6 Winter Tree Problems to Watch Out for

Bitterly cold, icy winter weather can cause significant damage to your trees. When your local forecaster announces the next snowstorm or ‘polar vortex’ is on its way, be mindful winter tree problems .

6 Winter Tree Problems to Watch Out for 

1. Heavy snow and ice loads.
   Though snow and ice looks light and frosty, it is quite heavy. Snow and ice weigh down branches, branch tips, and limbs, causing them to droop and eventually break under the heavy weight of their burden.
2. Windy conditions.
   Wind pressure, combined with the weight of snow and ice, can break limbs, snapping treetops off, or uprooting entire trees.
3. Small trees that cannot bear the burden of heavy ice and snow.
   Small, gangly trees are more prone to damage in winter weather, bending severely under the weight of snow and ice. Some experience such duress their stems break, causing the tree to collapse. Those that do survive won’t often fare well after the snow and ice melts.
4. Trees with ingrown bark at branch unions.
   Trees with this issue are vulnerable and more likely to split under heavy snow and ice loads.
5. Established trees that have not been regularly trimmed.
   Established trees that have not been properly cared for by an arborist are more prone to damage and can present a safety hazard following a winter storm. Beware of hanging branches, limbs bowed under tension, spring poles, and cracks in the main stem. These situations should be addressed by a professional as soon as damage is evident to avoid danger. Professional pruning may correct the structure of these trees and safeguard them from further damage, however, some may require removal.
6. Root damage from cold snaps that make trees susceptible to insects and diseases.
   When frigid weather (with or without ice and snow) forces frost deep into the ground, the fine roots and root tips of your trees can become critically damaged. If a significant portion of these roots suffer damage, trees can experience crown dieback, and become more susceptible to damage from insects and diseases.

Ensure strong, healthy trees every step of the way. Learn more about ProLine nursery and tree transplanting equipment today.