Caring for Your Trees Over the Winter: Tips from Advanced Tree Care

LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill. - Jan. 31, 2019 - PRLog -- Did you know that when trees become dormant over the winter, they still require your care? Protecting your trees and ensuring their continued health requires essential winter tree care.

Water until the ground freezes

Just because the warmest days of the year are behind us doesn't mean you shouldn't water your trees any longer. Fall can, in fact, be a dry season some years. Water your trees throughout the fall and early winter until the ground fully freezes. In our area, this can be as late as the end of December.

Newly planted or young trees that still have a small root mass especially need continued watering. And, when it comes to watering, go for low and slow so that you deliver the water directly down to the tree's root zone. How often and how long you should water depends on tree species, soil type, and our weather conditions. You can check the soil and your tree's foliage to determine if your tree is over- or under-watered, or you can consult one of our experts.

Protect roots with mulch application

Before the heavy snows and ice arrive, mulch around each tree with wood chips, bark, or other organic material. You should apply two to four inches of mulch spread over the top of the entire root zone. The mulch will insulate against temperature extremes while also nourishing the soil and preserving moisture levels. Be sure to keep the mulch layer at least three inches away from the base of the tree trunk to allow the tree to properly breathe.

Remove stakes or ties

While stakes or ties can provide some stability for newly established trees, these items should be removed before winter. Trees will establish more quickly and develop stronger trunk and root tissue without these aids.

Prune branches

Winter can be an optimal time for pruning because trees are dormant. In fact, pruning can help reduce the chance that a winter snowstorm or ice storm will damage your tree. Be sure to engage a professional tree service to prune your trees, so that the tree is properly cared for. Pruning cuts should be left uncovered, and proper pruning cuts should be made just outside the branch collar.

Advanced Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced Tree Care isn't just our name—it's also our purpose!