Introduction
Winter can be a tough season for trees. Between freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and icy winds, the season brings challenges that can leave your trees stressed and vulnerable. By knowing how to spot the signs of winter tree stress and what to do about it, you can keep your trees healthy and ready to thrive in the spring. Here’s what you need to look out for and how to help.
1. Frost Cracks
Have you ever noticed vertical splits in a tree’s bark? These are frost cracks, and they happen when sudden temperature changes cause the bark to expand and contract too quickly. While they’re common, frost cracks can weaken a tree and make it more susceptible to pests and disease.
What to Watch For:
- Long vertical cracks in the bark, often on the south or southwest side of the tree.
- Bark that has separated or curled away from the trunk.
How to Help:
To prevent frost cracks, wrap the trunks of young or thin-barked trees with tree guards in late fall. If a crack has already appeared, keep an eye on it and call a professional arborist if it worsens.
2. Broken or Hanging Branches
Winter storms often leave branches bent or broken under the weight of snow and ice. Not only can this damage the tree further, but it can also pose safety hazards if the branches fall.
What to Watch For:
- Branches that are split, cracked, or hanging but still attached.
- Limbs close to your home, driveway, or power lines.
How to Help:
Carefully trim small, broken branches yourself. For larger or more precarious branches, it’s best to call a certified arborist to remove them safely.
3. Root Damage
A tree’s root system is its foundation, but winter conditions like compacted soil, erosion, and freezing temperatures can take a toll. Damaged roots can lead to a lack of stability and overall stress for the tree.
What to Watch For:
- Exposed roots or visible soil erosion around the base of the tree.
- Evergreen trees showing early signs of needle or leaf loss.
How to Help:
Add mulch around the base of the tree to insulate the roots and prevent further soil erosion. Be mindful of where you pile snow—de-icing chemicals in the snow can harm the roots.
4. Winterburn on Evergreens
Evergreens can lose moisture through their needles in winter, a condition called winterburn. This often happens when strong winds and dry air pull moisture faster than the tree can replace it.
What to Watch For:
- Needles that turn brown or yellow, especially on the south-facing side of the tree.
- Needles that look dry or brittle.
How to Help:
Water your evergreens thoroughly before the ground freezes and, if possible, during mild winter days. You can also apply an anti-desiccant spray to help the needles retain moisture.
5. Animal Damage
In winter, hungry animals like deer, rabbits, and rodents often turn to trees for food, gnawing on bark, branches, and even roots.
What to Watch For:
- Bark stripped from the base of the tree.
- Chewed branches or visible teeth marks near the trunk.
How to Help:
Protect your trees by wrapping the trunk with a tree guard or installing fencing to keep animals away.
Conclusion
Winter stress can be tough on trees, but spotting the signs early and taking action can make a big difference. Whether it’s protecting against frost cracks, trimming broken branches, or insulating roots, these steps will help your trees survive winter and thrive in spring. If you’re unsure how to handle winter tree care, Environmental Advantage’s certified arborists are ready to assist.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Environmental Advantage.