Protecting Your Trees and Shrubs During Harsh Winter Temperatures
When winter temperatures drop, your trees and shrubs face challenges that can impact their health and longevity. Harsh cold, frost, and icy winds can damage even the hardiest plants if they’re not properly protected. At Southern Environmental, we know how vital it is to safeguard your landscape during the colder months to ensure your greenery thrives year-round.
Here’s why protecting your trees and shrubs in winter is essential and how you can keep them healthy until spring.
1. Prevent Winter Damage to Your Trees and Shrubs
Winter conditions like freezing temperatures, frost, and snow can cause:
Frost Cracks: Sudden temperature changes can cause the bark to expand and contract, leading to cracks that weaken your trees.
Root Damage: Prolonged exposure to frozen ground can harm the roots of shrubs and young trees.
Dried-Out Foliage: Cold winds can strip moisture from leaves and needles, causing browning or drying, especially in evergreen plants.
By taking proactive steps, you can minimize these risks and protect your investment in your landscape.
2. Mulching for Insulation
Applying a layer of mulch around the base of your trees and shrubs acts as an insulating blanket, helping to:
Keep the soil temperature stable.
Retain moisture in the roots.
Prevent soil from freezing and thawing repeatedly, which can damage roots.
Use organic mulch like wood chips, bark, or pine straw, and apply a layer about 2–4 inches thick, leaving a small gap around the trunk to prevent rot.
3. Covering Your Plants
For shrubs and smaller trees, covering them with burlap, frost blankets, or breathable fabric can protect them from frost and harsh winds. Ensure the cover is secure but doesn’t touch the foliage directly to avoid damage.
For larger trees, consider wrapping the trunk with tree wrap to protect against frost cracks and sunscald.
4. Watering Before Freezing Temperatures
Many people don’t realize that proper watering is crucial in winter. Hydrated plants are more resilient to cold weather. Water your trees and shrubs deeply before a hard freeze to ensure the roots have enough moisture. Avoid watering during freezing temperatures to prevent ice from forming on the soil.
5. Prune with Care
Pruning damaged or weak branches in late fall can help your trees and shrubs withstand heavy snow or ice. However, avoid heavy pruning during winter, as it can leave plants vulnerable to cold damage.
If you’re unsure about pruning techniques, Southern Environmental’s experts can help with professional pruning services tailored to your landscape.
6. Choose Cold-Hardy Plants
If you’re planning to add new trees or shrubs to your landscape, selecting species that are native to your region or specifically adapted to colder climates can save you time and stress in the long run.
At Southern Environmental, we can guide you in choosing the best plants for your property that will thrive in all seasons.
Why Winter Protection Matters
Protecting your trees and shrubs during winter not only prevents damage but also ensures they’ll bounce back healthier in the spring. A little care now can save you costly replacements and keep your landscape looking beautiful year-round.
Trust Southern Environmental for Expert Tree and Shrub Care
At Southern Environmental, we specialize in protecting your landscape during every season. Whether you need professional advice, winter prep services, or ongoing care, our team has the expertise to help your trees and shrubs thrive.