As the leaves turn golden and the nights start to draw in, many of us in Manchester are thinking about cosy evenings indoors. But for your trees and garden, autumn is one of the most important times of the year. Taking a little time now with autumn tree care will make sure your trees stay healthy, safe, and looking good right through the winter months.
As a local tree surgeon in Manchester, and every autumn we get the same questions from householders: What should I be doing for my trees before winter? The good news is, you don’t need lots of specialist knowledge or fancy tools to give your trees the attention they deserve. A few simple steps can make all the difference.
Why Autumn Tree Care Matters
Trees are tough, but winter can be challenging. Cold winds, heavy rain, and even the odd snowstorm in Manchester put pressure on branches and roots. If a tree is already weak, it’s far more likely to suffer damage.
Taking care of your trees in autumn means:
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They’re stronger and healthier when bad weather hits.
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You reduce the chance of falling branches that could damage your property.
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Your garden will look neat and cared-for even when leaves are gone.
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You’ll save yourself time, money, and worry in the long run.
Step 1: Give Trees a Health Check
Before you grab any tools, spend a few minutes just looking at your trees. Walk around them and notice:
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Dead or broken branches – these are more likely to snap in high winds.
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Signs of disease – mushrooms at the base, unusual spotting on leaves, or oozing sap.
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Leaning or unstable trunks – could suggest issues with roots.
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Crowded branches – where growth looks dense and tangled.
If you’re unsure what you’re seeing, that’s where a qualified tree surgeon comes in. We can spot problems early and give advice on whether pruning, treatment, or removal is needed.
Step 2: Prune with Care
Autumn is a good time for light pruning. By thinning out branches, you let more air and light reach the tree, which reduces the chance of disease and improves shape.
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Remove small, dead twigs and branches.
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Cut back any growth that rubs against walls, fences, or roofs.
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Shape hedges and small ornamental trees to keep them tidy for winter.
A quick word of warning: pruning large branches, or anything high up, is best left to professionals. Using ladders and chainsaws can be dangerous without the right training. For big jobs, give your local tree surgeon in Manchester a call.
Step 3: Clear Away Fallen Leaves
Autumn leaves look beautiful at first, but once they start to pile up, they can cause problems. Wet leaves become slippery on paths and driveways, and if left on the lawn they can smother grass.
Make a habit of raking or blowing leaves into piles and using them for compost, or adding them to your garden waste bin. Clearing around the base of trees is especially important – it stops pests and fungi from settling in for the winter.
Step 4: Mulch and Protect
Adding a layer of mulch (woodchip, bark, or compost) around the base of your trees gives them extra protection. Mulch helps in two ways:
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It keeps the soil warmer through cold spells.
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It locks in moisture so roots don’t dry out.
Spread mulch in a wide circle, but don’t pile it right up against the trunk – that can cause rot.
Young or newly planted trees can also benefit from extra protection. Wrapping the base with tree guards or fleece shields them from frost and helps prevent damage from hungry wildlife.
Step 5: Check Larger Trees for Safety
Manchester often gets blustery, wet weather through the winter. If you’ve got tall or mature trees near your house, driveway, or power lines, autumn is the time to check them carefully.
Look out for:
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Cracks in the trunk
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Large dead branches high up
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Branches overhanging roofs or sheds
If anything worries you, it’s safer to get a professional opinion. As a tree surgeon, I often carry out safety checks in autumn to give householders peace of mind before the stormier weather sets in.
Step 6: Plant for the Future
Autumn isn’t just about tidying up – it’s also the perfect season for planting new trees. The soil is still warm, but there’s plenty of rainfall to help roots establish before winter.
Whether you want a small ornamental tree for the garden or something larger for shade, planting in autumn gives your new tree the best possible start.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Caring for your trees in autumn doesn’t have to be complicated. With a quick health check, a bit of pruning, and some mulch at the base, you’ll help your trees thrive through the coldest months.
Your garden is one of your home’s greatest assets, and healthy trees are at the heart of it. By giving them a little care in autumn, you’re protecting not just the look of your garden, but also your home and family’s safety.
So, before you settle in for those winter evenings by the fire, spend a weekend getting your trees ready. You’ll thank yourself when the Manchester winds start blowing and your trees stand strong, safe, and beautiful.
And remember, you don’t have to do it all yourself. If you’re unsure, or if you’ve got large trees that need attention, a qualified tree surgeon in Manchester can take care of the heavy work safely.
