You may still be well into the fall ritual of dealing with leaves, but it’s not too early to take important steps to prepare your trees for the harsh weather winter – including snow, ice and extremely low temperature – may soon bring.  And with winter officially arriving on December 21, that weather isn’t far off.

After all, Midwest winters can be unpredictable, swinging from mild with light snow to prolonged cold spells filled with heavy snowstorms and icy weather. To ensure your trees survive whatever this coming winter throws their way, here are four key steps to prepare them for the colder months ahead.

The Importance of Mulch

In addition to cleaning flower beds and planting new shrubs, applying mulch around your trees and landscaping is a smart and effective step in preparing your trees for winter weather. Many homeowners associate putting down fresh mulch with spring, not realizing that a layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture, reduce the risk of freezing, and give your trees a much-needed boost when temperatures drop.

When it comes to the choice of mulch, Hansen’s certified arborists recommend opting for organic mulch, such as bark chips or shredded wood, instead of inorganic varieties. Organic mulch breaks down over time, enriching the soil and benefiting your trees not just in winter, but all year long.

Pruning for Protection

Heavy snow and ice can exert immense weight on tree branches. Pruning weak or dead limbs before winter hits can help prevent them from breaking under the strain, protecting both your trees and your property. A large limb snapping can cause significant damage to roofs, gutters, vehicles, and even pose a safety risk to your family.

Moreover, since trees are dormant during fall and winter, pruning now can stimulate healthy growth come spring. Whether you choose to prune your own trees or enlist our certified arborists, taking this step is vital.

Supporting Your Trees for Winter

Not every weak limb needs to be pruned; some may simply require extra support. For example, long, nearly horizontal branches on shade trees like elms can benefit from dynamic cabling and limb support. This technique helps these vulnerable limbs endure winter weather, heavy winds, and other potential threats, and help ensure the safety of your property and loved ones.

Correctly installing cabling and support requires expertise, so we encourage you to reach out to our certified arborists for assistance.

Protect Trees and Shrubs from Winter Burn

As winter approaches, the risk of winter burn increases for trees and shrubs, particularly in areas where cold winds and fluctuating temperatures prevail. Winter burn occurs when plants lose moisture faster than their roots can absorb it, leading to damaged foliage and stunted growth. Here are some effective strategies to protect your plants during the colder months.

First, ensure your trees and shrubs are well-hydrated before the ground freezes. Deep watering in the fall helps the roots store moisture for the winter. Additionally, applying a layer of mulch around the base can retain soil moisture and regulate temperature fluctuations. Aim for a thickness of 2-4 inches, but keep it a few inches away from the trunks to help prevent rot.

Wrapping the trunks of young trees with burlap or using tree guards can shield them from harsh winds and sun exposure, reducing the risk of sunscald and desiccation. For evergreen shrubs, consider providing a windbreak using burlap screens to shield them from harsh winds. Lastly, avoid late-season pruning, as it can stimulate new growth that may not survive the winter. By taking these proactive steps, you can help ensure your trees and shrubs emerge healthy and vibrant come spring.

By taking these proactive steps, you can help your trees thrive through the winter and beyond. Don’t let the fall rush distract you from preparing your landscape for the challenges ahead!

We Are Here To Help!

Contact Hansen’s Tree Service and let our insured, experienced professionals do the work for you. Your trees will benefit from professional care and most important you, your loved ones and your property will be safe.

 

Contact us today to schedule a tree risk assessment or services for your trees!