March 12, 2026
As winter begins to fade and longer days return, trees prepare for one of the most important phases of their year — the growing season. While spring brings fresh leaves and renewed energy, the best time to support healthy growth often comes before that growth begins. At New Urban Forestry, we believe thoughtful preparation leads to long-term success. Planning tree care services ahead of the growing season helps promote vigor, reduce the likelihood of failure, and establish a predictable tree management plan.
Structural Pruning
Structural pruning is important to schedule before the growing season. During dormancy, arborists can clearly see a tree’s structure without leaves obscuring problem areas. This allows for precise pruning that improves form, removes weak branch attachments, and supports stable growth.
Removing branches which are dead, damaged, or are poorly attached before spring helps trees direct resources to permanent and desirable branches. It also reduces the likelihood of limb failure during storms later in the year.
Trees that appear stable during calm weather may behave differently once spring and summer storms arrive. In cases where clients need additional information to quantify the level of risk for a tree, NUF can help! A formal Tree Risk Assessment is administered by an ISA Certified Arborist who is Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ).Tree risk assessments are designed to provide a standardized method for evaluating the likelihood of tree failure and the potential for injury to people or damage to property.
There are three different levels for Tree Risk Assessments and the appropriate level depends on the scope of inspection, the location/ targets involved, the condition of the tree(s) and the client's risk tolerance.
Fortunately, Athens and the surrounding communities were spared of widespread tree damage in the two winter storms we experienced. However, they may have caused damage that’s not obvious without a trained eye. Cracks in the trunk, weakened limbs and root failure can take time to show visible symptoms.
Scheduling a follow-up inspection before spring growth begins allows arborists to identify lingering issues and recommend appropriate care. Addressing storm-related concerns early helps prevent additional stress on trees during the growing season.
Spring is busy, and demand for tree services increases quickly. Planning ahead ensures better scheduling flexibility and more thoughtful decision-making.
Long-term tree care planning may include establishing pruning cycles, monitoring specific trees, or coordinating services over time. Having a plan in place helps align tree care with broader landscape goals, establish a budget and in turn reduce the likelihood of unexpected expenses in the coming months.
At New Urban Forestry, we view tree care as a partnership. Our goal is to help our clients to be informed, supported, and confident in their decisions all the while giving trees the care they need to thrive.
By addressing key services before the growing season, you create a foundation for healthier trees and more resilient landscapes throughout the year. Please give us a call to set up an appointment with one of our friendly and knowledgeable Certified Arborists today to learn more about NUF and how we can improve your Urban Forest to ensure their health for generations to come. As always, Athens is better with trees and trees are better with New Urban Forestry.
