Your guide to spring tree care, fertilization, and pruning—especially for iconic live oaks.

As temperatures rise and the days get longer, trees across Louisiana are shaking off winter and preparing for a season of vibrant growth. Whether you’re caring for majestic live oaks or ornamental trees, spring is a crucial time to give them a little extra attention.

Here’s how to support healthy growth this season—and how Bayou Tree Service can make it easy.

1. Support Root-to-Canopy Health with Fertilization

Spring is when trees need energy the most. Flowering trees are blooming, live oaks are pushing out new leaves, and root systems are stretching to keep up. But not all soil has the nutrients your trees need to fuel that growth.

That’s where our Tree Health Care Program comes in.

Our program mimics what happens naturally on the forest floor—restoring nutrients, supporting healthy roots, and strengthening your trees from the inside out. You don’t have to think about timing, products, or application. We handle it all.

👉 Call 504.837.8733 or 225.372.8585 to enroll in a fertilization program your trees will thank you for.

2. Prune with Purpose

Winter pruning sets structure, but spring pruning brings finesse. This is the time to:

Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased limbs
Encourage healthy airflow and light through the canopy
Shape ornamental trees without disrupting growth

Live oaks in particular benefit from expert pruning. With their wide canopies and historical significance, proper cuts make a huge difference in long-term health and beauty.

At Bayou Tree Service, our ISA-certified arborists provide white glove pruning—meaning we prune with precision, clean up thoroughly, and always protect your trees’ natural shape.

3. Watch for Signs of Stress

Even with the best care, spring can reveal underlying issues. Keep an eye out for:

Leaf drop or discoloration (especially on live oaks)
Cracks in bark or limbs
Early signs of pests or fungi

If something looks off, don’t guess—schedule a tree evaluation. Our team will diagnose the issue and give you clear, honest recommendations for treatment or removal if needed.

4. Mulch and Water the Smart Way

A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature—but skip the mulch volcanoes. Keep mulch away from the trunk and spread it evenly under the canopy. When watering, focus on deep, infrequent soakings that reach the roots.

Not sure what your trees need? Our crews can provide proper mulching and watering guidance tailored to your property.

Let’s Set Your Trees Up for a Healthy Year

From towering live oaks to flowering ornamentals, your trees are a major part of your landscape—and spring is the perfect time to give them expert care. Whether you’re ready to fertilize, prune, or schedule a consultation, we’re here to help.

📞 Call Bayou Tree Service at 504.837.8733 or 225.372.8585
🌳 Let’s grow something great this spring

About the Author: Madison Stansberry, LA Arborist

I manage the commercial construction bidding process and coordinate Bayou Tree Service’s marketing efforts, including social media and brand direction. On any given day, that means keeping projects organized, helping tell our story, and making sure the Bayou boys stay (mostly) on track. Bayou Tree Service has been part of my life since I was 16, when I started working here during summers and school breaks. Even after earning my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health, I found myself missing the work we do here and the people behind it. Coming back felt natural—this work matters, and being part of it always felt bigger than just a job. I earned my arborist license because I wanted to truly understand what I was writing about and be able to have informed conversations with the arborists in the field. I care deeply about our community and the role we play in preserving the urban canopy, and I take pride in helping share that responsibility through our work. Being part of Bayou Tree Service’s 45-year history means being part of a family—one that values hard work, trust, and doing right by the trees and the people we serve. I’m proud to be part of a company that feels like home and to support work that has lasting impact.