How to Get Your Trees Ready for Winter and Spring in Central Texas

Preparing your trees for winter is one of the most important — and most overlooked — steps homeowners can take to protect their property and improve tree health in spring. In Central Texas, winter tree care looks different than in colder climates, but the risks are just as real.

A little proactive maintenance now can prevent storm damage, disease, and expensive removals later.

Below is a practical, season-by-season guide to getting your trees ready for both winter protection and strong spring growth.

Why Winter Tree Prep Matters in Central Texas

While winters here are generally mild, Central Texas trees still face several seasonal threats:

• Sudden hard freezes

• Heavy winds and winter storms

• Drought stress from dry soil

• Oak wilt transmission risks

• Weak or overextended limbs failing under stress

Winter is also one of the best times to inspect and prune trees because growth has slowed and structural issues are easier to see.

Step 1: Inspect Trees for Structural Problems

Before winter storms arrive, walk your property and look for:

• Dead or dying limbs

• Cracks in major branches

• Limbs hanging over roofs, driveways, or power lines

• Trees leaning or showing exposed roots

These issues are far more likely to cause damage during winter wind events.

Tip: If a limb looks questionable now, winter weather will only make it worse.

Step 2: Prune Strategically (Timing Matters)

Proper pruning helps trees withstand winter stress and prepares them for spring growth — but timing is critical.

Best winter pruning practices:

• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches

• Reduce weight on long, overextended limbs

• Improve airflow through dense canopies

Important oak tree note:

In Central Texas, oak pruning should generally be avoided during oak wilt season unless absolutely necessary. If pruning is required, cuts should be sealed immediately.

Professional tree trimming ensures pruning is done safely and at the right time for each species.

Step 3: Water Before Freezes

This surprises many homeowners, but dry soil makes trees more vulnerable to freeze damage.

Before a hard freeze:

• Water trees deeply (especially younger trees)

• Focus on the drip line, not the trunk

• Avoid overwatering saturated soil

Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil and helps protect root systems.

Step 4: Mulch to Protect Roots

Mulching is one of the easiest ways to protect trees during winter.

Benefits of mulch:

• Insulates roots against temperature swings

• Retains soil moisture

• Reduces weed competition

Apply 2–4 inches of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Step 5: Avoid Heavy Fertilizing Before Winter

Late-season fertilizing can push new growth that’s vulnerable to cold damage.

Instead:

• Skip fertilizing in late fall and winter

• Plan nutrient support for early spring once trees exit dormancy

This helps trees focus energy on root health rather than fragile new growth.

Preparing Trees for Strong Spring Growth

Winter prep isn’t just about protection — it sets the stage for spring.

By late winter or early spring:

• Trees with proper pruning grow more evenly

• Root systems are healthier and better hydrated

• Pest and disease risks are reduced

• Trees recover faster from winter stress

This results in fuller canopies, stronger limbs, and fewer emergency issues once storms return.

When to Call a Professional Tree Service

Some tree care tasks are best left to professionals, especially when safety is involved.

You should call a professional if:

• Limbs are near structures or power lines

• Trees show signs of disease or decay

• Large limbs need removal

• You’re unsure about proper pruning timing

Professional tree care helps prevent costly damage and protects the long-term health of your trees.

Final Thoughts

Getting your trees ready for winter and spring doesn’t require drastic action — just smart, timely maintenance. A few preventative steps now can save thousands in storm damage and removal costs later.

If you’re unsure about the condition of your trees or want expert guidance, scheduling a professional evaluation is a smart move.