When Colorado Gets Cold, Your Trees Can Stay Strong
Last winter was a particularly rough season for many trees and shrubs. The severe early fall and spring freezes had damaging effects on landscapes. Coloradans know that climatic events can impact their trees’ ability to overwinter and flourish next year. Timely evaluation and treatments are vital to their health.
Did you know that your trees and shrubs have already started preparation for winter? In late summer, far before the leaves fall, trees and shrubs stop growing and begin early stages of winter dormancy. Being proactive can help combat Colorado’s temperature extremes. Timely services such as pruning, nutrient treatments, cabling, watering and antidesiccants are critical to tree health. Work with your arborist to discuss the ideal time for winter preparation.
Here are some signs that your trees could use a little extra TLC this season:
- Discolored leaves and sparse foliage
- Early fall color and leaf drop
- Yellow or brown needles on spruce and pine
- Dead twigs and branches
- Longitudinal trunk cracks
Start preparing now!
Pruning
When dormant during cold months, many tree species benefit most from pruning as it encourages new growth and minimizes stress. This will improve their overall structure as well as their health, safety and form. Dormant pruning will also reduce or eliminate the insect attraction to open pruning sites. The ideal time to prune different tree species may vary, so speak to your arborist to discuss the best option for your trees.
Nutrients
As fall approaches, the above ground portion of the tree stops growing for the season – however, tree roots begin a flurry of growth extending well into the fall. Fertilizing at this time will allow the roots to gather much needed nutrients in anticipation for the next growing season. We have options that correct nutrient deficiencies and maintain proper soil nutrient balance as well as additives that increase the water holding capacity of the soil.
Cabling & Bracing
Cabling provides supplemental support for weak branch attachments by limiting their movement, especially during severe weather including wind and snow.
Winter Watering
Colorado soil is known to be very dry during the fall and winter seasons. SavATree’s deep root watering service, Recharge, allows water to percolate easily through Colorado’s clay soil.
Antidesiccants
When extreme cold temperatures arrive and the ground freezes, spruce and pine (evergreen plants) struggle to obtain the moisture they need from the soil. Antidesiccants lock in moisture by creating a thin polymer barrier over the leaf stomata (the leaf’s pores). It not only reduces water loss, but it also contains a special sunscreen to minimize browning of foliage.
