Want strong, fast-growing walnuts next year? Do these fall steps first. If you planted bare-root walnut trees this spring, now is the time to help them transition into dormancy and protect them from winter damage. These simple fall steps make a huge difference: ✔️ Reduce watering as growth slows ✔️ Stop fertilizing to prevent tender new shoots ✔️ Mulch around the root zone for insulation ✔️ Protect trunk & bark from sunscald and wildlife ✔️ Clean the orchard floor to reduce pests and disease Win