The leaves may be dropping, but tree roots are still hard at work.
University of Illinois Extension says roots stay active well into late fall, absorbing and storing water before the ground freezes. After a dry fall, young trees and shallow-rooted trees like maple and birch can get stressed.
If it's been dry, soak the soil slowly under those trees on a day above 40°F. Purdue Extension suggests about 5 gallons per inch of trunk diameter when rain has been scarce. Keep mulch a few inches back from the trunk.
Questions about your trees? We're happy to help, or you can request a visit at budstreecare.com.
Source: University of Illinois Extension https://extension.illinois.edu/news-releases/water-trees-wisely-beat-winter-woes