Winter – the coldest season of the year – can be hard on a tree, because they remain exposed during all of winter’s hash weather in St. Louis. Newly planted trees or young trees are especially susceptible to the season because they don’t yet have the established root systems that older trees have. They also have thinner bark compared to older trees.
At G&G Lawn & Tree, we recommend following a few simple steps to make sure your trees are winter ready. Make sure you’re protecting your new tree investment by following a few of our recommendations below.
Young Tree Roots Care
Newly planted trees (1-3 years old, and especially evergreens) need adequate soil moisture to make it through winter in the Midwest. Be sure to monitor rainfall, and water young trees as needed throughout winter. Remember, just because you have turned off the water to your outdoor hoses doesn’t mean your landscape plants don’t need to be watered!
Younger trees can also benefit with an application of mulch in winter, and if a tree is in a particularly exposed spot in your yard, try staking the tree over wintertime.
Newly Planted Tree Trunk Care
Once or twice throughout winter, be sure to check on the overall appearance and health of your newer tree’s trunks. Young trees have tender bark, which is a favorite for rodents to nibble on! Keep an eye out to make sure your new trees aren’t becoming food for voles or rabbits.
Branches and Foliage
Heavy snow or ice storms can pile up on young tree branches, even breaking them. Prune any broken branches you may notices, and be sure to remove any accumulated snow from your trees to help them make it through winter safety.
If you have questions or concerns about your young landscape trees this winter, just ask us! We are happy to provide assistance with tree health concerns or tree evaluations. Best of all, now through January, 2019 we’re offering special pricing on labor costs! Save 15% up to $100 off your total bill when you schedule a tree evaluation, tree trimming or tree removal job with G&G Lawn & Tree, anywhere across the St. Louis area!