The Alaskan wild may seem like it’s equipped to handle the long and intense winters, but it’s still possible for your trees to encounter seasonal trouble. Fortunately, you can take steps to protect them. As you prepare for winter, here are five common problems to be aware of and the tree care practices that can help prevent them.

5 Tree Care Issues to Watch for This Winter

1. Wind Damage

Younger trees aren’t always tough enough to stand up to strong winter winds. To prevent the trunk from snapping or bending, set up burlap screens around the plant to block the wind’s path. This barrier can also shield the plant from harmful road salt.

2. Heaving

As moisture in the soil freezes, frost heaving can occur—when the dirt and the tree roots beneath the ground push upward. This process can leave sensitive roots exposed to cold temperatures, causing severe damage.

To prevent this issue, fill in any low soil spots around the base of the tree. Next, place a layer of mulch around the trunk to shield the soil from frost.

3. Winter Burn

Freezing temperatures can make it difficult for roots to absorb enough water to support the tree’s health. This problem, known as winter burn, can cause evergreen leaves to appear brown or scorched.

While mulch can offer some insulation to prevent winter burn, it’s also a good idea to ask an arborist about advanced protection, such as anti-desiccant applications.

4. Broken Branches

Heavy snowfall and high winds can break branches. In addition to potential damage to your home and power lines, this breakage could injure the tree.

Hire an arborist to trim any weak or overhanging branches before winter weather arrives.

5. Animal Activity

Bark is a source of nutrition for wild animals that have trouble finding food in the winter. Unfortunately, when creatures gnaw at the bark, they leave vulnerable parts of the trunk exposed.

To keep trunks intact, surround the tree with wire mesh that will discourage animals. You can also have a tree care specialist apply a repellent to safely deter wildlife.

 

Keeping your landscape in top shape this winter is easy when you have the support of Carlos Tree Service. Offering comprehensive tree care throughout Anchorage, AK, this certified arborist will prepare your plants for colder weather with services like trimming and mulching. If snowstorms cause severe damage, you can count on this team to provide fast and thorough emergency tree removal to keep your property safe. Visit this provider online to learn more about these services, or call (907) 522-6049 to schedule an appointment.