Caring for your trees is a year-round task that brings countless benefits to your garden, from boosting its beauty to ensuring the safety and health of your outdoor environment. Each season in the UK presents unique challenges and opportunities for tree care, and knowing what to do at the right time of year can make all the difference.

This guide walks you through essential tasks for every season, helping you to keep your garden thriving no matter the weather.

Spring – Nurturing New Growth

Spring is a time of renewal in gardens, with trees and plants beginning their active growth phase. This season is critical for setting your trees up for success throughout the year.

Pruning for Health and Shape

Pruning in early spring, before trees fully leaf out, allows you to remove dead or damaged branches without harming the new growth. This is particularly important for fruit-bearing trees or species prone to overcrowded branches. At Chartwell Tree Care, our tree pruning services provide expert shaping and thinning, ensuring your trees grow strong and healthy.

Pest and Disease Prevention

Warmer weather brings pests such as aphids and caterpillars. Keep an eye on your trees for signs of infestation or disease. Applying environmentally safe treatments early can help protect your trees from significant damage throughout the active growing season.

Tree Planting Opportunities

Spring is one of the best times to plant new trees in your garden, as the soil is moist and warming up. Ensure the tree has a strong start by choosing a good location, digging a proper hole, and providing adequate water.

Summer – Supporting Vigorous Growth

With long days and plenty of sunshine, summer is when trees grow fastest. By mid-season, your focus should shift to maintenance and protection.

Regular Watering

Trees, especially young ones, need consistent watering during dry spells. Give them a deep soak once a week rather than shallow daily watering to encourage strong root growth.

Mulching for Moisture

Mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulates temperature around the base of the tree. A layer of 5–10cm of organic mulch, such as wood chips, can be applied around the base, avoiding direct contact with the trunk.

Managing Overgrowth

Summer can leave hedges and shrubs looking untidy. Regular trimming keeps your greenery in check. Our hedge cutting services ensure a polished and healthy appearance. For trees that need significant work or thinning, professional assistance can make maintenance easier.

Autumn – Preparing for Dormancy

Autumn is a beautiful season in the UK, as trees shed their leaves in preparation for winter. It’s the perfect time to focus on clean-up and preventive care.

Clearing Debris

Fallen leaves and branches make gardens messy and can encourage pests if left on the ground. Clearing this debris helps keep your trees and garden healthy.

Assessing Tree Health

Once leaves fall, it’s easier to spot structural issues, such as broken branches or signs of disease. Identify trees that may need care or removal before the harsh winter. Our expert tree removal services can safely and efficiently handle problematic trees.

Planting New Trees

While many focus on springtime planting, autumn is another excellent time to plant trees. Cooler temperatures and consistent rainfall help roots establish before the ground freezes.

Winter – Protecting and Pruning

Winter may bring dormancy, but it’s still a vital season for tree care. Proper preparation ensures your trees are ready for the challenges that harsh winds, low temperatures, and heavy snowfall can bring.

Pruning Dormant Trees

Winter is the best time to prune many tree species, as with the absence of leaves, you can easily identify problem areas. Schedule pruning services to remove hazardous branches, promote healthy growth, and shape your trees for the coming spring.

Preventing Frost Damage

Young or delicate trees may need frost protection. Wrapping them with burlap or fleecing materials and applying mulch around the base can help them withstand colder temperatures.

Inspecting for Hazards

Winter storms can increase the likelihood of falling branches. Inspect trees for signs of damage or instability. Our tree surveys provide a thorough assessment of your trees’ health and safety, helping you address risks before accidents happen.

Year-Round Tree Care With Chartwell Tree Care

While each season has its own tree care priorities, consistent maintenance throughout the year ensures the long-term health and beauty of your garden. Chartwell Tree Care offers an extensive range of services to help you care for your trees during every season.

From pruning and hedge cutting to safe stump removals and major site clearance projects, we’re here to handle all your tree care needs in the UK.

Our professional team is equipped to manage all aspects of tree maintenance, creating healthy and attractive outdoor spaces year-round. For advice, assistance, or a consultation, call us on 0800 669 6716 to speak to our friendly experts.

By investing in regular, seasonal care, you’ll enjoy a garden that remains vibrant, safe, and welcoming, no matter the time of year.