Winter Tree & Lawn Care in North Texas

How to Protect, Prevent, and Prepare During the Cold Months

Winter in North Texas is unpredictable. While temperatures are generally mild, sudden freezes, ice storms, strong winds, and extended dry periods can all take a toll on your landscape. Trees, in particular, are vulnerable during the winter months and require proactive care to prevent long-term damage.

This guide focuses on winter tree care in North Texas, with additional tips for maintaining healthy lawns during dormancy.

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Why Winter Tree Care Is Critical in North Texas

Unlike northern climates, North Texas trees do not experience long, consistent cold periods. Instead, they face:

• Rapid temperature swings

• Freeze–thaw cycles

• High winds and occasional ice accumulation

• Dry winter soil conditions

These factors increase the risk of limb failure, root stress, and disease development. Proper winter tree maintenance helps prevent storm damage, encourages healthy spring growth, and reduces costly emergency removals.

Winter Tree Care Tips for North Texas

This quarter is all about Protect, Prevent, and Preparation

1. Dormant-Season Tree Pruning

Winter is one of the best times to prune trees in North Texas.

Benefits of winter pruning:

• Removes dead, damaged, or weak limbs before storm season

• Improves tree structure and airflow

• Reduces stress on trees before spring growth begins

  
  

Focus on removing crossing branches, limbs with narrow angles, and any branches hanging over homes, driveways, or sidewalks. Avoid excessive pruning on spring-flowering trees until after blooming.

2. Inspect Trees After Cold Fronts & Storms

North Texas cold fronts often arrive with strong winds or ice. After each event:

• Look for cracked or split limbs

• Check for hanging branches that could fall later

• Inspect tree trunks for new cracks or peeling bark

Early detection allows for corrective pruning before further damage occurs.

3. Protect Tree Roots From Freeze Damage

Did you know tree roots are far more sensitive to cold than branches?

How to protect roots:

• Apply 2–4 inches of mulch around the base of trees

• Keep mulch several inches away from the trunk

• Mulch helps regulate soil temperature and retain moisture

  
  

This is especially important for young or newly planted trees common in newer North Texas developments.

*Picture courtesy of Texas Tree Foundation

4. Water Trees During Dry Winters

Even in winter, trees in North Texas need water.

Winter watering guidelines:

• Water during extended dry periods when temperatures are above freezing

• Focus on deep root watering rather than surface soaking

• Newly planted trees may need more frequent watering

  
  

Dry soil combined with cold temperatures can lead to root damage and decline.

5. Watch for Winter Tree Diseases & Pests

Some pests and diseases overwinter in tree bark or soil.

Common concerns in North Texas:

• Scale insects on oak and ornamental trees

• Borers preparing to emerge in spring

• Early planning for oak wilt prevention

  
  

Winter tree inspections help identify problems before they become severe in warmer months.

Winter Lawn Care in North Texas

Support Dormant Turf Without Causing Damage

Most North Texas lawns—Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine—go dormant in winter, but they still need basic care.

Lawn Protection Tips:

• Avoid foot and vehicle traffic on frozen grass

• Water lawns during prolonged dry periods

• Continue mowing as needed until growth stops

Prevent Weeds Before Spring

Late winter is the ideal time to apply pre-emergent weed control to prevent crabgrass and other summer weeds from taking hold.

❄️ Winter Storm Prep in North Texas ❄️

Before a Freeze or Ice Event:

• Inspect trees for weak or overextended limbs

• Remove dead branches near roofs, fences, or power lines

• Water trees 24–48 hours before a hard freeze (when temps allow)

After the Storm:

• Check for hanging or cracked limbs

• Schedule professional pruning if damage is present

• Avoid climbing damaged trees yourself

Professional Tree & Lawn Care in North Texas

Serving Denton County Homeowners & Businesses

Winter is the safest and most effective time to assess tree structure, remove hazards, and prepare for spring growth.

If you’re unsure about the health or safety of your trees, winter is the best time to schedule a professional evaluation. Expert care ensures your trees are protected, properly pruned, and prepared for the challenges of North Texas weather.

Serving Denton County and surrounding North Texas communities.

👉 Schedule Your Winter Tree Inspection today with Gallo Tree Services & Landscape

Why homeowners call us in winter:

• Reduce storm damage risk

• Improve tree health before spring

• Avoid emergency tree removal later