Tag Archives: fall tree care

Preparing Trees for Winter

Many homeowners tend to think yard work comes to a stop in the fall, but it’s important for the health of your trees to prepare them for harsh winter conditions.  By taking a few simple steps, you can help your trees weather the worst winter New England can throw at them.

Fall is the time to prepare trees for winter!

Fall is the time to prepare trees for winter!

First, spread a layer of mulch under each tree.  This will act as an extra layer of insulation to protect the tree’s roots from cold and frost.  We suggest using organic composted mulch which will will not only protect the tree, but feed it as the organic matter decomposes.

You’ll also want to continue to adequately water your trees throughout the fall.  They need water as much now as they did during the spring and summer, especially after the unusually dry conditions we’ve had over the past couple of years.  Just be sure not to water when the soil and trees are frozen.

Trees that are stressed form drought are vulnerable to winter extremes.

Trees that are stressed form drought are vulnerable to winter extremes.

Consider protecting trees from damage due to snow plows, shoveling, and hungry animals.  Young trees in particular are more susceptible to these forms of damage.  Wrapping the trunks of these trees in burlap or plastic cloth will ward off damage as well as provide additional protection against the cold.

Fall is an ideal time to prune trees.  Once the leaves have fallen, it’s easier to see the tree’s shape and structure as well as any damaged or diseased branches.  Pruning correctly is vital to the tree’s health, so for this task it is best to consult a professional.  Large trees must be pruned by a trained arborist for safety reasons as well as for the health of the tree.

Winter storms can cause major damage to weak trees.

Winter storms can cause major damage to weak trees.

You may be surprised to learn this, but fall is the ideal time of year to plant new trees!  The cooler weather stimulates root growth.  Later, the warmth and rain of spring encourages new top growth, resulting in a well established tree.  Some species of trees are best planted early in fall, while others do better when planted after becoming dormant.  Consult your garden store for the best time to plant the tree you wish to add to your yard.

At Westchester Tree Life, we strongly encourage our clients to schedule a tree inspection before winter snow and wind take their toll.  We will carefully inspect your trees for any weakness and help prepare them for the coming season.  Contact us today to schedule an inspection and learn how we can help prepare your trees for winter!

Trees and Deer Damage in Westchester

Deer damage in Westchester is not unheard of due to the high population in the area.  Westchester Tree Life’s tree care professionals are here to assist you in assessing the damage to your trees and providing a custom plant health care plan moving forward.  If you need immediate tree care, call Westchester Tree Life today:  (914) 238-0069

Deer Damage Westchester County

These seemingly innocuous visitors are more harmful than you may think!

Rutting SeasonDeer Rutting Damage 2 Westchester Tree Life

From early September throughout November, deer rub their antlers on trees to shed their summer velvet, mark their scent to attract doe (female deer) and claim their perimeter; this season is referred to as rutting season.  During the rutting season (also known as the mating season for deer), you may notice bark stripped from the perimeter of your tree.  Westchester County is known for having a high deer population and deer often revisit the same place each year to claim their territory; each rutting process lasts approximately 24 hours.

Deer Rutting Damage Westchester Tree Life

Trees in Danger of Deer Damage

Maple, Magnolia, Birch, and Bald Cypress trees are especially susceptible to deer damage, and can quickly be reduced to stubs.  Deer damage is especially stressful to young trees with smooth bark.  Deer damage to your trees can impact your landscape as well as decrease your property value.

Deer Damage Tree Westchester Tree Life

Identifying Factors of Deer Damage to Trees

When identifying deer damage to trees, look for a shredding of bark ranging from one foot above the ground to three or four feet high; underlying wood will be exposed.  When a deer has damaged the entire circumference of a tree, the tree is said to be “girdled”.  Trees which are girdled often die due to the inability to transport water and nutrients. Trees which have experienced vertical damage often survive, though the growth on that side may be stunted.  Due to the high rate of deer in Westchester, it is advised to check your trees often.

Deer Browsing

Deer Browsing Damage Westchester Tree Life

Deer also damage trees by browsing on tree seedlings, tree shrubs and climbers from late fall to early spring.  This reduces stem densities, limits height growth and reduces foliage density, which makes for a more open understorey.

Fall Tree Care

The needs of your trees change with the seasons, and fall tree care is no exception.  Altering your landscaping regiment to prepare for the upcoming winter weather not only helps to ensure the health of your tree, but the prevention of property damage and danger.

Tree Westchester Tree Life New York Tree Care

A healthy tree branch vs. a weak tree branch.

A certified arborist should assess your trees for weak branches which may break due to the pressure of snow and ice.  Your certified arborist will then explain which branches need to be pruned for safety and overall tree-health.

Bark Inclusions Weak Branch WTL New York

Bark inclusions in the branch union indicates a weak point.
Image Courtesy of hort.ufl.edu

Fall Tree Care New York Westchester Tree Life

New England’s renowned autumn foliage is beautiful!

If needed, a certified arborist can lighten the weight of branches which are weak and too heavy, or pose a possible threat to your property.  Reducing the length of a branch will reduce the weight, lessening the pressure, therefore securing your tree.