Winter is right around the corner and it’s no secret that winter comes along with some harsh weather conditions. From falling snow to blowing winds and slippery ice, winter has everything we’d like to avoid! Not only is winter harsh on us though, but it’s also harsh on your trees too. Without the right winter preparation, your trees are likely to not make it until spring comes. Follow these winter prep tips to protect your trees, no matter how harsh the winter weather gets.
Winter Watering
You should stop watering your trees at the end of spring until around mid-fall. Once it’s mid-fall, begin watering them again one or two times per week through the winter. It may seem odd to water during the winter, but it helps to keep the roots hard and prevents water from going to the leaves.
Insulating the Roots
Insulating the roots is vital to ensure there isn’t frost damage. To insulate the roots of your tree, use a mulch blend from about 3 inches away from the trunk out to the end of the tree canopy. You’ll need to pull the mulch away from the roots as the weather warms so that they’re able to absorb heat again.
Protecting Weak Branches
Small, weak branches and limbs can be broken off under the weight of snow and ice. To prevent this, use a nylon material to tie smaller branches to larger limbs. You should place the tie about two-thirds of the way down the branches for the best results. The other option is to use a plastic mesh material to gently pull all of the branches and limbs in an upward direction. With this method, none of your branches will be weighed down from snow or ice.
Fighting Off Winter Wind
If your trees aren’t against a house, barn, or other building to help protect against winds, you’ll need to make your own wind barrier. Use wooden stakes that go at least a foot and a half into the ground. Then, secure burlap around the stakes to create a wind barrier. You may only need a barrier on one side, or you may need it around the entire tree. It all depends on which way the tree is and which way the winds blow.
TREE SERVICE QUOTES IN MASSACHUSETTS
Maintaining your trees and other landscaping features through the winter is a challenge, but it’s possible. If you have a unique tree or if you’d like some expert advice to make sure you’re doing everything you can to prep your trees, give us a call today! Contact Elliott Tree at 781-447-0045 or by filling out our contact form. Please click here for tree removal services!
