
Winter is a difficult time for trees, especially in areas where temperatures can drop very low. The water having deserted the frozen ground, the strong winter winds can cause damage, as can the cold, snow and ice.
This is why many wonder if they should protect their trees in winter. See here the reasons for providing winter protection to trees , and why certain types of plants are more vulnerable than others.
Tree protection in winter: which species need it most?
In winter, some tree species are more vulnerable than others and require additional protection to survive extreme weather conditions. Young trees, fruit trees, conifers and other fragile species can suffer from snow, wind and frost, and may need more care to get through the cold season.
This is particularly the case for trees that have already suffered damage, conifers exposed to prevailing winds and plants along the street. De-icing salt can burn the foliage of plants located near roadways. Young trees exposed to the sun are also at risk; their bark can heat up quickly and burst when the mercury drops in the evening.
Other examples of trees to protect in winter:
- Trees and shrubs exposed to snow blown from the roof (or blown by a snowplow who is a little too hasty or distracted)
- Plants likely to get stuck in ice
- Deciduous trees: linden, beech, maple, ash, willow, chestnut
- Conifers and evergreen shrubs
- Hedges exposed to de-icing salts and snowblowers
- Fruit trees or young trees with low branches that rodents particularly appreciate during the cold period
Protect your trees in winter without going overboard!
While it is important to take precautions to protect your trees in winter , you should not overdo it. Many trees are cold adapted and can survive without additional help. Overprotection can even be harmful to trees.
Additionally, excessive protection can quickly disfigure the landscape. We must therefore not exaggerate with winter protection and concentrate only on vulnerable trees.
When to install winter protection on your trees?
Generally, you have to wait until the ground is frozen on the surface. In Quebec, it is advisable to install protective measures around mid-November and remove them in mid-March or mid-April.
Winter protection for a tree: the options available
There are several types of protection for trees in winter . Winter wraps, such as burlap or plastic sleeves, protect trunks from cold and wind damage. Mulches, such as fallen leaves or straw, help retain moisture and heat near the tree’s roots, protecting the roots from freezing and drying out.
Anti-game netting, on the other hand, protects trees from damage caused by deer, hares and other animals that could nibble the bark or eat your tree branches during the winter.
Best techniques to protect your trees in winter:
- Canvas or jute sleeves to protect the bark
- Nets to protect animals
- Fences to reduce the effect of wind
- Ground covers to maintain soil warmth and protect roots from frost
- Pruning to Maintain Tree Health During Winter
Ask an expert for help to protect your trees this winter!
Are you looking for sound advice to preserve the health of your trees and shrubs? Contact the Émondage SBP team to have access to the best techniques to protect your trees all year round!
References:
BOTANIX. Winter protection, why protect plants?
ESPACE POUR LA VIE, MONTREAL. Winter protection by plant type.
SALUT BONJOUR Retrouvez vos plantes saines et sauves au printemps.