As the leaves change color and the air gets cooler, it’s easy to think your yard work is done for the year. Many homeowners believe that tree pests and diseases disappear with the summer heat, but that’s a common misconception. In fact, fall and winter can be vital seasons for tree health. Pests and diseases can silently take hold, leading to significant problems when spring arrives.

At Shannon & Sons Tree Service, we believe proactive care is the best defense for your trees. Our team of certified arborists has the local expertise to protect your landscape through the colder months. At Shannon and Sons, we will walk you through why winter tree care is essential and what steps you can take to ensure your trees remain healthy and strong.

Why Fall and Winter Protection Matters

While you’re cozying up indoors, many pests are looking for their own winter refuge. They often overwinter in tree bark, beneath the soil, or in fallen leaf litter, just waiting for warmer weather to emerge and multiply. At the same time, the damp, cool conditions of fall and winter in the Winston-Salem area are ideal for fungal diseases to develop.

Taking preventive action now is the key to avoiding serious infestations and damage later. A little effort in the fall can prevent costly problems, ensuring your trees are resilient and ready to thrive in the spring.

Common Tree Threats in Cooler Months

Common Tree Threats in Cooler Months

Don’t let the cold fool you; your trees are still vulnerable. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch for:

    • Overwintering Pests: Insects like borers, aphids, and scale insects can survive the winter by embedding themselves in the bark or laying eggs that hatch in the spring.
    • Fungal and Bacterial Diseases: Threats like root rot, cankers, and blight can thrive in cool, moist environments. These diseases weaken the tree’s structure and can cause irreversible damage if left untreated.

Damage that occurs during the winter can stunt growth, cause branch failure, or even lead to the death of the tree once the growing season begins. This makes tree disease prevention a year-round priority.

Signs Your Trees May Be at Risk

Signs Your Trees May Be at Risk

Early detection is your best tool for effective tree pest control. Before the last leaves drop, inspect your trees for these warning signs:

    • Discolored or spotted leaves
    • Cracks, holes, or oozing sap on the bark
    • Premature leaf drop or a thinning canopy
    • Visible insects, egg masses, or webbing on branches and trunks

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to take action.

Preventive Steps for Homeowners

You can play an active role in protecting your trees. Here are a few simple yet effective steps you can take this fall:

    1. Clean Up Debris: Remove fallen leaves, twigs, and fruit from around the base of your trees. This eliminates a primary hiding spot for pests and fungal spores.
    2. Prune Damaged Limbs: Carefully prune away any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This prevents diseases from spreading and improves the tree’s overall structure.
    3. Mulch and Water Properly: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your trees (without touching the trunk) to insulate the roots. Water your trees deeply before the first hard freeze to keep them hydrated.
    4. Inspect Regularly: Make it a habit to check your trees throughout the fall and winter for any changes or signs of distress.

How Shannon & Sons Tree Service Can Help

While homeowner efforts are essential, some issues require professional expertise. As the premier tree service provider for the Winston-Salem and Triad area, Shannon & Sons offers comprehensive solutions for winter tree care.

Our certified arborists can provide:

    • Professional Tree Inspections: We identify hidden risks and create a targeted action plan.
    • Preventive Pruning and Treatments: We use professional techniques to remove threats and apply environmentally safe treatments to protect your trees.
    • Personalized Winter Protection: We offer services designed to help your trees withstand the stresses of winter and emerge healthier in the spring.

Investing in proactive care now leads to more resilient trees, reduces the risk of expensive damage, and protects your home’s curb appeal for years to come.

Preventing Tree Pests and Diseases This Fall and Winter

Protecting your landscape is a year-round commitment. By focusing on tree pest control and disease prevention now, you’re setting your trees up for a vibrant, healthy spring.

Don’t wait for problems to appear. Let our arborists at Shannon & Sons Tree Service help you protect your investment. With decades of combined experience and a mission to provide quality care, we’re the trusted choice for homeowners across the Winston-Salem area.

Contact us today at 1.336.244.2633 or schedule your free estimate online to get started!

Many homeowners think tree care ends in summer, but fall and winter are important too. Pests often seek refuge in trees for the colder months, and damp, cool conditions are ideal for fungal diseases. Proactive care now prevents serious and costly problems later.

Trees are still vulnerable to overwintering pests like borers, aphids, and scale insects that hide in bark or lay eggs. Fungal and bacterial diseases such as root rot, cankers, and blight thrive in cool, moist environments, weakening trees and causing irreversible damage.

You can take several steps: clean up fallen leaves and debris around tree bases, prune any dead or damaged limbs, apply mulch (without touching the trunk), and water your trees deeply before the first hard freeze. Regular inspection for warning signs is also key.

While homeowner efforts help, some issues require expert attention. If you notice persistent signs of distress like discolored leaves, cracks or oozing sap, or visible insects, it’s best to call a certified arborist. Professionals can conduct thorough inspections, perform preventive pruning, and apply targeted treatments.