What Do My Trees Need To Get Ready For Winter?

Here are a few ways that trees are able to survive in the cold and winter. Of course, these methods may not be the exact practices that every single tree uses, nor do they ensure 100% that a tree will survive. However, when it comes to resilience, these are huge players.

1.) Mulch Protects Tree Roots in The Winter

Winter mulch protects tree roots in winter by insulating the soil from temperature extremes, which prevents the damage caused by the freeze-thaw cycle. To be most effective, apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch like wood chips or shredded bark around the base of the tree after the ground has started to freeze but before heavy snowfall, and keep it from piling directly against the trunk

Next, you will want to consider what the fall weather has been like in the area

Has it been dry? Make sure to water the soil (and mulch) around your tree before the first frost, so there is not any possibility of frost that would result from dry soil soaking up moisture that hardens into an icy layer once underground.

2.) Watering

Hydrate your trees well before the ground freezes.

3.) Wrap Delicate Trees

Tender or young trees may benefit from wrapping with burlap or other protective materials to shield them from harsh winter winds and temperature fluctuations.

4.) Snow Removal

Gently remove heavy wet snow from tree branches using a broom or similar tool. This prevents the weight of the snow from causing branches to break, especially on evergreen trees.

5.) Pruning

Prune your trees in late fall or early winter to remove dead or weak branches.

This helps the tree allocate resources more efficiently and reduces the risk of winter damage.

Regularly inspect your trees during the winter to identify any potential issues.

Early detection of problems allows you to address them before they become severe.

Protecting trees from cold weather starts by following these 5 care tips, so you can extend their lives and maximize the many benefits they bring to your home.