Fall Tree Care: Pre-Winter Pruning & Protection Tips

As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to dip, your trees are already preparing for the long Wisconsin winter ahead. September is the perfect time to give them a little extra care. At Albright Enterprises, we’ve helped homeowners across Wausau keep their trees healthy through every season, and we know that fall pruning and protection make all the difference when it comes to surviving heavy snow, ice, and subzero temperatures.

Why Fall Pruning Matters

Proper pruning in early fall helps your trees:

• Strengthen Structure: Removing weak, dead, or crossing branches reduces the risk of breakage under the weight of snow and ice.
• Prevent Storm Damage: Thinning dense canopies allows wind to pass through more easily, lowering the risk of trees toppling in winter storms.
• Promote Long-Term Health: Pruning encourages healthier growth in the spring, setting your trees up for a strong recovery after dormancy.

Professional pruning also ensures cuts are clean and properly placed, reducing the chance of disease or decay.

Protection Strategies Beyond Pruning

Pruning is just one part of fall tree care. Here are additional ways to prepare your trees:

• Mulching: A fresh layer of mulch around the base insulates roots, conserves moisture, and prevents soil heaving during freeze-thaw cycles.
• Wrapping: Young or thin-barked trees, like maples and fruit trees, benefit from protective wraps that guard against sunscald and frost cracks.
• Cabling & Bracing: For older or larger trees with heavy limbs, strategic cabling adds support to prevent breakage during snow and ice buildup.
• Watering Before the Freeze: Giving trees a deep watering before the ground freezes helps them store energy to last through winter.

Local Expertise Makes the Difference

Every property is unique, and so are its trees. Our certified team at Albright Enterprises understands the specific challenges of Wausau’s climate—from early frosts to heavy snowfall. We know how to time pruning and apply the right protective measures to keep your trees safe, healthy, and beautiful year-round.

Schedule Your Fall Tree Service Today

Winter may seem far off, but your trees need preparation now. Don’t wait until the first snowstorm reveals weak branches or unstable trunks.

Call Albright Enterprises today to schedule your fall pruning and protection services—and give your trees the care they deserve before winter hits.