Signs Your Trees May Not Survive the Winter Without Care

September 10, 2025

Fall is the season when homeowners begin preparing their properties for the cold months ahead. While many focus on sealing windows, checking heating systems, or cleaning gutters, tree care is often overlooked. Trees are resilient, but harsh winter conditions can expose hidden weaknesses. Without proper attention in the fall, some trees may not survive the cold, snow, and ice. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help homeowners recognize the warning signs that indicate a tree needs care before winter arrives.

Cracks in the Trunk

One of the clearest signs of stress is visible cracks in the trunk. These cracks can form due to age, storm damage, or rapid changes in temperature. When water enters the cracks and freezes, the expansion can cause further splitting. Large or deep cracks compromise the tree’s structural stability, making it more vulnerable to breaking under the weight of snow or ice.


Dead or Dying Branches

Branches that are brittle, leafless, or easily snap under pressure may already be dead. These branches pose a significant risk during winter storms, when the weight of ice and snow can cause them to fall. Falling branches endanger people, property, and healthy parts of the tree itself. A fall inspection allows professionals to identify and remove dangerous limbs before they become a hazard.

Signs of Disease or Decay

Fungal growth, peeling bark, or soft, spongy wood are all indicators of disease or decay. A tree weakened by infection has a reduced ability to withstand cold weather and is more likely to suffer structural failure. In some cases, early treatment can help stabilize the tree, but in others, removal may be the safest option. Professional evaluation is essential for determining the right course of action.


Leaning or Unstable Trees

A tree that leans noticeably or shows signs of root upheaval may not survive the winter. Heavy snow and strong winds can worsen the tilt, potentially causing the tree to topple. This is especially dangerous if the tree is close to a home, driveway, or utility lines. Addressing leaning trees in the fall reduces the risk of catastrophic damage during the colder months.

Excessive Leaf Retention

Most trees shed their leaves in autumn, but if a tree is retaining a large number of dead leaves or if its leaves remain discolored and cling to branches, it may be under stress. This condition, sometimes referred to as marcescence in certain species, can signal nutrient deficiencies, disease, or other health issues that make the tree more vulnerable in winter.


Pest Damage

Insects often take shelter in trees during fall and winter, and signs of pest damage may indicate a tree is already weakened. Small holes in the bark, sawdust-like material near the base, or tunnels visible beneath the bark are all signs of infestation. Trees already struggling with pests are less likely to survive harsh winter conditions without intervention.

The Importance of Fall Tree Care

Recognizing these warning signs in the fall gives homeowners an opportunity to act before winter arrives. Professional tree care services can remove hazardous branches, treat disease, or stabilize vulnerable trees. In some cases, removal may be the safest choice to protect people and property. By addressing problems early, homeowners reduce risks and ensure that healthy trees continue to thrive in the spring.


Final Thoughts

Trees are a valuable part of every property, but they require attention to withstand the challenges of winter. Cracks, dead branches, disease, leaning trunks, unusual leaf retention, and pest damage all indicate that a tree may not survive the season without care.

At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we provide expert fall inspections and professional solutions to keep trees safe, healthy, and strong. If you have concerns about the condition of your trees, now is the time to act. With proper care, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your property is protected when winter storms arrive.

Sustainable Tree Care Practices for Modern Landscapes

October 29, 2025
Sustainability in modern landscaping is no longer a trend, it is a responsibility. Trees are among the most valuable components of any outdoor environment, providing shade, clean air, and natural beauty. Yet maintaining them responsibly requires more than occasional pruning or storm cleanup. It means adopting sustainable practices that promote long-term health for trees, the soil that supports them, and the ecosystems they inhabit.

How to Choose the Right Tree Service Company in the Midwest

October 22, 2025
Trees are among the most valuable features of any property, adding beauty, shade, and structure to the landscape. However, maintaining them safely and effectively requires more than a few tools and good intentions. The wrong approach to pruning, removal, or disease management can cause serious damage to both your property and the trees themselves. Choosing the right tree service company is therefore an important decision for every homeowner or property manager. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that informed customers make better choices, which is why we want to help you understand what to look for when selecting a professional tree care provider.

