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Trees in Minnesota, What an Early Thaw Means

GT

Gabe Tschida

ISA-Certified Arborist · Owner, Urban Tree

Tree Removal - the last part of the trunk

Hey everyone, it’s Gabe the Certified Arborist from Urban Tree! If you’ve been outside lately, you’ve probably noticed how warm it’s been for February. While we’re all enjoying the early taste of spring, this kind of weather has a big impact on tree care, yard maintenance, and the work we do as a Minnesota tree service.

The Challenges of an Early Thaw for Trees in Minnesota

When temperatures warm up fast, the ground starts to thaw, and that changes everything for spring tree care. Here’s what happens:

  • Soft, squishy yards – You’ve probably noticed the ground feels soggy. That’s because melting snow and warming temperatures make the soil hold a lot of water. If it’s too soft, heavy equipment can sink in and damage your lawn.  Go to Crane Removal to see why.
  • Weight restrictions on roads – Starting in early March, Minnesota puts weight limits on certain roads to protect them from damage. This means we can’t always bring in our biggest trucks and equipment, depending on where you live.
  • Some jobs get delayed – If the ground is too soft, we sometimes have to wait. But not every yard is the same! Some drain better than others, and we evaluate every job site before scheduling a tree trimming service.

What Tree Work Can Still Be Done?

Even with these challenges, there’s still plenty of tree maintenance that can happen:

  • Emergency tree removal – If a tree or branch is posing a safety risk, we’ll be there no matter what.
  • Oak and elm pruning – Now is the last chance to trim these trees before the risk of disease increases. If you need tree pruning for these species, don’t wait!
  • Tree removals (in the right conditions) – Some tree removals can still happen, but we need to be careful about yard conditions. If your yard drains well, we can move forward.

Should You Get Trees in Minnesota Trimmed in March or Wait Until April?

If you want to get removal or trimming for your trees in minnesota done quickly, March can actually be a great time. Many homeowners delay because they’re worried about yard damage. But if you’re okay with a little wear and tear (or your yard isn’t an issue), you might be able to get scheduled faster.

By April, Minnesota tree trimming picks up fast. More removals, stump grinding, and seasonal tree care services get booked. Planning ahead ensures you won’t be waiting weeks for an appointment.

Every yard is different, and we’re always happy to help you decide the best timing for your trees!

tree removal with crane

If you have any concerns about your trees on your property and are located in the Twin Cities metro area, please contact Urban Tree and Landscape today at (612) 532-9996 to schedule an appointment.

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Not sure what your tree actually needs? Get a free written estimate from an ISA-Certified Arborist, with the scope and the price spelled out before any work starts.

The Honest Answer

If your tree does not need the work, we will tell you that too. We talk homeowners out of removals when pruning or treatment is the better call, even though it costs us the job. The same honest answer you get on your driveway, you get here.

Get a Straight Answer About Your Tree

A certified arborist will come out, look at it, and give you an honest recommendation and a written price. No pressure, no surprises.

Ask your neighbour, then call.

GT

Gabe Tschida

ISA-Certified Arborist · Owner, Urban Tree & Landscape

Gabe has led Twin Cities tree work since 2006, from routine pruning to crane removals on tight city lots. Every article on the Urban Tree blog is written or reviewed by a certified arborist, so the advice you read is the same advice you would get on your driveway.

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Serving the Twin Cities since 2006: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Maple Grove, and the surrounding metro. ISA-Certified Arborists. 612-532-9996.

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