The short answer is, yes! Winter is known as the “dormant” season in the tree care industry. Although trees are not actively growing during these months, they can sustain injury and damage from winter weather conditions. Performing winter tree maintenance is the best way to prevent future damage and promote a healthy growing season.
Is it true that I should water my trees during winter?
While winter is the dormant season for trees, regular winter watering will help ensure a healthy landscape in the spring. Snowfall alone typically won’t provide your trees with enough water. In light of this, on warmer days give the soil around your trees a good soak.
Additional Winter Watering Tips:
- Water when air temperatures are above 50 degrees F.
- Water at midday to allow time for the water to soak in before nightfall.
- Water at least once per month.
- As a general rule of thumb, provide 2 gallons of water for each diameter of the tree trunk measured at knee height.
What else can I do to care for my trees during winter?
Winter is an ideal time to have your trees pruned. Regular tree maintenance and fertilization are essential to the overall health and longevity of your trees. You can take action by consulting with one of our certified arborists to establish a proper trimming and treatment plan.
Benefits of pruning your trees during winter include:
- Less stress on trees. Research shows that trimming before buds break in the spring provides the best timing for healing and wound closure, encouraging healthy, new growth in the spring and throughout the summer season.
- Avoiding the spread of disease. The bacteria and insects that spread disease, such as fire blight, are usually dormant during the winter months. Winter trimming gives your trees time to heal before warmer months when destructive pests and diseases re-emerge.
- Increasing the tree’s overall lifespan. Removing the old, compromised or diseased branches helps the tree stay stronger and healthier for longer.
- Storm damage prevention. March and April tend to bring wet, heavy snow to the front range. Without proper maintenance, spring snow can cause devastating damage to your trees. Preventative trimming is essential to help avoid damage and loss.
What else should I consider this winter?
Our team of arborists are available year-round to help maintain and manage your trees. It’s a great time to get the ball rolling on those tree projects you may have been putting off, including:
- Tree and stump removal. Our experienced arborists can safely remove your dead or dying tree any time of year. Damaged trees can be a safety hazard for both you and your neighbors and removal can help prevent future damage and destructive pests.
- Clearance issues. Trees have a tendency to grow over structures, fences and walkways before we even realize they are causing an issue. Our team of professionals can help identify clearance issues and make recommendations for trimming and removal, if necessary.
- Special event trimming. Is your family looking forward to a special event this spring or summer? Maybe you have a graduation party or family reunion planned. We want to help get your trees looking their best for your special occasion. Now is the time to schedule these services so your yard is in tip-top shape when the date arrives.
