Ice and heavy wet snow put more stress on trees and shrubs than almost anything else they face all year. A quick walk around the property before the first real winter storm is the best chance to catch a problem while it's still just a problem, not a tree through a roof or a fence line.
What to look for on trees
- Dead or bare branches that didn't lose their leaves with the rest of the tree, a common sign the branch is already dead.
- Cracks or splits in the trunk or where large branches meet it.
- A visible lean that's new or has gotten more pronounced, especially after a wind event.
- Branches hanging over the roof, driveway, or power lines, which carry outsized risk if they come down under ice or snow load.
- Fungus or mushrooms growing at the base, which can point to root or internal decay.
Shrubs and smaller growth matter too
Overgrown shrubs along a fence line or foundation don't pose the same risk as a large tree, but heavy snow and ice can still split branches, pull growth away from a fence, or leave a tangled mess once everything thaws. Clearing out overgrown or dead shrubs before winter is a smaller job than most people expect, and it prevents a bigger cleanup later.
Why timing matters
Removing a hazardous tree or branch is far simpler before the ground freezes and before the first heavy snow adds weight to already weak limbs. Once a storm hits, tree work becomes more dangerous, more expensive, and often more urgent than it needed to be.
When to call someone instead of handling it yourself
Anything involving a ladder, a chainsaw at height, or a branch near a power line is worth having a professional look at. The risk of an injury or property damage from a DIY attempt usually outweighs whatever is saved by not making a call.
We handle tree and shrub removal across the St. Louis metro, including fence-line clearing and hazard trees before winter weather arrives. Get a free quote and we'll take a look before the first storm.