Deer Damage Prevention: How to Keep Your Landscape Safe This Winter

When winter hits Minnesota, food becomes scarce for wildlife, and your landscape quickly becomes a buffet. Evergreens, shrubs, and ornamental trees that stay green through the cold months are irresistible to hungry deer.

While a few bites might seem harmless, consistent deer feeding can cause lasting damage, stripping bark, stunting growth, or even killing young trees and shrubs. The good news? With the right preventive care, you can protect your Minneapolis, St. Paul, and suburban landscapes before the snow piles up.

Why Deer Damage Is Worse in Winter

As temperatures drop and snow covers natural food sources, deer turn to whatever greenery they can find, often right in your Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Wayzata, and Minnetonka yards. From Thanksgiving through early spring, they’ll feed on:

• Evergreens like arborvitae, cedar, and yew

• Shrubs such as rhododendrons, azaleas, and burning bush

• Young trees and saplings, especially those planted in the last few years

What starts as nibbling can quickly escalate into stripped branches and chewed bark, damage that trees can’t easily recover from once the growing season returns.

Read Our Other Blogs

How Deer Repellent Works

Unlike physical barriers or fencing, which deer can easily jump, professional-grade repellents create a protective coating that deters feeding and browsing.

At Birch Tree Care, we use a long-lasting, effective repellent that’s proven to work even in Minnesota’s freezing temperatures. Unlike store-bought sprays that wash off or lose strength, our repellent provides season-long protection with a single fall application.

Benefits of Deer Repellent Treatment:

• Long-lasting through snow, ice, and wind

• Safe for plants, pets, and people

• Prevents costly damage and regrowth delays

• Applied by ISA-Certified arborists for even coverage and protection

Learn more about our Deer Repellent Services. 

Other Ways to Prevent Deer Damage

While repellent is your strongest line of defense, there are a few other ways to minimize risk:

• Choose deer-resistant plants like spruce, juniper, and boxwood when landscaping.

• Wrap young trees with tree guards or mesh to protect bark from rubbing and feeding.

• Schedule a fall inspection with a certified arborist to identify vulnerable plants before deer season peaks.

By combining preventive treatments with smart landscaping choices, you’ll give your yard the best chance to survive the winter unscathed.

Why Choose Birch Tree Care

At Birch Tree Care, we’re passionate about helping Twin Cities homeowners protect their landscapes from seasonal damage, whether it’s deer feeding, winter burn, or storm breakage. 

Our team of ISA-Certified arborists applies years of experience to every property, using products that actually last through Minnesota winters.

We treat your property like our own, with care, attention, and expertise you can count on. When you hire Birch Tree Care, you’re not just getting a repellent, you’re getting peace of mind.

Protect Your Landscape Before It’s Too Late

Deer season peaks just as winter begins. Once the damage starts, it’s too late to reverse it. Take action now to keep your evergreens and shrubs healthy until spring.

Call Birch Tree Care at 651-401-7633 or request your free quote today. Protect your yard and your peace of mind this winter.

How to Protect Your Trees from Winter Storm Damage Around the Twin Cities

Winter in the Twin Cities is unpredictable. One day your yard is covered in light snow, and the next it’s battling ice, heavy winds, and freezing rain. For your trees, these conditions can mean split trunks, broken branches, or even uprooting. The good news? With the right care before the snow starts falling, you can protect your trees and avoid costly storm damage.

At Birch Tree Care, we’ve been helping homeowners across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding suburbs like Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, and more keep their trees safe for over a decade. Here’s how you can prepare.

Prune weak or hazardous branches

Dead, diseased, or overextended branches are the first to snap under the weight of snow or ice. Fall and early winter are the best times to prune because trees are dormant, making cuts less stressful and easier to heal.

Here’s what to look for:

• Branches hanging over your roof, driveway, or play areas

• Limbs with cracks or visible decay

• Crossing branches that rub and weaken each other

Our tree pruning services are designed to eliminate these risks while preserving the health and beauty of your trees.

