We are now beginning our 4 part series on fall tree care tasks in SW Missouri.

Preparing Your Trees for the Dormant Season and a Strong Start Next Year

Fall is a transformative season for trees in southwestern Missouri, as they begin preparing for the winter months ahead. This is a critical time to provide care that will help them store energy, build resilience, and prepare for a strong spring. With thoughtful attention to tree care tasks in the fall, you’ll set your landscape up for a healthier, more beautiful season next year. This guide outlines the key steps for maintaining tree health and addressing seasonal challenges during the fall.

Why Fall Tree Care Matters in SW Missouri

In the fall, trees enter a period of dormancy, slowing their growth to conserve energy for the winter. This process, known as senescence, involves trees shedding leaves and storing nutrients in their roots to survive colder temperatures. By completing certain tree care tasks in autumn, you help trees fortify themselves for winter while positioning them for robust growth when spring arrives. In southwestern Missouri, where winters can be unpredictable, preparing trees in the fall can make a significant difference in their long-term health.

1. Fall Pruning for Structural Health and Disease Prevention

Fall is an ideal time for pruning, as trees are preparing to go dormant. Pruning now helps shape trees, remove weak or damaged branches, and minimize disease risk.

• Focus on Dead and Damaged Wood: Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This step reduces the risk of pests and disease, which are more likely to affect trees through weak points.
• Structural Pruning: Fall pruning is an excellent opportunity to shape young trees and guide their structure. Removing competing branches and encouraging a strong central leader improves stability and helps prevent breakage.
• Avoid Heavy Pruning on Young Trees: While structural pruning is beneficial, avoid heavy pruning on young trees, as they need as many leaves as possible to produce food before winter dormancy.

Using sharp, clean tools is essential to avoid causing unnecessary stress or introducing pathogens to trees. If a tree is particularly large or has challenging branches, consider consulting a professional tree care service.