Fall Tree Care Guide

Fall Season Tree Care Guide: Pruning, Trimming, and What Not to Cut

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, fall is the season when many homeowners prepare their yards for winter. One of the most important is tree care.

Pruning and trimming trees in the fall can improve their health, protect your property, and set the stage for strong growth in the spring. But not every tree or shrub benefits from fall pruning. Knowing when and what to prune makes all the difference.

This guide will walk you through the benefits of fall pruning, tips for doing it right, and a list of plants you should avoid pruning in autumn.

🍂 Why Prune and Trim Trees in the Fall?

1. Easier to See the Structure

   Once the leaves have fallen, the tree’s shape is clearly visible. It’s easier to identify weak, crossing, or dead branches.

2. Reduces Winter Storm Damage

   Snow, ice, and wind can weigh down branches. By removing weak or overgrown limbs now, you prevent them from snapping and causing property damage during storms.

3. Boosts Spring Growth

   Pruning encourages healthy, balanced growth. By cutting away dead or diseased wood in the fall, you give your tree a head start when spring arrives.

4. Prevents Pests and Disease

   Dead branches are a magnet for pests and fungi. Removing them in the fall keeps these problems from spreading.

5. Improves Curb Appeal

   A well-pruned tree looks neat and tidy, giving your whole yard a more cared-for appearance year-round.

   
   

 Tips for Safe and Effective Fall Pruning

• Start with what’s dead or damaged: Remove broken, diseased, or dying branches first.

• Cut carefully: Use sharp, clean tools and avoid tearing bark.

• Don’t over-prune: Never remove more than 25% of a tree’s branches in one season.

• Know your trees: Some trees thrive when pruned in fall, but others can be harmed. (See below for a list.)

• Think safety first: If branches are large, high up, or near power lines, call a professional arborist.

Trees and Shrubs You Shouldn’t Prune in the Fall

Not every tree likes a fall haircut. Some plants set their flower buds a season ahead or are prone to pests and diseases if pruned at the wrong time.

🌸 Spring-Flowering Trees & Shrubs

Pruning now removes next spring’s flowers.

• Lilacs

• Forsythia

• Dogwood

• Magnolia

• Azalea & Rhododendron

Best time: Right after they bloom in spring.

🌳 Oak Trees

Pruning in fall attracts beetles that spread deadly oak wilt.

Best time: Deep winter (December–February).

🌳 Ash Trees

Pruning in fall may attract the emerald ash borer (EAB) beetle that cause Ash tree death.

Best time: Deep winter (December–February).

🌳 Maples, Birches & Elms

These “bleed” sap heavily in fall, which stresses the tree and can spread disease (Dutch elm disease for elms).

Best time: Late winter to early spring.

🌲 Evergreens (Certain Types)

Light shaping is fine, but heavy cuts in fall make them vulnerable to winter damage.

• Spruce

• Fir

• Pine

Best time: Late winter or early spring, just before new growth.

🍁 The Bottom Line

Fall pruning is one of the best things you can do to protect your trees and yard. By removing weak branches, preventing pest problems, and improving structure, you set your trees up for a healthy, successful spring.

But remember: timing matters. While many trees benefit from fall pruning, others like spring bloomers, oaks, and elms, are best left for later.

When in doubt, prune lightly and wait, or call in a professional arborist for advice. With a little care this season, your trees will reward you with beauty and strength for years to come.

ARCO Tree Experts or other arborists may help you with your Fall Tree Care. (arcotree.com)