Introduction
Spring is finally here—buds are blooming, birds are chirping, and your trees are starting to show signs of life again. But along with that fresh burst of growth, some trees may reveal issues that weren’t obvious over the winter. From pests to dead branches, spring is the time when hidden problems come to the surface. The good news? Catching them early can help you keep your trees healthy all season long. Let’s take a look at a few common spring tree problems—and how to deal with them.
1. Bare or Brittle Branches
Noticing parts of your tree that just aren’t leafing out? That could be a sign of winter dieback, disease, or internal damage.
What to do:
- Check for branches that are brittle, dry, or leafless while the rest of the tree is thriving.
- Snap a twig—if it’s green inside, it’s still alive. Brown and dry? It’s dead.
- Prune away dead limbs to prevent safety hazards and promote healthy new growth.
2. Discolored or Spotted Leaves
Yellow, brown, or curling leaves in early spring usually aren’t normal—especially if the rest of the tree looks healthy. This might be caused by a fungus, nutrient imbalance, or insects.
What to do:
- Remove any infected leaves from the tree and ground.
- Keep an eye on whether the issue spreads.
- If you’re not sure what’s causing it, call in a pro for a diagnosis before applying treatments.
3. Unwelcome Insect Visitors
Spring is also pest season. As trees start to grow again, insects like aphids, borers, and caterpillars show up to snack on tender leaves and bark.
What to watch for:
- Chewed leaves or tiny holes in the bark
- Sticky residue (a sign of aphids) on leaves or on the ground
- Clusters of bugs on fresh shoots or new leaves
What to do:
- Healthy trees are naturally more pest-resistant, so keep them well-watered and mulched.
- Light infestations can often be pruned out.
- Larger problems? Get advice from a certified arborist before reaching for pesticides.
4. Cracks in the Trunk
Sudden temperature swings over winter can leave behind frost cracks—vertical splits in the bark that can grow deeper over time.
What to do:
- Watch for widening cracks or signs of decay.
- Avoid any additional stress on the tree, like bumping it with lawn equipment.
- If the crack looks serious or gets worse, it’s time for a professional inspection.
5. Suckers and Sprouts
Suckers (those shoots growing from the base of the tree) and water sprouts (shoots on branches) can pop up in spring and steal energy from the rest of the tree.
What to do:
- Cut them off as soon as you see them—don’t let them grow.
- Make clean cuts as close as possible to where they’re growing.
- Keep an eye out for regrowth throughout the season.
Conclusion
Spring is a great time to enjoy your trees—but it’s also the best time to catch problems before they turn into major headaches. A little observation and a few smart moves early in the season can make a big difference in how your trees perform through the summer and beyond.
Not sure what you’re seeing in your yard? That’s what we’re here for. At Environmental Advantage, our certified arborists can diagnose tree issues, recommend treatments, and make sure your landscape is set up for success.
Ready for a spring tree check-up?
Contact us today and let’s make sure your trees are in top shape for the season ahead.