Common Winter Tree Hazards in Melbourne and How a Local Arborist Can Help

Winter in Melbourne brings colder temperatures, high winds, and heavy rainfall that can take a serious toll on the trees around your home. While trees are a valuable part of any property, they can also present significant risks during the colder months. Understanding these risks and addressing them early with the help of a local arborist Melbourne residents trust is essential for keeping your property safe.

At Multipoint Arboricultural, we help homeowners across Melbourne’s eastern and south eastern suburbs, including the Dandenong Ranges, manage and maintain healthy, safe trees. Our qualified team of arborists specialises in identifying winter-specific hazards and offering tailored solutions that protect both people and property.

If you’ve been searching for an arborist near me to assess or manage your trees this winter, this guide will explain the most common cold-weather risks and how professional assistance can prevent long-term damage.

Why Winter Is a High-Risk Time for Trees in Melbourne

Melbourne’s winter season typically brings strong winds, sudden downpours, and saturated soil conditions. While these elements are natural, they can weaken trees or expose existing structural issues.

In the eastern suburbs and the Dandenong Ranges, large mature trees such as gums and eucalypts are common, and they’re especially vulnerable during winter due to their size, shallow roots, and heavy limbs. Without regular maintenance, these trees may become a safety hazard.

Top Winter Tree Hazards to Watch For

Here are some of the most common risks we identify across Melbourne during winter:

1. Sudden Limb Drop (Summer Branch Drop)

While typically more common in warmer months, large branches can still fall without warning in winter. Cold temperatures can make timber brittle, and hidden decay can lead to unexpected failure.

Large overhanging limbs near homes, driveways, or footpaths pose a serious risk. A local arborist near me can assess these branches for signs of weakness and remove them if needed.

2. Windthrow and Tree Uprooting

Persistent wind, especially in exposed areas such as the Dandenong Ranges, can cause trees with shallow root systems to uproot entirely. Wet, softened ground contributes to this, as the tree’s grip on the soil becomes unstable.

Our arborists at Multipoint Arboricultural are trained to spot the early signs of windthrow risk, including leaning trunks, cracked soil, and exposed roots.

3. Hidden Decay and Weak Structures

During winter, many trees enter a dormant phase, and outward signs of health may be misleading. Decay, rot, or termite activity inside the trunk may remain unnoticed until the tree collapses under the pressure of wind or rain.

We use professional tools and experience to identify internal weaknesses that are often missed in a general visual inspection.

4. Obstructed Drainage and Root Rot

Prolonged rainfall can lead to poor drainage around tree bases. Waterlogged soil creates the perfect environment for root rot, which can destabilise even mature trees.

A qualified arborist Melbourne property owners trust can advise on improving drainage or recommend selective removal of affected trees.

5. Broken or Dead Branches

Deadwood becomes brittle over time and is more likely to break off during storms. These branches may appear stable but can snap without warning in wet and windy conditions.

We recommend regular pruning of deadwood before winter, especially if branches hang over roofs, roads, or garden spaces.

6. Fallen Trees from Previous Storms

If you already have a damaged or partially fallen tree on your property from earlier storms, leaving it unattended can create additional risks. These trees can collapse further or shift unexpectedly, especially in saturated ground conditions.

We provide emergency and preventative tree services throughout the winter season to make sure your property stays safe.

The Role of a Qualified Arborist During Winter

Tree hazards are often hidden beneath the surface, which is why engaging a professional arborist near me is so important during winter. At Multipoint Arboricultural, our qualified team offers in-depth assessments and practical solutions for managing winter tree risks.

1. Winter Tree Health Inspections

We provide thorough inspections of trees for structural integrity, disease, and signs of decay. This includes root condition assessments, branch stability checks, and recommendations for pruning or removal.

2. Preventative Tree Pruning

Strategic pruning helps reduce the wind resistance of trees and eliminates hazardous limbs before they fail. We always ensure that pruning complies with local council regulations and the health of the tree.

3. Tree Removal Where Necessary

If a tree poses a serious risk and cannot be made safe through pruning, our team will recommend removal. We handle all required permits and ensure safe and efficient service with minimal impact on your property.

4. Emergency Storm Damage Response

For urgent situations, we offer emergency callouts across Melbourne’s eastern and south eastern suburbs. Our fast response team ensures damaged or fallen trees are dealt with quickly and professionally.

5. Ongoing Tree Maintenance Plans

We offer regular tree maintenance programs that provide peace of mind year-round. This is especially valuable for properties with multiple large trees or those located in high-risk areas like the Dandenong Ranges.

Why Choose Multipoint Arboricultural for Winter Tree Care

We’ve helped hundreds of Melbourne property owners maintain safe and healthy trees, particularly through the harsh winter months. Here’s why we’re the first choice for tree care across the region:

• Qualified Arborists: Our team includes fully insured, AQF Level 3 arborists with extensive local experience.

• Local Expertise: We understand the terrain, soil, and weather patterns specific to suburbs like Ferntree Gully, Ringwood, Narre Warren, Glen Waverley and Mount Dandenong.

• Prompt, Reliable Service: We work around your schedule and respond quickly to urgent tree issues.

• Comprehensive Solutions: From inspections and pruning to removals and emergency response, we cover every aspect of tree care.

• Council Compliance: We manage permits and ensure all work is done in line with local council requirements.
  
  

Areas We Service

Multipoint Arboricultural proudly serves:

• The Dandenong Ranges

• Melbourne’s eastern suburbs (including Mitcham, Blackburn, Doncaster, Lilydale, and Bayswater)

• South eastern suburbs (including Rowville, Berwick, Clayton, and Frankston)
  
  

Whether you need help with a single tree or a complete property assessment, we’re ready to assist.

Get a Professional Arborist Assessment This Winter

If you’re concerned about the safety of your trees or want expert advice before winter storms hit, speak with our team today. We offer tailored tree care solutions that keep your property safe, clean, and prepared for all seasons.

Visit www.multipointarb.com to book an on-site quote or speak directly with our team of local arborists.