Even though trees hibernate in the winter, they need attention. You can minimize stress by following the tips below.



Taking care of your trees during the cold months will help them be their best in spring. 



Mulch

Spread composted organic mulch under your tree in the fall. Doing so will help reduce extreme temperature in the soil. A thin layer of mulch will act like a blanket providing some protection to the tree’s roots. 



Water

Trees need water during winter droughts. Plan to water trees, especially young trees, when the soil and trees are cool. Do not water when they are frozen. 



Preventing Tree Injury 

When snow or ice accumulates on branches, they could break. Also animals could chew or rub against trees injuring the tree. Consider wrapping a young tree's base with a plastic guard or metal hardware cloth. Wrapping trees with burlap or plastic cloth could also prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Don’t forget to remove these guards in the spring so the tree can grow without getting damaged. 



Tree Pruning

Fall is a good time to prune your trees. Why? Trees become dormant in the colder months and they have dropped leaves making it easier to see the tree’s structure. Proper pruning eliminates injury to the tree and reduces tree stress. 



Fall is the Time to Plant New Trees

It may not make sense since trees are dropping leaves during the fall, but conditions are perfect for stimulating root growth in new trees during cooler weather. Roots get established during fall and winter. Spring brings showers and summer’s warmer temperature will stimulate tree top growth. 



Need help planting or preparing your trees this fall? Call for a free estimate.