Preparing for Winter

As we all gear up for winter, there are a number of considerations for tree care to take in order to make sure that they stay in the best condition possible. From the elements to animals, damage is to be expected. Unless precautions are taken. At Cutting Edge Tree Professionals, we’re here to share our knowledge with you. And as always, call us for a free quote if you see that your trees are in danger of any of the following!

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Animals

Rodents, rabbits, and deer are known to chew on tree bark, roots, and small yard plants in the winter. First, this causes damage to the visual appeal of your trees and plants. It also exposes your trees to the elements. To protect your trees from animals, you can put physical barriers around your trees, or they can be treated by a plant care specialist.

Cold & Weather Conditions

Weather conditions in the winter can be extreme. The cold and icy weather effects everything from the soil causing root damage, to lack of nutrients for trees. Weather can also pose a problem when limbs are weighted down from ice and snow. Take preventative measures by contacting Cutting Edge Tree Professionals to check on any potential hazardous limbs. We can also help cover the soil around vulnerable trees, providing extra insulation for roots. This is especially necessary for young trees.

Salt & Deicers

Salt is damaging to trees over time. It is not necessarily in one season that you will notice the changes that salt has on plant life and greenery. However, salt over time can stunt tree growth, or even kill trees and plants. One step to take is to avoid salting areas where there is a direct run off into the soil with plants. There are also more effective types of deicers that are less damaging. According to one source,  “Calcium chloride, potassium chloride and magnesium chloride are less harmful to plants than sodium chloride.”  We also suggest you use sand as an abrasive material in combination with less amounts of salt. Sand can help with traction and doesn’t have the damaging effect of salt. Another preventative suggestion is to shovel the snow and ice with salt on mixed in, to areas in your yard without trees and plants.

Be sure to call Cutting Edge Tree Professionals at (814) 240-2172 or email with your plant and tree care questions and to make an appointment. We are here to help. We love what we do, and protecting your trees, even in the winter is a top priority.

 

Other Sources:

https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/2009/nov/062401.htm

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/protecting-trees-and-shrubs-winter#salt-damage-1264561

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