Protecting Your Trees and Shrubs from Winter Damage

Winter can be a challenging season for trees and shrubs, as freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and icy winds take a toll on their health. Additionally, wildlife, salt, and dehydration add to the stress your plants endure during the colder months. Protecting your trees and shrubs from winter damage ensures they thrive when spring arrives. Here’s how to safeguard your landscape this winter.

1. The Risks of Winter Damage

Winter damage can manifest in various ways:

• Frost Cracks: Sudden temperature changes can cause the bark to split, leaving trees vulnerable to pests and disease.
• Desiccation: Cold winds and frozen soil prevent plants from absorbing water, leading to dehydration.
• Snow and Ice Breakage: Heavy snow and ice accumulation can break branches, causing lasting harm.
• Wildlife Feeding: Deer, rabbits, and rodents may feed on bark, twigs, or buds, damaging shrubs and trees.

Recognizing these risks is the first step to preventing them.

2. Wrapping and Insulating Trees and Shrubs

Protecting your plants from extreme cold is crucial:

• Tree Wraps: Wrap the trunks of young or thin-barked trees with burlap or commercial tree wrap to prevent frost cracks.
• Burlap Shields: Use burlap to cover shrubs, especially evergreens, to shield them from wind and sunscald.
• Mulching: Apply 2–4 inches of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs to insulate roots and retain moisture.

Pro Tip: Avoid piling mulch against the trunk to prevent rot and pest infestations.

3. Pruning for Winter Readiness

Proper pruning before winter reduces the risk of breakage:

• Remove Deadwood: Eliminate weak or dead branches that are more likely to snap under snow.
• Shape Shrubs: Trim shrubs into compact shapes to minimize snow accumulation.

Prune well before the first frost to allow cuts to heal.

4. Preventing Wildlife Damage

Wildlife can cause extensive harm to trees and shrubs during winter:

• Install Barriers: Use tree guards or hardware cloth around trunks to deter rodents.
• Repellents: Apply deer and rabbit repellents to keep animals away.
• Netting: Cover shrubs with netting to protect buds and branches from browsing.

5. Managing Snow and Ice

Heavy snow and ice can damage branches if not managed correctly:

• Shake Off Snow: Gently brush snow from branches with a broom, starting from the top and working downward.
• Avoid Salt Damage: Use calcium magnesium acetate or other lawn-safe de-icers near your plants.

Never try to remove ice by breaking or cracking it, as this can harm the branches.

6. Watering During Winter

Even dormant plants need water:

• Winter Watering: On warmer days, water evergreens and newly planted trees to keep roots hydrated.
• Soil Moisture: Ensure soil is moist but not waterlogged before the ground freezes.

By taking proactive steps to protect your trees and shrubs from winter damage, you’ll ensure their health and vitality for years to come. Simple measures like wrapping trunks, pruning branches, and shielding plants from wildlife and snow can make all the difference. With proper care, your landscape will emerge from winter ready to flourish in spring.

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