Nate Albright • December 5, 2024

Winterizing Your Trees in Wisconsin: A Guide to Protecting Your Landscape

Expert Tips from Albright Enterprises to Keep Your Trees Healthy Through the Winter

Winter in Wisconsin brings freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and icy winds—all of which can take a toll on your trees. At Albright Enterprises, we understand how important your trees are to your property’s beauty and health. Proper winterization not only protects them from harsh weather but also ensures they thrive come spring. Here’s our guide to winterizing your trees in Wisconsin.

Why Winterizing Your Trees Is Essential

Harsh winter conditions can cause:

Frost Damage: Freezing temperatures can harm tree bark and branches, leading to cracks and injuries.

Winter Burn: Dry, cold winds strip moisture from evergreens, causing browning and discoloration.

Animal Damage: Hungry wildlife like deer, rabbits, and rodents may chew bark and branches.

Root Injuries: Frozen soil can damage roots, especially for younger trees.

Taking proactive steps to winterize your trees protects them from these risks and ensures they remain healthy year-round.

How to Winterize Your Trees

Follow these tips to give your trees the best protection:

1. Mulch Around the Base

Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base of your trees to insulate roots from extreme cold.

Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pests.

2. Water Before the Ground Freezes

Deeply water your trees in late fall to ensure their roots are hydrated before the ground freezes.

Focus on younger trees and evergreens, which are more susceptible to winter stress.

3. Wrap Tree Trunks

Use burlap or tree wrap to shield young or thin-barked trees from frost cracks and sunscald.

Wrap the trunk from the base up to the first branches, securing it loosely.

4. Protect Evergreens from Winter Burn

Spray an anti-desiccant on evergreens to lock in moisture and prevent drying.

Consider using windbreaks or burlap screens for evergreens exposed to strong winds.

5. Guard Against Animals

Install tree guards or wire mesh around the base of trees to deter wildlife from chewing the bark.

Use repellents if you notice significant animal activity in your yard.

6. Prune Wisely

Trim dead or weak branches in late fall to prevent them from breaking under heavy snow.

Avoid heavy pruning during winter, as it can stress trees already coping with the cold.

7. Remove Snow Safely

Gently brush off heavy snow accumulation from branches using a broom or gloved hand.

Avoid shaking branches, which can cause them to snap.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Mulching: Too much mulch can suffocate roots and invite pests.

Neglecting Watering: Trees still need water in the fall to prepare for winter.

Improper Wrapping: Tight wrapping can restrict growth and harm the tree.

Why Choose Albright Enterprises for Tree Care?

At Albright Enterprises, we specialize in tree care tailored to Wisconsin’s unique climate. From professional pruning to winterization services, our experienced team ensures your trees stay healthy and strong through every season. We use proven techniques and top-quality materials to protect your landscape from winter’s challenges.

Contact Us Today

Prepare your trees for Wisconsin’s harsh winters with expert care from Albright Enterprises. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about our tree winterization services. With our help, your trees will be ready to weather the cold and thrive in the spring.
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