Preparing your trees for winter is crucial to keeping them in good shape through the season. However, the frost presents certain challenges that make survival difficult for your foliage. Let’s learn more.
The winter sun and dry winds can drain your plants of moisture, drying them out as the season progresses.
The harsh sunrays can heat the tree bark, which can freeze again after sunset. The continuous heating-freezing-heating cycle can lead to cracks in the bark.
Cold spells can damage plant tissues, making them weak.
Midwinter thawing can cause early dormancy in new plants, which can damage them.
Pests and hungry animals can gnaw at and damage small branches, twigs, and leaves.
Aerating compacted soil loosens it, improving its drainage capacity and preventing the roots from suffocating. The right kind of fertilizer will enable your trees to get adequate and proper nutrition.
Blanketing the soil will insulate the tree’s roots from the cold and dry climate. You can do this by spreading a thick layer of mulch or wood chips over the ground as far as the tree’s branches go.
Before winter sets in, prune damaged and dead branches that could harm your trees. Remove dead or rotting branches, while trimming those that might bend under the weight of the snow.
Your trees need hydration all year round to absorb nutrients from the soil and keep roots healthy. This includes the winter season. Water them thoroughly before the first hard freeze for a good start.
Wrap your tree’s trunk in burlap before the first snow to protect it from animals and nasty ailments, including the notorious “winter burn.” Alternatively, use burlap screens or tree guards.
We hope these steps will help you protect your soil and trees from harsh winters, while replenishing the nutrients they’ll need the next season.
Call Utah Tree Co. at (801) 386-2405 for your tree care needs or you can contact us via below online form.