As autumn settles over Cape Cod, it’s tempting to believe the landscape can rest. But for trees and shrubs already struggling after a summer of below-average rainfall and prolonged dry conditions, the most critical time for care is now.

This year, much of the Cape experienced significant drought conditions, leaving even mature plantings depleted of vital moisture. And while cooler temperatures may offer relief from surface stress, the damage beneath the soil often goes unseen — until spring reveals weak growth, dieback, or worse, plant loss.

Why Fall Watering Still Matters – Even After the Rain Returns

Trees and shrubs don’t stop working when the air cools. In fact, they’re actively preparing for winter by storing energy, expanding root systems, and replenishing what drought has taken from them. If the soil is dry, roots cannot perform these functions, making your landscape more vulnerable to:

• Winter desiccation and branch dieback
• Delayed or stunted spring growth
• Increased disease and pest susceptibility
• Loss of new or ornamental plantings

For properties with sandy soils, evergreens, or plantings added in the last 1–3 years, the risks are even greater.

Our Solution: CMS Fall Supplemental Watering & Root Fortification Program

At CMS Landscape, we’ve developed a highly specialized fall care service to give your landscape the protection it needs and deserves.

Our Fall Supplemental Watering & Root Fortification Program includes:

• Deep, Targeted Watering
  Slow, methodical irrigation that penetrates the root zone – where it matters most. Especially important for trees and shrubs that surface watering can’t reach.
• Micronutrient-Rich Root Support
  A carefully blended dose of nutrients to help plants store energy and rebuild strength ahead of dormancy.
• Moisture Retention Enhancements
  Soil conditioners that improve water-holding capacity and reduce the effects of fluctuating fall weather patterns.

Timing Is Critical – And the Window Is Narrow

This program is most effective between late September and October, before the ground freezes. CMS delivers care over 2 to 3 visits, spaced strategically to maintain consistent hydration and nutrient uptake.

Once soil temperatures drop too low, water and nutrients become inaccessible to the root systems. If you wait until winter sets in, you’ve missed your chance to make a difference.

Is This Right for Your Property?

We strongly recommend this program for:

• Newly planted trees and shrubs (installed within the last 3 years)
• Evergreen species that lose moisture all winter
• Properties with sandy or fast-draining soils
• Landscapes showing early leaf drop or weak color this fall
• Homeowners who want to protect their investment from preventable loss

Proactive Care Now Prevents Spring Regret Later

As your trusted landscape partner, CMS Landscape is here to ensure your property not only survives the seasons – but thrives across them. Our fall watering and root fortification services are delivered with the same white-glove precision and communication our clients have come to expect.