Looking for the best fall tree care tips in Cincinnati? As the leaves change and temperatures drop, preparing your landscape trees for the winter months is essential. Follow our expert guide to ensure your trees stay healthy and vibrant through the fall and into next spring.

1. Check Soil Moisture for Healthy Trees

Proper soil moisture is vital for your landscape trees, especially during fall. Well-hydrated soil helps trees withstand the winter months. Focus on watering larger trees, evergreens, and newly planted trees until the ground freezes. For more tips on soil care, check out our soil moisture guide.

For information on choosing the best trees for your yard, visit our Cincinnati Tree Library.

Suggested Image: A gardener checking soil moisture around an evergreen tree.

2. Clean Up Around Fruiting Trees

Remove fallen fruits, diseased leaves, and branches from around fruiting trees. This reduces the risk of pests and diseases overwintering in your garden, giving your trees a healthier start next spring.

Suggested Image: A clean garden bed around a fruit tree with fallen leaves removed.

3. Continue Planting Trees and Shrubs

One of the best fall tree care tips is to keep planting. Fall is the perfect time to plant new trees and evergreens because the cooler weather and moist soil help establish strong roots. If the soil is workable, you can plant through the fall.

Find out more about the best trees to plant in the fall at the Arbor Day Foundation.

Suggested Image: A gardener planting an evergreen tree in a Cincinnati garden.

4. Water New Trees Until Freezing Temperatures Arrive

Continue watering newly planted trees until the ground freezes. Pay special attention to the soil moisture around foundation plants, as these areas tend to dry out quickly.

Discover our Tree Watering Guide for more detailed instructions.

5. Protect Young Trees from Deer Damage

If your landscape includes young trees (with a trunk diameter of 3 inches or less), consider using trunk protectors to prevent damage from deer rubbing their antlers.

Find out more about the best way to prevent deer damage.

6. Use Deer Repellents to Protect Trees

Use repellents like DeerScram, Liquid Fence, or Repels All on trees vulnerable to deer browsing. For added protection, cover trees with nylon netting.

7. Transplant Trees, Shrubs, and Perennials in Fall

Fall is an excellent time to transplant trees, shrubs, and perennials that need a new location. Cooler temperatures reduce transplant shock; the plants can establish roots before winter.

8. Expect Needle Drop on Evergreens

It’s normal for evergreens to shed some of their inner needles during fall. Don’t worry—this is part of the tree’s natural cycle. However, make sure your evergreens receive adequate water during this process.

9. Feed Trees in Late Fall

Late fall is a great time to fertilize your trees if needed. Consider using vertical mulching or a soil injection method for optimal nutrient absorption. For evergreens, use half the normal feeding rate.

Explore our Tree Fertilization Guide for more tips.

10. Spray Evergreens for Winter Protection

To shield your evergreens from harsh winter conditions, apply WiltStop or a similar anti-desiccant spray later in the fall. This treatment reduces water loss and helps your trees survive the winter.

11. Mulch After the Ground Freezes

Wait until the ground freezes before applying winter mulch. This helps insulate the roots without creating a haven for pests. Keep the mulch away from the tree trunks to prevent rot and critter damage.

Learn the best mulching techniques with our Mulching Guide.

Have Questions About Fall Tree Care? Ask Our Experts!

At Natorp’s, we simplify Cincinnati gardening. If you need help with fall tree care, visit Natorp’s Nursery Outlet or email our experts!

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