As summer winds down, your trees are quietly preparing for the colder months ahead — and you should be, too. September is the perfect time to give them the care they need to stay healthy through winter and bounce back strong in spring.
1. Inspect for Damage or Disease
Walk your property and look for cracks in branches, early leaf drop, dead limbs, or signs of pests. Catching problems now gives you time to address them before freezing weather sets in.
2. Prune Selectively
While heavy pruning is best done when trees are fully dormant, September is a good time to remove dead, damaged, or hazardous branches that could snap under winter snow or ice.
3. Deep Water Before the Ground Freezes
If September is dry, give trees a deep soak, especially young or newly planted ones. Going into winter well-hydrated helps them withstand cold and wind.
4. Apply Mulch
A fresh 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base (but not touching the trunk) helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and protect roots from frost heave.
5. Fertilize Thoughtfully
If a soil test shows nutrient deficiencies, apply a slow-release fertilizer in early fall. This supports root growth over the winter without pushing out new leaves too late in the season.
6. Protect Vulnerable Trees
Wrap the trunks of young maples, lindens, or fruit trees to prevent sunscald and frost cracks. In areas with heavy deer traffic, consider fencing or guards.
By tackling these tasks in September, you’re not just preparing your trees for winter — you’re investing in their long-term health and beauty.