Winter Tree and Shrub Care Tips in Missouri
As the chilly winds start to blow and frost begins to decorate your home landscape, it’s time to gear up and ensure that our precious trees and shrubs in Missouri are well-prepared for the winter season. Just like we bundle up in cozy jackets, these green pals need some extra care to thrive during the cold winter months. Let’s dive into some tips on how to protect and care for Missouri trees and shrubs this winter!
How to Care for Missouri Trees and Shrubs During Winter Months
One major key to ensuring healthy trees and shrubs during winter is plant selection. When planting trees and shrubs, choose native plants when possible since they are naturally acclimated to Missouri’s climate. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map to determine what trees and plants will thrive in your area based on the average extreme winter temperatures. However, plant selection isn’t the end-all rule. Planting in the right areas of your landscape to provide the right environment can make a huge difference for your trees and shrubs.
Tree and Shrub Fertilization
Much like us needing a balanced diet to stay healthy, trees and shrubs also benefit from proper nourishment. However, during winter, they don’t eat in the same way as we do. Instead, giving them a good meal before winter sets in is crucial. Adding fertilizer in the fall can supply them with the nutrients they need to endure the winter months and emerge stronger in the early spring and growing season.
Dormant Oil for Trees and Shrubs
Imagine giving your plants a cozy blanket to shield them from winter damage. That’s what dormant oil does for trees and shrubs. It’s a horticultural spray that helps control pests and their eggs, protecting your landscape plants from harmful critters during winter dormancy.
Winter Mulching
Just as we tuck ourselves under blankets for warmth, trees and shrubs love a good layer of mulch to keep their roots cozy. Mulch acts as a barrier against freezing temperatures. Mulch helps maintain moist soil and prevent winter damage from drastic temperature changes that can harm their root systems. When air and soil temperatures change, soil freezes and thaws causing damage to the roots. Spread a layer of mulch around the base of your trees and shrubs to keep them snug during winter months. Pine needles, wood chips, and compost are great options for winter mulching materials.
Winter Watering
Don’t let the winter chill fool you. Trees and shrubs still need hydration! Before the ground freezes, give them a good watering. This helps to keep their roots moist and healthy during the dry winter months. However, be careful not to overwater, as too much water in freezing temperatures can also harm them.
Winter Tree Care & Tree Wraps
When the cold temperatures set in, it’s time to offer extra winter protection. Wrapping young trees in tree guards or using burlap tree wraps can shield them from harsh winds and heavy snow, preventing winter damage to their delicate bark. Newly planted trees need to be wrapped to protect the tree trunk in the first few years of growth. It’s like giving them a warm hug to weather the winter months!
Check out the Missouri Botanical Garden for more helpful, detailed tips about preparing trees and shrubs for winter’s cold temperatures. They cover tree wrap protection from winter sun and shade fluctuation, as well as late fall watering and additional mulching tips!
Winter Tree and Shrub Care for St. Louis Homeowners
To ensure healthy trees and shrubs year-round, Missouri homeowners can trust Loyalty Lawn Care. We offer comprehensive tree and shrub care services in St. Louis, St. Charles, St. Peters, Ballwin, Chesterfield, Kirkwood, Wentzville, Wildwood, and surrounding areas. Our shrub and tree care programs include all the proper fertilization, insect control, dormant oil, fungus control, and horticultural oils to maintain a happy, healthy home landscape. We also offer mosquito control, lawn care services, outdoor pest control, and more. Since 1998, we’ve been the top choice for lawn care services in St. Louis. Contact us today to get a quote!