Fall is the perfect time of year for tree care. As the temperature drops, trees drop their leaves, slow their growth, and go dormant to preserve energy. Here are a few tips for tree maintenance in the fall. Regular care will help keep your trees healthy and vibrant all year round.
Tree Maintenance Tips for Fall
Add Mulch
Mulching young trees is one of the best things you can do for your landscape – not only in the autumn but all year. Mulch helps by protecting tree roots from extreme temperature changes, keeping moisture in the soil, and preventing weed growth. When applying mulch, spread it evenly around the tree (but not too close to the trunk), and keep it at least 2-3 inches deep.
Tree Maintenance in the Fall: Provide Water
While trees do not need as much water in the fall as they do in the spring and summer, they still need a consistent water supply to stay healthy through the winter. If it hasn’t rained lately, check the soil around your trees. If it feels dry, use the garden hose to water the soil deeply. It’s best to water your trees early in the day so the moisture can soak into the roots before evaporating.
Fertilize in the Fall
Fertilizing your trees in the fall helps them store energy for the winter months ahead. Shop for fertilizer specifically for trees, and follow the directions on the package carefully. Over-fertilizing can do more harm than good, so apply the product carefully.
Pruning is Necessary for Tree Maintenance in the Fall
Pruning is an essential part of keeping your trees healthy and strong. Remove dead or dying branches as soon as possible to prevent them from causing damage to the rest of the tree. Additionally, you’ll want to trim branches growing near power lines or overhanging sidewalks and driveways. Use sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts; jagged cuts can damage the tree and leave it vulnerable to disease.
Call an arborist if you don’t have the equipment to prune trees safely. They will have the tools needed to complete the task quickly and without risking injury to themselves or the tree.
Following these simple tips ensures that your trees stay healthy throughout autumn and winter. However, if you have concerns about your trees or if they show signs of distress, be sure to call a professional arborist right away. They can diagnose problems and provide expert advice on how to care for the trees on your property.
A Plus Inspections of Texas offers home inspections in Conroe, TX, and surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule an appointment.