New Year, Stronger Property: What Homeowners in Cumming, GA Should Know About Tree Care in 2026 🌳

The start of a new year is when many homeowners begin thinking about goals. Some focus on finances. Others focus on health or home projects. One thing that often gets overlooked is tree care, even though trees play a major role in the safety, value, and appearance of your property.

If you live in Cumming, GA or anywhere in North Georgia, January is one of the smartest times to take a closer look at your trees and yard. Winter weather exposes problems that are easy to miss during the rest of the year. Addressing them early helps you avoid costly damage and stress later on.

At LS Trees, we work with homeowners every winter who say the same thing: “I wish I had done this sooner.” This guide is designed to help you understand what to look for, what matters most, and how to make the right decisions for your yard in 2026.

Why Tree Care Should Be a Priority at the Start of the Year

Trees are living structures. Over time, they change, weaken, and respond to weather in ways that are not always obvious.

Winter is when many tree problems become visible because:

• Leaves are gone, exposing branch structure

• Storm damage from fall and early winter becomes easier to spot

• Soil shifts from rain and freezing temperatures affect root stability

Starting the year with a tree care assessment allows you to address issues before spring storms and growth make them worse.

🌱 A strong year for your yard starts with safe, healthy trees.

Here’s What Homeowners Should Look For in Winter

Even without professional training, there are warning signs every homeowner should watch for.

1. Dead or Hanging Limbs

If you see branches with no buds, brittle wood, or limbs hanging lower than before, those are signs of dead or failing branches. These can fall at any time, especially during wind or heavy rain.

2. Leaning Trees

A tree that suddenly starts leaning or looks more tilted than it did last year may have root problems. Winter storms and saturated soil in North Georgia can weaken root systems.

3. Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs

Visible cracks are a serious structural concern. Cold temperatures can worsen existing cracks, making trees more likely to split during storms.

4. Fungal Growth Near the Base

Mushrooms or fungal growth around a tree’s base often signal internal decay. This weakens the tree from the inside and increases the risk of failure.

5. Trees Too Close to Structures

Trees that have grown too close to your home, garage, fence, or power lines may need trimming or removal to prevent damage.

If you notice any of these signs, winter is the right time to act.

Understanding What Your Yard Actually Needs

Not every tree problem requires removal. In many cases, trimming or targeted maintenance is enough.

Knowing what is right for your yard depends on:

• Tree species

• Tree age and health

• Location on the property

• Proximity to structures

• Overall landscape goals

A professional tree service evaluates all of these factors before making recommendations.

🌳 Good tree care is about balance, not overcutting.

Tree Trimming: When It Is the Right Choice

Tree trimming is often the best solution when:

• Limbs are overgrown but the tree is healthy

• Branches are rubbing or crossing

• Canopy is too dense, blocking light and airflow

• Limbs hang over roofs or driveways

Winter trimming is ideal because trees are dormant. Cuts heal more efficiently, and trimming now encourages healthier spring growth.

Trimming improves:

• Safety

• Tree structure

• Appearance

• Long term health

Tree Removal: When It Is Necessary

Tree removal is sometimes the safest option, especially when:

• A tree is dead or severely diseased

• Structural damage is present

• Roots are compromised

• The tree poses a risk to people or property

Removing a hazardous tree early in the year prevents emergency situations during spring storms.

At LS Trees, we only recommend removal when it is truly necessary. Our goal is to protect your property and preserve healthy trees whenever possible.

Why Winter Is the Best Time to Make These Decisions

Winter gives homeowners a rare opportunity to plan instead of react.

Benefits of winter tree care include:

• Easier scheduling before spring demand

• Clear visibility of tree structure

• Less disruption to landscaping

• Reduced risk of emergency removals

By the time spring arrives, your yard is already prepared.

How Tree Care Protects Property Value

Healthy trees add value. Unsafe trees do the opposite.

Tree care helps:

• Improve curb appeal

• Reduce liability risks

• Protect roofs, fences, and driveways

• Create safer outdoor spaces

For homeowners planning to sell in the future, proactive tree care makes a strong first impression.

🏡 A well-maintained yard signals a well-maintained home.

Why Choosing the Right Tree Service Matters

Tree care is not a one-size-fits-all service. Experience, local knowledge, and proper equipment make a significant difference.

Homeowners in Cumming, GA choose LS Trees because:

• We have over 15 years of hands-on experience

• We understand North Georgia trees and terrain

• We do not use subcontractors

• We are fully licensed and insured

• We prioritize safety and long-term results

Our team takes the time to explain recommendations so homeowners feel confident in every decision.

A Smarter Way to Start 2026

The best thing you can do for your property at the start of the year is address potential risks early.

Tree care in January helps you:

• Prevent costly damage

• Improve safety

• Prepare for spring

• Protect your investment

Instead of waiting for something to go wrong, winter gives you control.

Schedule Your Tree Care Assessment Today

If you are unsure what your yard needs, a professional assessment is the best place to start.

📞 Call or text LS Trees at (770) 616-6079
📲 Send us a DM on Instagram
🌐 Visit lstreesllc.com to schedule your winter tree service

Start 2026 with confidence, safety, and healthier trees.