Why Fall Tree Care Is Just As Important As Spring
As the school year kicks off and football season ramps up, it's easy for tree care to slip off the radar. Most people focus on trees during the growing season, but did you know that fall and winter are just as crucial for your trees' health? Taking the right steps in the cooler months ensures your trees can survive the freezing winter temperatures and be ready for a strong start come spring.
The Power Of Mulch
One of the best things you can do for your trees this fall is to apply mulch — whether it's wood mulch or leaf mulch. In their natural environment, trees are surrounded by organic matter that insulates their roots and provides nutrients as it decomposes. In urban settings, this natural layer is often missing, as grass takes center stage and landscapes aim for a clean, uniform look.
By adding mulch around your trees, you're mimicking this natural "duff layer", which provides essential benefits such as moderating soil temperature and protecting the fine roots from extreme winter cold. These roots, located within the top 3–12 inches of soil, are responsible for gathering water and nutrients that keep your trees healthy.
Why Mulching In Fall Is Critical
While spring is a popular time to add mulch, a fall application is just as important. Leaf mulch is a great option for fall — it's more affordable than wood mulch and breaks down faster, providing quick benefits to your soil. No matter which type you choose, proper mulch helps regulate soil temperatures and keeps your trees' fine roots safe from freezing temperatures during the winter.
How To Apply Mulch Properly
When adding mulch, pay attention to the thickness and placement. Here are a few tips:
Thickness
Mulch should be 2–3 inches thick, applied evenly across the ground.
Placement
Keep mulch away from the trunk — about 6 inches or more — and avoid covering the root flare to prevent fungal issues and girdling roots.
Shape
Always ensure the mulch is flat and even — never piled into a "volcano" shape around the trunk.
Root Collar Excavation
If you notice your mulch is mounded around the trunk, fall is the perfect time to address this with a root collar excavation. An arborist will use an air spade to remove excess soil and mulch, resetting the proper growing conditions for your tree. This process also allows the arborist to spot and remove any problematic girdling roots.
Fall Tree Care = Strong, Healthy Trees
Taking care of your trees during the fall and winter is an investment in their long-term health. Proper mulching and maintenance now will set your trees up for success, ensuring they can thrive when the growing season returns. Taylor's Way team of experts is here to answer any of your fall tree care questions.
