Will Winter Ever End?
This winter has been a little different when we compare it to the past three years. The winter of 2019 has been a record breaker with snow accumulation and sub-zero temperatures. Our backs aren’t the only thing that took a beating from the wet and heavy snow; so, did the landscapes around town, whether it be trees or shrubs.
The weight of heavy snow snapped branches and limbs all over town, and if it wasn’t snow, then it was the wind gusts that did the damage. Evergreen branches that didn’t break were bent and folded in different directions from storm and ice damage. Injury to branch tips and flower buds nipped by bitter arctic cold temperatures may not be discovered till spring.
Clean Up Winter Damage Now
The good news is that most of the trees and shrubs can be trimmed and pruned to prevent future long-term damage. Using proper trimming and pruning techniques to remove broken branches and removing torn or peeling bark will help in the recovery process. Splintered limbs and flayed bark left unattended create a gateway for insect and disease this spring. Doing the trimming and pruning in winter, while the trees and shrubs are dormant, result in less stress for the plant down the road.
Every landscape site and situation are different and unique in their own way. If you feel you can do the trimming and pruning yourself, here are some excellent pruning tips from the K-State Research and extension. If you think that your damage may be more than you can do yourself and in need of a professional, here’s a link to find a certified arborist in your area.
Healthy Trees Heal Quickly
Healthy trees and shrubs heal quickly and are more resistant to damaging insects and disease. As the ground thaws and the mercury rises, apply Uncle’s Garden and Plant Food around the base of the plant. Fertilizer tree spikes can also be used to aid and maintain your trees and shrubs health during the healing
