1. Pick the Fruits Carefully

Twist the fruits upwards and on the side to pick them, or grasp them from the bottom and lift upward until upside down. Make sure that when you pick them the leaf spurs are not breaking from the stem, which should remain on the picked fruit.

2. Water the Trees

Early fall may bring some rain, but make sure your trees are well watered until mid to late fall so they can retain moisture and nutrients for the cold season. As a general rule, your trees should receive 2–3 inches of water each irrigation.

3. Rake the Leaves from Under Trees

Leaving fallen leaves under fruit trees encourages leaf-borne diseases that can prove fatal. Raking the leaves minimizes the dangers of pest attacks and wildlife damage from mice, rats, and rabbits.

4. Refrain from Fertilizing

Newly planted trees will lack winter hardiness if they continue to grow from fertilization. If the soil is healthy and you applied organic mulch in summer, early fall fertilization isn't needed. Consult your local tree service experts for an organic fertilization plan if needed.

5. Protect the Trees with Covers

In early fall, switch from a moister mulch to a harder one composed of wood and bark chips. This keeps the orchard neat and protects trees against insects, weeds, and small wildlife. You can also install landscape fabric beneath the mulch — but never use plastic, as it will suffocate the root system.