By Nancy Penrose

Essential Tips for a Healthy Season
Winter can be a challenging time for trees. The cold in the air and on the ground make it difficult for trees to flourish, and trees in poor health may not survive the season at all.

With the right preparation, you can ensure that your arboreal companions make it through the cold months thriving and ready to bloom in the spring. At Big Trees Inc., we understand the importance of safeguarding your trees during winter and are here to provide you with essential tips for a healthy season.

1. Assess Tree Health
Before you embark on your winter tree care journey, it’s crucial to assess the current health of your trees. Inspect them for any signs of disease, pest infestations, or structural weaknesses. Identify dead or damaged branches that may pose a risk during winter storms.

2. Pruning and Trimming
Pruning and trimming your trees before winter can help reduce the risk of branch breakage under the weight of snow and ice. Focus on removing weak or overgrown branches, ensuring a balanced and sturdy tree structure. Be sure to use proper pruning techniques to avoid causing harm. Pruning before winter arrives helps ensure trees are ready for the colder season.

3. Mulching and Insulation
Mulch is your tree’s best friend in winter. A layer of organic mulch around the base of your trees helps insulate the soil, providing a buffer against extreme temperature fluctuations. For young or fragile trees, consider adding insulating materials or tree guards for added protection.

4. Pest and Disease Management
Winter is not a reprieve from tree pests and diseases. In fact, some thrive in cold weather. Be vigilant for signs of infestation or infection and take preventive measures. Consult with a professional arborist if you suspect a problem that requires treatment.

5. Wrapping and Shielding
Shielding your trees from harsh winter elements is crucial. Tree wraps and shelters can help protect your trees from frost and reduce the risk of sunscald. Secure these protective measures before the first frost arrives.

6. Monitoring and Winter Care Plan
Your commitment to tree care doesn’t end with winter preparation. Regularly check on your trees throughout the season. Remove heavy snow loads gently to prevent branch breakage. Adjust mulch and insulation as needed. Create a winter care plan to address any issues that arise promptly.

Are Your Trees Ready?
By following these essential tips for preparing your trees for winter, you’ll set the stage for a healthy and vibrant springtime comeback. Remember that Big Trees Inc. is here to assist you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance and support in ensuring your trees thrive all year round.

For more details and advice on tree care, contact Big Trees Inc. at 360-563-2700.

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc., located in Snohomish, WA in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only deliver young trees, but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting including large trees. Their blog can be seen at https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/ or http://arboristblog.com/. They can be reached at 360-563-2700.

Big Trees Inc.
10928 Springhetti Rd
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-563-2700
https://bigtreesupply.com/blog/
https://arboristblog.com
https://bigtreesupply.com