Winter Tree Care

As the frost settles and landscapes transform into a winter wonderland, the care of our trees often takes a back seat in our minds. With its cold temperatures, winter in Western Maryland presents a unique set of challenges for tree care. Contrary to popular belief, however, this season isn’t a time for trees to be forgotten. It’s a critical period that demands attention and care, offering distinct advantages for the health and resilience of our beloved arboreal companions.

Why Winter Tree Care Matters

• Dormancy: A Season of Respite: Winter marks a period of dormancy for trees, a time when they conserve energy and slow down their growth. This state of rest provides an opportune moment for crucial tree maintenance tasks, such as pruning. With foliage absent, the dormant season allows arborists to identify and address structural issues without the obstruction of leaves, ensuring the health and longevity of the tree.
• Protection Against Harsh Weather: The chill of winter brings its fair share of challenges, from heavy snowfalls to biting winds. Trees that have undergone proper winter care, including pruning of weak or damaged branches, stand better equipped to withstand these harsh conditions. By reducing the risk of limb breakage or fall, proactive winter care helps safeguard both the property and the trees themselves.
• Pest and Disease Prevention: Winter tree care plays a pivotal role in fending off pests and diseases. Pruning during the dormant season minimizes the risk of attracting insects that could potentially harm the trees. Additionally, removing diseased branches reduces the spread of pathogens, preserving the overall health of the tree and preventing infestations in the warmer months.
• Stimulating Growth and Aesthetics: Contrary to belief, winter is not a period devoid of growth opportunities for trees. Proper pruning and care during this time stimulate healthy growth come spring. Trimming overgrown branches encourages new growth and enhances the tree’s natural beauty, ensuring it flourishes when warmer weather arrives.
• Strategic Tree Removal: While winter might seem like a season of hibernation for tree services, it’s an ideal time for strategic tree removal. Trees that pose safety hazards should be promptly addressed, and winter allows for clearer access and safer removal without the interference of foliage.

Tips for Winter Tree Care

• Pruning: Schedule a professional pruning session to address structural concerns and remove dead or diseased branches.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to protect the roots from extreme temperatures and retain moisture.
• Hydration: Ensure adequate watering before the ground freezes to keep trees hydrated during winter dry spells.
• Protection: Use tree wraps or coverings to shield young or vulnerable trees from harsh weather conditions.

Winter-friendly Landscaping Options

SHRUBS

• Red Twig Dogwood: A native shrub with vibrant red stems
• Witch Hazel: Exhibits bright gold foliage dropping to reveal fragrant yellow flowers blossoming from fall to winter.
• Winterberry: Showcases brilliant red berries persisting on bare twigs throughout winter.
• Hinoki Cypress: An evergreen shrub or tree with uniquely textured foliage, often in golden or bright green hues.
• Beautyberry: Leaves exhibit stunning golden fall colors before shedding, leaving behind bright purple berries during winter.

TREES

• Paperbark Maple: Displays late fall colors and boasts exfoliating bark in a distinctive brown/cinnamon shade.
• Japanese Umbrella Pine: A slow-growing evergreen tree with glossy green foliage, forming a classic pyramidal shape.
• Coral Bark Japanese Maple: Leaves turn golden yellow/orange before dropping, revealing vivid red bark that deepens in color as the temperature drops.
• River Birch: Features fascinating peeling bark, and a distinctive multi-stem structure, and is known for its disease resistance and rapid growth.
• American Holly: Recognizable for its dense, prickly green foliage associated with the holiday season. Female plants bear red berries in the presence of nearby males.

Professional Arborists for Winter Tree Care

Winter tree care isn’t merely a seasonal task; it’s an investment in the long-term health and resilience of our trees. Embracing the cold months as an opportunity for nurturing and safeguarding our arboreal companions ensures their vitality and beauty all year round. To schedule winter tree care, or to consult with the expert team at Baker Tree Services about landscape planning, give us a call today!