While Florida may not get snow, temperatures can get pretty chilly in North Central Florida during the winter months. When temperatures drop below freezing, trees can suffer, resulting in poor flowering the following spring. To help get your trees through winter safely, follow these tree care tips from the arborists in Gainesville at True Cut Tree Service, Inc.
A tree care assessment any time of the year can help your tree flourish. Contact us today to schedule tree service!
Prune
During winter, trees become dormant, and sick or dying tree branches may become at risk of falling off. A jagged break can affect the tree’s health and its ability to flower in the spring. Additionally, falling tree branches can be a safety hazard and cause damage to your property. If you plan to trim the trees on the property yourself, be sure you know the best methods for trimming to keep your tree healthy and strong. If you’re not confident in trimming the trees, contact our arborist company. We offer tree trimming services to help protect your tree during the winter so it can have the best start in spring.
Shelter
Providing proper shelter for trees during the winter is especially important for unestablished younger trees, recently transplanted trees, or trees with exposed or delicate root systems. This protects them from freezing and from animals that may damage the trees during the winter. You can use burlap, sheets, or tarps to cover the trees. Coverings should encompass the roots and go all the way to the ground to maximize the natural heat. If you have outdoor potted plants, consider placing them in spots with better sun exposure and moving them indoors on cold nights. Tree bracing can also help younger or weaker trees withstand winter storms and winds.
Mulch
Proper mulching around trees can help year-round and help retain moisture and heat while protecting tree roots during winter. For the best mulching, start a few inches from tree’s base and cover the soil with three to five inches of mulch in a level spread approximately two or more feet from the tree in all directions to create a circle. Natural options for mulch are preferable, and excess from stump grinding can be a cost-effective option.
Water
Even though it’s cold, trees still need watering, especially younger or transplanted trees. Most trees take 10–15 gallons of water every week or two. Mature trees only require about 10–15 gallons of water a month. Be sure to consider any recent rainstorms to not overwater your trees. However, avoid watering the trees before a night with freezing temperatures.