BLOG Essential Tips for Preparing Your Trees for Winter Feb 18, 2025

Winter can be a challenging time for trees, but with the right preparation, you can ensure they stay healthy and vibrant through the cold months. Whether you’re caring for trees in your own backyard or managing a large landscape, preparing your trees for winter is essential. At Langston Tree & Landscape, we know how critical it is to safeguard your trees against harsh conditions. Here we’ll share essential tips that will help you get your trees ready for winter, so they thrive come spring.

First and foremost, it is crucial to ensure your trees are well-hydrated before the first freeze. Even though trees take up less water during the cooler months, the dry winter air and frozen soil can deprive them of necessary moisture. It’s advisable to give your trees a deep watering in late fall. Focus especially on newly planted trees and evergreens, which are prone to winter desiccation.

Pruning is another important step in winterizing your trees. Remove any dead or damaged branches which could break under the weight of snow and ice. This not only prevents potential injury and damage to property but also encourages healthy growth in the spring. Pruning should ideally be done in late fall when trees are dormant, minimizing stress and promoting quicker recovery.

Mulching around the base of your trees is a simple but effective practice. A good layer of mulch helps insulate the roots, retaining warmth and moisture in the soil. It also prevents the soil from freezing and thawing, a process which can heave and damage roots. Be careful not to apply the mulch too thickly or directly against the tree trunk, which can promote rot and attract pests.

In areas prone to heavy snow and ice, consider wrapping the trunks of younger or sensitive trees with burlap or specialized tree wrap. This helps protect them from cracking due to freezing and thawing cycles known as frost cracks. Wrapping also shields the bark from hungry winter wildlife such as deer and rodents, which may chew on tree bark in hungriness.

Another aspect to consider is the risk of salt damage from roads and walkways. Salt can dehydrate trees and even change soil chemistry, inhibiting growth. Try to use more plant-friendly alternatives like calcium chloride or reduce the amount of salt used near tree lines. Rinse off salt-laden ice or snow to prevent soil contamination.

For homeowners who want to give their trees a nutrition boost, applying a slow-release fertilizer in late fall can be beneficial. This can provide essential nutrients that are released gradually over winter, helping to rejuvenate tired soil and support root development.

Finally, inspect your trees regularly throughout the winter. After heavy snowstorms, gently remove snow build-up from branches by brushing it off with an upward motion to prevent breakage. Be cautious of using sharp tools or excessive force which can harm the tree.

By following these steps to prepare your trees for winter, you safeguard years of growth and investment. A little preparation now can lead to healthier, stronger trees when temperatures rise. At Langston Tree & Landscape, we’re always here to help with your tree care needs, ensuring robust landscapes year-round. Whether you need professional pruning services or advice on tree health, we have the expertise to assist you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for personalized guidance to keep your trees thriving through winter and beyond.