Trees and shrubs in Missouri face a host of challenges throughout the winter months, from fluctuating temperatures to heavy snow and ice, storms, biting winds, and even hungry wildlife. Preparing your trees and shrubs to withstand these conditions is critical as winter quickly approaches.

In this blog, we’ll discuss how homeowners can make their landscape winter-ready and when to call an ISA-certified arborist to ensure the long-term health of your plants and shrubs.

Perform Tree and Shrub Maintenance

Start by performing these basic maintenance care steps:

1. Prune dead, diseased, or damaged branches: Look at your trees and shrubs for any that are discolored, brittle, or show signs of disease. Remove these using clean, sharp pruning tools to prevent the spread of infections.

• Trim back branches that could snap under snow or ice weight: Focus on long, thin, or growing branches at odd angles. Reduce their length by about 25 percent to minimize their risk of breaking.
• Avoid heavy pruning, which can stimulate new growth that is vulnerable to frost, and limit pruning to necessary cuts only. 

Read more about pruning.

2. Mulch your landscape: Take advantage of nature’s mulch and avoid removing fallen leaves, which can provide valuable nutrients for trees and shrubs. It is ok to remove excessive leaves if it’s unsightly.

• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around tree bases and shrubs. Use materials like wood chips or shredded bark. Spread the mulch in a circle extending to the drip line of the tree or shrub.
• Keep mulch away from trunks to prevent rot and rodent damage. A 3-4 inch gap between the mulch and the trunk allows air circulation and helps prevent moisture buildup that can lead to rot. 

3. Water your trees and shrubs: Deeply water trees and shrubs until the ground freezes.

• Provide slow, deep watering that saturates the soil to 12-18 inches. This helps plants store moisture for winter when the ground is frozen and water uptake is limited.
• Focus on newly planted trees and evergreens, which are more vulnerable to winter damage. Water them thoroughly every two to three weeks until the ground freezes.

4. Wrap young trees: Protect young trees with tree wrap to prevent sunscald and frost cracks.

• Start at the base and wrap upward in overlapping spirals to the first branches. Remove the wrap in spring to avoid insect infestations.
• Use burlap to shield evergreens from winter burn. Create a screen on the windward side of the plant, or wrap the entire plant loosely in burlap, securing it with twine.

5. Fertilize to promote root growth: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in late fall to promote root growth. Choose a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10). Apply it after the first frost but before the ground freezes to encourage root development without stimulating new top growth.

How to Care for Your Plants and Shrubs After Storms

When a snow or ice storm hits, be sure to check your trees and work to prevent damage that could require emergency care. Here are some common issues :

Ice accumulation: Gently shake branches or use a broom to remove ice before it builds up. Work carefully to avoid causing additional damage. Start from the bottom and work your way up. For valuable plants, install prop-ups or temporary supports before storms hit. Use sturdy materials like 2x4s or metal poles, padding the contact points to prevent bark damage.

Heavy snow: If possible, carefully brush off snow from branches before it freezes. Use an upward sweeping motion to prevent branch breakage, and focus on removing snow from the center of the plant outward. Use a pole or broom to reach higher branches. Be gentle to avoid knocking off buds or causing branch damage.

Broken limbs: Immediately remove hanging or broken branches to prevent further damage to your tree. Use proper pruning techniques, like under-scoring, to avoid tearing bark. Support the branch while cutting to control its fall. When cutting, make clean cuts at the branch collar, or the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk, for proper healing. Cutting there promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of disease.

Uprooted trees: If they’re uprooted, small trees can sometimes be saved if they’re replanted quickly and properly staked. Gently straighten the tree, replace as much of the original soil as possible, and water thoroughly. Use 2-3 stakes tied with soft material to support the tree for at least one growing season. For larger trees, consult an arborist to assess whether the tree can be saved and, if possible, to safely replant it.

Be prepared by keeping a tree “emergency kit,” which should include pruning shears, a folding saw, and sturdy gloves. Don’t forget disinfectant for cleaning tools between cuts to prevent disease spread.

The Importance of Professional Expertise

While DIY winter tree and shrub care is possible, the expertise of ISA-certified arborists is invaluable for ensuring the health and safety of your trees and shrubs. Arborists are trained to offer expert assessments, proper techniques, and customized care plans that can prevent costly damage and keep your landscape healthy and safe.

Call a certified arborist to:

• Manage large or mature trees
• Work near power lines or structures
• Perform Deep Root Fertilizing
• Diagnose suspected disease or pest problems
• Assess and care for trees after storm damage
• Develop a long-term care plan for your landscape

Arborists have up-to-date knowledge and the ability to safely handle complex situations, especially emergencies. Working with a certified arborist for tree care is a wise investment for any homeowner. By partnering with certified arborists like Craig’s Tree Service, you’re not just maintaining your landscape; you’re safeguarding its future.