11/29/2023
Winter Prep for Your New Trees
Giving your new trees a little care now can help ensure they get through the winter healthy and ready to have a great next year.
First, check the mulch. In the winter mulch modulates temperature shifts. It should be 3”-4” deep and 3” away from the root flare.
Remove watering bags as they can hold moisture against the trunk which can lead to decay. Rodents may shelter under the bags and chew on bark and roots.
Confirm that the deer protection fencing is still well attached to its stakes and not rubbing the bark.
Examine any nylon strapping or arbor ties around the trunk to be sure they haven’t become too tight as the tree has grown. If the tree has been in the ground for a year or longer, you can remove them as the root system should have grown enough to support the tree.
Lastly, prune any dead or damaged branches.
