Tree care requirements change throughout the year, just like the seasons. There are certain autumnal best practices that help trees recover from summer and prepare for winter. Find out what your tree wants in the fall and help ensure it thrives all year long.

What Your Tree Wants in the Fall

Fall is an important season for tree care. The moderate temperatures help to increase the effectiveness of practices such as watering, fertilizing, and pest control. It also make it easier for you to want to venture outside and tackle these tasks. Here’s what your tree is hoping for this season:

1. Mulch. Adding a layer of organic mulch around the base of the trunk insulates roots from freezing temperatures, conserves moisture, and enriches soil as it decomposes. Apply a few inches, but don’t pile it up against the bark, as this may lead to rot.
2. Water. Continue to water your tree deeply once a week before the ground freezes. Your tree will need moisture even after losing its leaves. Aim for the root zone to help hydrate the tee as it prepares for dormancy.
3. Fertilizer. Even established trees need replenished nutrients in the soil to boost root strength and overall health.
4. Pruning. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Once the leaves fall, you’ll be able to spot these areas more easily.
5. Inspection. Look for unusual growths, discoloration, weak spots, fungi, or signs of pests, as some can overwinter in your tree.
6. Protection. Use guards or specially designed tree wraps to help protect young bark from deer, pests, and disease.
7. Clean and clear area. Don’t let the leaves create a heavy blanket around your tree. While you can mulch the leaves, you don’t want to suffocate the soil and create an environment where a large pile of debris can invite fungus and pest infestations.

From insulating the roots and retaining moisture with mulch to cleaning up the fallen leaves to prevent disease and pests, there’s lots to do this fall. Taking care of your tree this season will set it up for a strong winter and a bountiful spring.