Learn what you can do to maintain your tree health in the final days of winter with mulching, pruning, and more.
There are only a few more weeks until spring, but Mid-Atlantic residents know the weather can be unpredictable. You may be ready to see your lawn turning green and trees exhibit new growth, but winter damage is still possible if you don’t carefully tend to your landscape during this sensitive time. If you want to maintain tree health in the final weeks of winter, evaluate whether you need the following services or continue to practice safety measures if they are still required to protect trees from environmental factors. When in doubt, the licensed and experienced tree experts at Scientific Plant Service can advise you on the best action to take.
Prune Before Spring
One of the best times of the year to prune your trees is in February and early March. This is because trees may still be dormant. Deciduous tree branches are bare, so you have better visibility, and you can encourage new growth just before the growing season begins. If you notice tree branches broken from winter weather or branches that appear dead or damaged, contact Scientific Plant Service for guidance on what pruning is recommended to maintain tree health.
Mulch for Insulation
Applying mulch around the base of trees helps insulate their roots and protect them from frost and the dry winter winds. Always ensure the mulch doesn’t touch the tree trunk directly, and consider using organic mulch that can enrich the soil with nutrients as it decomposes. If a cold front arrives, make sure your sensitive trees have enough mulch to be adequately insulated in the final stretch of winter.
Water to Maintain Hydration
Despite their dormant state, you can maintain tree health with occasional watering. This may be especially helpful for evergreen trees, which can suffer from desiccation, leading to brown or yellow patches on the needles.
Manage Snow and Ice
After snowstorms, inspect your trees for damage, including broken branches. Snow accumulation can be heavy and lead to structural damage to the tree. If you remove snow from branches, do so gently to alleviate the weight and prevent breakage. If the snow on the branches is not very heavy and will soon melt, it may be best to let it melt so you don’t inadvertently damage the tree. If you are concerned about frail or small trees being damaged by the cold, you may ensure that their tree wraps or braces still provide the needed protection.
Prevent Salt Damage
Do not use de-icing salt near your trees if you need to remove snow or ice. These products can harm their roots, manifesting as leaf scorch, branch dieback, and browning leaves. Use salt alternatives if you must use these tools to remove snow or ice from your property. These precautions can help you maintain tree health at the end of winter.
Scientific Plant Service Is Your Go-To Source In Landscape Healthcare
Scientific Plant Service, located in Baltimore, is a privately owned corporation, chartered in Maryland in 1957 by Frank J. Burke. We started as a full-service Arborists specializing in the care of shade trees and ornamental shrubs, but today we are a Lawn Care company that is a huge part of the community. From aquatic environments and snow management to deer and mole control, SPS has services tailored specifically for your lawn and landscape.
We offer services in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia, including: Harford, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Howard, Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Calvert counties in MD, as well as Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church in VA. For more information, contact us online, or call us at 410-321-0970. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Pinterest.