The changing of the seasons is coming to the Kennewick area. You will want to make sure your trees and shrubbry is prepared for the chance. Here are some of the most important things you should be doing and looking for.
Pruning In The Fall: Wait a Little Bit
In early fall, pruning wounds close more slowly and plants are more at risk for fungal diseases than at other times of year. For most trees, the best time for major pruning is late winter to early spring because wounds close faster.
Pruning in late summer and early fall may also stimulate new growth, which has little time to harden before cold weather comes. The cold can harm this tender new growth, and the tree may need more pruning in spring to remove the damage.
Mulching
Using mulch is a highly effective method of protecting fruit trees in fall — specifically their roots. Mulch, during the growing season, should not be more than a few inches thick, but in the winter, a little extra doesn’t hurt*. Just be sure to rake away the excess mulch material once the temperatures warm up in the spring. It’s useful to note that not all mulch is created equal, and, for winter protection, there are some types of mulch that get the job done better than others.
Effective Types of Mulch for Winter Protection — these provide insulation and also break down, adding to the soil:
- Wood chips
- Pine needles
- Bark mulch
- Evergreen boughs (great way to recycle Christmas trees!)
- Straw
Ineffective Types of Mulch for Winter Protection — these don’t provide much heat retention and don’t add nutrients to the soil:
We look forward to being your first call when it comes to tree maintenance in Kennewick. Don’t hesitate calling us to ask us what you think are the smallest questions. We can’t wait to help you and have the chance to earn your business.