Read Our Other Blogs

Consider cabling and bracing

Some trees, especially older ones or those with storm history, may need extra support. Cabling and bracing involve installing specialized hardware to stabilize weak limbs or split trunks. This preventive step reduces the risk of catastrophic failure when heavy snow or strong winds hit.

It’s a service best left to ISA-Certified arborists who understand how to secure the tree without causing long-term harm.

Mulch and protect roots

Storm damage involves a lot more than just falling branches. Frozen, compacted soil can stress roots and make trees less stable. Adding mulch around the base of your trees insulates roots and helps regulate soil temperature during freeze-thaw cycles.

Be proactive about tree health

Trees already weakened by pests, disease, or past damage are more likely to fail in winter storms. If you’ve noticed thinning canopies, early leaf drop, or signs of emerald ash borer, now is the time to act.

You can schedule a tree health assessment with us and get ahead of problems before storms make them worse.

Have an emergency plan in place

Even with preparation, Minnesota winters sometimes bring surprises. If a storm leaves your trees damaged, acting quickly can make all the difference for safety and recovery.

At Birch Tree Care, we offer:

• Emergency storm services to remove hazardous limbs and secure your property

• Storm damage evaluations to determine whether a tree can be saved or needs removal

• Ongoing care to help your trees recover and prepare for the next season

Why Partner With Birch Tree Care?

When you work with us, you’re partnering with a team of local experts who know the challenges of Minnesota winters. Our certified arborists and technicians have the training and experience to protect your trees, your property, and your peace of mind.

We proudly serve homeowners throughout Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding areas, including Hamel, Wayzata, Plymouth, Mound, Minnetonka, and more.

Minnesota winters may be unpredictable, but your tree care doesn’t have to be. By pruning, cabling, mulching, and planning ahead, you can reduce risks and keep your trees standing strong all season long.

Call us at 651-401-8749 or request a free quote today to protect your trees before the next storm hits.

Preparing Your Trees for the Fall: A Guide for Minnesota Homeowners

As summer fades in the Twin Cities and the first crisp mornings arrive, your trees are already shifting into dormancy. Fall is the season to give your trees the attention they need before winter’s snow, ice, and winds arrive. A little care now can prevent costly damage later.

At Birch Tree Care, we’ve been helping homeowners across Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Wayzata, Minnetonka, and the greater Twin Cities keep their trees strong for over 10 years. Here’s what to prioritize this fall.

1. Prune for health and safety

Fall is one of the best times to prune, especially once trees enter dormancy. Pruning removes weak, dead, or diseased branches that could otherwise break under heavy snow or ice. It also improves airflow, lowers disease risk, and keeps your landscape looking neat.

What to focus on:

• Dead or brittle branches

• Limbs hanging over roofs, driveways, or play areas

• Crossed or rubbing branches that can cause wounds

Did you know that large branch removal is best left to ISA Certified Arborists to avoid improper cuts or unnecessary stress to the tree? Learn more about our tree pruning services.

Read Our Other Blogs

2. Inspect for pests before winter

Many tree pests in Minnesota, such as emerald ash borer (EAB) or needlecast fungi, are easier to manage when caught early. Fall is the right time to look for signs like thinning crowns, discolored needles, or small bore holes. Treating issues before trees go dormant gives them a head start for spring.

• Ash trees: Watch for emerald ash borer damage. Preventative trunk or soil injections may still be an option.

• Evergreens: Check for discolored needles, which may point to needlecast.

• Maples and Oaks: Look for early leaf drop, which can be stress- or pest-related.

Concerned you may have an issue? Our arborists provide tree health assessments and targeted treatments to keep your landscape safe.

3. Mulch and protect roots

A fresh layer of mulch insulates roots and helps regulate soil moisture as the ground freezes and thaws. Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk.

For young or newly planted trees, staking may also be necessary to protect against strong fall winds and shifting soil.

