Tips to Prepping Your Trees for Winter
A widespread assumption people have about trees is that they are built to withstand the elements all year round. Although some species tend to be highly durable no matter the current weather, some species would require some extra care to ensure that they do not decline, especially during the colder months. You will find that the trees that need a helping hand to weather the winters tend to be species that are not indigenous to the area. Therefore, if you have some exotic tree species on your property, it would be advisable to prep your trees before the winter months come around. Here are a few of the tips that would come in handy in preparing your trees for the colder months.
Tip 1: Prune the tree prior to winter
The first thing you should do to maintain the health of your trees during the winter would be to engage in pre-season pruning. Although trees should be trimmed all year round to keep them in good health, it is especially important before winter to ensure that the tree does not have any weak or dying limbs. If the structural integrity of the tree is already compromised before winter comes around, you would be at higher risk of property damage because it will not be sturdy. And if it's already in very bad shape, you may want to opt for tree removal. However, an arborist can come, inspect your trees, and carry out the necessary pruning that would make your trees better at handling the incumbent inclement weather.
Tip 2: Ensure proper drainage of the soil
Tree owners tend to be largely concerned about their trees becoming dehydrated. Thus, they will ensure they are watered sufficiently during the summer. However, what some people overlook is that trees can be exposed to too much water during the winter months. With increased precipitation, the soil is likely to absorb more water than normal. As the ground becomes waterlogged, the roots of your trees become susceptible to damage, usually in the form of rot. If the roots have become compromised, it will only be a matter of time before your tree starts developing problems too. Therefore, it is prudent to ensure that the soil has proper drainage during the wetter months.
Tip 3: Apply mulch at the base of the tree
Another concern to have during the winter is the ground freezing. If the surface of the soil has frozen, chances are the tree roots will not be receiving adequate nutrition. A good way to counter this would be regular mulching around the tree to keep the base of the tree moist, warm and ice-free.