When we think about the ideal time for tackling landscaping projects, winter is probably not the season that comes to mind. While we don’t recommend planting annuals then, winter is a great time for some essential tree care. At Bratt Tree Company, we love trees, and we want homeowners to know how to help their trees thrive.

During winter, trees are dormant. That means they can handle cuts and maintenance with less stress, making pruning safer and more effective. Plus, without leaves, it’s easier to notice and troubleshoot structural problems, deadwood, and possible issues.

Here are some of the top winter tree care tasks you can take on.

Essential Winter Tree Care Tasks

There are a few tree care tasks homeowners should put on their chore list during the winter months. They include:

Pruning Dead or Damaged Branches

One of the most important winter tree care tasks is pruning dead or damaged branches. Removing unhealthy branches helps your trees come back in the spring stronger and healthier. The pruning encourages new growth when the warmer weather returns.

Plus, dead and sick limbs can be weak. During winter weather, they can break off and cause property damage or injury.

Inspecting for Pests & Disease

Winter is also a great time to inspect trees for pests or disease. As leaves fall, it becomes easier to see problems that were hidden before, such as fungus or pest damage.

The earlier you find and treat these problems, the healthier your trees will be in the spring. Our friendly professionals at Bratt Tree Co. can evaluate your trees and recommend treatments to protect them from pests and disease.

Mulching Around the Base

Adding mulch around the base of your trees is another winter care step. Mulch helps insulate the roots from extreme cold. It also keeps moisture in the soil. It’s important to not pile mulch directly against the trunk. The trunk needs room to breathe and mulch too close can cause rot or attract pests.

Protecting Young Trees From Harsh Winter Elements

Our Twin Cities winters can be harsh and long. Just like you need to bundle up to protect your body from the freezing temperatures, your trees could use protection too. Here are some ways you can protect your young trees from harsh winter weather:

Wrapping Tree Trunks

Young and thin-barked trees are vulnerable to frost cracks and sunscald. This happens when fluctuating winter temperatures cause the bark to expand and contract, allowing the cold to get inside and cause damage.

Wrapping trunks with protective materials helps insulate them from the cold. It gives your trees the chance to grow strong and stay healthy.

Shielding From Winter Winds

Winter can bring strong, bitter winds. Young trees and some evergreens could use protection from harsh winter winds. Burlap wraps or other windbreak materials help shield trees from drying out or suffering from “winter burn.”

Winter burn happens to evergreens when they lose moisture in cold, drying winds. These simple protective steps can make your trees much safer during the winter.

Watering Trees During Winter Thaws

When the Twin Cities experience a winter thaw, it’s a good idea to water your trees if the ground isn’t frozen.

This is especially helpful for evergreens, which lose water through their needles year-round. Winter watering keeps roots hydrated. Plus, it prepares them for the active growing season in the spring. Just remember to water deeply and avoid overwatering.

Begin Winter Tree Care Now

Taking time for winter tree care can give your trees the best start in spring. If you need support in caring for your trees this winter, trust Bratt Tree Company. We offer a full range of services to keep your trees well-maintained all winter.

With over three decades of service in the Twin Cities, Bratt Tree Co. has the experience to handle every job. We offer a satisfaction guarantee, upfront pricing, and a team of ISA-certified arborists. If you need help with pruning, pest control, mulching, or protecting young trees from the elements, Bratt Tree is ready to help.

For expert winter tree care, count on Bratt Tree Company. Contact us to schedule your consultation today.