Caring for Your Trees in Winter

Cold temperatures, ice, and freezing winds can make winter a stressful time of year for trees in North America. The native regional trees species even experience the extra stress during these cold months.

According to Redmond arborist John Deutsch,

“Trees are biologically complex, constantly undergoing changes. They are subject to similar problems that afflict us...”

Therefore, it is a good idea to look at for signs of tree stress and to take just a few steps that help protect and strengthen your trees during winter.

Watch for Winter Drought

Some areas in North America can be very dry during winter time causing trees to fight dry out. By laying down a thick layer of organic mulch at the base of the tree in late fall or early winter months, you can help slow moisture loss and water runoff.

Check for Rodents

If you see rodents or deer eating away at your trees, you can consult a local tree care specialist to find ways to repel animals from eating your trees.

Plant Native Species

If you notice that your non-native tree species do not make it through the winter months, you may want to consult an expert on what species do best in your area. Arborist, tree maintenance, and hedge trimming Bellevue specialists, for example, help their client get the most out of their property by recommended the right species, and proper tree care.

Be Safe with These Tips for Proper Hedge Trimming

An important part of being a property owner is managing and caring for the landscape and vegetation. Without proper skills and training, it is easy to make a mistake.

According to specialists in hedge trimming Bellevue, Washington at Certified Arborist Tree Care, LLC, many homeowners are seriously injured while working in tall trees or hedge-trimming off of high ladders.

In addition to the increased risks of injury and accidents, lack of professional training may have someone remove trees needlessly and damage a tree by trimming and cutting improperly.

The good news is that with a bit of interest, it’s easy to learn many pruning skills on your own. Although they don't take the place of hiring a professional arborist, these tips can help you on your way to a healthy landscape.

1. Remove hanging branches immediately. These branches are already at the verge of falling.
2. Diseased and decaying wood can be removed at any time of the year.
3. Make sure to prune at the proper time of year. Professional can advise you on the correct time for different trees. some trees should only be pruned at certain times of the year.
4. Remove diseased or insect-infested branches.
5. Do not prune more than 1/3 of the canopy.

For more information on safe pruning and tree care see what this arborist report Seattle area expert has to say.