4. Fertilize for next year’s growth

Fall fertilization isn’t about pushing out new leaves, but about strengthening root systems so your trees can store energy over winter. Deep root fertilization delivers nutrients directly where trees need them most, especially in compacted urban soils common across Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Learn about our deep root fertilization services and why they make a difference in Minnesota’s climate.

5. Prepare for winter storms

Minnesota winters are unpredictable, and heavy snow or ice can cause structural damage. Cabling or bracing may be necessary for older or storm-damaged trees to reduce risk.

If storms do hit, know that at Birch Tree Care, we provide emergency storm damage assistance to help remove hazards and protect your property quickly.

Why work with Birch Tree Care?

Caring for your trees in the fall is about protecting your investment in your home and landscape. Our ISA-Certified arborists bring over a decade of local experience and understand the unique challenges Minnesota trees face.

At Birch Tree Care, we make seasonal tree care simple. Whether it’s pruning, pest treatment, or preparing for winter storms, our team is here to help. We proudly serve the Twin Cities and surrounding areas, including Hamel, Maple Grove, Excelsior, Plymouth, Mound, and more.

Call us today at 651-877-6676 or request a free quote to get your trees ready for the season.

Keep Your Outdoor Spaces Safe with Tree Safety Tips for Families in Minnesota

When the weather turns warm, our backyards in the Twin Cities, Minnetonka, and surrounding areas become the heart of family life. Kids play tag in the grass, pets run freely, and friends gather under shady trees for summer barbecues. But while trees make these spaces more inviting, they can also pose hidden risks if they’re not regularly inspected and cared for.

Here’s how to keep your outdoor spaces safe, and how Birch Tree Care can help ensure your trees are a source of shade and beauty, not danger.

1. Start with a Professional Tree Risk Assessment

Even healthy-looking trees can have structural issues that aren’t obvious at first glance. Weak branch unions, internal decay, and unstable root systems can all lead to sudden breakage.

Our ISA-Certified arborists offer thorough tree risk assessments for homeowners in Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, and beyond. 

We look for:

• Cracks or splits in branches and trunks

• Signs of internal rot or hollowing

• Leaning that suggests root instability

• Dead or hanging limbs that could fall unexpectedly

Read Our Other Blogs

Why it matters: Early detection means we can take action before damage or injury occurs, whether that’s pruning, bracing, or removing hazardous limbs.

Learn more about our tree risk assessment services. 

2. Strengthen Weak Trees with Cabling & Bracing

Sometimes, a tree doesn’t need to be removed; it just needs extra support. Cabling and bracing use high-strength steel cables or rods to stabilize branches or trunks, reducing the risk of failure during high winds or heavy snow.

This is especially valuable for older shade trees in Wayzata, Excelsior, and Plymouth, where losing a mature canopy would dramatically change your landscape.

Read our blog on protecting trees from storm damage here to learn more about it.

3. Watch for Pest Problems That Weaken Trees

Insects like Emerald Ash Borer and wood-boring beetles can silently weaken your trees from the inside out. Infested trees are more likely to drop limbs or fall altogether, especially during summer storms.

We recommend seasonal pest inspections for homeowners in Mound, Hamel, and surrounding areas. Our treatments are targeted to eliminate pests without harming your kids, pets, or beneficial insects in your yard.

4. Maintain Clear Play Zones for Kids and Pets

Safety isn’t just about the health of the tree, it’s also about what’s underneath it. Remove low-hanging or broken branches in play areas, keep roots from becoming tripping hazards, and ensure that swings or hammocks are attached only to structurally sound limbs.

5. Schedule Seasonal Inspections [Especially Before Summer Gatherings]

If you’re hosting a backyard party, graduation, or holiday barbecue, it’s worth scheduling a quick tree safety check. One unstable branch can turn a celebration into an emergency.

Our team has been caring for Minnesota trees for over 10 years, so we know the unique challenges our soils, weather, and pests can bring. We’re here to help your trees thrive while keeping your outdoor spaces safe for every guest, two-legged or four-legged.

Your Family’s Safety Starts with Healthy Trees

Don’t wait until a limb falls to address potential hazards. At Birch Tree Care, we can assess your trees, recommend the right solutions, and help you enjoy a worry-free summer in your backyard.

