As temperatures drop and frost begins to settle in, trees and shrubs face harsh conditions that can cause cracking, dehydration, and even root damage. Whether you’re caring for mature maples or young ornamentals, winter protection is essential for maintaining a healthy, vibrant landscape.
By preparing your plants before the first deep freeze, you help them conserve energy, minimize stress, and emerge stronger in spring.
1. Hydrate Deeply Before the Ground Freezes
Just like people, plants need water to endure winter. A surprising number of tree and shrub losses occur because roots dry out while the soil is frozen.
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Deep watering: Give your trees and shrubs a thorough soaking before the ground freezes—usually in late fall when daytime temperatures remain above 5°C. Focus especially on evergreens, which continue to lose moisture through their needles all winter.
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Mulch to retain moisture: After watering, apply a 5–8 cm layer of organic mulch (like shredded bark or composted leaves) around the base—keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. This insulates the soil, conserves moisture, and prevents freeze–thaw cycles from damaging roots.
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Expert tip: For newly planted trees, form a low “watering basin” around the root zone to capture runoff and ensure the water penetrates deeply.
Bonus: Well-hydrated trees are far less susceptible to frost cracks and winter burn.
2. Shield Against Wind and Sunscald
Winter sun and wind can cause desiccation, where plants lose more moisture than they can replace, leading to brown needles or cracked bark.
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Wrap vulnerable trunks: Use breathable tree wrap or burlap to cover young or thin-barked trees (like maple, cherry, and birch). Start at the base and wrap upward, securing loosely with twine. Remove in early spring to prevent rot.
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Wind barriers for evergreens: Erect burlap screens on the windward side of exposed evergreens. Position them about 15–20 cm away from the foliage to allow airflow while reducing wind exposure.
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Reflective protection: Apply a white tree guard or latex paint diluted 50/50 with water to light-colored bark. This reflects sunlight, preventing sunscald—especially on south- or southwest-facing trunks.
Expert note: Don’t use plastic or non-breathable materials—they trap moisture and invite fungal disease.
3. Protect Roots from Extreme Temperature Fluctuations
Roots are the lifeline of any plant, and they’re especially vulnerable to cold snaps and thawing cycles.
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Mulch generously: Extend mulch 30–45 cm beyond the drip line for young trees and shrubs. This moderates soil temperature and keeps roots consistently insulated.
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Add evergreen boughs: After the ground freezes, lay evergreen branches or straw over sensitive shrubs for added insulation. This prevents sudden thaws from exposing roots to fluctuating temperatures.
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Container plants: Move potted shrubs or small trees into sheltered spots such as an unheated garage, shed, or along a south-facing wall. Wrap pots with burlap or bubble wrap to prevent roots from freezing.
Pro tip: Avoid fertilizing late in the fall—this can stimulate tender new growth that’s easily damaged by frost.
4. Guard Against Wildlife and Physical Damage
During harsh winters, hungry deer, rabbits, and rodents often turn to bark, buds, and twigs for food. These animals can cause serious injury or even girdle young trees.
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Install tree guards: Use mesh or spiral plastic trunk protectors to block rodents from chewing bark. Make sure the guards extend 5–10 cm below the soil line.
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Deer deterrents: Surround small trees and shrubs with sturdy fencing or apply an organic deer repellent spray every few weeks throughout winter.
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Snow and ice management: Brush off heavy snow gently with a broom to prevent branch breakage. Never shake ice-covered branches—let them thaw naturally to avoid snapping.
Expert insight: Young fruit trees, especially apple and cherry varieties, are prime targets for rodents—guard them early before snow cover hides access points.
Preparing your trees and shrubs for winter is one of the best investments for your landscape's long-term health. With proper hydration, insulation, protection from sunscald, and wildlife barriers, your plants will survive the cold season with minimal stress and maximum resilience.
A few hours of preparation before the frost sets in will ensure your garden canopy bursts back to life in spring—stronger, greener, and more beautiful than ever.