Protecting Trees & Shrubs In Winter

If you've put in a lot of money and time into your landscape, the last thing you want is for all of your incredible trees, plants to get marred by winter elements. Below are ways of protecting shrubs in the winter, reducing the chances of damage. 

Protecting Shrubs in the Winter from Cold, Wind, and Sun

The cold, wind, and sun could destroy bark, roots, and trees and harm evergreen foliage.

Damage from cold usually occurs in late spring and early fall when it's still cold. However, there's no snow to shield them. Sun damage happens when the sun stimulates cambial activity in the tree. However, when the sun sets, the freezing, bitter temperature destroys the active part. Young shrubs and trees are more susceptible.

Evergreens may lose color, becoming brown or blotchy. This discoloration happens because of the extreme wind and sun, which makes the tree lose moisture. Because the earth is typically frozen, the tree can't replenish the necessary moisture. 

A burlap wrap could efficiently safeguard your evergreens from these harmful factors. If you can't wrap the burlap securely around your shrubs, you could construct a frame out of wire and stakes. Additionally, some sprays work as anti-drying agents for use on some plants, shielding them from winter wind's dryness. 

Ice and Snow

The weight of snow and ice can be too severe for numerous shrubs and trees, causing cracked limbs and even fallen trees. 

Clumping trees and upright evergreen shrubs that usually grow near each other are prone to ice and snow damage. They offer a vast surface space for buildup and don't have the durability to hold weight. 

To safeguard from the heaviness of ice and snow, cover littler plants with burlap. Protect little shrubs with "shrub-shelters," two boards in an A-framed position across the front or back by another board. These can be put on top of the shrub, shielding it from the winter elements. 

Other Things to Do

Never over-fertilize or overwater at the end of the season. If you progressively lessen the amount of fertilizer and water in early fall, the plants will start to harden off for the impending winter.

Call us at Syracuse Tree Service with your questions about winterizing your trees and shrubs.

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