Unprotected trees and shrubs can become home to a whole host of problems during the winter – frostbite, animal pests, and broken limbs being among the most common problems.
Don’t let your trees “leaf” and leave your yard bare come spring – winter can be hard on younger saplings and fragile bushes. Take a moment to read how you can protect your trees and shrubs with winter landscaping techniques.
Why protect your trees?
Simply because a tree or shrub is dormant in the winter months, doesn’t mean you should simply forget about them! Unprotected trees and shrubs can become home to a whole host of problems during the winter – frostbite, animal pests, and broken limbs being among the most common problems. Prevent the spring maintenance hassle and protect your trees today!
How to Winterize Your Trees & Shrubs
1. Create a wind break to protect trees and shrubs from getting dried out by strong gusts.
Make a frame by hammering 1 inch stakes into the ground. Cut them to the same height as the tallest plant you are trying to protect. Wrap burlap or any other sturdy, water-permeable fabric around the stakes and staple the material into place.
2. Wrap tall, narrow shrubs into a tight column.
Use twine to roll shrubs and trees into tight columns, with the branches pulled in and wrapped in the direction of their growth. The tight, upright shape will keep branches from collecting heavy snow or ice and breaking off.
3. Shelter plants up against your home from falling icicles and snow melt
Build a simple, reusable A-frame shelter structure out of 2x4s and exterior-grade plywood. These sloped structures will prevent fragile plants and bushes from being crushed or frostbitten under layers of ice and snow. Make sure to waterproof the structures will outdoor sealants if you want to use them again in the future.
4. Moderate the soil’s temperature.
Adding a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of shrubs can help save your plants from repeated freezing and thawing. Too much mulch can suffocate smaller plants though, so be aware of your mulch placement!
Do you need help creating a beautiful landscape in your backyard?
Our landscaping professionals have years of experience and access to the latest landscaping tools and styles. Lehnhoff’s Landscaping’s team of landscaping management professionals can manage all different elements of your property. Our maintenance plans and planting services will ensure that no matter what time of year it is, your property will be stunning.
If you have any more questions about landscaping, contact Lehnhoff’s Landscaping by Calling 443.921.5789 or visit LehnoffsLandscaping.com today!
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