Introduction

Young trees can be especially vulnerable during winter months. Sudden temperature changes, harsh sunlight, and freezing conditions can cause serious damage if trees are not protected properly.

Taking a few preventative steps can help ensure your trees remain healthy through winter and continue growing strong in the spring.

Why Young Trees Need Winter Protection

Rapid temperature changes can damage tree bark and weaken young trees.

In climates like Colorado, temperatures can drop 20 degrees within just a few hours, creating stress that can lead to structural damage.

Wrapping young trees helps protect them from these extreme temperature fluctuations.

When Should You Wrap Trees?

Traditionally, trees are wrapped in late November and the wrapping is removed in April.

However, unpredictable weather patterns can bring freezing temperatures earlier than expected.

If your trees were not wrapped before the first frost, it is not too late to do so. Wrapping them now can still help protect against additional winter damage.

Understanding Sunscald and Frost Cracks

Two common forms of winter damage are sunscald and frost cracks.

Sunscald Damage

Sunscald occurs when sunlight warms the tree bark during the day. When temperatures drop quickly at night, the warmed cells freeze and die.

Young trees are especially vulnerable once their leaves have dropped and the bark is exposed.

Frost Cracks

Frost cracks occur when rapid temperature drops cause the bark to split vertically.

This damage can affect the tree’s ability to transport nutrients and water.

Tree wrapping helps reduce the risk of both sunscald and frost cracks.

What If Evergreen Needles Turn Brown?

If evergreen trees develop brown needles after a temperature shock, the damage may not be permanent.

Often the needles are affected, but the buds responsible for spring growth remain healthy.

Patience is important. Continue caring for the tree and wait until spring before determining the full extent of the damage.

Winter Watering for Trees

Trees still require moisture during the winter months.

Follow these winter watering guidelines:

• Water only when temperatures are above freezing
• Avoid watering when the soil is frozen
• Maintain light soil moisture during dry periods

For evergreen trees, misting the needles may help reduce dehydration and protect against winter damage.

When to Consult a Tree Professional

If you are unsure how to protect your trees or notice signs of winter damage, a certified arborist or landscape professional can provide guidance.

Taking preventative steps now can help ensure your trees stay healthy and continue growing for years to come.