Florida’s subtropical and tropical climate presents unique challenges—and opportunities—for tree care. With high humidity, heavy rains, intense heat, and the threat of hurricanes, trees in the Sunshine State need year-round attention to stay healthy and safe. Here are essential seasonal tree care tips tailored to Florida’s unique environment.
Spring: Prune and Prepare for Growth
Spring is the perfect time to inspect trees for winter damage and prune as needed. Remove dead or diseased branches to encourage healthy growth and improve airflow. This is also the time to fertilize your trees to support the upcoming growing season. Choose a slow-release fertilizer designed for Florida’s soil conditions.
Summer: Hydrate and Watch for Pests
Florida summers are hot and wet. Ensure trees are getting adequate water during dry spells, especially young or newly planted trees. Watch for signs of pests like aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars, which thrive in the heat. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cooler.
Fall: Inspect for Weak Limbs Before Hurricane Season
Fall in Florida is hurricane season. Schedule a professional tree inspection to check for weak limbs, overgrowth, or structural defects. Proper pruning during this time reduces wind resistance and minimizes the risk of storm damage. It’s also a good time to remove any trees that are dead or dangerously leaning.
Winter: Monitor Growth and Plan Ahead
While Florida winters are mild, trees may enter a slower growth phase. Use this time to plan for future planting and maintenance. Winter is also ideal for trimming deciduous trees, as their structure is more visible without leaves. Continue to monitor trees for signs of disease or damage from winter storms.
Year-Round: Hire a Certified Arborist
Working with a certified arborist ensures that your trees are cared for properly throughout the year. Arborists understand Florida’s native and ornamental species and how to protect them from regional threats like hurricanes, root rot, and invasive pests.
Conclusion
Caring for your trees seasonally is one of the best ways to protect your landscape, increase property value, and stay safe during Florida’s unpredictable weather. With proper maintenance year-round, your trees can thrive in any season.
This post was written by a professional at Boozers Property Development. Boozers Property Development specializes in full-service tree care and land management for residential and commercial clients across Hillsborough County and neighboring communities. Our experienced team provides expert tree trimming and removal, detailed stump grinding, thorough land clearing, forestry mulching, and precision brush cutting. From enhancing private yards to clearing expansive plots for construction, we deliver safe, eco-conscious solutions designed to suit Florida’s diverse terrain and climate.
