Winter Damage to Trees
Though many consider winter to be the season of taking a break from landscaping, Oregon winters can have a harsh effect on your trees. Though some damage only shows itself come springtime, there are steps you can take now to prevent issues from snow, ice, salt, and dropping temperatures. If you’ve noticed these signs of damage to your trees in previous years, you must give them the care and protection they need.
Frost Cracks and Sunscald
Extreme temperature changes from day to night can harm your trees. Sunscald occurs when the south side of your tree is warmed by the sun, and the cool temperatures at night injure the bark. It’s especially harsh on thin-barked or young trees, and it can cause cracking of the bark and fungus growth.
Similarly, frost cracks occur when the bark expands and contracts too quickly with temperature changes and the bark cracks. It can take a few years for trees to heal from frost cracks. You can protect trees from cracking by wrapping them in a cover to insulate them better.
Winter Burn or Desiccation
Trees can struggle to get moisture during the winter, which significantly affects evergreens. Dry winds, sunny days, and frozen grounds are common during winter, and all will dry out trees and reduce their ability to transpire water. Evergreens will often suffer browning needles. You can prune the decayed branches on broadleaf trees and apply an anti-desiccant to evergreen trees before winter sets in to prevent damage.
Snow and Ice Weight
Throughout the winter, snow and ice will build up on tree branches and add extra weight that can bend, crack, or break them. Brush snow off tree branches to reduce the likelihood of breaking.
Professional Tree Service
Always consider safety when dealing with trees in the winter. If you require emergency tree service, contact Quality Tree Service today.
