5 Fall Tree Care Tips
Fall is coming fast, and your trees need some care to prepare for the long Alberta winter. Here are five tips that have helped us maintain healthy trees for decades.
- Plant at the Right Time
- Hydration
- Fertilization
- Pruning
One of the best times to plant new trees is in the fall, once they shed their leaves. It is much cooler at this time, and the tree has a low risk of being scorched by the sun. The tree is becoming dormant but will still have a chance to build root mass before winter.
If you have any questions, be sure to consult with a Certified Arborist.
Fall is also the best time to move a tree, and here are 5 Tips for Moving a Tree in Edmonton, Alberta.
Hydration
During the fall, trees need a lot of water. Ensure you give your trees a lot of water to stay hydrated through the winter months. Alberta is dry, and the tree will not get any new water until the snow melts. Ensure the roots get water at least 12 inches into the soil.
Protect your tree in the winter by making sure it is hydrated.
Fertilization
Fertilizing in the fall should be done by a professional. It is much harder to go wrong in the spring, but in the fall, it is critical to use the right product. Fall fertilizing is designed for immune system and root growth.
Pruning
Certified Arborist Mike Burge from Arbor Man Tree Care recommends pruning your trees after the leaves have fallen. The tree is dormant and will sustain less damage from storms. Pruning weakened branches will make the tree more resistant to snowfall and prevent branches from breaking off due to the extra weight. When the tree has no leaves, it is easier to see the tree structure and know what branches need pruning.
Cabling & Bracing
Large or old trees often need cabling and bracing to survive Edmonton’s challenging climate. Trees go through a lot, from scorching summers to frigid cold, heavy snow, heavy rain, and the ever-expected high winds.
Cabling and bracing can help sustain weakened or heavy parts of the trees to keep them from splitting apart. The extra weight that snow will bring in the winter will put your tree to the test, and now is the right time to make sure it is structurally sound.
Final Thoughts
Some straightforward tips for fall tree care can go a long way to maintaining a healthy tree. Contact a certified arborist to ensure your trees are in the best of health. Fall is the right time to make sure your landscape thrives in the spring.
