Introduction
As the days shorten and temperatures start to drop, trees go through significant changes to prepare for winter. Fall weather affects trees in ways we don’t always see, but there are things you can do to support them through this seasonal shift. Here’s what fall means for your trees and some simple tips to keep them healthy.
- Leaves Change Color and Shed
In fall, trees start to break down chlorophyll—the pigment responsible for photosynthesis—which is why we see vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. This process helps the tree conserve energy for winter, and shedding leaves reduces water loss during a time when water is harder to absorb.
How You Can Help: Rake up fallen leaves to prevent diseases or pests from taking shelter over the winter. You can compost the leaves to create a nutrient-rich mulch for next spring. - Roots Keep Growing
While things might look dormant above ground, a lot is still happening underground. Roots continue to grow during fall, taking advantage of the warm soil to store nutrients for winter. This root growth is essential for keeping the tree strong over winter and ready to grow come spring.
How You Can Help: Give your trees a deep watering before the ground freezes, especially if it’s been a dry fall. Proper hydration helps roots store moisture and nutrients to sustain the tree through winter. - Tree Trunks Become Vulnerable to Temperature Swings
Fall often brings sudden temperature drops, especially in the morning and evening. These fluctuations can cause frost cracks on the trunk, especially in younger or thin-barked trees. Frost cracks happen when the bark cools faster than the inner wood, creating stress that leads to cracking.
How You Can Help: Consider wrapping young or thin-barked trees with tree guards or burlap to protect against frost cracks and sudden temperature changes. Just remember to remove the wraps in early spring to prevent moisture buildup. - Less Sunlight Slows Photosynthesis
With shorter days come fewer hours of sunlight, which reduces photosynthesis. As trees slow down their energy production, they start conserving nutrients for the months ahead, preparing for dormancy.
How You Can Help: If your soil is nutrient-poor, consider adding a slow-release fertilizer to give trees extra support. This will help them store energy to last through winter and provide a boost come spring. Testing your soil beforehand can help determine if fertilization is needed. - Pests and Disease Look for Shelter
Fall weather can attract pests looking for a winter hideout and diseases that thrive in damp, cool conditions. Fungal infections, like powdery mildew, are more likely during this time, and some pests may take refuge under the bark or in branches.
How You Can Help: Prune away any dead or diseased branches to stop pests and fungal spores from spreading. Keeping your trees clean and clear of infected wood goes a long way in protecting them from disease over the winter.
Conclusion
Fall is a season of preparation for trees, and with a few simple steps, you can help them through the transition. By raking leaves, watering deeply, protecting trunks, and watching for pests, you’re setting your trees up for a healthy winter and a vibrant start in spring. If you’d like help with fall tree care or have questions about your trees’ health, Environmental Advantage’s certified arborists are here to provide expert guidance.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Environmental Advantage.