5 Fall Tree Maintenance Tips for our Cincinnati Trees

As the trees herald the change with vivid foliage transformations, shifting from greens to deep rusts, ruby reds, shimmering golds, and every hue in between, we are reminded that winter is approaching, and it’s not the time to overlook your trees.

In fact, it's an excellent opportunity to prepare them for winter and the upcoming spring. Utilizing these cooler days to provide your trees with some care can help shield them during winter and create an ideal growing environment for the next season.

Utilize our detailed fall tree care checklist to prepare your trees for any season, ensuring they remain healthy and vibrant.

5 Tips for Fall Tree Care

1. Thoroughly water trees frequently throughout fall -- enough to keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. Water regularly until the ground freezes. To efficiently get your tree the right amount of water, weekly deep root watering with slow soaking is the best strategy.

2. Fertilizer might be necessary for some trees but not others. Consult our certified arborists about the tree type and age, as applying the correct fertilizer in the right amount is crucial for the tree's health and spring growth. Our fertilizer can be applied anytime because of the rate we apply it with water

3. Corrective pruning/trimming limbs that are dead or defective is crucial. These limbs can break under ice and snow or strong winds and may harbor disease, worsening in spring. If you spot insect eggs in the bark, it's time to call our tree care experts. Carefully inspect trees for weak limbs, disease, insects, or other issues that may require professional attention.

4. Apply mulch around the tree trunk after watering. Ensure proper mulching by not piling it too close to the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture and gradually releases essential nutrients throughout fall and winter, preparing your trees for optimal spring growth. The aim is to retain nutrients and moisture without promoting mold or rot.

5. Cable or brace trees vulnerable to winter winds. Even moderate winds can topple or damage a tree, and wind can partially uproot it. Newly planted trees, older trees, or those with large limbs may be especially susceptible to strong winds. If unsure about your tree's stability, consult our arborists for advice on tree cabling and bracing techniques.

Also, we recommend mulching leaves instead of raking...Here's why

• Improves soil health:

  Adds organic matter, which improves soil structure, water retention, and drainage. 

• Reduces waste:

  Eliminates the need for bagging and hauling leaves. 

• Provides free fertilizer:

  Decomposing leaves return carbon and nutrients to the soil, reducing the need for commercial fertilizers. 

• Saves time and money:

  Reduces the need for raking and bagging, and eliminates costs associated with municipal leaf collection. 

  
  

  Many are surprised at how much better their trees look in spring when proper fall care is given. Trees will reflect the care they received in fall once spring arrives. Take the time to tend to your trees every fall. If unsure about the specific care your trees need, contact us—we can provide an estimate for any pruning, mulching, or fertilizing your trees require to thrive and look their best year-round.