Request a safety inspection today.

What is Deep Root Fertilization and Why Does it Matter in the Summer?

Deep root fertilization isn’t your typical sprinkle-and-hope approach. Unlike standard surface fertilizing, this method uses special equipment to inject a custom nutrient blend directly into the soil around your tree’s root zone, where it can actually do its job.

In Minnesota, where soil can be compacted and nutrient-poor, this can make a real difference. It’s especially helpful for urban and suburban trees competing with lawns, sidewalks, and compacted yards.

How is Deep Root Fertilization different from regular fertilization methods?

When you spread fertilizer on your lawn, a lot of it never reaches your trees’ roots. Turf grass, hard soil, and rainfall runoff can block nutrients or wash them away. Deep root fertilization bypasses all that by delivering nutrients exactly where roots absorb them best, 8-12 inches below the surface.

This feeds the tree directly, improves soil structure, encourages stronger root growth, and helps your trees handle stress better. 

Why Mid-Summer Is the Ideal Time

Trees do most of their heavy lifting in the summer. They’re fully leafed out, using energy to grow, and fighting off pests and diseases. Mid-summer deep root feeding gives them an extra boost when they need it most.

Read Our Other Blogs

Here’s why summer is the best time to do deep root fertilization:

• Boosts root and canopy growth: Encourages strong roots and fuller, greener foliage.

• Helps trees handle drought: Well-fed roots hold moisture better during dry spells.

• Strengthens natural defenses: Healthy trees are more resilient to pests and common Minnesota diseases.

By fertilizing now, you’re not only helping your trees recover from early summer stress, but also setting them up for a healthy fall and a stronger start next spring.

Who Benefits From Deep Root Fertilization?

Deep root fertilization isn’t just for struggling trees. Instead, it’s a smart investment for a variety of situations. Here’s when it really pays off:

Mature trees showing signs of stress: 

Older trees often struggle with compacted soil and nutrient deficiencies after decades in the same spot. If you notice thinning canopies, smaller leaves, or dead branches, deep root feeding can help restore vitality and extend their lifespan.

Trees in high-traffic yards: 

In the Twin Cities suburbs, yards see plenty of foot traffic, mowers, and soil compaction. Trees in compacted urban soil can’t absorb nutrients well. Deep root injections get through the hard-packed earth to feed roots directly.

Newly planted trees: 

Young trees need all the help they can get to establish healthy root systems. A deep root feeding in the first few years gives them the boost they need to adapt, especially in Minnesota’s unpredictable weather.

Ornamental trees: 

If you have beautiful shade trees, flowering ornamentals, or statement evergreens that add value and curb appeal to your home, deep root fertilization keeps them healthy, lush, and resistant to pests and diseases. 

No matter your yard or tree type, deep root fertilization is about giving your trees what they can’t always get from the surface, and Birch Tree Care is here to help you do it right.

Why Work with Us at Birch Tree Care

At Birch Tree Care, we’ve spent more than a decade helping homeowners across the Twin Cities, from Maple Grove and Minnetonka to Eden Prairie and Wayzata, keep their trees healthy and resilient. Our ISA Certified Arborists customize each deep root feeding to your yard’s soil, your tree species, and the conditions unique to Minnesota’s climate.

Want to see the difference healthy roots can make? Contact our team to talk about a deep root fertilization plan that will help your trees thrive this summer, and look their best for years to come.

Summer Tree Pests to Watch Out For in Minnesota

How Birch Tree Care Can Help You Stay Ahead of Them

Minnesota summers were made for patio dinners, lakeside campfires, and the deep shade of mature trees. Unfortunately, warm weather also invites a lineup of insects and diseases that can turn those shade-makers into eyesores—or even hazards. 

At Birch Tree Care, we believe in open, honest communication and proactive solutions. Below you’ll find the key pests and pathogens we’re watching this season, what they look like, and why timely, professional care matters.

