You may be wondering, “Does fire mitigation season extend into the fall?” Yes — fire mitigation isn’t just a summer project. As Colorado experiences longer fire seasons, fall has become a critical time to prepare. Dying vegetation, dry leaves, and prolonged warm conditions can all increase your property’s fire risk well into the cooler months.
Key Reasons to Act in the Fall:
Drying vegetation: Plants die back and dry out, adding fuel for potential fires. Longer seasons: Fire danger now extends past summer into fall and even winter. Ground-level fuel: Fallen leaves and dead plant matter create a fire hazard if left unmanaged.
Fall Mitigation Tasks:
Vegetation cleanup: Rake and remove dry leaves, pine needles, and debris. Pruning/Trimming: Clear lower tree limbs and tall grasses to eliminate ladder fuels. Home Hardening: Add 1/8-inch metal mesh to vents, screen windows, and remove combustibles near chimneys. Defensible space: Keep a clear, non-combustible zone within five feet of your home.
A Year-Round Approach: Wildfire risk doesn’t disappear with the seasons. Ongoing preparation and fall home hardening helps protect your property year-round.
Mountain Pine Beetle activity spotted during an on-site estimate with our PHC team. The orange pitch flowing from the bark is the tree’s defense response to the invading beetles.
Colorado homeowners know that tree pests don’t take a break. The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and Mountain Pine Beetle (MPB) continue to threaten our forests and landscapes, and proactive management is the key to keeping your trees healthy.
If you have ash or pine trees on your property, now is the time to start planning for next year. Treatments and monitoring schedules fill quickly, and delaying could leave your trees at risk. By getting on the calendar early, you’ll ensure your property receives the right care at the right time.
Splintered Forest’s licensed arborists can help assess your trees, recommend treatment options, and create a schedule tailored to your property. Protect your investment and keep Colorado’s trees thriving by preparing today with the help of our Plant Health Care team.
Call us now to reserve your spot for 2026 tree health services.
Losing an ash tree can be tough, but it’s also an opportunity to diversify your landscape. Great replacement options include disease-resistant elms, maples, and oaks. Smaller yards benefit from ornamental choices like serviceberry or redbud. By planting a variety of species, you reduce the risk of losing multiple trees to pests in the future while adding beauty and resilience to your property.
Tree Roots Are Exposed ... What Options Do I Have?
Exposed tree roots can be both unsightly and hazardous, but covering them with soil or mulch isn’t always the answer. Adding too much soil can suffocate roots, while heavy mulch can attract pests. Instead, consider ground covers, and small amounts of pea gravel, mixed with a light ground cover layer applied carefully to improve appearance without harming the tree. A professional arborist can help determine the safest solution for your specific tree.
How To Care For A Newly Planted Tree
A newly planted tree needs extra attention in its first year. Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during dry spells, and apply a light mulch ring around the base to retain moisture. Avoid heavy fertilization right away — focus on root establishment first. With the right care, your tree will adapt quickly and thrive for years to come.
Kindred Spirit Oak : Quercus robur x bicolor
Looking for a narrow, upright tree with stunning fall color? The Kindred Spirit Oak is a hybrid of English and swamp white oaks, combining durability with beauty. Its columnar shape makes it perfect for smaller yards or tight spaces, while its deep green leaves turn a rich gold in autumn. Hardy and low-maintenance, this oak is a smart choice for both residential and commercial landscapes.
Never Miss a Treatment Window Again!
With Splintered Forest’s recurring Plant Health Care services, your trees and plants receive timely, proactive treatments all year long. From insect control and disease management to fertilization, we make sure you never miss a critical treatment window. As ISA Certified Arborists and Plant Health Care Specialists, we’re here to answer any tree care questions you have.
Want to make it easy? Just reach out with the message "auto-schedule" and our team will follow up to get you on the calendar.
