After months of cold, wind, snow, ice, and fluctuating winter temperatures here in Southeast Wisconsin, spring is finally a welcome sight. But before you settle in to enjoy warmer weather and lush green growth, there’s an important task every homeowner should prioritize: a thorough spring tree inspection.
Why does this matter? Winter can be tough on trees — even if damage isn’t obvious at first glance. By inspecting your trees now, you can catch winter-related issues early and set your landscape up for a strong, healthy growing season.
Winter stress comes in many forms. Beyond the dramatic cracks or “exploding tree” sounds you might have heard (what arborists call frost cracks caused by rapid temperature swings), there are several subtle — yet potentially serious — impacts on tree health and structure.
During winter:
Freeze-thaw cycles put pressure on trunks and branches, leading to bark splits and internal stress.
Heavy snow and ice loads can break limbs or weaken branch attachments.
Wind, saturated soils, and root stress can loosen roots or cause trees to lean.
Salt damage from nearby roads or driveways may affect roots and early season growth.
Damage like this doesn’t always heal on its own and can lead to bigger problems during spring storms when trees leaf out and limbs become heavier.
Spring inspections are all about seeing what winter may have hidden and taking action before problems worsen. With leaves just beginning to emerge, you have a unique opportunity to assess tree structure and health from top to bottom.
Here’s why it’s so important:
Look for cracks, splits, or bark damage — especially vertical cracks that may have developed over winter. These are not just cosmetic; they can allow pests, decay, and disease to enter the tree.
Broken or hanging limbs can pose safety hazards to people and property. These branches might only become apparent once the snow melts and foliage begins to hide them again.
Fungal growth, unusual discoloration, or holes in bark can indicate disease or insect activity — problems that get worse during the growing season if not addressed early.
Winter heaving and freeze-thaw cycles can stress roots and disrupt soil. Check for leaning trees, exposed roots, or soil disturbance around the base, all of which point to potential instability.
You can start with a basic visual check from the ground, but for a comprehensive assessment, it’s always best to work with a certified arborist. Still, here are some key things to scan for:
Trunk integrity: Any visible cracks, bark separation, or callus formation.
Branches: Missing bark, dead or hanging limbs, weakened attachments.
Tree shape: Any leaning or uneven canopy growth.
Base and roots: Soil heaving, exposed roots, or fungal growth around the stump zone.
Signs of stress: Unusual early leaf drop, bud die-back, or leaf discoloration.
If you notice any of these, consider having a professional take a closer look. Some tree damage might not be obvious until it’s too late — especially under spring winds and storms.
This is where a certified arborist assessment is critical. From the ground, a crack might look minor — but internally, the damage can be significant.
You don’t need to tackle every inspection yourself. A certified arborist can:
Conduct a detailed structural risk assessment
Recommend pruning to remove hazardous limbs
Provide treatment plans for disease or pest issues
Suggest corrective care like cabling or bracing when needed
At Dunbar Tree Service, we’ve seen firsthand how winter stress can quietly weaken even mature trees. Early intervention not only helps protect your property but can also extend the life and beauty of your trees throughout the growing season.
Spring is a time of renewal — not just for your garden, but for your trees too. By inspecting for winter effects now, you set the stage for strong growth, fewer emergencies, and years of healthy canopy for shade and beauty.
If you’d like a professional spring tree inspection or want help identifying any of the issues discussed here, give us a call. We’re here to help your landscape thrive.
— Chris Dunbar
