As summer winds down in Michigan, homeowners begin shifting their attention to crisp mornings, colorful leaves, and the cooler months ahead. But while you’re enjoying apple orchards and football season, your trees are preparing for a dramatic seasonal change and without proper care, they could become vulnerable to disease, storm damage, or even total failure once winter sets in.

September is the ideal month to get ahead of these risks. By following a strategic fall tree care checklist, you can protect your property, extend the life of your trees, and avoid costly emergencies. Here’s what every Michigan homeowner should tackle this September.

1. Schedule a Professional Tree Inspection

The first step in any fall prep routine is a professional tree inspection. A certified tree service can identify hazards that may not be obvious to the average homeowner, such as:

• Dead or dying branches that could fall during heavy winds.
• Early signs of fungal infections or pest activity.
• Root instability that could cause leaning or toppling.
• Weak branch unions that may not withstand the weight of snow and ice.

By catching these problems in September, you can address them before unpredictable fall storms hit. Inspections also give you time to plan tree pruning, trimming, or removal without the pressure of an emergency call in the middle of a stormy October night.

2. Tree Pruning & Trimming: Why September Is Best in Michigan

September is one of the best times of year in Michigan for tree pruning and trimming. The cooler weather reduces stress on the tree, and removing deadwood now prevents branches from snapping off during autumn’s strong winds.

Focus pruning efforts on:

• Branches hanging over your roof, garage, or driveway.
• Limbs touching power lines or scraping siding.
• Dead or diseased limbs that could spread decay.

Proper tree trimming improves airflow, reduces the chance of fungal growth, and directs energy into healthy branches. Plus, a neatly pruned tree will enhance your home’s curb appeal as leaves start to change color.

3. Fertilize to Strengthen Root Systems

Just like people, trees need the right nutrients to stay healthy through harsh Michigan winters. Early fall fertilization is one of the best ways to give your trees an energy boost.

Fertilizer in September helps:

• Strengthen root systems before the ground freezes.
• Replace nutrients depleted during summer droughts.
• Improve resistance to pests and diseases.
• Encourage healthier, greener foliage come spring.

Focus on slow-release fertilizers designed specifically for trees, and avoid over-fertilizing, which can stress the plant. A professional arborist can test your soil and recommend the best formula for your property.

4. Mulch Around the Base of Trees

Mulching is often overlooked, but in Michigan’s unpredictable fall climate, it’s a must. Adding a fresh 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of your trees in September provides several benefits:

• Insulates roots from sudden temperature drops.
• Retains soil moisture during dry fall weeks.
• Suppresses weeds that compete for nutrients.
• Reduces soil compaction from foot traffic and rain.

Be sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk itself to prevent rot or pest infestations. Think of mulch as a protective blanket that helps your trees transition smoothly into the colder months.

5. Prepare for Fall Storms

Michigan’s fall storm season can be unpredictable, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and even early snow. To reduce the risk of damage:

• Remove loose debris, dead branches, and yard clutter that could become projectiles.
• Trim overhanging branches that threaten roofs, fences, or vehicles.
• Check leaning trees and have them professionally evaluated.
• Consider cabling or bracing for older, valuable trees that need extra support.

A little preparation now can mean the difference between a safe property and thousands of dollars in storm-related damage later.

6. Water Before the Ground Freezes

Many homeowners assume that trees don’t need water once the weather cools down, but September is actually critical for deep watering. Summer droughts can leave trees stressed, and a good soak before the soil freezes ensures they have enough moisture stored for winter.

Water slowly and deeply at the base, aiming for the root zone rather than the trunk. Evergreens in particular benefit from this practice since they continue losing moisture through their needles all winter long.

7. When to Schedule Professional Tree Removal in Michigan

Finally, September is the best time to make tough decisions about tree removal. Dead, dying, or severely leaning trees pose significant risks once ice and snow arrive. By scheduling removals now, you:

• Prevent dangerous collapses during winter storms.
• Avoid emergency service fees in the middle of bad weather.
• Free up space for new plantings next spring.

Professional tree removal in Michigan is safest and most cost-effective in fall, when conditions are stable and crews can work efficiently. If you’re unsure whether a tree needs to be removed, a certified arborist can provide a risk assessment and recommend the safest course of action.

Final Thoughts

September is the perfect window to prepare your trees for Michigan’s fall and winter. From inspections and fertilization to tree pruning, trimming, and removal, a little proactive care now can save you money, protect your property, and keep your trees thriving for years to come.

Don’t wait until October winds or November snow catch you off guard. Contact a trusted Michigan tree service like Ole Man RB’s Tree Service today to schedule your fall inspection and get your property storm-ready.