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Why premature fall color could be a warning sign for your trees

Why premature fall color could be a warning sign for your trees Abnormally dry conditions across the Charlotte area may cause early leaf turn, but simple watering and mulching steps can help your yard bounce back.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QC Life) - Vibrant reds, oranges, and golds are among the best of autumn in the Carolinas, with peak foliage typically arriving in Charlotte between mid-October and early November. However, if your trees are already shifting hues or dropping leaves in late summer, it might not be early seasonal charm - it could be a cry for help.

With Mecklenburg and Gaston Counties currently experiencing abnormally dry conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, excessive heat and sustained moisture deficits force trees into survival mode.

Homeowners can take immediate, proactive steps to protect their tree canopy and encourage recovery before winter sets in. Give mature trees a deep soak once a week under their branches through mid-October, and keep the soil around newer trees consistently damp. Add a couple of inches of mulch to lock in moisture - just pull it back a few inches from the trunk so you don’t create a “mulch volcano.” If your leaves are still turning brown or dropping fast, call a local certified arborist to help get them back on track.

To learn more visit www.arborguard.com.

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