Fall in Northern Virginia is beautiful—vibrant foliage, crisp mornings, and the anticipation of the holiday season. But while the scenery is stunning, this time of year brings unique challenges for the trees on your property. From weakened branches to storm damage, tree issues in the fall can become serious hazards if ignored.

At JL Tree Service, we’ve been caring for local trees since 1975. Our team of ISA Certified Arborists and highly trained crews have seen every kind of problem Northern Virginia trees face, and we know how to solve them before they become costly or dangerous. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common fall tree issues and show you how we handle them to keep your property safe and your trees healthy.

Common Fall Tree Issues in Northern Virginia

Weak or Dead Branches

As temperatures drop and leaves begin to fall, many branches weaken or die off completely. This can happen due to age, disease, or past storm damage. Weak branches are more likely to break during fall storms or under the weight of winter snow.

Warning signs homeowners should look for:

• Cracks in large limbs.
• Branches without leaves while the rest of the tree is full.
• Fungus or mushrooms growing on branches.
• Branches hanging low or touching your roof.

Ignoring these signs puts your property at risk. A falling limb can damage vehicles, rooftops, or power lines—and create dangerous conditions for anyone nearby.

Tree Diseases That Spread in Fall

Northern Virginia’s climate is humid in the fall, and that damp environment can encourage fungal diseases to thrive.

Common fall diseases include:

• Anthracnose – causes leaf spots, browning, and premature leaf drop.
• Powdery Mildew – a white, powdery coating on leaves that stunts growth.
• Cankers – sunken areas of bark that kill branches and weaken the tree.

Left untreated, these diseases can spread rapidly, reducing the tree’s ability to store nutrients for the winter and leaving it vulnerable to future problems.

Pest Infestations

Fall pests may be small, but their impact can be big. Some of the most common in Northern Virginia are:

• Borers – insects that burrow into trunks and branches, weakening trees.
• Aphids – small pests that feed on sap, causing leaves to curl and yellow.
• Beetles – capable of spreading diseases and weakening stressed trees.

Pests are often attracted to already weakened or diseased trees. The combination of pests and disease can quickly become one of the most destructive tree issues a homeowner faces.

Root and Soil Issues

Heavy autumn rains can saturate the ground, creating unstable soil conditions. Poor drainage and compacted soil may lead to:

• Root rot – a fungal infection caused by overly wet soil.
• Shallow root instability – when waterlogged ground reduces a tree’s ability to hold firmly.
• Nutrient deficiencies – soil compaction prevents roots from accessing essential nutrients.

Healthy soil is critical to a tree’s survival, and fall is the best time to correct root and soil issues before winter sets in.

Storm Damage Risks

Northern Virginia is no stranger to powerful storms in the fall. Strong winds combined with saturated soil can lead to uprooted trees, snapped branches, and dangerous debris.

At JL Tree Service, our crews are often busiest in the fall responding to storm damage calls. Homeowners are often shocked at how quickly a healthy-looking tree can come down when wind and rain strike at the right angle. Preventative care is the best defense against this risk.

How JL Tree Service Solves These Tree Issues

Professional Tree Inspections

One of the best ways to prevent fall tree problems is with a professional inspection. Our ISA Certified Arborists assess the entire tree—from canopy to roots. We look for early signs of disease, structural weaknesses, and soil health problems that the average homeowner might miss.

A fall inspection can give you peace of mind knowing your trees are safe and ready for the months ahead.

Pruning and Trimming Services

Removing weak or dead branches is one of the most effective ways to eliminate fall hazards. Proper pruning not only improves safety but also enhances tree structure, increases sunlight penetration, and promotes healthier growth.

We use industry best practices to trim trees safely, ensuring they’re well-prepared to handle snow and ice when winter arrives.

Tree Removal & Emergency Services

Sometimes, tree removal is the only solution. Whether a tree is severely diseased, structurally unstable, or already fallen during a storm, we provide safe and efficient removal services.

For urgent cases, our 24/7 emergency crews are always ready. With cranes, heavy-duty equipment, and highly trained operators, we can handle even the largest and most complicated removals.

Disease & Pest Management

Our arborists can identify diseases and pest infestations early and recommend targeted treatments. From fungicides to environmentally safe pest control methods, we provide solutions that protect your trees without harming the surrounding landscape.

Preventative strategies, such as proper pruning and soil care, also help keep trees resilient against future infestations.

Soil Care and Mulching

Healthy soil equals healthy trees. We recommend fall mulching to insulate roots, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. At JL Tree Service, we recycle wood and debris from jobs into nutrient-rich mulch, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective for our customers.

Applying mulch around your trees in the fall gives them the best chance to thrive through winter and beyond.

Why Addressing Tree Issues Now Matters

Taking care of fall tree issues isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about protection.

• Cost Savings: Preventative care now avoids expensive emergency removals later.
• Safety: Reduces the risk of falling limbs or storm-damaged trees causing harm.
• Longevity: Healthy trees live longer, adding beauty and value to your property.
• Winter Preparation: Trees treated in the fall are better equipped to handle cold temperatures, snow, and ice.

Why Choose JL Tree Service for Fall Tree Care

When it comes to solving tree issues, experience matters. JL Tree Service has been serving Northern Virginia, Southern Maryland, and Washington DC since 1975.

Here’s why homeowners trust us:

• Expertise: TCIA-accredited, fully insured, with ISA Certified Arborists on staff.
• Equipment: From cranes to stump grinders, we have the right tools for any job.
• Local Knowledge: Decades of experience with the specific trees and climate challenges of this region.
• Customer Benefits: Free estimates, senior and veteran discounts, and responsive crews.

We treat every property as if it were our own, ensuring safety, professionalism, and respect for your landscape.

Protect Your Property by Tackling Fall Tree Issues Today

Fall in Northern Virginia brings its fair share of tree issues, but with proactive care, you can keep your property safe and your trees thriving. From pruning and disease management to emergency storm response, JL Tree Service is here to provide expert solutions tailored to your needs.

Don’t wait until the next storm hits—schedule your fall tree inspection today. Contact JL Tree Service for a free estimate and let us help you protect your home and trees this season.