Mature trees are more than just landscape features—they’re living landmarks. With their expansive canopies and deep root systems, they provide shade, beauty, wildlife habitat, and even boost your property’s value. In fact, well-placed older trees can increase home value by up to 15%.
But these giants of the landscape don’t maintain themselves, especially during the fall and winter months. As trees age, their needs change—and if neglected during dormancy, they become vulnerable to structural failure, disease, and premature decline.
That’s why fall and winter are crucial seasons for proactive mature tree care. Here’s what you need to know—and how Master’s Tree Care Experts helps homeowners in Lee’s Summit preserve these irreplaceable natural assets.
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Why Do Mature Trees Need Special Attention in Fall and Winter?
Much like aging humans, older trees require a little more TLC to stay strong and safe. Even though they’ve stood the test of time, they’re less resilient to environmental stress, have slower recovery rates, and are more vulnerable to pest infestations, soil problems, and physical damage.
Key challenges older trees face during dormancy:
- Weakened limbs from years of growth
- Soil compaction from decades of foot traffic or construction
- Root exposure due to erosion
- Delayed wound healing, increasing risk of infection
- Decreased energy reserves, limiting their ability to recover from injury
Fall and winter offer a perfect time to address these issues because the tree is dormant—meaning stress from pruning or treatment is minimized.
What Fall and Winter Care Do Mature Trees Need?
Caring for mature trees during their dormant season helps strengthen them ahead of spring growth. With the leaves gone and growth slowed, arborists can perform detailed inspections and safe maintenance that supports longevity and stability.
1. Dormant Season Pruning
- Removes dead, diseased, or overextended limbs
- Reduces risk of winter storm breakage
- Improves structural balance and light penetration
- Minimizes pest and disease exposure
Important note: Mature trees should be pruned cautiously—often no more than 10% of the canopy. Let our ISA Certified Arborists at Master’s Tree Care Experts handle it with precision and care.
2. Bracing and Cabling
- Supports weak or heavy limbs that could split under snow or ice
- Prevents catastrophic limb failure
- Extends the life of trees with compromised structure
Older trees that have developed included bark or previous storm damage are prime candidates for bracing, especially ahead of winter weather.
3. Mulching and Root Zone Protection
- Insulates roots from freeze-thaw cycles
- Reduces water loss in cold, dry conditions
- Improves soil structure and biodiversity
- Protects root flare from mower or snowplow injury
A 2-4 inch ring of mulch, placed 3 inches away from the trunk, offers crucial winter protection. For mature trees, mulch should extend as far as the canopy’s dripline whenever possible.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Caring for Mature Trees?
Mature trees are irreplaceable. A 70-year-old oak or maple takes decades to grow but only a season of neglect or one ice storm to irreparably damage. Proactive care helps avoid expensive removals and keeps your property safe.
Benefits include:
- Preserved property value – A healthy mature tree is worth thousands.
- Increased safety – Pruning reduces falling limb risks.
- Lower energy costs – Proper canopy maintenance improves shade and windbreak performance.
- Improved curb appeal – A thriving old tree makes a stunning focal point.
By caring for mature trees now, you ensure their stability and beauty for years to come.
Why Choose Master’s Tree Care Experts for Mature Tree Maintenance?
Our team doesn’t just cut branches—we care for living structures with deep respect for their history and potential. With over 20 years of experience, we understand the nuances of geriatric tree care, from structural assessments to soil rehabilitation.
We are:
- Fully licensed and insured
- Specialists in hazardous and storm-damaged tree management
- Experts in ISA and ANSI pruning standards
- Locally owned and trusted by Lee’s Summit homeowners
Whether your tree needs strategic pruning, cabling, soil care, or just a winter check-up, we’ll develop a customized care plan to protect and extend its life.
Schedule a Winter Tree Check-Up Today
Don’t let your most valuable landscape features decline due to inattention. Fall and winter are the perfect seasons to give your mature trees the support they need—so they can flourish come spring.
Call Master’s Tree Care Experts today at (913) 909-9768 or schedule your consultation online. Our certified arborists are ready to help you preserve the health, beauty, and safety of your mature trees.
Healthy trees are happy trees—and the right care in winter makes all the difference.