Tree Care Tips & Resources
Expert advice from DeLand's certified arborists. Learn how to protect, maintain, and care for the trees on your property year-round.
Seasonal Tree Care Guide
Florida's climate has its own rhythm. Follow these season-by-season tips to keep your trees thriving all year round.
Summer Tips
- Water deeply 1–2 times per week during dry spells — aim for the root zone, not the trunk.
- Mulch around the base (2–4 inches) to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Avoid heavy pruning in summer heat; limit removal to dead or hazardous branches.
- Watch for pest activity (bark beetles, aphids) during peak heat months.
Spring Tips
- Early spring is ideal for structural pruning before new growth emerges.
- Inspect for winter damage — look for cracked bark, broken limbs, and frost heave.
- Apply a slow-release fertilizer once soil temperatures rise above 50°F.
- Remove any hazardous limbs before storm season begins.
Fall Tips
- Fall is an excellent time to plant new trees — cooler temps reduce transplant stress.
- Rake and remove fallen leaves promptly to prevent fungal disease buildup.
- Deep-water trees before the ground freezes to strengthen root systems.
- Have an arborist assess limb weight before winter ice and wind loads arrive.
Winter Tips
- Dormant pruning in winter reduces stress and minimizes disease transmission.
- Brush heavy snow from branches gently — never shake frozen limbs.
- Protect young trees from frost cracking by wrapping trunks with burlap.
- Avoid applying de-icing salt near tree root zones — it damages roots and soil.
Warning Signs Your Tree Needs Attention
Catching problems early can save both your tree and your property. Know what to look for and when to call a certified arborist.
Dead or Dying Branches
Branches with no leaves during growing season, brittle wood, or bark that peels off easily signal decline. Remove dead branches promptly to prevent falling hazards.
Leaning Trunk
A sudden lean (not gradual growth lean) after a storm or heavy rain suggests root failure. This is an emergency — the tree may fall without warning.
Fungal Growth at Base
Mushrooms or conks growing from roots or the lower trunk often indicate internal decay. Have a certified arborist evaluate the structural integrity.
Cracks or Splits in Bark
Deep, vertical cracks or areas where bark has separated from wood can indicate lightning damage, disease, or structural weakness.
Sparse or Discolored Canopy
Yellowing leaves outside of fall, early leaf drop, or a noticeably thinner canopy than previous years may point to nutrient deficiencies, root issues, or disease.
Exposed or Damaged Roots
Heaving soil around the base, circling surface roots, or roots damaged by construction can compromise stability and long-term health.
Not sure if your tree is safe?
DeLand Arborist offers professional tree risk assessments. Our ISA-certified arborists will evaluate your trees and provide clear, honest recommendations. Schedule a free assessment →
Professional Tree Services in DeLand
When DIY tips aren't enough, our certified arborists are ready to help. Explore our full range of tree care services.
Tree Trimming
Regular trimming improves structure, promotes healthy growth, and removes hazardous limbs before they become a problem.
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Tree Removal
Safe, efficient removal of dead, diseased, or hazardous trees using professional equipment and techniques.
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Stump Grinding
Complete stump removal below ground level, eliminating tripping hazards and preventing pest infestations.
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Emergency Tree Service
24/7 response to storm damage, fallen trees, and dangerous situations threatening your home or safety.
Learn MoreFrequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions homeowners ask most about tree care.
Ready to Talk to a Certified Arborist?
DeLand Arborist's ISA-certified team is here to answer your questions and assess your trees with honest, professional advice — no pressure, no upselling.
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