How to Prepare Your Trees for Winter: Tips from the Experts Aug 22, 2025

As the cold winds of winter approach, ensuring that your trees are well-prepped to endure the harsh conditions is essential for any homeowner passionate about maintaining a healthy landscape. At Highborn Tree Service, we understand that the task can seem daunting, but with a few strategic steps, you can help your trees not just survive, but thrive through the winter months.

Before winter sets in, one of the best steps you can take is to assess the health of your trees. Examine them for signs of disease or damage that could be exacerbated by cold weather. Look for cracks in the bark, signs of pest infestations, or broken branches. If you identify any issues, it might be wise to consult with a tree care professional to address these problems before they become more significant.

Pruning is another essential preparation step for your trees. During late fall, when trees go dormant, pruning helps to remove dead or weakened branches that might otherwise break under the weight of snow or ice. Pruning also helps improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, which are vital for the overall health of the tree come spring. For safety and optimal results, consider hiring experts like Highborn Tree Service, especially for large trees or difficult-to-reach branches.

A well-maintained layer of mulch around the base of your trees provides numerous benefits during winter. Mulch acts as an insulator, helping to retain moisture and stabilize soil temperature. Apply a 2 to 4-inch layer of organic mulch around the tree's base, ensuring it doesn’t touch the trunk directly. This simple step can protect your tree roots from extreme cold and also help retain essential moisture when the ground freezes.

Winter drought can be as damaging as summer's heat, especially for newly planted or young trees. As part of your winter preparation, ensure your trees have ample water. Deep watering in late fall allows roots to store sufficient moisture before the ground freezes. However, avoid frequent watering as overwatering can lead to root rot, which is why a good balance is critical.

For trees that are particularly vulnerable to frost or strong winds, consider wrapping them in burlap or tree wraps designed for winter protection. This is especially useful for species with thin bark, such as young maple and oak trees, which can suffer from frost cracks. Wrapping ensures a stable environment and can reduce damage caused by winter conditions.

Winter is a critical time for trees, particularly regarding wildlife interactions. Rodents and deer can be detrimental to young trees, gnawing on the bark and potentially causing irreparable damage. Protect your trees by installing physical barriers like wire mesh or plastic guards around the trunks. Keeping your trees free from rodent damage allows them to enter spring with renewed vigor and health.

In conclusion, taking the time to prepare your trees for winter can save you headaches and expenses in the long term. Healthy trees enhance not only the aesthetic of your home but also provide ecological and economic benefits. Highborn Tree Service is here to support you in these preparations and ensure your trees stand strong against winter’s challenges. Investing a bit of time and care now will pay off when spring arrives, bringing with it lush, thriving foliage once more.