1. Japanese Beetle

Why it matters: This shiny invader feasts on more than 300 plant species, skeletonizing leaves and stressing shrubs, trees, and even turfgrass when its grubs chew roots. 

Prime time: Adults emerge in late June and peak through August, swarming favored plants like Lindens, Roses, and Birches. 

What to spot:

• Metallic green and copper adults clustering on foliage

• Lace-like “windows” in leaves

• Patches of browning lawn that peel up like loose carpet (grub feeding)

Read Our Other Blogs

Birch Tree Care approach: Monitoring starts the moment beetles appear. We can recommend low-impact strategies or, when needed, targeted treatments—always mindful of pollinators and your landscape goals.

2. Oak Wilt

Why it matters: A fast-moving fungal disease that can kill Red Oaks in weeks and is expanding—now confirmed in 33 Minnesota counties. 

Prime time: Sap beetles spread the fungus April – July, making summer wounds (like storm damage or pruning cuts) especially risky.

What to spot:

• Sudden wilting and browning from the top of the crown downward

• Leaves with green centers and brown edges littering the ground

• Rapid die-off of Red Oaks; slower decline in White and Bur Oaks

Birch Tree Care approach: We assess, confirm diagnosis, and develop integrated plans—often a mix of root-zone barriers, strategic removal, and fungistatic injections—to protect the healthy oaks that make the Twin Cities canopy special.

3. Dutch Elm Disease

Why it matters: Still the leading killer of Elms statewide; once infected, susceptible trees may die the same season. Minnesota Department of Agriculture

Prime time: Bark beetles carry spores anytime elms are actively growing, but drought-stressed trees are hit hardest.

What to spot:

• “Flagging” — single branches whose leaves turn yellow then brown

• Brown streaking in sapwood under the bark

• Progressive crown thinning if infection spreads through root grafts

Birch Tree Care approach: Early detection is critical. We provide laboratory confirmation, sanitation pruning, and protective fungicide programs for prize elms.

4. Bur Oak Blight (BOB)

Why it matters: A relatively new fungal leaf disease causing leaf browning and drop in late summer and early fall—especially after rainy springs. MN DNR

Prime time: Symptoms ramp up from August onward.

What to spot:

• Wedge-shaped brown lesions starting at leaf tips

• Vein browning and black spotting

• Repeated heavy defoliation that leaves trees vulnerable to other pests

Birch Tree Care approach: We evaluate severity, boost tree vigor, and—when justified—apply fungicides during the narrow spring window when they’re effective.

5. Two-Lined Chestnut Borer

Why it matters: Native beetles whose larvae tunnel beneath bark, attacking drought- or BOB-stressed Oaks and often finishing them off within two to three years.

Prime time: Adult beetles fly June–July; larval feeding continues through summer.

What to spot:

• D-shaped exit holes on the trunk

• Patchy branch dieback starting in the upper canopy

• Sprouts (“epicormic shoots”) on the trunk as trees struggle to survive

Birch Tree Care approach: By reducing stress factors and timing preventive trunk injections, we give embattled Oaks a fighting chance.

6. Magnolia Scale

Why it matters: One of the largest soft scales; each ½-inch, dome-shaped insect sucks sap and coats branches in sticky honeydew that invites sooty mold. Populations surge from late July through August. 

Prime time: Late summer crawler stage is the sweet spot for control.

What to spot:

• Pinkish-orange to brown bumps along twigs

• Sticky, shiny residue under the tree

• Wasps, ants or bees attracted to the sugary honeydew

Birch Tree Care approach: We time horticultural oils or systemic treatments precisely to crawler emergence—keeping your Magnolias picture-perfect for spring bloom.

Staying Proactive Pays Off

Healthy trees boost property value, reduce energy costs, and make Twin Cities summers uniquely beautiful. Regular check-ups and early intervention are the easiest, most affordable ways to keep pests from getting the upper hand.

