End-of-Summer Care for Trees and Shrubs
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to cool, it’s time to prepare your trees and shrubs for the upcoming winter months. Proper end-of-summer care for trees and shrubs can help ensure the health and vitality of your plants throughout the year. Here are some essential tips from Donovan Arborists:
Why is End-of-Summer Care Important?
- Preparing for Winter: End-of-summer care helps your trees and shrubs build their defenses for the harsh winter months ahead.
- Promoting Growth: Proper care now can encourage healthy growth and development in the spring.
- Preventing Pests and Diseases: Addressing issues like insect infestations or fungal diseases can save your plants from serious damage.
Key End-of-Summer Tasks:
- Why: Deep watering helps trees and shrubs develop strong root systems, enabling them to withstand drought and winter stress.
- How: Water slowly and deeply, allowing the water to soak into the soil rather than running off. Aim for at least 1 inch of water per week.
- Why: Fertilizing provides essential nutrients to help trees and shrubs grow and stay healthy.
- When: Apply a balanced fertilizer in late summer or early fall. Avoid fertilizing too late in the season, as it can encourage new growth that may not harden off before winter.
- Why: Pruning helps to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, promoting healthy growth and reducing the risk of pests and diseases.
- When: Prune trees and shrubs in late summer or early fall, allowing sufficient time for wounds to heal before winter.
- Why: Regular inspections and timely treatment can help prevent and control pests and diseases that may harm your trees and shrubs.
- How: Keep an eye out for signs of pests, such as insect damage or unusual leaf discoloration. If you notice any problems, contact a professional arborist for advice on treatment.
Mulching:
- Why: Mulching helps to conserve moisture, protect against weeds, and insulate the root zone.
- How: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your trees and shrubs, avoiding direct contact with the trunk.
Winter Protection:
- Why: Some trees and shrubs may require protection from harsh winter weather.
- When: For sensitive plants, consider using burlap or other protective materials to shield them from cold temperatures and strong winds.
By following these end-of-summer care tips for trees and shrubs, you can help your trees and shrubs stay healthy, beautiful, and resilient throughout the year.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact Donovan Arborists for expert advice and assistance. Contact us today at (303) 623-8733 (TREE) or fill out our FREE ESTIMATE form!
