Between the cold weather and ice, winter can be a difficult season for your landscape. Fortunately, there are some tree care steps you can take to prepare for the season and keep everything healthy for spring. The arborists at Arbor Authority in Athens, GA, have shared a few of their favorite tips for healthy trees throughout the winter season.

3 Winter Tree Care Tips

1. Prune

Bring in a tree service to prune your trees during the fall season, preferably when it’s still relatively warm out. An expert will be able to identify weak, dead, or diseased branches that need to be removed; these could later break when covered in ice and become a hazard. Pruning will also allow your tree to conserve its energy throughout the winter. Ask them about sealing the cut surface to protect it from insects and mold.

2. Mulch

Put mulch down around the trunk of the tree. How far it should extend out will depend on the type you have and how mature it is; an arborist will know how much mulch you need. The mulch serves as an important insulator, protecting the roots from freezing and locking water into the soil. This is especially important for saplings or trees that have been recently moved since they are at a higher risk from the cold temperatures.

3. Fertilize

Frozen ground can make it difficult for your trees to get much-needed water and nutrients. Fertilize the soil around the trunk with a liquid fertilizer to give them what they need. The liquid can sink through the soil to reach the roots, even when it’s colder out. A slow-release solid fertilizer can work as well.

The experts at Arbor Authority offer professional tree care year-round, including the winter, to keep your landscape in top condition. They have more than 47 years of combined experience and are familiar with the unique needs of local trees. Call them at (706) 654-6225 to request a free estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their services.