How to Prepare Your Trees for Winter


The winter months can be harsh along the Front Range, even if we are above normal temps currently, that can change in the coming months . Between the cold temperatures, freak windstorms, and snowy conditions, it’s normal for your trees and shrubs to struggle through the season. Though many homeowners leave things up to chance, you don’t have to. There are a few things you can do to keep your trees growing well and healthily so they can thrive once the warmer weather returns. Here’s what you need to know.

Water Them Well
Though we’re lucky enough to get at least some moisture during the winter, it’s not enough to adequately water your trees’ roots. Before the ground freezes, give your trees a good watering. The key to successfully watering your trees lies in watering them slowly. You want to give the water time to soak deep into the ground, not just run off of the top layer of the soil. If you’re not comfortable doing this on your own, you can always hire a plant health specialist and get them to do a deep root watering session for the trees on your property.

Wrap Their Trunks
In extreme weather, some trees can actually crack under the cold conditions. When this happens, the trees are more vulnerable to disease and insect infestations. You can better protect your trees by wrapping their trunks in breathable burlap or dedicated tree wrap. The wrap serves as a shield against the worst of winter conditions. Keep in mind that not all trees on your property will need wrapping. The best thing you can do is consult with a tree care professional to determine which ones need the extra care and which can weather the winter on their own.

Spread a Layer of Mulch
Believe it or not, mulch doesn’t just protect against erosion in your yard. It also insulates the soil and helps keep the roots of your trees warmer when the temperatures drop. Before the ground freezes, spread a layer of mulch around the base of each tree, shrub, or garden bed that you want to protect. As a general rule, you’ll want the mulch to be between two and four inches deep and about three feet out from the base of the plant.

Consult a Professional
Every yard and landscape is different. This means the exact steps you’ll need to take to protect your landscaping may not be the same as your neighbors or friends. That’s why it’s always best to consult with a yard care professional before the ground freezes. They’ll be able to look at your yard and the types of plants you have in place to come up with a comprehensive plan.

Keep Your Trees Growing Well Year-Round
Keeping your trees growing well year-round can seem tricky, but as long as you’re willing to put in the effort, you’ll be able to protect your plants from harsh winter conditions with ease. That said, these are just a few things you can do to keep your plants healthy. Schedule an appointment with Root Tree Service and let our team help you find the right solutions for your yard.
 
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