What’s the best time of year for tree services in Brisbane?

There are many different types of services that are necessary for safe and healthy trees, including:

And while some of these services can be carried out at any time necessary (such as plant health assessments, testing and treatments), some of them are better done at particular times of the year, particularly in a hot and sunny climate like Brisbane.

Tree removal

If you have the choice (i.e., if the tree in question doesn’t need to be removed immediately due to a dangerous position), the best time for tree removal is during the colder months. Obviously, a tree can be removed at any time of the year if necessary, but there are some benefits to tree removal over winter.

Trees in winter are typically dormant, with slower growth or leaf loss if they’re deciduous. This makes them easier to work with as they actually weigh less. Plus, it means less leaf litter and fallen branches to clean up afterwards, making the process cleaner and quicker.

As well, any falling limbs occurring from the tree removal are likely to do less damage in winter, as the ground will be harder and any surrounding vegetation is less likely to be active too, meaning less disturbance to other plants, trees and shrubs. And if they are disturbed, they’ll have plenty of time to recover before the spring growing season begins.

Likewise, if you are looking to plant a new tree, a winter removal gives the site time to recover and be prepared for spring planting as soon as possible. Tree roots and stumps can be removed and the soil prepared to encourage new plant or tree growth. And often, tree removal companies will be less busy with emergency tree removals necessary in storm season, so will be able to complete the work more quickly.

Tree pruning and lopping

Trimming and pruning trees is necessary for both safety and aesthetic reasons, and can help trees achieve the right height and foliage volume.

Sometimes, as in the case of accidents, branches will need to be lopped or pruned immediately. But if you have the choice and can plan your tree pruning, the best time to perform these tasks is during winter or early spring. At this time, the tree is either dormant or not growing as much, and will recover better from the pruning. As well, trees are less susceptible to pests and diseases during winter, making it a safer time for trimming.

However, keep in mind that each tree is individual, and what works best for one will not always be best for all. Get in contact with a professional arborist to determine the right course for your tree; they will be able to help you plan and schedule any necessary procedures at the right time for the tree.

Tree planting

For most of Australia, and particularly in the hot, humid climate of Brisbane, the best time to plant trees is during the cooler/wetter months. So that can mean anywhere from late autumn to early spring, depending on the rainfall. Trees are often dormant or growing much slower in winter, so planting them during the colder months won’t interrupt their normal growth cycle. You won’t see much growth in the trunk, branches or leaves during winter; however, the tree roots are still active and performing essential processes. When a tree is planted in winter, the roots will slowly start to grow and expand as they try to absorb water and nutrients, meaning the newly-planted tree will have grown a substantial root network by the time spring (and growing season) rolls around. And there will be fewer pests and weeds around to compete with the tree while it’s establishing itself. Once it’s fully established, the tree can hold its own against weeds much more effectively.

As well, the soil is moister and richer in nutrients during the wetter months, leading to greater uptake of those beneficial inputs. This helps the tree cope better with the acceleration of growth that occurs in the warmer months.

Soil decompaction

Compacted soil is one of the most common causes of declining trees, as water is unable to filter down into the ground. Soil compaction also obstructs the growth and vigour of trees and can lead to stress and decline.

Soil decompaction services are the solution to this common problem, and aerate the problem soil while simultaneously injecting nutrients and fertiliser deep into the ground to improve the overall condition and health of the soil. The best times to carry out this process are during spring and autumn, although late in summer can also work as long as the soil is not waterlogged or bone dry.

Tree relocation

Transplanting can be a traumatic process for a tree, so it’s important to give it the best and most intelligent care during the procedure. This includes choosing the best time of year to relocate the tree.

Again, if necessary, trees can be relocated at any time of the year. But for best results, there are preferred times for relocation if you can afford to wait. For deciduous trees, removal while leaves are absent is the best option for the health of the tree. That means a deciduous tree should be removed in early spring before the leaves start to emerge, or late autumn after leaf drop. Evergreen trees, however, adapt better to transplanting in early spring or late summer – or even early in autumn. Whatever time of year you move a tree, a cool day provides the best conditions for transplanting, as this will help to minimise moisture stress.

When tree services are carried out at the most optimal times, your valuable trees have a greater chance of surviving and thriving – which is something we all want. Consult the experts at Heritage Tree Care for advice and help with all of these tree services and more – we carry out a wide range of tree services all throughout Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Redlands and Toowoomba, and can advise you on the best options for your specific trees: https://www.heritagetreecare.com.au/contact-us/