With over 100 five-star reviews, Birch Tree Care is proud to offer prompt, professional tree service rooted in valued relationships and a genuine love for trees. If you notice any of the warning signs above—or just want peace of mind—schedule a summer inspection today. We’ll walk your property, answer questions openly, and craft a care plan that’s right for you and your trees.

Your trees give you shade; let us give them exceptional care.

Summer Tree Care Plan for Minnesota Homeowners

Summer in Minnesota is no joke. You have the scorching sun one day and sideways rain the next. If you’ve lived here long enough, you know our trees take a beating from more than just the heat. They face high winds, sudden droughts, invasive pests, and nutrient-poor soil, all in a matter of weeks. 

For homeowners across the Twin Cities and nearby spots like Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, and Wayzata, staying on top of tree care in summer is key.

Instead of a generic to-do list, we’re breaking it down month by month to help you stay proactive without getting overwhelmed. Plus, we’ll show you where Birch Tree Care can step in to help when you need extra hands (or expertise). 

June tree care schedule (Start prepping for the season)

1. Deep watering: Don’t rely on thunderstorms to get the job done. Your trees need deep watering (10 gallons per inch of trunk diameter) once or twice a week to build drought resistance. Shallow, frequent watering actually weakens roots.

2. Smart mulching: Mulch is your tree’s best friend if done right. A fresh 2-4 inch layer helps regulate soil temperature and moisture, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk to avoid rot.

Read Our Other Blogs

3. Missed fertilization? There’s still time: Early spring is ideal, but many Minnesota trees can still benefit from summer fertilization. Our fertilization services are customized to your local soil conditions.

4. Early pest check: Bronze birch borers and aphids love early summer. Yellowing leaves or sudden leaf drop are early signs. Our arborists can spot trouble before it spreads. 

July plant treatment schedule (maintain and monitor your plants)

1. Stay on a watering schedule: The heat is on. Test your soil about 6 inches down. If it’s dry, it’s time to water. Consider using soaker hoses or drip systems for even moisture.

2. Know your summer pests: Keep an eye out for Japanese beetles, lace bugs, and spider mites. Beetles chew leaves; mites leave tiny webs. Need backup? We’ve got your pest control covered.

3. Prune: Don’t go wild with pruning in July. Your tree is in full growth mode. But broken or diseased branches? Those can go. Our tree trimming experts know how to make clean, healthy cuts.

4. Storm-proofing: With storms rolling in, now’s the time to check for limbs near power lines, dead wood, or weak branch unions. We offer structural assessments and cabling services, as well as emergency storm damage assistance to keep things safe. 

August tree care schedule (Protect your trees)

1. Don’t let up on water: August tends to be dry in the Twin Cities region. Continue watering consistently to reduce drought stress. Look out for leaves curling or dropping early.

2. Watch for late-season stress: Heat, pests, and compacted soil all take their toll. If your tree looks “off” (sparse canopy, premature colour change), it’s time for a health check.

3. Plan for fall: Fall fertilization, root collar excavation, and dormant pruning season are just around the corner. Book an inspection now while our schedule still has room.

4. Spot issues early: Whether you’re in Excelsior, Plymouth, or Hamel, don’t let small signs turn into big problems. Our team at Birch Tree Care offers custom care plans to support your trees year-round.

Why work with us at Birch Tree Care

Tree care in Minnesota isn’t a quick fix. Different trees and plants require different care depending on what their needs are. And, at Birch Tree Care, we inspect your trees and plants to make sure they get proper treatment and care. We’ve been caring for trees in this climate for over a decade, and we know what it takes to get them through summer looking strong.

Whether you’ve got a storm-damaged maple in Mound or a pest-prone spruce in Wayzata, our team of certified arborists is ready to help. Call us for a mid-season check-up or a full summer tree care plan customized for your property.

Let’s keep your trees healthy, vibrant, and storm-ready for the season. 

Spider Mite Treatment in Minnesota

At Birch Tree Care, we understand how pests can silently threaten the health and longevity of trees across Minnesota—and spider mites are a common, yet often overlooked, problem. These microscopic pests can cause significant damage, especially during the hot, dry summer months typical in parts of the Twin Cities region. Dry and dusty conditions further increase the risk of Spider Mite infestations.

