The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Trees and Shrubs from Heavy Snow

With the arrival of our first NorEaster this past week, it’s time to prepare for the continuation of harsh weather. Whether you’re a snow enthusiast or prefer staying cozy indoors, one thing is certain: you need to keep an eye on your trees and shrubs.

In this updated guide, we’ll cover common mistakes, signs of damage, and effective strategies to protect your trees and shrubs from heavy snow.

4 Things NOT to Do

Proper tree and shrub care often gets overlooked during snowy weather. Here are four common mistakes to avoid:

1. Do Not Shake the Tree or Shrub: Shaking can cause more damage, especially if there’s ice. Instead, gently brush off the snow with a broom to lighten the load on branches. If there’s ice, it’s safer to leave it alone.

2. Do Not Shovel or Plow Snow onto Shrubs: Adding more weight to the plant can be harmful. Be mindful not to pile snow on your shrubs.

3. Do Not Let Plow Trucks Drive Over Critical Root Zones (CRZ): High traffic compacts soil and damages root systems. Overly compacted soil can be detrimental and lead to plant death.

4. Do Not Lay Salt Near Your Plants: Salt can negatively impact tree and shrub health, causing symptoms like browning needles, leaf burn, and delayed flower and fruit development.

Symptoms of Winter Damage

If you’ve made any of the above mistakes, watch for these signs of winter damage:

• Noticeable difference in plant health

• Cracking or splitting tree bark

• Substantial root damage

• Broken or hanging tree limbs or branches

• Leaning trees or falling limbs

• Unsightly shrubs

If you’re concerned about winter damage, we recommend having a Certified Arborist inspect your trees and shrubs and create an action plan. With proper pruning, most trees and shrubs can recover.

What You Need to Do Now

A proactive, preventative strategy of tree and shrub maintenance can help reduce risk and ensure they thrive through the winter season. Here are some steps to take:

1. Maintenance Pruning and Inspections: Certified Arborists can identify and correct structural defects, improving plant safety and reducing unexpected failures. Winter is the best time for tree trimming and inspections.

2. Cabling & Bracing: Provide extra structural support to trees through cabling and bracing to protect them during windy winter storms.

3. Weight Reduction Pruning: Reduce the risk of branch failure by pruning heavy, overextended limbs.

By proactively caring for your trees and shrubs now, you can enjoy the rest of the winter with peace of mind. Give us a call or reserve an appointment online to get started. Let’s keep your landscape healthy and beautiful all year round!