Storm Recovery 101: What to Do When Trees Fall on Your Property

October 15, 2025
Severe storms can arrive with little warning, bringing high winds, heavy rain, and lightning that can cause significant damage to trees. When a tree or large branch falls on your property, it can be overwhelming and even dangerous to handle. Knowing what steps to take in the hours immediately following the incident can make the recovery process safer and more efficient. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we specialize in storm damage cleanup and emergency tree removal, helping homeowners and property managers restore safety and peace of mind quickly after a storm.

How Fall Weather Affects Tree Health in the Midwest

October 7, 2025
Preparing Your Trees for the Season Ahead Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year in the Midwest . Trees turn vibrant shades of red, gold, and orange, transforming neighborhoods into stunning displays of color. Yet, while autumn appears to be a time of rest for trees, it is also a period of significant transition. The cooler temperatures, shorter days, and changes in moisture all influence tree health in important ways. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help property owners understand how these seasonal shifts affect their trees and what care steps can ensure their health through winter and into spring.

The Connection Between Tree Health and Pest Prevention

September 30, 2025
Healthy trees are valuable assets to any property, offering shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. However, when trees become weakened by disease, damage, or poor maintenance, they can quickly attract pests. These infestations not only harm the tree itself but can also spread to surrounding vegetation, threatening the overall landscape. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we emphasize the importance of regular care to keep trees healthy and resilient against pests that are common in the Midwest.

How Proper Tree Care Reduces Liability for Homeowners

September 23, 2025
Owning a home comes with responsibilities that go beyond paying the mortgage and maintaining the interior. The landscape, particularly large trees, can also pose risks if not properly cared for. While trees add beauty, shade, character, and value to a property, neglected or unhealthy trees can quickly become liabilities. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help homeowners protect their investment and reduce potential liability through expert tree care services. The Legal Responsibility of Homeowners Homeowners are generally responsible for ensuring that their property does not present unreasonable hazards to others. This is called “ Duty of Care ” in law. This responsibility includes trees. If a neglected or diseased tree falls and damages a neighbor’s property, vehicle, or injures someone, the homeowner may be held liable. Even branches that extend over property lines or public sidewalks can create risks if they break unexpectedly. Proactive care ensures that homeowners are fulfilling their duty to maintain a safe environment .

How Cabling and Bracing Protect Valuable Trees From Storm Damage

September 18, 2025
Trees are some of the most valuable assets on any property. They provide shade, beauty, and environmental benefits, and in many cases, they hold sentimental value for homeowners. However, storms in the Midwest can bring high winds, heavy rain, and ice that place enormous stress on trees. Even healthy trees can experience structural weaknesses that make them vulnerable. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we offer cabling and bracing as specialized techniques to protect valuable trees from storm damage and extend their lifespans. Understanding Structural Weakness in Trees Not all trees grow with perfect structure. Some develop weak branch unions , where two large limbs diverge from a single point at a narrow angle. Others grow with uneven weight distribution or multiple trunks that compete for dominance. While these conditions may not cause immediate problems, they create vulnerabilities when storms strike. Strong winds and heavy snow can cause weakened branches to snap, splitting the tree and leaving behind irreparable damage.

The Environmental Benefits of Professional Tree Care

September 3, 2025
Trees are among the most valuable natural resources in our communities. They provide shade, improve air quality, and support wildlife. Yet many homeowners overlook the importance of professional tree care in preserving these benefits. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that taking care of trees is not only about maintaining curb appeal or preventing hazards, but also about protecting the environment. Professional tree care contributes directly to healthier ecosystems and a more sustainable future.

Tree Preservation vs Tree Removal: Knowing When to Choose Each Option

August 29, 2025
Trees bring beauty, shade, and value to any property, but they also require careful attention to ensure they remain safe and healthy. Homeowners often face a difficult choice when a tree begins to show signs of stress or decline: should it be preserved, or is removal the safer and more responsible decision? At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that every tree deserves thoughtful evaluation before action is taken. Here is what you should know about deciding between preservation and removal.

Tree Pruning Myths That Could Harm Your Landscape

August 20, 2025
Pruning is one of the most important aspects of tree care. When done correctly, it improves the health, safety, and appearance of your trees. However, when done poorly or based on incorrect assumptions, it can cause lasting damage. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we often encounter homeowners who have heard common myths about pruning that could put their trees at risk. By understanding these misconceptions, you can make better choices for your landscape.
More Posts