This year’s storms have left you with some dead branches or a limb that has taken to leaning? You may be wondering what fall chores are of real value in protecting your trees and which can be put off. In any case, are they in good shape for another Central Illinois winter?
We see it as our job at Central Arbor Tree Care to put those questions to rest for homeowners in Peoria, Bloomington, Pekin, Normal and all the communities in between. As a locally owned, family tree company we make sure their trees are in fine health from one season to the next. Our owner Jeremy Zacha is an ISA Certified Arborist (IL-9561A). For any fall inquiries regarding your trees, you can reach us at (309) 228-2443.
There is no better time of year than fall to tend to your trees. With the growing season coming to an end, what you put into them now will show in a robust spring. The following are the kind of advice we give to most of the homeowners we work with in Central Illinois.
Why do tree care in the fall?
The cooler temperatures put a different spin on things. A tree will take its cue and slow down in readiness for dormancy; it can be worked on with less stress then. Then there is the matter of visibility. Once the leaves are gone you can get a good look at the tree’s structure and spot trouble branches that were out of sight through the summer.
And in these parts storm season is not long in coming. Weak limbs do not stand up to the rigors of ice, wind and heavy snow. Addressing such matters in the fall spares you from damage down the road.
An inspection before winter
Take a walk of the property and have a good look at each tree, from the base up to the trunk and beyond. Be on the lookout for:
- Branches that are broken, hanging or simply dead
- Splits or cracks in the trunk and major limbs
- Any encroachment on the roof, driveway or power lines
- Trees on a lean or soil heaving at the roots
- Fungus or mushrooms on the bark
- Cavities and missing bark
If you are in doubt, let a certified arborist have a look. One does not always see the warning signs until a branch has come down.
Trimming and pruning
For many trees the fall and dormant season present a good opportunity. Put in the work to eliminate weak or dead wood and you will have a neater tree and less likelihood of storm damage when winter comes.
Yet it is not wise to be making guesses at pruning. A bad cut will weaken a tree and open it to disease. Our licensed arborists know where to make the cut and how much to leave on a tree for its good. Learn more about our trimming and pruning services.
Put away the leaves and debris
You might view raking as a chore but a wet mat of leaves on the lawn is an invitation to disease. Mulching or raking is better for the grass and the appearance of the yard. And if you have had to deal with some fallen limbs, clear them out. Debris is a hazard once the snow is on the ground and a draw for pests.
Get in ahead of the storms
Ice and snow will test your trees this winter and snap a weak limb. Some preparation is well worth the effort:
- Get rid of overextended or dead branches at the first sign of a freeze
- See if there are any limbs overhanging the house or garage
- We can cable or brace a tree with poor joints
- Make sure nothing is in a position to block the walkway or driveway
Should a storm put a tree or a hazardous limb in your way, our 24/7 emergency service is at your disposal outside of normal hours. We do cabling, bracing and cleanup by request.
Grinding the old stump
If you have done away with a tree this season, ask about having the stump ground. It is a good way to end the job and have a yard free of trip hazards and pests come next year.
Call on the professionals
You can do some of the work yourself but when it comes to large limbs or climbing near power lines and your home, a professional is the way to go. We have been serving Central Illinois for close to ten years and are fully insured and licensed, as well as members of the Tree Care Industry Association.
Come in Monday to Saturday between 7:00am and 5:00pm or call for an after-hours emergency. To set up a no charge on-site estimate and put your trees in order for the winter, ring Central Arbor Tree Care at (309) 228-2443.
