Fall Tree Inspection & Care

Having your trees inspected in the fall is important because it helps keep them healthy, safe, and ready for the winter ahead. If you have trees that need to be removed, the safest and most cost-effective time is usually late fall through winter, but hazardous trees should always be removed immediately.

Hiring a certified arborist in Carroll County, Maryland is one of the smartest choices when it comes to tree care or removal. They are trained to identify things that are often overlooked or misidentified by the average homeowner.

Spotting hidden problems before winter.

Fall inspections can reveal disease, pest infestations, or structural weaknesses that aren’t always obvious to the average homeowner. Addressing these issues early prevents them from worsening during the cold months and gives your trees the best chance for strong early growth in the Spring.

Preventing storm damage.

We see it every year with winter storms. Weak, dead, or overhanging branches are more likely to break under heavy rain, snow, ice, or strong winds. Having a professional arborist do a fall checkup helps identify risky branches, dead or dying trees which reduces the chance of damage to your home, vehicles, or power lines.

Preparing trees for dormancy.

Pruning in the fall (or early winter) can help shape trees and encourage healthy growth in the spring. It also reduces the risk of spreading certain tree diseases, since many pests and fungi are less active in cooler weather.

Root and soil care.

Fall is a good time to check soil health and apply mulch or fertilizer, so roots are nourished before the ground freezes. This will also help to strengthen trees so they are better equipped to handle cold stress, giving them a helping hand to bounce back in spring.

Protecting your investment.

Trees add value and beauty to your property. A fall inspection ensures they stay healthy and safe for years to come.

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Choosing the right Tree Expert is not just about cost or advertisement gimmicks. It’s about having the right partner to guide you through your property to see what is actually needed.

Get in touch with Ichabods Tree Experts today to schedule a professional arborists assessment. Whether you're looking for tree pruning, tree removal, disease  control, or other services, our tree experts will help outline a solution that fits your needs.

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Your property and loved ones are too important to leave to guesswork.

Homeowner’s Fall Tree Care Checklist

While nothing replaces having a professional arborist from Ichabod’s Tree Experts inspect the trees on your property, there are a few things you can do on your own to help ensure the health, stability, and growth of your trees.

1. Inspect Your Trees

  • Look for dead, cracked, or weak branches.
  • Check for signs of disease (fungus, discolored leaves, peeling bark).
  • Watch for insect damage or burrowing holes.

2. Prune & Trim

  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
  • Thin dense canopies to reduce wind and snow load.
  • Keep branches away from your roof, gutters, and power lines.

3. Mulch & Protect Roots

  • Add a fresh 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the base (but not against the trunk).
  • Mulch helps insulate roots and hold moisture through winter.

4. Water Before the Ground Freezes

  • Deep water trees, especially young or newly planted ones.
  • Moist soil holds heat better and keeps roots healthier in winter.

5. Fertilize if Needed

  • Apply a slow-release fertilizer to support root strength and spring growth.
  • Best for nutrient-deficient soils (consider a soil test if unsure).

6. Wrap Young or Thin-Barked Trees

  • Use tree wrap or guards to protect against frost cracks, sunscalds, and animal damage.

7. Clear Debris

  • Remove fallen leaves, branches, or fruit that could harbor pests and disease.

8. Plan for Winter Weather

  • Stake young trees if they’re at risk of snow or wind damage.
  • Tie up arborvitae or evergreens to prevent branches from splitting under snow load.

🌳 Following this checklist not only protects your trees but also helps prevent expensive property damage during winter storms.

by Ichabod's Tree Service - Published on 9/1/2025 00:00
Filed under: Featured, Tree Removal, Tree Trimming, Pruning & Maintenance