Blog Seasonal Tree Wisdom: Expert Guidance on Autumn and Winter Care from McGraw's Sep 08, 2025

As the crisp breeze of autumn begins to sweep across our yards, the time has come to prepare your trees for the colder months ahead. Seasoned tree owners know that proper tree care during autumn and winter ensures not just survival, but a thriving start in spring. McGraw's Lawn and Tree Service is here to share seasonal wisdom that will help maintain the health and beauty of your trees.

In autumn, trees start preparing for dormancy. This is a crucial period where your actions or inaction can impact their health significantly. One of the first steps in autumn tree care is pruning. At McGraw’s, we recommend pruning dead or diseased branches to prevent potential damage from winter storms. Focus on thinning out the canopy to reduce the weight on limbs, which helps prevent breakage from heavy snow or ice. Remember, proper pruning enhances tree structure and appearance.

Fallen leaves, while picturesque, should not be ignored. Rake leaves away from the base of trees to prevent the growth of mold and pests, which thrive under piles of decay. Applying a layer of mulch around the base can help retain soil moisture and insulate roots against temperature fluctuations.

Watering is equally essential. As autumn progresses, continue deep watering until the first freeze. This ensures that trees enter winter with sufficient hydration. Trees, particularly young saplings and species with shallow roots, benefit significantly from consistent moisture during dry autumn weeks.

Moving into winter, one of the most common mistakes is assuming trees need no care at all. However, this is the time to shield your trees from cold damage and critters. Use tree guards to protect young trees from browsing animals like deer. These creatures often nibble on the bark for sustenance, which can severely damage the trees. Wrapping the trunks with burlap can also safeguard them from sunscald, which occurs when sunlight warms the trunk during the day and the cold re-freezes it at night.

Winter is a great time to plan for spring tree care as well. Contact McGraw's Lawn and Tree Service for expert evaluations of tree health. Our specialists can spot potential issues invisible to the untrained eye, from early signs of disease to necessary structural adjustments.

It's also an opportune moment to inspect for diseases or pests that need addressing before trees become active again. For instance, winter is ideal for applying dormant oil sprays on trees to control overwintering insects. This proactive measure helps in minimizing pest problems the following year.

Concluding with action-oriented advice, remember that well-tended trees are resilient trees. The care you provide in these dormant seasons not only sets the groundwork for growth but also enhances your landscape's aesthetic value. Whether you’re dealing with towering oaks or petite pines, each type requires a tailored approach, which McGraw's Lawn and Tree Service can expertly provide.

Consider scheduling a consultation with us to ensure your trees receive the best care from autumn through winter. By prioritizing their health now, you’re setting the stage for a lush, beautiful spring. Trust McGraw’s to guide your seasonal tree care efforts with professionalism and expertise, ensuring your trees remain a robust, thriving part of your landscape.