Evergreen trees and shrubs are some of the most beautiful features of a landscape, especially during the colder months when much of the greenery has disappeared. But just because they're green year-round doesn't mean they're immune to winter weather!
In Northeast Ohio, freezing temperatures, strong winds, heavy snow, and fluctuating temperatures can all take a toll on evergreen plants. Taking a few simple steps before and during winter can help protect your landscape and keep your evergreens looking their best when spring arrives.
Here are a few tips from Piazza Landscaping to help protect your evergreens this winter.
1. Keep Your Evergreens Hydrated
One of the biggest winter threats to evergreens is something called winter burn. This happens when evergreen foliage loses moisture faster than the roots can replace it. When the ground freezes, roots have a harder time absorbing water, while the needles and leaves can continue losing moisture.
To help prevent this, make sure your evergreens receive adequate water throughout the fall and into early winter. Pay special attention to newly planted trees and shrubs, which may not have fully established root systems yet.
If temperatures are above freezing and the soil isn't frozen, watering during extended dry periods can help.
2. Add a Protective Layer of Mulch
Mulch does more than make your landscape beds look finished. It also helps insulate the soil, regulate temperature changes, and retain moisture around plant roots.
Before winter settles in, consider adding a fresh layer of mulch around your trees and shrubs. A layer of approximately 2-3 inches is generally sufficient.
Just remember to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk or base of the plant. Piling mulch directly against the trunk can contribute to moisture-related damage and other problems.
3. Protect Evergreens From Harsh Winter Winds
Cold, drying winds can be especially damaging to evergreens, particularly those planted in exposed areas or those that are still becoming established.
For more vulnerable plants, consider installing a burlap windscreen to help block harsh winds and reduce moisture loss. Position the screen around the plant without tightly wrapping or completely enclosing it. Evergreens still need adequate airflow and light.
Not every evergreen needs this type of protection, but it can be helpful for certain plants in particularly exposed locations.
4. Be Careful With Heavy Snow and Ice
Snow can provide some natural insulation for plants, but heavy, wet snow can weigh down evergreen branches and cause them to bend or break.
After a heavy snowfall, keep an eye on your shrubs and trees. If branches are weighed down, gently brush away loose snow using upward motions when it is safe to do so.
Avoid shaking frozen branches or trying to remove ice, as this can cause additional damage.
5. Watch Out for Road Salt
During Northeast Ohio winters, road salt and deicing products are often unavoidable. Unfortunately, salt can damage nearby trees, shrubs, and other landscape plants.
Try to avoid piling snow containing road salt directly into landscape beds. When possible, use plant-friendlier deicing alternatives and keep salty runoff away from sensitive planting areas.
Give Your Landscape a Little Extra Attention This Winter
Winter weather can be tough on your landscape, but a little preparation and ongoing care can go a long way toward protecting your investment.
From maintaining existing landscape features to planning new outdoor projects, winter is also a great opportunity to start thinking ahead to spring.
At Piazza Landscaping, we're here to help you keep your property looking its best throughout every season.
Ready to get your landscape ready for winter or start planning your next outdoor project? Contact Piazza Landscaping to learn how we can help!