Most Common Questions About Caring For Trees In Fall

The fall season is one of the most important times of the year for tree enthusiasts. Whether planting new trees or protecting plants against harsh climates, adopting the best tree care practices is vital. Otherwise, your trees will suffer.

As the premier tree care experts Dallas has to offer, we are often asked about various aspects of fall tree care. So, if you’re looking for information on tree care or tree nutrition in Dallas, the following FAQs should provide the answers.

When is the best time to plant trees in the fall?

Fall is the best season for planting trees, although spring is still a popular choice for specific cultivars (willow, magnolia, etc.). As a rule of thumb, fall tree planting should occur between mid-August and mid-October. Cooler temperatures aid the growth of new roots, allowing them to become stronger to provide the best foundation for the months to come.

If the trees already planted in your garden or local surroundings still have their leaves, fall tree planting can occur.

Should I prune or top the tree?

Tree pruning and trimming are essential features of the best tree care plans. Tree pruning should always be selected because tree topping can cause damage to the tree. Trimming the tree can be handled on a DIY basis, especially when just cutting back branches and generally tidying up the tree’s look.

When touching tree roots, including those above ground level, teaming up with professional tree care specialists is advised. Removing the wrong ones can cause severe damage.

What do I do if leaves start falling prematurely?

Firstly, you must define prematurely. Generally speaking, leaves should not fall before October. If they do, you could be experiencing iron chlorosis, pest infestation, or a problem with the water. Too little or too much moisture can cause significant problems, which is why a routine that will control the moisture levels is advised.

However, if your leaves don’t begin to fall until October, your trees are probably in excellent health. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing colors and beautiful foliage.

How can I stop my evergreens from dying?

It’s only natural to worry when you notice that your evergreens are turning brown from the bottom up. Problems could be caused by an infestation, drought, or saturation. Certified arborists can help investigate the situation as part of a comprehensive fall tree care strategy if you are worried. If there is a problem, our tree nutrition Dallas experts can save the day.

However, note that it’s quite natural for some needles to die off as a part of the evergreen’s natural cycle. If there are no signs of infestation or soil issues, you’re fine.

Why should I worry about compacted soil?

When soil is too compacted, it impacts the tree’s ability to take up nutrients and moisture. This can subsequently cause slow growth or lead to the onset of tree health disorders. Mixing compost into the top 10” of soil should fix minor issues and become part of your annual tree maintenance Dallas routines.

Aerating and vertical mulching will be needed for more severe issues. Our certified arborists can provide a clear diagnosis and take the necessary steps to solve it.

Is this a good time to fertilize?

In a word, yes. However, you will want to choose fertilizers with organic matter rather than chemical ones. Lawns, for example, should be fertilized because it will help overcome the brutal winter months, which subsequently promotes the chances of gaining a greener and healthier lawn come the spring.

It’s important to fertilize at this time of the year. For the best results, you should complete the task around a fortnight before the winter frost is due to start.

Is additional watering needed in the fall?

In addition to fertilization, you may have questions about the watering requirements. Given that the region receives a level of rainfall that’s on par with the national average, tree nutrition Dallas plans rarely have to include additional watering. That is, of course, unless your soil and plants are showing signs of dehydration or exposure to droughts.

When this is the case, complete the extra watering tasks in the days leading up to the first frost of winter. Try subsurface watering to get water to the roots of the tree.

What do I do about mushrooms, webs, and other seasonal issues?

The fall months can bring several possible issues. If you have mushrooms growing at your base, it is best to have tree care specialists determine whether they are the dreaded honey fungus. If they are, removing them safely and responsibly is vital. Webworms make webs, and you only need to remove these for esthetic reasons.

Of course, you will encounter leaves and foliage. Removing the fallen leaves with a rake should be done weekly or even more frequently if required.

Is mulching necessary in fall?

You could complete the fall period without mulching, but the best tree care experts in Dallas would suggest that you should include this step in your best tree care strategies. Mulching can provide a blanket to keep out weeds, which helps trees gain more water and nutrients. It also becomes a layer of protection against harsh cold temperatures.

Mulching layers should have a depth of around 4”. An ISA-certified arborist can help with this task, although an experienced home gardener can handle this task themselves.

Where can I seek additional support for tree maintenance Dallas?

The above information should help you make the most of fall tree planting. However, suppose you are worried about the premature falling of leaves or any other aspect of tree care. In that case, TreeNewal’s tree care experts Dallas can complete an array of professional tree care services to unlock the full potential of your current and future landscapes.

As an ISA-certified arborist, we can offer a diagnosis of tree disorders, investigate your soil, and support you through fall tree planting and maintenance. Call us now to find out more.

To learn more about Most Common Questions About Caring For Trees In Fall, TX, call our Argyle and Southlake-based teams

at tel:(817) 592-6846 or send us a message.

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Healthy trees, healthy lives.