Preparing Trees for Winter

• Wrap the trunk
  Due to temperature fluctuations, trees with thin bark, such as honeylocust, maple and linden, are vulnerable to sunscald and frost cracks during winter. To protect your trees from bark damage, you can use commercial tree wrap. Wrap the trunks of the trees up to the first branches and keep the wrap on until early April. Be sure to focus on the younger trees.
• Mulch the base
  Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch, such as wood chips or bark, near the tree’s base, but not against it. This will insulate the tree against temperature extremes, reduce soil evaporation and improve water absorption.
  • Instead of throwing away autumn leaves, consider using them as mulch around trees or blending them into the yard with a mulching mower to retain nutrients.
• One last watering
  Water the roots of trees slowly with a sprinkler or soaker hose, ensuring that the water reaches the area extending from the trunk to the furthest branches. Use 10 gallons of water per inch of tree diameter.
• Prune your trees in winter
  Late winter or any time trees are dormant is the best time for pruning most tree species. Pruning is commonly done to remove dead branches and improve tree form. It’s important to always prune just outside the branch collar, which is where a branch meets a larger one. And keep in mind that it’s best not to remove any branches without good reason.

Winter can be challenging for trees, but with the proper care and attention, you can ensure your trees remain healthy and strong throughout the season. There are many ways to protect your trees from the harsh winter weather so they can thrive come springtime.