As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, it’s time to focus on preparing your trees for fall. Seasonal care now can prevent damage, disease, and stress—helping your trees thrive in the spring. Not sure where to start? This guide offers practical fall tree care tips tailored for Ontario homeowners.
Why Fall Tree Care is Important
Though trees appear dormant in fall, it’s a vital time for root growth and overall health. Taking the right steps before the first frost can reduce winter damage and support strong spring growth. With Ontario’s unpredictable weather, proper fall tree care in Ontario is especially important.
Fall Tree Care Checklist for Ontario Homeowners
Here’s your go-to fall tree care checklist to help make sure your trees stay healthy through the colder months:
- Inspect for Damage or Disease
Look for dead branches, cracks, or signs of pests or disease. Early action can prevent winter damage. - Prune Dead or Weak Branches
Prune trees to remove hazards and shape the tree for healthy spring growth and remove potential hazards. - Apply Mulch Around the Base
Add 2–4 inches of organic mulch to insulate roots and retain moisture. - Water Deeply Before the First Freeze
Give trees a deep watering and keep them hydrated before the ground freezes, especially in dry fall conditions. - Fertilize if Needed
Use a slow-release fertilizer to support root growth during dormancy. - Rake and Remove Fallen Leaves
Rake and remove fallen leaves from trees that show signs of disease. Removing diseased leaves from your yard can help limit tar spot, anthracnose, blights, and rusts in the following year. - Protect Young Trees with Wraps or Guards
Young or thin-barked trees may need protection from sunscald and rodents over winter. - Inspect Soil and Check Drainage
Make sure water drains properly to avoid root rot or ice damage. - Stake Newly Planted Trees
Stabilize young trees to prevent shifting in winter winds. - Schedule a Professional Assessment
A certified arborist can identify hidden risks and recommend tailored fall tree care strategies for your property.
Set Your Trees Up for a Healthy Spring
Taking the time to focus on preparing trees for fall ensures they are resilient through Ontario’s tough winters. A few simple fall maintenance steps can make a big difference, helping your trees stay strong, healthy, and beautiful year-round.
Ready for Fall? We Can Help.
If you’re looking for expert help with fall tree care in Ontario, Baum Tree Care is here for you. Our certified arborists can guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to schedule a tree assessment and give your trees the care they deserve this fall.