As fall leaves litter the ground, whispers of winter begin to creep in. The bare trees may be evolutionarily prepared for the harsh Canadian winters we experience, but strong winter winds and heavy snowfall can still be very hard on your trees. There are certain things that can be done to fully prepare your trees for the season ahead.
REMOVE DEAD/DISEASED/DAMAGED BRANCHES
The forces of wind, snow and ice accumulation increase the risk of branches breaking. Dead, damaged or diseased limbs are more likely to fall during the forces of winter due to their lack of structural integrity. These falling branches could lead to damaged property, but could also further damage the tree itself or other surrounding trees. Removing dead, diseased or damaged branches prior to winter is the best way to prevent damage during the winter months.
INSTALL MULCH RINGS
Mulch rings are a great way to protect your trees from the harsh winter weather. When the ground freezes, the roots are at risk of damage from shear temperatures, but also from lack of moisture in the soil. Mulch around the base of the tree insulates the roots and maintains the moisture levels in the soil. Installing the mulch ring correctly is very important. A mulch “volcano” refers to a mulch ring that goes above the root collar of the tree. Cells above the root collar are meant to be left exposed to the air for proper function. When a mulch ring becomes a mulch volcano, the mulch begins to interfere with the function of the tree. Improper mulch rings can counteract the benefits of the mulch, essentially suffocating the tree. Fallen leaves can also be used for mulch during the winter months. This is a great way to reuse all those leaves rather that add to municipal yard waste.
WATER BEFORE THE GROUND FREEZES
Despite the fact that snow is just frozen water, the winter months are considered “dry”. Watering your trees before the ground freezes will give them one last good drink. Water will fill the cells of the tree acting as insulation against cold temperatures.
PROTECT NEWLY PLANTED TREES
Newly planted trees are the most susceptible to the harsh winter weather. Watering before the ground freezes is extra important for newly planted trees as their roots are fresh. Protecting the structure of your young trees is also important. Young trees are not fully developed and can be more easily damaged in harsh conditions. Wrapping the trunk of the tree can protect against cold damage, ice accumulation and sun scalding. Trees must be wrapped from the top to the bottom to prevent suffocation and allow oxygen flow between the wrap and the trunk.
So, winter is coming! Don’t forget about your trees during your seasonal preparation. Give them the extra love they deserve to make it through the winter months!
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