Winter Care for Trees and Shrubs

Why Winter Care is Important

Many trees and shrubs enter a state of dormancy during the winter months, slowing down their growth and conserving energy. However, winter weather can still cause damage in the following ways:

• Frost Cracks: Sudden temperature changes can cause bark to expand and contract, leading to cracks in the trunk.
• Dehydration: Evergreen trees and shrubs are particularly vulnerable to winter dehydration since they lose moisture through their needles or leaves.
• Heavy Snow and Ice: Accumulated snow and ice can break branches or damage the structure of trees and shrubs.
• Animal Damage: Wildlife like deer, rabbits, and rodents often turn to trees and shrubs for food during winter, causing bark stripping or nibbling.

Understanding these risks allows you to take proactive steps to protect your trees and shrubs.

Preparing Your Trees and Shrubs for Winter

The best time to prepare your plants for winter is during the late fall, but there are steps you can take throughout the season to keep them healthy.

1. Watering Before the Ground Freezes

As winter approaches, ensure your trees and shrubs are well-watered. A deep watering in late fall helps hydrate the roots before the ground freezes. Once the soil freezes, plants cannot absorb water as easily, which can lead to dehydration.

For evergreen trees and shrubs, this step is especially important as they continue to lose moisture throughout winter.

2. Mulching for Insulation

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of your trees and shrubs provides essential insulation. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, retains moisture, and protects roots from extreme cold. Spread 2-4 inches of mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

3. Pruning for Structural Health

Late fall or early winter, when trees and shrubs are dormant, is a good time to prune. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches to reduce the risk of breakage during winter storms. Proper pruning also improves airflow and prevents snow and ice from accumulating in weak spots.

Protecting Trees and Shrubs During Winter

Once winter sets in, your focus should shift to minimizing damage from the elements.

1. Wrapping and Burlap Barriers

For young or sensitive trees and shrubs, wrapping them in burlap or using tree guards can protect against harsh winds, sunscald, and frost cracks. Secure the burlap loosely around the plant, ensuring proper airflow.

Tree guards made of plastic or mesh can be placed around the trunk to protect it from wildlife and prevent cracking.

2. Snow and Ice Management

While snow can provide insulation, heavy snow accumulation can damage branches. After a storm, gently remove snow using a broom, brushing it off in an upward motion to avoid breaking branches. Never try to break off ice—it’s better to let it melt naturally to avoid damaging the bark.

3. Preventing Winter Burn

Winter burn is a common issue for evergreen shrubs, caused by a combination of freezing temperatures, dry winds, and sun exposure. You can prevent winter burn by:

• Watering deeply in the fall.
• Using anti-desiccant sprays to lock in moisture.
• Erecting windbreaks using burlap or snow fencing to shield shrubs from harsh winds.

4. Animal Protection

Winter is a time when animals may chew on bark, branches, or foliage. To prevent this:

• Use tree guards or hardware cloth to protect trunks.
• Apply repellents designed to deter deer, rabbits, and rodents.
• Clear mulch and debris from around the base of plants to eliminate hiding spots for small animals.

Monitoring and Maintaining Trees and Shrubs During Winter

1. Inspecting Regularly

Check your trees and shrubs throughout the winter for signs of damage, dehydration, or animal activity. Catching issues early can help you address them before they worsen.

2. Adding Supplemental Water on Warm Days

If winter is dry and there’s no snow cover, consider watering your trees and shrubs on warm days when the soil isn’t frozen. This can help evergreen plants maintain hydration.

3. Dealing with Damage

If branches break due to snow, ice, or wind, prune them as soon as possible to prevent further damage or disease. Always make clean cuts with sharp tools, and avoid cutting into healthy wood unnecessarily.

Preparing for Spring

As winter winds down, you can begin preparing your trees and shrubs for the growing season:

• Remove burlap, guards, and other protective coverings.
• Rake away old mulch and refresh it with a new layer.
• Fertilize lightly in early spring to support healthy growth.

Special Considerations for Young or Newly Planted Trees and Shrubs

Young or newly planted trees and shrubs are especially vulnerable during their first few winters. Take extra care by:

• Adding a thicker layer of mulch to insulate the roots.
• Using stakes to support young trees against heavy winds.
• Wrapping trunks with tree guards to prevent frost cracks and animal damage.

Winter care for trees and shrubs requires preparation, protection, and vigilance. By watering deeply, insulating with mulch, pruning carefully, and protecting against snow, ice, and wildlife, you can ensure your plants emerge from winter healthy and ready to thrive. A little effort during the colder months goes a long way in maintaining the beauty and longevity of your landscape. With proper winter care, your trees and shrubs will not only survive but flourish year after year.