasonal tree care needs:
| Season | What to Do | Why It Matters |
| Spring | Inspect for winter damage, prune dead limbs, mulch, deep water | Prepares trees for healthy new growth and prevents pests or disease from taking hold early |
| Summer | Watch for heat stress, deep water less frequently, avoid pruning during extreme heat | Keeps trees resilient during peak heat and drought conditions |
| Fall | Rake leaves, prune after leaf drop, check soil moisture, apply fertilizer if needed | Builds strength going into winter, helps shape tree structure |
| Winter | Avoid salt, wrap young trees, prune while dormant, monitor ice buildup | Protects trees during freezing conditions and minimizes cold-weather damage |
Warning Signs Your Tree May Be at Risk
Use this quick checklist to spot problems early and prevent damage:
- Cracks in the trunk or large limbs
- Sudden leaning or shifting of the tree base
- Hollow or echoing sounds when tapping the trunk
- Dead branches that don’t leaf out during growing season
- Mushrooms, fungus, or oozing sap at the base of the tree
- Bark falling off in large patches or areas
- Heavy limbs hanging directly over your home, driveway, or power lines
Common Tree Risks in Tupelo
The local climate brings a mix of risks throughout the year:
- Sudden windstorms
- Heavy rain leading to root stress
- Ice accumulation on limbs
If your tree is leaning, has large dead branches, or shows cracking in the trunk, don’t ignore it. It could become hazardous.
When to Call a Tree Care Professional
Call an expert if you see any of the following:
- Hanging or broken limbs
- Fungus or mushrooms at the base
- Large cracks, hollow spots, or trunk wounds
- Trees leaning more than 15 degrees
Certified arborists can spot problems early and offer solutions like bracing, trimming, or safe removal before the issue gets worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my tree is sick or unsafe?
Look for thinning leaves, dead branches, visible cracks, or fungus at the base. If the tree leans or drops leaves early, it may be under stress or dying.
When is the best time to prune?
Late fall or winter is ideal for most trees because they’re dormant and easier to shape. Minor pruning can also be done in early spring if needed.
What is the best tree care routine for healthy trees year-round?
The best routine includes seasonal inspections, pruning during dormancy, watering appropriately for the weather, applying mulch, and checking for warning signs like limb dieback or bark damage. Tailoring your care each season helps trees stay strong, grow better, and resist disease or storm damage.
Do all trees need fertilizer?
Not always. Trees in natural soil often don’t need added nutrients. If your tree seems unhealthy, a soil test or arborist assessment can help decide.
Should I water trees in winter?
Yes, but only during dry spells when the soil isn’t frozen. Deep watering every few weeks can help evergreens and young trees survive.
Can mulching really make a difference?
Absolutely. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect roots. Just be sure to keep the mulch away from the trunk.
Benefits of Seasonal Tree Care
Regular seasonal tree care doesn’t just protect your trees, it offers clear benefits to your entire property. Here’s what you gain by staying consistent year-round:
- Stronger, healthier trees that resist disease and pests naturally
- Lower risk of storm damage during Tupelo’s unpredictable weather
- Longer tree lifespan, reducing the need for costly removals or replacements
- Increased property value with safer, better-looking landscapes
- Peace of mind knowing your trees won’t cause sudden damage to your home, vehicles, or power lines
Whether you’re managing a small backyard or multiple large trees, the right care at the right time pays off long term.
Final Thoughts
Trees are long-term investments. Taking the time to care for them through every season keeps your property safe, your yard beautiful, and your trees healthy for decades.
Not sure what your trees need right now? Garrison McKinney Tree Service is here to help. We serve Tupelo and surrounding areas with expert tree care, inspections, and trusted advice from certified arborists.
Call (662) 498-5393 today for a seasonal tree check-up or visit our website to schedule a free consultation.
