As the hot Memphis summer winds down and cooler days set in, your trees begin making a natural transition. This change of season is the perfect opportunity to give them the care they need to thrive through winter and flourish in spring. Preparing your trees for fall is essential to protect your property, mitigate storm risks, and establish a healthy landscape for the long term.
Fall is the best time to prepare your trees for the months ahead. In Memphis and nearby communities like Germantown and Collierville, Red’s Tree Service helps homeowners with trimming, inspections, and seasonal upkeep designed to keep trees healthy and properties protected.
Why Fall is the Best Season for Tree Care
Tree experts agree that fall is one of the most critical seasons for maintenance. The combination of cooler temperatures, increased rainfall, and leaf drop provides the right conditions for safe and effective care. Here’s why fall tree care makes such a difference:
Reduced stress on trees: Pruning and trimming during hot summer months can strain trees. In the fall, cooler weather allows them to heal more effectively.
Better visibility: Once leaves fall, arborists can clearly see a tree’s structure, making it easier to identify weak branches and structural issues.
Storm preparation: Memphis is known for unpredictable fall and winter storms. Addressing hazards now reduces the risk of broken limbs or uprooted trees.
Root growth support: While tree branches slow their growth in the fall, roots remain active. Proper watering and mulching support this underground growth.
Step 1: Schedule a Professional Tree Inspection
The first step in preparing your trees for fall is identifying any hidden issues. Weak or damaged limbs, pest infestations, and early signs of disease are not always visible to the untrained eye. A professional arborist can spot problems before they become emergencies.
Our certified team performs detailed inspections, checking for:
- Dead or decaying branches
- Insect activity, including borer damage
- Root health and soil conditions
- Structural weaknesses that may lead to storm damage
- Signs of disease, such as discolored leaves or fungal growth
An inspection provides peace of mind and ensures your trees get the right care at the right time.
Step 2: Prune and Trim Carefully
Pruning is one of the most important fall tasks. Removing dead, diseased, or structurally weak branches improves tree health and reduces hazards during storms. Proper pruning also shapes the tree, allowing for more balanced growth and better sunlight exposure in spring.
Some key tips for fall pruning include:
- Remove crossing branches that rub against each other.
- Trim back branches growing too close to roofs, fences, or power lines.
- Avoid over-pruning, which can stress the tree before winter.
- Use clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of disease.
For larger trees or those near structures, professional pruning is the safest option. Red’s Tree Service uses specialized equipment and techniques to protect both your trees and your property.
Step 3: Mulch to Protect Roots
Mulching in the fall provides a protective barrier for tree roots during colder months. A layer of mulch helps:
- Regulate soil temperature
- Retain moisture during dry spells
- Reduce weed growth
- Prevent soil compaction from heavy rains
Apply mulch in a 2–4 inch layer around the base of the tree, but avoid piling it against the trunk. This prevents rot and pest issues.
Step 4: Deep Watering Before Winter
Many homeowners assume trees do not need watering in the fall, but that is not true. In Memphis, clay-heavy soils can dry out quickly, and younger trees, in particular, benefit from extra hydration. Deep watering before the ground cools helps trees store the moisture they need to withstand winter stress.
How to do it:
- Water slowly and deeply at the tree’s drip line (the area directly under the canopy).
- Use a soaker hose or drip system for even coverage.
- Avoid frequent shallow watering, which encourages weak root systems.
Step 5: Protect Against Storm Damage
Memphis weather is unpredictable, and storms can strike at any time. High winds and heavy rains often lead to broken branches or toppled trees. Proactive preparation is the best defense.
Storm prep services from Red’s Tree Service may include:
- Thinning crowded branches to reduce wind resistance
- Removing limbs that hang over roofs, driveways, or power lines
- Cabling or bracing weak branches for added stability
- Clearing debris around the base of trees to improve drainage
This type of preparation not only protects your trees but also helps safeguard your home and vehicles.
Step 6: Address Memphis-Specific Tree Concerns
Local knowledge matters when it comes to tree care. In Memphis and surrounding areas, some of the most common issues we see in the fall include:
- Sweetgum trees are dropping spiky seed pods that can create a hazard in yards and driveways.
- Oak wilt and fungal diseases that thrive in humid Southern climates.
- Pine beetle activity damages evergreen trees if not caught early.
- Soil drainage problems in low-lying areas, especially near the Mississippi River.
Each tree species has its own needs. That is why working with a local company like Red’s Tree Service is so valuable. We understand the unique challenges of the Mid-South climate and tree population.
Step 7: Prepare Young and Newly Planted Trees
While mature trees can withstand seasonal changes more easily, young trees are vulnerable in their first few years. If you’ve planted new trees around your property, fall maintenance is essential.
Protect them by:
- Adding mulch to insulate roots
- Wrapping thin bark with tree guards to prevent cracking
- Staking trees securely to withstand strong winds
- Watering consistently until the ground freezes
These steps give young trees the foundation they need to grow strong and healthy.
Step 8: Keep Leaves and Debris Under Control
While a blanket of fall leaves looks beautiful, too much leaf litter can create problems. Wet, compacted leaves retain moisture against the soil, which encourages the growth of fungus and pests. They can also block water flow in your yard, leading to drainage issues.
Instead of letting leaves pile up, consider these options:
- Compost them to create natural fertilizer.
- Shred them with a mulching mower for ground cover.
- Bag and remove excess debris, especially near foundations.
Trust Red’s Tree Service for Expert Fall Tree Care
From Midtown to Germantown, Red’s Tree Service has been helping Memphis residents care for their trees for decades. Our certified arborists provide inspections, pruning, storm prep, and emergency response when you need it most.
Contact Red’s Tree Service today to schedule your fall tree inspection or maintenance service.
Posted by Reds Tree Service This post first appeared on https://redstreeservice.com