Prevent winter stress
Contributed by Tree Care Industry Association

Winter can damage cherished trees and shrubs in suburban landscapes. Even areas without major snowfall experience high winds and huge fluctuations in temperatures during winter. Homeowners can lessen the adverse effects of winter weather with preventive maintenance.

"Branches of trees can break due to the excessive weight of ice or snow," said Tchukki Andersen, staff arborist with the Tree Care Industry Association. "Proper pruning encourages the formation of the strongest possible branches and branch attachments. When pruning alone isn't enough, properly installed cables and rigid braces can add support to a weakened part of the tree."

Winter winds cause evergreens to lose moisture from their needles. Even some deciduous trees suffer from winter drying. The best prevention consists of planting only hardy species in areas of prolonged exposure, watering plants adequately in the fall, and mulching to insulate the soil and roots from severe cold.

On sunny days in winter, the tree's trunk and main limbs can warm to 15 degrees higher than the air temperature. As soon as the sun's rays stop reaching the stem, its temperature plummets, causing injury or permanent damage to the bark.

The two main types of injury are known as sun scald and frost cracking. The effects of sun scald and frost cracking can be reduced by sound arboricultural practices to maintain overall health and also by covering the trunks of young, susceptible trees with a suitable tree wrap.

Other ways to improve the health of your living landscape:

• Aerate around trees to improve water and air movement in the soil, which strengthens the tree's root system and reduces soil compaction.

• Plant hardy trees available in your area because they have better chances for survival in severe weather conditions. Choosing the best location and following proper planting procedures should be your highest priorities.

• Stop fertilizing trees in early fall to allow them to prepare for winter.

• Remove broken, hazardous limbs immediately. Pruning to remove broken stubs and restore the balance of the crown can be put off a little while but shouldn't be delayed more than one growing season.