How to Protect Trees in the Winter

As the cold season approaches, trees face unique challenges that can impact their health and longevity. Protecting your trees during Winter is crucial for maintaining a vibrant landscape year-round. This guide will walk you through practical strategies to safeguard your trees against Winter’s harsh conditions.

Understanding Winter Tree Stressors

Before diving into protection methods, it’s important to understand what trees are up against during Winter:

Freezing temperatures
Drying winds
Snow and ice accumulation
Salt exposure (from de-icing roads and walkways)
Sunscald
Animal damage

Preparing Trees for Winter

Proper Watering

Water deeply in late fall before the ground freezes
Focus on the area from the trunk to the drip line
Use a soaker hose for efficient watering

Mulching: Mulch acts as a protective blanket for tree roots. Here’s how to do it right:

Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree
Extend the mulch to the drip line
Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot

Pruning: Proper pruning can prevent winter damage:

Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches
Prune after the tree goes dormant but before severe cold sets in
Avoid pruning in late summer, as it can stimulate new growth vulnerable to winter damage

Protective Measures During Winter

Wrap Young Trees: Young trees with thin bark are susceptible to sun scald and frost cracks:

Use tree wrap or burlap from the base up to the first branches
Remove the wrap in spring to prevent moisture buildup and insect infestation

Protect Against Animals: Winter can drive animals to feed on tree bark. To prevent this:

Install mesh guards around the trunk
Extend the guard higher than the average snow depth in your area

Minimize Salt Exposure: De-icing salts can be harmful to trees:

Use alternatives like sand or kitty litter for traction
If salt use is unavoidable, create barriers with burlap to minimize exposure
Rinse salt from branches and surrounding soil in early spring

Special Considerations for Different Tree Types

Evergreens

Evergreens require special attention:

Water thoroughly in fall, as they continue to lose moisture through their needles in Winter
Use anti-desiccant sprays to reduce moisture loss
Create windbreaks for exposed trees using burlap screens

Fruit Trees

Fruit trees are often more sensitive to winter damage:

Apply white latex paint to the southwest side of the trunk to prevent sun scald
Delay pruning until late Winter to avoid stimulating new growth

Post-Winter Care

As spring approaches:

Gradually remove protective wraps to allow the tree to acclimate
Inspect for winter damage and prune as necessary
Fertilize trees if needed, based on soil tests
Continue regular watering as the growing season begins

Summary

Following these guidelines can help ensure your trees survive and thrive through the winter months. Remember, each tree species has unique needs, so consult a local arborist, like Noah’s Park Tree Care, for personalized advice on winter tree care in your specific climate.