Why Your Trees and Shrubs Might Be Looking a Little Rough (And Why That’s Okay)

As we move into the cooler months, it’s perfectly normal for your deciduous trees and shrubs to start showing signs of stress, yellowing, browning, or even a bit of pest damage. Don’t be alarmed! This is all part of their natural cycle as they prepare to drop their leaves and rest through winter.

During this time, plants are conserving energy and focusing on root health rather than leaf growth. It may not look pretty, but this phase is essential for strong, healthy growth in the spring.

What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Do Right Now

  • Don’t panic! A little roughness is part of the process.

  • Skip the pruning and pest treatments for now, your plants are entering dormancy, and those steps can wait until new growth appears.

  • Plan ahead for spring. When new leaves emerge, that’s the perfect time to fertilize and apply a systemic insecticide drench to help prevent early-season pest problems.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re unsure about what’s normal or need advice for your specific plants, our knowledgeable staff is happy to help. Call us at 972-475-5888, Ext. 2, and we’ll walk you through the best care plan for your landscape.