January tree care and tree service checklist

For homeowners

• Look at your trees after ice or heavy snow. Do not shake or climb a loaded tree. Call a pro for broken or hanging limbs.
• Dormant season is a good time to book pruning, because bare branches show weak spots clearly.
• Keep a safe distance from any limb touching a power line. Call the utility, not a tree company, for downed lines.

For tree crews

• Ice and snow damage calls spike after storms. Keep chains, winter fuel and a clear dispatch plan ready.
• Frozen ground can help heavy equipment get in without rutting lawns. Plan large removals around it.
• Use slow days to service saws, chippers and trucks before spring.

For homeowners

• Winter is a good time to prune many trees, since most are dormant or slow growing.
• Check for dead limbs over the house, since they are easy to see without leaves on deciduous trees.
• Book work early. Good crews fill up fast in late winter.

For tree crews

• Mild weather often means steady work. Keep crews busy with pruning and removals.
• Ice storms can still hit the upper Southeast. Have a storm plan on paper.
• Start spring estimate follow-ups now so your schedule is full by March.

For homeowners

• Heavy snow and ice can break limbs. Stay clear of loaded trees and call a pro for damaged ones.
• Winter is a common time for pruning, since trees are dormant and many insects and diseases are less active.
• Do not pile snow against trunks in a way that damages bark.

For tree crews

• Winter is a common season for removals and dormant pruning in cold climates.
• Ice storm response needs extra crew safety checks. Cold, wet and slippery work raises risk.
• Review insurance, licenses and safety training before the spring rush.

For homeowners

• Dormant pruning is a good fit for many trees in winter. Check with a local arborist about timing for oaks in your area.
• Ice storms can hit the region. Know which limbs hang over your roof or cars.
• Remove dead trees now while the ground is firm and bare branches are easy to inspect.

For tree crews

• Winter is steady for pruning and removals in a mild climate.
• Watch for freezing rain events. They can bring sudden call spikes.
• Plan early for spring storm season and tornado season clean-up.

For homeowners

• Heavy wet snow can bend or snap branches. Do not climb or shake a loaded tree, and stay out from under bent limbs. Call an insured pro for anything damaged.
• Winter is a good time to plan pruning and fire-wise tree work before the dry season.
• Watch for trees leaning after snow loads.

For tree crews

• Snow can limit access. Plan jobs around road and driveway conditions.
• Use the quiet season to sell fire-wise pruning and spring cleanup.
• Check that cold-weather gear and fuel are ready for every crew member.

For homeowners

• Mild winter weather makes this a comfortable time for tree work.
• Dead limbs from summer heat and drought are easy to spot now. Have them checked.
• Ask your pro how to water established trees in a dry winter.

For tree crews

• Winter is a busy season in warm desert areas, when work is more comfortable.
• Sell pruning ahead of spring growth and summer monsoon winds.
• Keep records of dead and hazardous trees you quote, so you can follow up.

For homeowners

• Winter storms and saturated soil can bring trees down. Watch for leaning trees and new soil cracks.
• Call a pro right away if you see roots lifting or a lean that is new.
• Dormant season is a good time to prune many trees in cooler areas.

For tree crews

• Atmospheric river style storms can bring wind and rain events with sudden emergency calls. Have an on-call plan.
• Wet soil makes heavy equipment harder to use. Plan access and ground protection.
• Offer pre-storm checks to customers with tall trees near homes.