Ways to Protect Trees and Shrubs in Winter

Why Winter Protection Matters

Winter damage to trees and shrubs can include:

• Desiccation (drying out) from wind and sun, especially in evergreens.

• Cold injury to roots, stems, and buds.

• Broken branches from heavy snow and ice.

• Salt damage from de-icing products.

• Animal damage from rodents and deer feeding on bark and buds138.

A combination of proactive measures will help minimize these threats.

1. Mulching: Insulating Roots and Retaining Moisture

Mulch is one of the most effective tools for winter protection. A layer of organic mulch (such as shredded wood, leaves, straw, or bark) insulates the soil, moderates temperature swings, and retains moisture around roots.

How to Mulch:

• Apply 3–4 inches (7–10 cm) of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs after the ground has frozen1237.

• Create a “donut” of mulch, keeping it 6 inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and rodent nesting1.

• For perennials or very tender plants, a thicker layer (up to 6 inches) may be used, but always remove excess mulch in early spring to prevent mold and allow the soil to warm27.

Benefits:

• Reduces frost penetration and soil heaving from freeze-thaw cycles.

• Keeps soil temperatures more constant.

• Helps prevent root injury, especially in newly planted or shallow-rooted species123.

2. Watering: Preventing Winter Drought

Plants can lose moisture through leaves and stems even in winter, particularly during dry, windy conditions. If the soil is dry going into winter, roots are more susceptible to cold injury.

Best Practices:

• Water deeply in the fall before the ground freezes, especially if autumn has been dry148.

• Continue to water during winter thaws if the soil is dry and not frozen, particularly for evergreens and new plantings4.

• Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

3. Wrapping and Covering: Shielding from Sun, Wind, and Cold

Tree Wraps and Guards

• Use white commercial tree wraps or plastic tree guards to protect young or thin-barked trees from sunscald and frost cracks18.

• Avoid black or brown wraps, which absorb heat and can increase bark injury1.

• Remove wraps in early spring to prevent moisture buildup and disease.

Burlap and Breathable Covers

• For shrubs and evergreens, create windbreaks or wrap plants with burlap, horticultural fleece, or other breathable fabric456.

• Use stakes to create a frame around the plant, then drape the cover so it does not touch the foliage directly57.

• Extend covers to the ground to trap warmth from the soil5.

• Remove covers promptly in spring to prevent overheating and fungal diseases7.

Temporary Shelters

• For especially tender or exposed plants, create shelters using stakes, snow fencing, and tarps or geotextiles27.

• Polystyrene cones can protect small shrubs from wind and snow, but ensure they have ventilation holes to prevent rot2.

4. Protecting Against Snow and Ice

• Gently brush heavy snow off branches with a broom to prevent breakage148.

• Never try to remove ice by force; let it melt naturally to avoid damaging brittle wood.

• For upright evergreens, tie branches loosely with twine to prevent splaying under snow load8.

5. Preventing Animal Damage

Rodents and Rabbits

• Use wire mesh or plastic guards around the base of young trees to prevent gnawing28.

• Ensure guards extend above the average snowline and are removed or adjusted in spring2.

• Avoid piling mulch or snow directly against trunks, as this can provide cover for rodents12.

Deer

• Install physical barriers such as fencing or netting around vulnerable shrubs and trees4.

• Use deer repellents as an additional deterrent, especially in high-pressure areas4.

6. Reducing Salt Damage

• Avoid piling road salt or salt-laden snow near trees and shrubs1.

• Use sand, gravel, or calcium chloride as alternatives to sodium chloride for de-icing near plants1.

• Erect barriers (such as burlap fences) on the windward side of plants near roads or walkways to block salt spray2.

7. Site Selection and Plant Choice

• Choose species and varieties suited to your local climate and hardiness zone46.

• Plant tender species in sheltered spots, such as on the east or north side of buildings, or near windbreaks6.

• Avoid rapid thawing of buds by planting early-flowering species out of direct morning sun6.

8. Timing and Removal of Protection

• Install winter protection after the first hard frost, once plants are dormant7.

• Remove covers, wraps, and extra mulch as soon as possible in spring to prevent overheating, mold, and delayed growth7.

9. Additional Tips

• Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning in fall or winter, as it can stimulate new growth that is susceptible to cold damage. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts4.

• Fertilizing: Do not apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer late in the season, as it encourages tender growth that is easily damaged by frost6.

• Check for Pests: Inspect plants for overwintering pests and diseases, and treat as needed4.

• Container Plants: Group pots together in a sheltered spot, wrap them with bubble wrap or straw, or bury pots in the ground to insulate roots6.

Summary Table: Key Winter Protection Strategies

Conclusion

Winter can be harsh, but with thoughtful preparation and the right techniques, you can greatly reduce the risk of injury to your trees and shrubs. Focus on insulating roots with mulch, shielding branches and stems from wind and sun, protecting against animal and salt damage, and choosing the right plants for your climate. Timely application and removal of protection, along with regular monitoring, will ensure your landscape emerges healthy and beautiful when spring arrives12345678.