Prioritizing tree maintenance and preventive care can make a big difference in tree longevity and resilience.

When winter arrives, trees face unique challenges, from freezing temperatures to heavy snow and ice. Proper winter preparation can help ensure your trees not only survive but thrive when warmer weather returns.

Prune Trees for Health and Safety

Winter is the ideal time to prune trees, especially for deciduous species that shed leaves in the fall. Tree pruning helps remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, reducing the risk of breakage from heavy snow or ice. Winter pruning is often recommended because trees are dormant, which minimizes stress and encourages healthy growth in spring. Consider hiring a certified arborist to perform tree pruning safely, particularly for large or mature trees.

Key Benefits of Winter Pruning:

Reduces the risk of branch breakage
Improves overall tree structure
Minimizes spread of diseases

Mulch for Insulation

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of trees helps insulate roots from extreme temperature fluctuations. Mulch also helps retain moisture in the soil, which can be beneficial in dry winter conditions. A two to three-inch layer of mulch is typically recommended. However, be careful not to pile mulch against the trunk, as this can lead to rot and pest issues.

Benefits of Mulching:

Insulates tree roots
Helps retain soil moisture
Protects from soil compaction

Protect Young Trees from Frost and Animal Damage

Young and newly planted trees are especially vulnerable to Pennsylvania’s winter weather. Frost cracks can occur when temperatures fluctuate rapidly, causing bark to split. To protect young trees, wrap the trunks with tree guards or burlap to minimize damage. Tree wraps also deter rodents and deer, which often feed on young bark during winter.

Benefits of Tree Wrapping:

Protects against frost cracks
Prevents animal damage
Shields young bark from sunscald

Water Trees Before the Ground Freezes

Even though trees are dormant in winter, they still need adequate moisture in their root systems. Water trees thoroughly in the fall, especially during dry conditions, to help them endure the winter. Deep watering encourages strong root development and helps trees retain moisture during cold months when they can’t absorb as much from frozen ground.

Tips for Fall Watering:

Water early in the day to prevent overnight freezing
Use a soaker hose for deep, even saturation
Focus on newly planted or young trees

Inspect for Pest and Disease Issues

While winter may reduce pest populations, some insects, like emerald ash borer and scale insects, can still cause damage during colder months. Inspect trees for signs of pest infestation or disease before winter, as untreated issues can weaken trees and make them more vulnerable. Tree health assessments by certified arborists can be particularly useful for spotting early signs of trouble.

Common Winter Tree Pests:

Emerald ash borer
Scale insects
Aphids

Prepare for Snow and Ice Management

Snow and ice buildup can put a tremendous strain on tree branches. Large limbs may break under the weight, causing damage to the tree and posing safety risks. It’s helpful to clear snow from tree branches after heavy storms, but avoid using salt or other de-icing chemicals, as these can harm trees. Instead, gently brush off snow with a broom to avoid damaging branches.

Dealing with Snow and Ice:

Avoid shaking branches to remove snow, as this can cause breakage
Brush off excess snow gently
Use caution when working around icy branches

Apply Anti-Desiccant Spray to Evergreens

Evergreen trees, such as pine and spruce, are particularly susceptible to winter desiccation, or moisture loss. Applying an anti-desiccant spray in late fall can help reduce moisture loss from foliage. This treatment creates a protective layer on evergreen needles, preventing excess water from escaping and helping the tree stay hydrated during winter.

Advantages of Anti-Desiccant Spray:

Reduces winter desiccation
Protects evergreen needles from drying out
Supports tree health in cold weather

Prune and Trim Dead or Dying Branches

Clearing out dead or dying branches before winter hits is essential for tree health and safety. Weak branches are more likely to snap under snow or ice weight, which can damage the tree and create hazards. A qualified arborist can assist in safely removing problem branches, ensuring that trees are structurally sound for winter.

Benefits of Dead Branch Removal:

Reduces winter breakage risks
Helps prevent disease spread
Improves tree aesthetics and structure

Prepare Trees for Salt Exposure

In Pennsylvania, road salt is commonly used for de-icing, which can harm trees when it seeps into the soil. To prevent salt damage, consider using salt-tolerant plants or barriers around trees near roadways or sidewalks. Rinsing off salt after winter can also help minimize long-term soil damage.

Tips for Salt Protection:

Use burlap or fencing as a barrier
Rinse salt off in spring
Apply gypsum to neutralize soil if needed

Schedule a Winter Tree Inspection

A professional winter tree inspection is one of the best ways to ensure your trees are prepared for cold season. An arborist can assess tree health, recommend treatments, and identify any potential hazards that may need to be addressed before heavy snowfall.

Reasons for Winter Tree Inspections:

Early detection of pests and diseases
Assessment of structural integrity
Personalized winter care recommendations

Winter Preparation Tips