Here are some tips to keep your trees healthy during the winter:

  • Check the hardiness zone rating. Check and double-check because even though your tree might be rated for our zone, micro-climates and drastic climate changes can create damage. When possible, talk to a local grower about what trees are likely to thrive on your property.
  • Try to plant your trees in areas where it’s less likely to have large volumes of snow buildup.
  • Look for areas where road salt is likely to spray or wash into your soil, and avoid planting in these areas. You can also switch your de-icing salt for something more landscape friendly, like kitty litter.
  • Stop fertilizing 6 weeks before the first frost. This triggers the winter hardiness process to begin in your trees.
  • Stop pruning after mid-summer. Pruning promotes new growth, and the new tissue can be very susceptible to winter frost.