Essential Autumn Tree Care: What to Prune and What Not to Prune

As autumn will spread across England very soon, it’s time to think about specific of your trees during this crucial season. Autumn presents an opportunity for tree maintenance, ensuring they stay healthy and strong through the winter. This is a basic guide on which UK trees require attention this autumn and which should be left alone.

Trees That Need Attention:

Fruit Trees (Apple, Pear, and Plum)

• Why Prune Now?:  Pruning fruit trees in autumn helps to remove any dead or diseased branches, promoting better air circulation and preventing fungal infections.
• Advice:  Focus on thinning out the canopy and removing any suckers(growths that grow from the root system) from the base. This not only helps with disease prevention but also encourages a better yield next year.

Deciduous Trees (Maple, Oak, and Birch)

• Why Prune Now?:  These trees enter dormancy in autumn, making it an ideal time to prune without causing stress.
• Advice:  Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Thinning out crowded areas will help maintain the tree's structure and health.

Evergreen Trees (Pine, Spruce, and Fir)

• Why Prune Now?:  Although evergreens don’t go dormant, light pruning in autumn can help maintain their shape and remove any diseased or dead wood.
• Advice:  Be cautious with evergreens. Avoid heavy pruning and focus on trimming damaged or dead branches.

Shrubs and Hedges (Privet, Boxwood, and Holly)

• Why Prune Now?:  Autumn pruning helps maintain shape and removes any unhealthy growth before winter.
• Advice:  Trim back overgrown areas, focusing on maintaining a tidy shape. Remove any dead or diseased wood to prevent problems in the colder months.

Trees to Leave Alone:

Spring-Blooming Trees (Cherry, Magnolia, and Dogwood)

• Why Avoid Pruning?:  Pruning these trees in autumn can remove buds that have already set for next spring’s blooms.
• Alternative Care:  Focus on basic maintenance like removing fallen leaves and checking for signs of disease without heavy pruning.

Young or Newly Planted Trees

• Why Avoid Pruning?:  These trees need time to establish their roots without the added stress of pruning.
• Alternative Care: Mulch around the base to protect roots from frost and ensure they have adequate water.

Flowering Shrubs (Lilac, Forsythia, and Azalea)

• Why Avoid Pruning?:  Similar to spring-blooming trees, autumn pruning can interfere with the next season’s flowers.
• Alternative Care:  Lightly clean up any fallen leaves and ensure they are protected from harsh winter conditions.

General Tips for Autumn Tree Care

• Mulching: Add a layer of mulch around the base of your trees to retain moisture and protect roots from frost.
• Watering: Ensure trees receive adequate water before the ground freezes, especially if the autumn has been dry.
• Inspecting for Pests and Diseases: Autumn is a good time to check for any signs of pests or diseases and address them promptly.
• Clearing Debris: Keep the area around your trees clear of fallen leaves and branches to prevent disease and pests.

So…

Thinking about tree care in autumn ensures your trees remain healthy and vigorous through the winter and into the spring. By knowing which trees to prune and which to leave be, you can ensure the best care for your Trees.

By tailoring your tree care routine to the specific needs of your trees in autumn, you can ensure a healthy and vibrant garden all year round. If you're ever unsure about the best practices for your trees, our experts at Somerset Tree Care are always happy to advise!