What NOT to Do to Your Trees in Winters

Winter might be a magical season, but for your trees, it’s like that reality show “Survivor”. Sure, snow-draped branches exude those incredible winter vibes – but let’s not forget ice can turn them into ticking time bombs.

And let’s face it, sometimes, our well-meaning efforts to “help” can do more harm than good. From shaking branches like they’re a piñata to standing under ice-covered limbs tempting fate, there’s plenty to avoid.

So, let’s break down what not to do to keep your trees (and you) safe this frosty season!

Avoid Doing This to Your Trees in Winter

1. Don’t Stand Under Ice-Covered Trees

We get it; ice-covered trees bring the magic to winter. But they can also be dangerous. When ice forms on branches, it adds significant weight (up to 30 times more than usual). This extra load can cause branches to bend, crack, or even break.

Worse, ice build-up often hides pre-existing damage, making it nearly impossible to gauge whether a branch is stable or on the verge of giving way.

Always keep a safe distance from snowy trees, and avoid walking or standing directly underneath them.

2. Don’t Shake or Hit Ice-Covered Branches

It might seem helpful to shake or knock ice off branches, but that may be a recipe for disaster. Ice makes branches brittle and prone to snapping under sudden impact.

Shaking a tree not only risks breaking the branches but also sends heavy chunks of ice tumbling down, potentially injuring you or causing additional damage to the tree.

The better approach? Let the ice melt naturally. Trees are surprisingly resilient and designed to withstand winter’s challenges. If you’re worried about excessive ice build-up, consider professional help instead of taking matters (or branches) into your own hands.

3. Don’t Spray Water to Melt Ice

Spraying water on ice-covered trees might sound like a genius way to “melt” ice, but it can make things worse.

When temperatures are below freezing, adding water only creates more ice as it refreezes, making the problem worse. Not only does spraying water fail to remove the ice, but it can also create heavy icicles, further burdening branches already under stress.

The safest and most straightforward approach is to let nature do what it does best. A sunny day can melt the ice gently, giving your tree the best chance of recovery.

4. Avoid Using Salt Near Trees

Salt might work wonders on icy driveways, but it’s bad news for your trees. When applied near the base of trees, salt seeps into the soil, disrupting its structure and reducing its ability to hold water.

Over time, it can harm tree roots, stunt growth, and even cause long-term damage. You might notice browning leaves, slower growth, or a generally unhealthy appearance.

Go for eco-friendly alternatives like sand or calcium magnesium acetate. These provide traction without compromising soil health or harming your tree’s roots. Applying these around walkways and driveways near trees is a much safer choice.

5. Don’t Prune Trees in Extreme Winter Temperatures

It might be tempting to prune ice-covered branches to "help" your tree, but this does more harm than good. When branches are covered in ice, they become brittle and prone to snapping in unpredictable ways.

Attempting to cut them at this stage can lead to jagged breaks, further damaging the tree and making future recovery more difficult. Plus, handling tools in icy conditions poses serious safety risks for you.

Waiting for the ice to melt naturally is a better strategy. Once the tree is ice-free, you can assess the actual damage and decide which branches truly need removal. Pruning just before low temperatures could lead to winter injury.

6. Don’t Ignore Signs of Damage

When it comes to winter tree care, ignoring obvious signs of damage can spell trouble down the road. Cracked branches, split trunks, or leaning trees are clear indicators that your tree is struggling. These issues, if left unaddressed, can weaken the tree further, making it vulnerable to additional damage from storms, pests, or disease.

Take the time to inspect your trees, especially after heavy snowfall or ice build-up. Look for hanging branches, visible cracks, or areas where the bark has peeled away. Acting quickly can save your tree. Proper pruning or structural support, like cabling, can help stabilize it and prevent further damage.

What to Do Instead: Proactive Winter Tree Care

Instead of reacting to winter tree damage, proactive care can help your trees thrive through the harsh winters. Here’s how you can set them up for success:

• Prune Before the Frost Hits: Remove dead or weak branches in the fall to prevent breakage under heavy snow or ice. This also helps trees channel energy to healthier parts.
• Wrap Vulnerable Trees: Use burlap to shield sensitive trees like young or thin-barked varieties from harsh winds and sunscald. It’s a winter coat for your trees, offering protection from the elements.
• Inspect Regularly: Have a certified arborist check for structural issues, signs of disease, or pest infestations before the first snowfall. Early detection can save your trees from bigger problems.
• Mulch Around Tree Bases: Add about 4 inches of mulch around the base to help insulate roots, retain soil moisture, and regulate temperature. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
• Water Deeply Before the Freeze: Ensure your trees are well-hydrated in late fall. Moist soil retains warmth better than dry soil, giving roots extra protection against freezing.

Frost Got You Stumped? Green Drop Has Got You Covered!

If you think any of your trees need help in the winter, our emergency tree care service is here to come in at a moment’s notice and keep your trees safe and sound.

Whether you’re in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, or Regina, our certified arborists provide expert care tailored to Western Canada’s frosty challenges. Get your free tree assessment today, and let us help your trees weather winter like pros!