Fall is soon to be upon us and pruning your trees is of vital importance for the health of your tree throughout the winter and the invigoration of your garden come spring time. There are many reasons to prune in fall but for arborists these are key.
TOP REASONS TO PRUNE YOUR TREES IN FALL
Cuts will heal better It reduces tree stress It preps your garden for the growing season You can catch problems before they happen
- Cuts Heal Better in Dormancy
Pruning your trees during their dormant season allows cuts to heal more effectively. When trees are inactive, the risk of attracting diseases and pests is significantly lower. This reduced risk is because the tree’s natural defenses are not active, making it less likely for infections and infestations to take hold. - Pre-Thinning Gives You a Jump on Spring
Pruning in the fall prepares your trees for the upcoming growing season. By pre-thinning, you ensure that when winter ends and your yard begins to bloom, your trees won’t block sunlight from reaching your garden. This early preparation saves your trees from expending energy on new growth that would need to be removed later. Additionally, your garden flowers and shrubs will benefit from the increased sunlight, allowing them to thrive early in the season. - Reduce Risk by Cutting Dead Branches Before the Wind and Snow
Fall is the perfect time to remove dead branches, reducing the risk of them falling during winter storms. Dead branches are weakly attached and can easily be knocked down by strong winds or heavy snowfall. By removing them during your fall pruning, you help keep your family, pets, and passersby safe from potential harm. - Improve Tree Structure While the Going is Good
Structural pruning and cabling are easier to perform in the fall when there is less foliage obstructing your view. This season is ideal for adding cables or braces to your trees if you are concerned about the structural integrity of certain branches or stems. These supports can prevent branches from failing during winter winds and snowfalls. Arbutus specializes in cabling for tree preservation, ensuring your trees remain secure and healthy.
By addressing these key aspects, fall pruning not only enhances the health and safety of your trees but also prepares your yard for a vibrant and flourishing spring. Want to learn more? If you haven’t read them already, then check out our articles on tree planting and mulching!
