How to Maintain Evergreen Trees and Shrubs Year-Round

Spring Care

Spring is the time of new growth. It is easier to see any damage from winter.  

• Inspect for Winter Damage: Find brown or dead branches, broken limbs, or disease. The snow and winter winds can break or dry up.  
• Light Pruning: This is the time for mild pruning. Removing dead or damaged branches enables the plant to focus energy on new growth. To choose the right gear, explore tree trimming tools for homeowners guide.
• Fertilizing: Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring. For more guidance on picking the right product, check out best fertilizers for evergreen trees.
• Watering: Spring is the season when it might rain, though it can be dry, so provide deep watering. Water is not supposed to reach only the surface of the root zone.

Summer Care

Summer can be hard on evergreen tree care, especially young or newly planted ones.

• Keep Soil Moist: Soil must remain slightly moist, not water-logged. Rather than small daily watering, deep watering once or twice a week is normally excellent.  
• Mulching: 2 -3 inches of mulch assists the soil in retaining water and keeps it cool. Weeds are also competing for nutrients, and mulch suppresses them. Nevertheless, mulch is not to come in contact with the trunks or stems.  
• Pest Monitoring: Pests such as mites, scales, and bagworms are more prevalent during the warm months. Regular checks help identify problems early. Pest infestations can be prevented by removing broken branches or applying harmless remedies.  
• Light Shaping If Needed: There are evergreen hedges and fast-growing summer shrubs. A gardener can do light trimming to maintain the shape, but heavy trimming is discouraged because it can cause stress. If you’re unsure which tool to use, this guide to choosing the best tree pruner covers types, features, and tool maintenance.

Autumn Care

The fall (autumn) is when evergreens are prepared for winter.  

• Deep Root Watering: As it gets colder, plants require vigorous roots that are well-moisturized. An intensive pre-winter watering is beneficial for evergreens to endure winter dryness.  
• Add Fresh Mulch: Fresh mulch will cover the roots and keep them warm against the cold, and it will also prevent the soil from drying out too quickly. It also covers the ground on freezing nights.  
• Clean Around the Plant: Fallen leaves or debris should be removed to prevent disease-causing organisms from growing in wet materials.  
• Fall Fertilizer: Fall fertilizer benefits root development in some types of soil. If you’re focusing on shrubs, see this guide to the best fertilizers for healthy shrubs for timing and product tips.

Winter Care

Evergreens should be cared for during winter, particularly during extreme or seasonal weather.

• Roots Protection: Mulch is extremely essential. It prevents rapid soil freezing and preserves roots.
• Water on Warm Days: The evergreens lose water in winter. When it is not frozen, one can water on a hot day to prevent dehydration.
• Cover Young Plants: Use burlap or provide windbreaks for young trees and shrubs to protect them from strong winter winds. It prevents water loss and frost damage.
• Clear Heavy Snow: Snow can bend or break down branches. Snow should be brushed or broomed off. You should not destroy ice by knocking on it, as this can damage the branches.

DIY vs Hiring Trees and Shrub Maintenance Professionals

Many evergreen care tasks are simple and can be done by a homeowner with basic tools. Others may require special training or equipment.

DIY Evergreen Care

Self-care may involve:

• Mulching and watering.
• Light trimming of shrubs of small size.
• Basic inspection for pests and diseases.
• Raking and sweeping of the plants.

For thicker or higher branches that hand pruners can’t handle safely, consider using a pruning saw. This guide to the best pruning saws for trees and shrubs explains which type to choose for clean, safe cuts.

Hiring Tree and Shrub Professionals

Professional arborists and tree or shrub care companies bring expert knowledge and safe equipment. They understand local climates, common pests, and proper pruning methods for different evergreen species. Many also offer seasonal programs that include fertilizing, disease control, and structural pruning.

When to Hire Trees and Shrub Maintenance Services

One way to make sense is to call a professional service at a certain moment. Some examples include:

• Tree Is Too Tall or Hard to Reach: It may be unsafe to climb or cut high branches.
• Major Pruning Is Needed: Some evergreens require a special method to prevent damage. Professionals are aware of the extent and timing of the cut.
• Plant Shows Serious Health Problems: When needles turn brown, branches wither, or you notice strange insects, a pro can easily identify the problem and fix it.
• Storm Damage Has Occurred: Hanging or broken branches are not very safe to take down without the use of skill and equipment.
• Landscape Needs Long-Term Planning: Workers can design large hedges, install privacy screens, and enhance landscaping.

Get a professional tree service in your location today to take care of your landscape. A year-long shrub will assess your plants, address issues at their early stages, and provide the right care for your plants based on the season.

The Bottom Line

Care for evergreen trees and shrubs throughout the year keeps them simple and regular, and, as a result, healthy and bright. Treat in spring, shield in summer, prepare in fall, and preserve roots in winter. The homeowners can handle simple tasks on their own, though year-round shrub maintenance experts are recommended for heavy pruning, tall trees, or severe plant issues.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.