Cold winter temperatures can crack tree bark and cause roots to die. But, professional tree services protect your plants from severe weather. Use this guide to understand what tree services to request from an arborist so your trees are safe until spring.

5 Protective Tree Services for Winter

1. Mulching

Apply mulch around the tree's base to retain moisture during the dry winter and insulate the soil for root protection. Spread two to four inches of mulch around the tree. Leave six inches between the mulch and tree to avoid suffocating the base and roots.

2. Tree Trimming

Tree trimming and pruning results are during dormant months when new growth it postponed. This is because new buds and branches aren’t damaged by the cold weather. Always hire a professional for trimming or pruning to keep your home and family safe from falling branches.

3. Trunk Wrapping 

Frost cracks are the result of continuous fluctuation in temperature, like the change from cold winter nights to sunny afternoons. Young trees and trees with thin bark are especially vulnerable. Wrap your trees in white commercial wrap or green plastic to prevent cracking. Work from top to bottom, starting at the lowest branch.

4. Watering

Continue to water your trees until the ground freezes, keeping the surrounding soil moist — but not wet. After winter begins, continue to water regularly. Only do so on days warmer than 40 degrees when there is no snow on the ground. Start just outside the trunk, and water out toward the longest branch.

5. Fertilizing

In late October or early November, spread a slow-release fertilizer around your trees and lawn. Purchase a winterizing fertilizer that contains nitrogen, as this will help your trees store energy until spring.

 

Prepare your landscape for winter with tree services from Rick’s Tree Service, Inc. For decades, these arborists have offered various tree services to Liberty, Brown, and McIntosh counties in Georgia. They can handle any job quickly and efficiently. View a complete list of their services online, or call (912) 877-4882 to schedule an appointment.