prepare your trees for winter

Prepare Your Trees for Winter Hibernation

Colorado’s rapid temperature fluctuations and extreme cold weather can take a toll on trees, even for species that are native to colder areas.

Although trees are dormant during the winter, they aren’t immune to cold and dry conditions like the weather Colorado presents. Good thing is, there are things that you can do to prepare your trees and minimize the damage caused by the stresses of winter.

Proper Way to Water Your Trees

It’s important to consistently water your trees during the fall season to keep your trees hydrated and ready for hibernation. The amount of water your trees will need will depend on many factors, including the age and species of tree, weather, and soil type. As a common rule, newly planted trees will require more frequent watering than older trees.

Check soil moisture by using a garden trowel and inserting it 2” into the soil, then move the blade back and forth to create a small trench. Use your finger to touch the soil and if the soil is moist, then you can skip watering.

Another way to ensure that your trees and fully protected during the winter is to place some thick organic mulch around the base of your tree to help slow moisture loss and act as a temperature buffer for the roots.

Avoiding Branch Breakage

Branches are more vulnerable to breakage during the winter and the key to minimizing breakage, once again, lies in great fall preparation. Pruning weak and vulnerable branches will aid in overall tree health and help you maintain a safe property.

Front Range Arborists has invested in training and equipment that allows us to take care of your trees in the safest, most efficient and cost-effective manner before winter officially sets in. Our tree pruning services include the removal of diseased, broken, or dead branches on mature and young trees so you won’t have to worry about taking care of it yourself.

Wrap your Trees

Tree wrapping might not be the prettiest, but the objective of tree wrapping is far greater than looks. Tree wrapping during the winter will aid in three sources of winter damage: rodents, freezing winds, and sunscald.

Avoid wrapping your trees like Christmas presents and instead, look to create a burlap barrier/wall to fight against winds and direct sunlight. Thin bark trees like the honey locust, maple and linden are more susceptible to damage so make sure to treat them with care and wrap these trees up to the first branches.

It can take a lot of work and dedication to prepare your trees for winter. If you’re looking to skip the hassle and enjoy time at home, reach out to our specialized team at Front Range Arborists. We can properly care for your yard and ensure your beautiful trees thrive next spring. Call us today for more information on plant health care.