What Steps Should I Take to Ensure My Trees Make it Through the Winter?

Hudson, NH Homeowner Asks

A homeowner in Hudson recently asked if there was anything that he should be doing to prep his trees for the winter months ahead. When visiting his property, we found many concerning branches, ominous limbs that were stretching far from the tree trunk. After trimming back these branches that were hanging over the house and driveway, this homeowner was already feeling better about the fast approaching winter.

Taking Additional Steps Can Prevent Tree Damage During the Winter

Pruning back branches, particularly those hanging over the home and driveway, as well as power lines, is only the first step to prepping your trees for the cold, snowy weather. Taking the time now, before the snow falls, to mulch, hydrate and fertilize your trees will give them a better chance of making it through the winter. These nutrients will help the tree to stay strong through the cold months in the future.

When the snow and ice do fall, many times this will weigh down the tree, causing even large limbs to break or split. If a tree is bending or drooping under the weight of the snow or ice, it can be tempting to give the tree a quick shake to remove the snow. But don’t! Branches with ice or heavy snow are very brittle and you can cause damage by doing so.

The best way to protect your trees for the winter, it to take the time now to get them in tip-top form, which will carry them through the cold months and have them looking great when spring comes around.