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Colder temperatures and shorter days serve as a reminder that it’s time for your trees and shrubs to have a winter check-up. Now is the time to uncover issues such as weakly attached branches, dead wood, diseases, pest infestations and other problems before they can cause serious damage in the spring.

Deer can quickly damage landscapes by browsing foliage and rubbing bark, especially on young trees. Their presence can also increase tick exposure. The best defense combines sturdy, ground-secured fencing, professional repellents, deer-resistant plants, and close monitoring.

Soil analysis is a key tool for tree health management. By evaluating nutrient levels, pH, organic matter, and soil conditions, arborists can identify problems, improve growing environments, guide fertilization decisions, and support long-term tree vitality and performance.

Buried root collars from deep planting or excess mulch keep trunk tissue wet, restrict gas exchange, foster disease and girdling roots, and weaken stability. A healthy tree should show a visible root flare. Safe excavation, soil decompaction, and good mulching can renew root function and resilience.

When there is a hanging branch or crack in a tree, it’s easy to see that a problem exists. Other issues may be more difficult to detect. Simple solutions can make a big difference. Pruning can lessen branch weight and wind resistance. Cables and brace rods can also be effective in helping to limit branch movement and protect trees.

Autumn tree fertilization supports root growth, helps trees recover from summer stress, and stores nutrients for winter. Soil testing guides the right treatment, improving health, resilience, and spring growth while avoiding waste or improper fertilizer use on trees and landscapes.

Fertilization is the single most important proactive measure you can take in caring for your trees this season. Soil care and fertilization in autumn dramatically improve growing conditions and provide the nutrients required for vital tree root development.

Trees under stress display key symptoms indicating a serious problem may exist. This includes wilting or loss of leaves/needles, yellowing of leaves or browning of needles, premature autumn color, early leaf drop and sappy spots on branches. Correctly identifying the underlying cause is critical to addressing tree health issues.

Summer is a time of high activity for pests as well as tree diseases caused by fungi and other organisms. Some problems may be simply aesthetic, while others can be a real threat to tree health and vitality. As such, it is important to have an arborist check your trees to determine the underlying cause.

Allegheny County - Burrellton Garden Club - Natrona Heights, Tarentum, and Lower Burrell Westmoreland County - Pucketos Garden Club - New Kensington

Given the stress from higher temperatures and lack of rainfall comon in summer, it is critical to water your trees and shrubs thoroughly. Applying a 3-4" layer of mulch, inspecting for pest infestations and scheduling fall fertilization can also help maintain tree health and vigor.