You take pride in the condition of your landscape. The combination of healthy lawn and vibrant trees improves your home’s curb appeal considerably. But winter weather can wreak havoc on those trees. Recognizing how inclement conditions and falling temperatures affect them is the first step to handling the problem. Here’s what you need to know so that you can recognize when to call a tree service for help.

How Winter Weather Impacts Your Trees

1. Erratic Temperatures

Winter weather can be erratic at times. There may be sunshine and fairly pleasant temperatures on the forecast one day and bone-chilling weather predicted the next. Those fluctuating conditions affect trees considerably because the structures can’t withstand the sudden and dramatic temperature change. Frost cracks may develop in the bark, while a condition called sunscald can burn the tree if it’s heavily exposed to ultraviolet rays. These damages may not harm the overall health of the tree, but can impact appearances. Although some of these problems are inevitable, it may help to schedule basic tree maintenance throughout the year to protect its integrity and leave it less susceptible to damage.

2. Animal Damages

Because it’s tough for them to find food during winter, many animals turn to trees for sustenance. Common culprits like rabbits and deer will gnaw at the bark and leaves in an effort to remain vital through the season. An issue called back rubbing can occur when the deer rub their antlers on trees, leading to a thinning or complete removal of the bark. Have a tree service apply a repellent to the trees in advance of the season, or consider surrounding the tree with a barrier of some kind to prevent access.

3. Winter Dryness

Cold weather can dehydrate the trees just as much as it does your skin! Low humidity, coupled with harsh sunlight and heavy winds, can cause water loss in select trees, including evergreens. As they dry out, their leaves take on a brownish tinge and may appear burned. Frost, ice, or snow can further weaken compromised stems and branches, and may lead to eventual breakage. A tree service professional can water the trees heavily before the first freeze to reduce excess dryness due to cold air and frost.

Homeowners throughout Florence, KY, trust in the professionals at BlueGrass Tree Service, LLC for all of their tree maintenance needs. Their company proudly provides tree services throughout northern KY and Cincinnati, OH, and can handle everything from routine care to storm cleanup. If you’re concerned about winter’s impact on your trees, you can trust them to assess the damage and provide a solution that works. Visit the company’s website to learn more, or call (859) 746-0708 to schedule a free estimate.