In this article, we look at the importance of Winter Tree Care in Devon. As autumn fades and colder months approach, trees face a shift in environmental conditions that can test their structural integrity and long-term health. In Devon, winter brings increased wind, rain, and occasional snowfall—factors that can contribute to branch failure, root disturbance, and undetected decay becoming a real hazard.
Whether you manage a single garden tree or a large estate, it’s essential to carry out seasonal inspections and targeted interventions to protect both trees and people. In this article, we share expert advice on winter tree care in Devon, based on BS3998:2010 Tree Work – Recommendations and years of on-the-ground experience.
Why Winter Tree Care Matters
The winter period presents specific risks that may not be obvious during the growing season.
Key challenges include:
- Strong winds placing stress on weak branches or unions
- Heavy rain causing waterlogging or destabilising root systems
- Snow or ice accumulation adding unexpected loading
- Leaf loss exposing structural defects
- Dormancy reducing a tree’s physiological response to damage
Identifying and managing these risks before winter sets in is essential for tree safety, structural longevity, and duty of care compliance. Risk should be assessed in relation to potential targets such as footpaths, roads, buildings, and play areas.
1. Start with a Tree Condition Inspection
The first step in winter preparation is a Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) by a competent arborist or tree surgeon. This involves inspecting for:
- Deadwood or failed limbs
- Structural weaknesses, such as included bark or weak unions
- Fungal fruiting bodies at the base or on major limbs
- Cracks, cavities, or signs of past storm damage
- Changes in lean, soil heave, or exposed roots
Where significant structural defects are identified, further investigation—such as decay detection or load testing—may be appropriate. Early detection allows for proactive tree management, reducing the likelihood of storm-related failures during winter.
2. Prune with Purpose — and Timing
While winter is often an appropriate time for certain pruning objectives, all work should be based on an assessed need and carried out to BS3998 standards. Common winter pruning objectives include:
- Crown reduction: to reduce canopy size and mechanical stress
- Crown thinning: to reduce wind loading and improve structural balance
- Crown lifting: to clear access routes, footpaths, or sight lines
- Deadwood removal: to reduce risk of limb drop
- Formative pruning of young trees: to guide future structure
Winter dormancy may minimise physiological impact for many deciduous species, but each tree should be assessed individually. Species such as birch, sycamore, maple, beech, and walnut are prone to heavy sap flow or vulnerability outside full leaf and should only be pruned during optimal periods unless essential.
All pruning should be the minimum necessary to achieve clearly defined objectives, and the natural form of the tree should be preserved where possible.
3. Protect Tree Roots from Saturation and Compaction
In Devon, saturated ground and poor drainage can affect tree stability during winter storms. To reduce risk:
- Avoid vehicle or foot traffic near tree bases—especially on clay soils
- Prevent water pooling around trunks by maintaining surface levels and drains
- Use mulch (woodchip or organic matter) around base zones to improve water regulation and reduce soil compaction
If ground movement, root plate instability, or excessive waterlogging is observed, seek professional advice immediately.
4. Stake, Support, or Remove as Needed
For younger trees, check that:
- Stakes are still firm but not rubbing against the trunk
- Ties are correctly positioned and not causing girdling
- Guards or cages are intact and not restricting growth
Stakes should be removed once the tree can support itself structurally—typically after the first two growing seasons. For mature trees that require bracing, cabling, or support systems, only qualified professionals should install or inspect such structures to avoid compromising structural integrity.
5. Monitor Evergreen Species for Winter Damage
Unlike deciduous trees, evergreens retain foliage throughout winter and may be more vulnerable to:
- Snow and ice accumulation on branches
- Salt spray damage from nearby roads
- Windburn from exposure on higher ground
Regular monitoring allows for early removal of snapped branches or corrective pruning to reduce asymmetry or mechanical stress.
6. Avoid Unnecessary Groundworks Around Trees
Winter is often a time when construction or landscaping projects begin, but any digging, trenching, or resurfacing near trees can be highly damaging—especially when soils are wet and roots are vulnerable.
Root Protection Areas (RPAs) should be clearly marked and not disturbed without appropriate method statements and LPA consent, especially where Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or Conservation Areas apply. Root disturbance counts as tree work and requires permission in protected contexts.
7. Legal Compliance and Wildlife Considerations
- If trees are subject to a TPO or within a Conservation Area, you must obtain consent or give notice before any work is undertaken—even in winter.
- Deadwood removal from a living tree is generally exempt from consent requirements, but this must be limited to non-living material only.
- Dead tree removals require 5 days’ prior notice to the LPA.
- Immediate risk of serious harm allows for minimal emergency works, but you must notify the LPA as soon as possible afterwards and retain evidence.
- Although most nesting activity is minimal in winter, you must still check for bats and roosts, which are protected under separate legislation.
All tree work carried out by Devon Tree Services complies with BS3998:2010 Tree Work – Recommendations and all relevant environmental legislation. All operatives are trained, experienced, and competent as defined by the standard.
8. Plan for Spring Recovery
Good winter preparation sets the stage for strong spring growth. After pruning or storm events, trees should be monitored during the following season for signs of:
- Uneven or excessive regrowth
- Dieback
- Delayed budburst or poor leaf density
- Secondary fungal infections
Spring inspections can guide follow-up work or help adjust ongoing maintenance plans.
Summary: Devon Winter Tree Care Checklist
- Carry out a full visual tree assessment
- Schedule any necessary crown reductions, thinnings, or liftings
- Remove deadwood or unstable limbs as appropriate
- Protect roots from saturation and compaction
- Maintain or remove supports for younger trees
- Monitor evergreens for snow, wind, and salt damage
- Avoid unnecessary works near root protection zones
- Check legal protections before any intervention
- Plan for spring follow-up monitoring
Book a Winter Tree Inspection in Devon
At Devon Tree Services, we help homeowners, landowners, and estate managers prepare their trees for the winter season. Our qualified team can assess risk, recommend appropriate action, and ensure all work is carried out safely, professionally, and in full compliance with BS3998:2010.
To arrange your winter tree care assessment, contact us today.
Phone: 01803 814126
Email: info@devontreeservices.co.uk
