Skipping Pruning Neglecting to prune your fruit trees in the fall can lead to weak branches breaking under winter snow or ice. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to help the tree conserve energy and promote healthy spring growth.
Overwatering Late in the Season Watering excessively in fall encourages new growth, which may not harden off before freezing temperatures hit. Reduce watering as the tree enters dormancy, but ensure the soil is moist before the first frost.
Failing to Mulch Properly Leaving the soil bare around the base of your fruit tree can expose roots to extreme cold. Apply a 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch around the tree's base, but avoid piling it against the trunk to prevent rot.
Forgetting Pest and Disease Control Ignoring pests and diseases in the fall can allow problems to persist through winter. Remove fallen leaves, fruit, and debris, as they can harbor insects and fungi that may re-emerge in spring.
Using Too Much Fertilizer Fertilizing in late fall can stimulate new growth that is vulnerable to frost damage. Focus on feeding trees earlier in the growing season and allow them to transition naturally into dormancy.
Ignoring Tree Wrapping Needs Thin-barked trees, like apple or peach, are prone to winter sunscald and cracking. Wrap the trunks with tree wrap or burlap in late fall to protect them from temperature fluctuations and harsh winter weather.
Delaying Protection from Animals Failing to shield your trees from wildlife can lead to bark damage or girdling during winter. Install mesh guards or fencing around the base to prevent deer, rabbits, and rodents from nibbling on the bark.