The Science Behind Spring Treatment: Why Acting Early Matters Seasonal Care No matter the climate, early spring marks a critical transition period for your landscape. In colder climates, trees and shrubs lie dormant in early spring. It’s easy to overlook the vital processes already underway beneath the surface. While canopies may still appear lifeless, complex biological and chemical systems are beginning to stir underground. As temperatures rise in warmer climates, biological activity accelerates, and trees, shrubs, and turf begin ramping up for the stress of a long, hot season ahead. It’s extremely important to understand the science behind your landscape so you can act quickly in maintaining its vibrance this spring. The Dormant or Growth Advantage As winter fades in colder climates and days lengthen in warmer regions, soil temperatures begin to rise and plants shift into active growth. In cooler areas, once soil warms to around 40°F, roots wake up and begin to breathe more actively, allowing them to absorb nutrients more efficiently. In warmer climates, plants are already reallocating energy to support new growth, with roots steadily absorbing water and nutrients. Early spring creates an important window of opportunity when systemic treatments, applied to the root zone or lower trunk, can be fully absorbed and utilized to help protect against insects and disease. It is also the ideal time for soil boosters that improve nutrient levels, add organic matter, and enhance overall soil health. Applying ArborHealth® fertilizer in early spring provides trees and shrubs with the nutrients they need to jump-start important growth processes. Getting these nutrients in place early helps plants build stronger tissues and proteins, making them more resilient to drought, heat, and insect stress later in the season. ArborKelp® can also be used to stimulate root growth and enhance tolerance to drought, salt stress, and intense sunlight. Starting treatments during this seasonal ramp-up leads to stronger performance throughout the year. The Preventive Power of Spring Treatments As temperatures rise, insect and disease activity increases. Applying treatments before insect eggs hatch or fungal spores grow helps break these cycles early. Your arborist may recommend foliar disease treatments or horticultural oils to target overwintering threats such as scale, aphids, and mites. Starting now often reduces the need for curative measures in summer. Spring is also an ideal time to protect your family and pets from ticks by scheduling tick management solutions. The Science Behind Pruning Pruning away dead, diseased, or hazardous branches helps improve air flow and sunlight reach within the canopy, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases and supports stronger branch structure. Carefully placed cuts also trigger growth hormones at the site, encouraging healthy regrowth and helping to shape a more balanced, resilient tree. The Science of the Soil A vibrant lawn begins beneath the surface. Our lawn care programs start with soil science and a deep understanding of chemistry and biology. We perform soil testing to gauge how well the soil supports microbial activity. Even if nutrients are in the soil, poor structure or low organic content can make it hard for grass to access what it needs. That can lead to thin, patchy growth or weak turf. With the right treatments, you can improve soil texture, boost airflow, and activate the helpful microbes that keep nutrients moving, laying the groundwork for a lush, resilient lawn. Spring applications are particularly effective because turfgrass is entering its most active root growth phase. By aligning treatments with soil test results, you don’t just promote green-up; you build a lawn that’s more resilient to drought, disease, and stress all season long. It’s More than a Treatment; It’s Science Trees live longer than humans. And like us, they thrive with proactive, personalized care. The science is clear: early-season interventions promote resilience, health, and beauty in your landscape year-round. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an expert arborist.