If your trees are showing signs of discoloration, stippling, yellowing, or general decline in foliage, our Certified Arborists can help identify and treat spider mite infestations with effective, science-based solutions. We offer a range of treatment options—including chemical, biological, and manual approaches—tailored to your landscape’s specific needs.

What Are Spider Mites?

Spider Mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant cells by piercing leaf surfaces and extracting their contents. This feeding behavior causes visible damage, including stippling and bronzing of leaves. Although they’re barely visible to the naked eye, their presence becomes obvious once damage appears.

Spider Mites thrive in warm, dry weather and can infest a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, vegetables (like cucurbits, beans, and tomatoes), and other outdoor plants.

Read Our Other Blogs

Common signs of spider mite damage include:

• Yellow or bronze speckling on leaves (stippling)

• Fine webbing on branches and especially the undersides of leaves

• Visible colonies or feeding damage

• Leaf drop or thinning foliage

• General tree stress or a decline in overall appearance

In Minnesota, spider mites are most active from late spring through early fall, particularly during periods of drought or high heat.

They can affect both deciduous and evergreen trees, with common targets including:

• Spruce (especially Colorado Blue Spruce)

• Arborvitae

• Honeylocust

• Maples

• Elms

• Ash trees

Are Spider Mites Dangerous to Trees?

Yes—while a single infestation may not kill a healthy tree outright, repeated or severe infestations can lead to long-term damage. Spider Mites can stress trees, reduce vigor, and make them more susceptible to other pests and diseases. Even species that are typically resistant are not immune.

When identified early, Spider Mite problems are manageable. Without intervention, however, infestations can rapidly spread across your trees, shrubs, garden, and other surrounding vegetation.

Spider Mite Treatment and Control in Minnesota

At Birch Tree Care, we take an integrated, environmentally responsible approach to pest management. Our Spider Mite treatments are effective, science-backed, and tailored to each client’s landscape.

Because Spider Mites reproduce quickly, repeat treatments are often necessary. We use organic options—like neem oil, horticultural oil, and insecticidal soap—whenever possible.

Our Spider Mite control services include:

1. Accurate Diagnosis

Spider Mite damage can resemble symptoms of drought stress or nutrient deficiency. Our ISA Certified Arborists conduct thorough inspections to confirm the presence of mites and assess the extent of the damage.

During diagnosis, we also check for Spider Mite eggs and immature stages—such as larvae and nymphs—which are essential to identify for complete and effective management.

2. Treatment Options

Depending on the infestation severity, we may recommend:

• Horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps: These treatments reduce feeding activity and population levels while sparing beneficial insects.

• Miticides: For persistent outbreaks, miticides may be used. These are applied by licensed professionals to avoid unintended side effects. Some insecticides can trigger mite population spikes if not applied properly.

• Rubbing alcohol: A diluted alcohol solution can help eliminate mites when sprayed directly onto affected areas. Test a small section first to avoid plant injury.

• Cultural adjustments: Improving watering practices and overall tree health helps reduce stress and support recovery. Comprehensive care ensures all affected areas are addressed.

3. Preventative Care

We emphasize prevention to reduce the chance of future outbreaks. Healthy trees are more resilient to Spider Mite damage. 

Our preventative services include:

• Deep root fertilization

• Proper mulching and consistent watering practices

• Seasonal inspections and monitoring

• Regular washing of foliage to remove dust buildup

• Monitoring outdoor plants during dry spells

• Maintaining indoor humidity levels to prevent infestations on houseplants

Why Choose Birch Tree Care for Spider Mite Control?

With over 100 five-star reviews, Birch Tree Care is trusted throughout the Twin Cities for our professionalism, prompt service, and honest communication. We care about your trees as much as you do—and we’re here to protect your investment.

