
Even when trees become dormant during winter, they still need a little intervention from you. They still need to be cared for to make sure their health doesn’t get affected by the harsh cold weather here in Green Bay, WI. Here are some of the things you can do to help your trees during the cold winter season.
Water Until the Ground Freezes
You might think that trees no longer need much water because the warm season has ended, but this is not true. Fall can also be a dry season at times, and your trees need water to make them thrive. You should water your trees in the fall and when the winter season begins until the ground freezes.
If you have newly planted trees, they have to be watered continuously because they still have small roots. When you water your plants, make sure that you do it slowly and go low because you want to ensure water goes directly to the root structure. You should consider the species of the tree when it comes to the amount and length of time spent watering it for optimum results. If you are not sure about this detail, then it is better to consult a tree expert.
Protect Roots with Mulch Application
Mulching is essential to ensure your tree thrives in the growing season. Mulch the base around your tree with bark or wood chips and other organic materials before the cold months. Apply up to four inches of mulch on top of the entire root system for maximum results. Mulching will protect your tree from the extreme cold because it insulates your tree from different weather conditions. It also locks in moisture and nutrients that your trees need making sure they survive the cold months. Give your tree breathing space by making sure you put the mulch at least three inches away from your tree’s trunk.
Remove Stakes or Ties
Stakes can be helpful to young trees. However, you have to make sure you remove them before the winter season arrives. Although stakes can be necessary for some situations, the sooner you remove them, the better. This is because trees need to develop their trunks and root structure. Trees will grow sturdier fast and will have a stronger trunks, and roots if the stakes or any ties are removed sooner.
Prune Branches
Tree experts would always recommend pruning when trees are dormant. Pruning your trees in winter will reduce the chance of them getting damaged from snowstorms or ice storms. Remember that there are proper ways to prune your tree depending on its type, so make sure you know this information before cutting your tree. If you don’t know how to prune your tree correctly, it is better to ask for help from professionals to ensure that your tree is in good hands. Wounds caused by pruning should not be covered by tree paint or anything because this can harm the tree. You should also be careful not to cut into the branch collar to ensure that the branch will not rot after pruning.
If you are unsure how to prepare your trees before the winter comes, ask a tree care expert to help you give proper care for your trees to make sure they thrive throughout winter and in the seasons to come.