The winter season is a time of white-blanketed landscapes, where snowflakes dance gracefully through the crisp, chilly air. The sun rises later and sets earlier, casting a soft golden glow over the frozen earth. The trees stand bare, their branches reaching toward the sky like skeletal fingers. The air is filled with the sound of crunching snow and the distant howl of wolves. The streets are adorned with twinkling lights, and the smell of evergreen and peppermint fills the air. It’s a time of hot cocoa by the fireplace, cozy blankets, and warm fires. It’s a magical and peaceful time of the year where the world is transformed into a winter wonderland. That being said, it’s a perilous season for many trees. Luckily, there are several things you can do to protect your trees from winter damage:

1. Mulch: Spread a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to insulate the roots and prevent the soil from freezing and thawing.
2. Water: Make sure your trees are well-watered before the ground freezes. This will help them stay hydrated during the winter.
3. Wrap: Wrap the trunk of young or thin-barked trees with tree wrap or burlap to protect them from sunscald and frost cracking.
4. Prune: Prune dead or damaged branches before winter to prevent them from breaking off and causing further damage.
5. Keep an eye on the weather: Especially during extreme cold or heavy snow or ice storms, keep an eye on your trees for any signs of damage, such as broken branches or split trunks.
6. Be mindful of salt: Be mindful of using salt near trees, as it can damage their roots and bark.
7. Fertilize: Fertilize your trees in the fall to help them build up energy reserves for the winter.

Following these tips can help protect your trees from winter damage and ensure they are healthy and strong in the spring.

References: UMN, loveyourlandscape