Seasonal Shrub and Tree Maintenance for a Healthy Winter Transition

As the warm days of summer begin to fade and the cooler breeze of fall rolls in, it’s time to prepare your garden for the winter months ahead. While many of us focus on getting our lawns and flower beds ready for the chill, trees and shrubs also require special attention to ensure they stay healthy and strong through the winter. Proper seasonal care for your trees and shrubs will not only help them survive the cold temperatures but also thrive in the coming spring.

Here’s your essential guide to seasonal shrub and tree maintenance, to ensure a healthy winter transition for your landscape.

Prune and Trim Dead or Damaged Growth

Pruning is one of the most important tasks in preparing your shrubs and trees for winter. As the weather cools, your plants will go into dormancy, but any dead or diseased growth needs to be removed to promote healthy growth in the next season.

• Remove dead or diseased branches: Start by inspecting your trees and shrubs for any damaged or diseased branches. Removing these helps reduce the risk of pests and diseases over the winter months and encourages the plant to direct its energy toward healthy growth.
• Shape shrubs: Trimming shrubs to maintain their shape can help prevent wind damage and snow accumulation, both of which could harm the plant’s structure. Make sure to prune back leggy or overly bushy growth to maintain a strong, balanced shape.
• Avoid heavy pruning of flowering shrubs: For shrubs that bloom in early spring (such as Forsythia or Lilac), avoid heavy pruning during fall as you may remove the buds for next season. Instead, focus on removing dead or weak stems to prevent disease.

Watering: Don't Let Them Dry Out

Although fall brings cooler temperatures, trees and shrubs still need consistent watering to prepare for winter. Moisture in the soil helps the roots establish strong systems before they go dormant for the winter.

• Deep watering: Before the ground freezes, give your trees and shrubs a deep watering, especially if the fall season has been dry. Aim to water deeply once a week if rainfall is insufficient. Focus on the root zone, as this is where the plant will absorb moisture for the coming cold months.
• Mulch to retain moisture: Mulch is a great way to help the soil retain moisture and keep the roots insulated against the cold. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs. Be sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunks to prevent rot.

Fertilizing for Winter Health

While you don’t need to fertilize all trees and shrubs during the fall, some could benefit from a little extra nourishment before winter. Fall fertilization encourages strong root growth and helps your plants build up energy reserves for the coming spring.

• Use a slow-release fertilizer: Choose a slow-release, balanced fertilizer that’s high in potassium and phosphorus to encourage root development rather than promoting top growth. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's directions, and avoid fertilizing late in the season, as this could encourage new growth that may not have enough time to harden off before the cold weather sets in.
• Evergreens need extra care: Evergreen trees and shrubs, such as pines, firs, and spruces, continue to transpire moisture throughout the winter. They benefit from a light fall feeding to help them survive the dry winter months. Opt for a fertilizer formulated for evergreens for best results.

Protecting Plants from Winter Damage

Winter winds, freezing temperatures, and heavy snow can take a toll on your shrubs and trees. Implementing protective measures will help shield your plants from harsh winter conditions and ensure they’re ready to spring back in the warmer months.

• Wrap fragile plants: Tender trees and shrubs, especially young or newly planted ones, can be vulnerable to frost damage. Consider wrapping them with burlap or specialized tree wraps for added insulation. This is particularly important for newly planted trees, which may not yet have fully established root systems.
• Protect evergreens from snow and ice: Evergreens can suffer from “snow break,” where heavy snow accumulates on branches and causes them to snap. Gently shake off any accumulated snow to prevent damage. If you live in an area with frequent snowstorms, you might want to install tree supports or use twine to tie up lower branches to prevent breakage.
• Protect the trunks of young trees: Consider protecting young tree trunks with plastic guards or tree wraps to prevent damage from sunscald, frost cracks, and animal browsing. This is especially important for thin-barked trees like maples, birches, and fruit trees.

Inspect for Pests and Disease

Even in the cooler months, pests and diseases can be a threat to your trees and shrubs. A quick inspection in the fall can help you identify any lingering problems before they worsen during winter dormancy.

• Inspect for pests: Look for signs of insects like aphids, scale, and spider mites on the undersides of leaves or tree bark. Many pests go dormant in winter, but addressing an infestation in the fall can prevent it from worsening in the spring.
• Look for fungal diseases: Fungal issues like powdery mildew or rust can also affect plants in the cooler months. Check for signs of fungal growth on leaves, stems, and the base of trees. If you notice any symptoms, treat the plant with a fungicide recommended for the specific disease.

Mulching for Protection

In addition to retaining moisture, mulch is crucial for protecting tree roots from extreme temperatures. The insulating properties of mulch help maintain a more consistent temperature in the soil, preventing freeze-thaw cycles that can damage roots.

• Apply a thick layer of mulch: Apply a thick, 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded leaves, around your trees and shrubs. Ensure that mulch is spread evenly but not piled against the base of trunks or stems to prevent rotting.
• Use a variety of mulch types: A mixture of mulches, including straw, leaves, and compost, provides additional insulation while also improving the soil’s organic content. This encourages healthy soil for better root growth.

Ensure Proper Plant Placement

The placement of trees and shrubs in your landscape plays a key role in their ability to survive the winter. Take time to evaluate your plants' exposure to winter winds and sun, and make any necessary adjustments to protect them.

• Consider windbreaks: If you have areas exposed to harsh winter winds, consider planting trees or shrubs that act as natural windbreaks to protect more vulnerable plants. Planting evergreens on the north and west sides of your yard can provide wind protection for both ornamental and food-bearing plants.
• Shade for sensitive plants: If your yard gets intense afternoon sun, consider shading sensitive plants during the winter. Some deciduous trees can help create natural shade for delicate shrubs and perennials that are more susceptible to frost damage.

Conclusion

Taking the time to properly care for your trees and shrubs during the fall months is an investment in the health and beauty of your landscape for years to come. With the right pruning, watering, fertilization, and protection, you’ll ensure that your trees and shrubs are well-equipped to handle the cold winter months and emerge healthy and vibrant in the spring.



By following these maintenance tips and preparing your plants for winter, you’ll not only help them survive, but thrive through the seasons ahead. Need assistance with pruning or seasonal care? Reach out today, and let us help you get your landscape ready for a healthy winter transition!