If you’ve ever wondered what happens to trees during the cold winter months, you may be surprised. Although much of a tree is exposed above ground, there’s also a complex system of roots working beneath the soil to keep the tree functioning and healthy throughout the year. Trusted tree removal company Columbia Tree & Lawn Service shares three winter tree facts to help you better understand how a tree functions throughout the winter.

3 Winter Tree Facts from an Expert Tree Removal Company

1. Trees Go Through a Dormancy Period

Similar to the process of hibernation, trees actually go through a dormancy period which keeps them alive throughout the winter. During this process, everything within the tree slows down, including metabolism, energy consumption, and growth. Since trees aren’t expending energy to make new food throughout the winter, they rely on food reserves for their essential functions. This allows them to conserve valuable energy for spring.

2. Tree Roots Can Still Grow in Winter

Despite their dormant state, winter is a significant growing season for trees. Although it may look like barren trees are dying in the winter, in reality, their roots are actually growing when temperatures allow. If soil temperatures are favorable at about 32 degrees Fahrenheit, roots will grow independently of the above-ground parts of the tree, bulking up on nutrients and water from the soil during winter.

By remaining active throughout the winter, vast root systems fuel themselves with enough energy to grow healthy buds and fresh leaves in the spring. If a tree’s roots aren’t already located near water or nutrients, they’ll actually expand their system toward them. In fact, a tree’s roots can occupy an area up to four times the diameter of the trunk.

3. Frozen Soil Can Damage Tree Roots

Despite a tree’s ability to grow in winter, frozen soil can prove very damaging for its roots. In addition to causing inactive roots, frozen conditions can lead to heaving, cracking soil which will physically damage fine feeder roots. This can often create a snowball effect that affects the whole system, making tree removal necessary.

If you’re in need of tree removal or tree care services in Howard County, MD, or the surrounding areas, put your trust in the experts at Columbia Tree & Lawn Service. With over 40 years of experience providing professional landscaping services, including tree trimming, yard drainage, water flow solutions, and bamboo remediation, they’ll ensure your property remains healthy and beautiful for years to come. To discuss your unique tree care needs, give them a call today at (410) 740-5444 or visit their website for more information about their services.