Clients choose Birch Tree Care because:

• We’re ISA Certified Arborists

• We know Minnesota’s unique climate and tree species

• We provide tailored, expert recommendations

• We show up on time, communicate clearly, and respect your property

Our Service Area

We proudly serve homeowners and businesses in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and nearby communities, including:

• Maple Grove

• Wayzata

• Excelsior

• Plymouth

• Mound

• Minnetonka

• And more!

Dealing with Spider Mites? Get a Tree Health Assessment Today

If your trees are showing signs of Spider Mite damage—or you want to stay ahead of potential pest problems—reach out to Birch Tree Care. Our experts will assess your landscape, identify any pests or diseases, and provide an honest, effective treatment plan.

Contact us today for Spider Mite control in Minnesota.

Why early spring is the best time for tree fertilization in the Twin Cities

Minnesota winters are brutal. Not just on us, but on our trees too. After months of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, the trees around Minneapolis and St. Paul need some serious TLC.

Birch Tree Care has been around for over a decade now, with arborists and technicians working in yards across Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Wayzata, and pretty much every neighborhood in between. One thing they’ve learned? Most homeowners don't think about fertilizing their trees until it's already summer, and by then, they've missed the perfect window.

Why do trees need fertilizer after winter in Minnesota?

Think about it. Your trees have just endured months of dormancy with barely any nutrients. Their root systems are weak, and they're desperately trying to push out new growth. It's like trying to run a marathon after fasting for three months.

When we fertilize in early spring, we're essentially serving up a nourishing breakfast right when trees are waking up. Our experienced technicians have seen the difference firsthand. Trees that get that early boost develop fuller canopies, stronger branch structures, and just look healthier overall.

Best time to fertilize trees in Twin Cities: the early spring

There's something special about Minnesota soil in early spring. It's got that ideal moisture balance, not waterlogged from snowmelt anymore but not dried out from summer heat either. The cool, damp conditions create ideal circumstances for nutrient absorption.

Read Our Other Blogs

Our tree and shrub fertilization services can help make a huge difference for your landscape. Our technician was at a property in Minnetonka last year where the homeowner had always fertilized in late June. He convinced them to switch to early April, and the difference in their maple trees was night and day. The roots had time to soak up everything before the summer stress kicked in. 

How spring tree fertilization prevents summer storm damage

Let's be real, summer in the Twin Cities brings its own challenges. We get those sweltering weeks, random storms that tear through neighborhoods, and the occasional drought spell that leaves everything parched.

Trees that get a good spring feeding handle all this so much better. It's like the difference between facing a challenge well-rested versus tackling it exhausted. We've tracked the storm response of fertilized versus unfertilized trees across Plymouth and Excelsior properties, and the resilience difference is remarkable.

Which tree fertilizer is best for Minnesota trees?

Many homeowners aren't aware that different tree species have unique nutritional needs. It's actually quite common to pick up a general-purpose fertilizer at the garden center, thinking it will work for everything in your yard. What we've learned over the years, though, is that your mature oak thrives with a completely different nutrient blend than your young maple or your struggling crabapple.

Last spring, we worked with a family in Wayzata who couldn't figure out why their birch trees were yellowing despite regular fertilization. Turns out they needed an entirely different nutrient ratio. Within weeks of getting the right blend, those trees transformed.

Professional tree care services in Twin Cities

Spring fertilization isn't just a one-and-done task, but rather an opportunity to set up your trees for year-round success. When we visit properties in Hamel or Mound, we’re not just thinking about that day's application. We’re looking at the soil composition, checking for signs of stress or disease, and helping create a full-year plan.

Most of our clients are surprised by how much healthier their entire landscape becomes when we address tree nutrition properly from the start of the growing season.

How to schedule tree fertilization in Eden Prairie, Wayzata and the neighboring areas

Your trees are probably the oldest living things on your property. They've likely been there longer than you have, and with the right care, they'll be there long after. Don't let another spring go by without giving them what they need.

Whether you're in the heart of Minneapolis or out in Eden Prairie, our certified arborists are ready to help your trees thrive this year. Let's not just keep your trees alive, but rather, help them flourish.

Contact us today for a free quote.