Even though trees are typically dormant in the winter, that doesn’t mean that they don’t require care. There are some things you can do to protect your trees from cooler temperatures. Additionally, winter may be the perfect time for pruning and other maintenance. Consult with an arborist for advice about the specific trees you have on your property.
Prune During Winter
The best time to prune trees is during winter, when they are dormant. Doing so reduces the risk of damage to the trees and makes it easier to create healthy growth patterns for the spring and beyond. It is best to allow a certified arborist to do the pruning for you. An arborist can recognize signs of issues with your trees. Arborists also have the knowledge to make the best choices for the central leader, primary, scaffold, and temporary branches.
Use Mulch to Keep Soil Warm
A few inches of mulch around the base of your trees can have a dramatic impact on the soil temperature. Wood chip mulch with a depth of three to five inches is best for trees. Ensure the mulch extends at least two feet in all directions from the tree base. A common mistake to avoid when laying your mulch is to build it up around the base like a volcano. Instead, the mulch should look like a donut, with about two inches of open space between the tree base and the start of the mulch, so moisture doesn’t get trapped against the base.
Consider Watering Your Trees
If the weather is dry, your trees may need to be watered. Young trees need to be watered roughly every two weeks, while mature trees to be watered once a month. Use about 10 gallons for young trees and 10 gallons for every inch of diameter of the trunk for mature trees. Damp soil retains heat better than dry soil, so watering can reduce the risk of cold-weather damage.
Let the certified arborists at Complete Landscaping help you care for your trees this winter and beyond. Find out how our landscaping team in Tucson can help you keep your outdoor space looking its best by calling (520) 323-8918.