Summer is drawing to a close, but autumn is fast approaching. With rain and cold creeping in with the season, it’s time to check your trees to ensure they’re prepared for the conditions ahead. If you allow your trees to go unchecked for too long, then weak points may begin to show up, and in some cases, this can lead to hazardous conditions.

The key to protecting your trees from the adverse weather conditions of autumn is to ensure you’re carrying out basic tree maintenance. This will help maintain healthy trees, enhance the aesthetic appeal of your grounds, and significantly reduce the risk of fallen branches causing damage or harm.

Examine Your Trees For Damaged Branches And Fungal Problems

Proper tree maintenance starts with a thorough visual inspection for each one of your trees. Stormy weather, high winds and dry spells can all leave damage that isn’t obvious at first. Be on the lookout for loose, cracked or hanging branches, splits in the trunk, areas of decay or dead patches of foliage. Also, observe if the tree’s shape has altered since spring and if it appears stable or unstable. Being aware of these issues allows you to contact a tree maintenance professional quickly to assist you before autumn’s storms place additional stress upon the tree.

Identify Signs Of Disease

When carrying out your inspections, take note of possible signs of disease. Wilting or discoloured leaves, fungal growth, peeling bark and irregular markings on the bark are indicators that there might be a serious problem present.

In many instances, diseased trees do not need to be removed, but it depends on the extent of the issue and how soon it is recognised. Tree maintenance professionals may be able to save the tree if you act promptly. Nonetheless, in some cases, severely diseased or dead trees can become structurally unstable and represent a hazard to nearby trees, property and people.

Book Any Required Tree Pruning Before Autumn

Late summer is also a suitable period to evaluate if any of your trees need pruning – the most basic and important element of any tree maintenance schedule. It’s a good idea to book in professional tree pruning for the correct time of year.

Pruning removes unwanted growth and improves the general health, security and aesthetics of a tree. However, timing is critical. Each type of tree grows differently, and pruning at the incorrect time can result in unnecessary injury. Substantial tree pruning work is best carried out by an experienced tree maintenance specialist who will determine which work should be undertaken and when.

Do Not Remove A Dead Or Dying Tree Yourself

Removing a dead or dying tree is not something you should ever consider doing yourself. Professional equipment, training and assessment are needed to ensure safety for those working in and using public spaces adjacent to the tree. Get assistance from a qualified tree surgeon for help with this.

Get Your Tree Maintenance Services Scheduled Today

One of the best actions you can perform before autumn commences is to plan ahead. When bad weather starts to arrive, problems you had previously been aware of will probably escalate, and performing outside tasks will likely prove difficult. Scheduling your tree maintenance now gives you ample time to arrange any required work.

As experienced tree care and grounds maintenance specialists, Arborcure offers the services of our expert arborists across Plymouth & South West England. We can support you in preparing your trees for the coming months. Contact us today to arrange a professional service before autumn commences.