Waterloo Tree Care: How to Keep Your Trees Healthy This Winter!

All trees are unique, and some can withstand the harsh winters of the area, but some can’t. Before the cold weather sets in, you need to consult tree services about winterizing your landscape before you’re forced to call tree removal in Kitchener/Waterloo.

Protecting your trees during the cold weather is primarily about protecting the root system. If a tree’s roots can stay healthy during the season, your tree should come back healthy and full in the spring. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not know how to protect their trees. Thankfully, the winterizing process is relatively straightforward, and if you don’t feel equipped, you can always hire a professional.

1. Prepare Before Winter

If possible, you want to start preparing your tree for winter before the cold sets in. You should provide plenty of water and nutrients in the fall, and you can continue to water until the ground freezes. You should also water trees during the winter when the temperature is above 40 degrees, and there is no snow on the ground.

You will also need to rake away any fallen leaves from the base of your trees. Piles of leaves harbour pests and can lead to diseases and other problems.

Finally, you do not need to use fertilizer in the winter. Trees enter an energy-saving mode during the season, so the roots do not absorb as many nutrients.

2. Mulch 

You should put mulch around the tree but keep it away from the trunk. Essentially, you want to create a mulch ring around each tree on your property. The mulch can help keep the roots a little warmer during cold spells.

If you are not used to mulching around your trees, contact a tree service to do it. Also, pay for tree pruning to limit the risks of falling branches, injury, and property damage. Homeowners often forget the importance of pruning for tree health.

Pruning can also help you shape ornamental and flowering trees for the arrival of spring after winter. It is best to invest in a professional pruning service to prevent over-pruning and damage to the tree.

3. Use Tree Blankets

Despite their reputation as hardy and durable plants, trees are vulnerable to cold snaps and drastic temperature shifts. You can protect your trees by using tree blankets or wraps.

You primarily need to worry about younger trees because they are more vulnerable. Older trees have likely built up enough strength and protection to withstand Canadian winters.

A tree blanket or wrap consists of paper, cardboard, or polypropylene fabric. You tie the material around the lower trunk and branches of the tree. The covers are usually available at most hardware stores. If you cannot find them or do not feel comfortable putting them up, contact a tree service to wrap your trees.

4. Keep Snow From Building Up

Allowing snow to build up on and around the tree is dangerous. When snow builds up around the tree, it can trap water between the bark and the trunk, which freezes and can lead to cracking. Cracking can cause trees to fall and damage properties or injure people.

Also, if snow builds in the tree branches, it can cause heavy snow to fall on you or your home randomly. It is best to keep trees clear as much as possible. If you are concerned about snow in or around your tree, contact a local tree service to remove it.

If you want to prepare your trees for the winter or require a tree removal service near me, contact Martin’s Tree Service. As an established company, Martin’s has a solid reputation in the Kitchener and Waterloo area. The service can handle all your winter preparation needs.