As the evenings draw in and the leaves fall, our trees begin their long rest before spring. While autumn is a beautiful season, it also brings strong winds, heavy rain, and dropping temperatures that can put stress on trees. Taking the time to check their health and structure can save bigger problems later as we get closer to winter.
At Dr Stump, we’re often asked what should be done at this time of year. Here are some practical steps you can take to keep your trees safe and healthy through the colder months.
Why autumn tree care matters
During autumn, trees slow down. They draw energy back into their roots and prepare for dormancy. Because of this, any existing weaknesses (such as cracks or decay) can become more of a risk once harsher weather conditions arrive. As the trees lose their leaves, it becomes easier to spot structural problems that may have been hidden in summer. Tackling issues now means that you can intervene early, give wounds from tree work time to seal ahead of spring, and go into winter with safer, stronger trees. In many cases, a little attention now can prevent costly emergency work later in the season.
Storm readiness and safety checks
Autumn storms are becoming more common in Norfolk and across the UK. A quick spot check can make all the difference. Look out for:
- Dead or hanging branches that could fall in high winds
- Splits or cracks in larger limbs
- Fungi or soft spots at the base of the trunk
- Roots lifting or soil pulling away from the ground.
If you spot any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional tree surgeon. We can prune or stabilise branches safely before they cause damage.
Supporting garden drainage
With heavier rainfall during autumn months, waterlogged soil is a growing issue in gardens. Healthy trees can help absorb excess water, but only if their roots are kept in good condition. Avoid compacting the ground around the case of your trees and keep an eye out for pooling water. Poor drainage stresses the tree, and can also weaken its anchorage and make it more likely to topple. Adding a layer of mulch can improve soil structure and help regulate moisture levels, while clearing away thick, soggy piles of leaves prevents rot around the base. In wetter gardens, shallow channels or soil aeration may be needed to move water away from roots.
When worst comes to worst
Even with the best preparation, storms can still cause sudden tree failures. High winds, saturated ground and storms can all bring down branches, or in some scenarios, whole trees. If you do encounter a tree emergency, safety should always come first.
Keep clear of any damaged tree, especially if it’s leaning, under tension, or close to powerlines. Do not attempt any major work yourself, as a compromised tree can shift without warning. If a fallen tree has damaged property or fences, take photos for insurance purposes. Keep an eye out for surrounding trees, as if one has failed, those nearby may be at risk. As soon as it’s safe to do so, call a professional tree surgeon.
Dr Stump provides emergency call outs across Norfolk and can safely remove hazardous branches of clear fallen trees. Acting quickly will make the area safe again, and also give the affected tree a better chance of recovery where removal isn’t needed.
How Dr Stump can help
We provide seasonal tree care across Norfolk and beyond, supporting homeowners, landowners and businesses. Our services cover everything from preventative pruning and storm readiness checks to stump grinding and emergency call outs if the weather takes a turn.
Get in touch today via Whatsapp or by calling 01603 358778 to give your garden the best start for the colder months.
