Winter is tough on trees in ways many homeowners do not expect. While your yard may look quiet once the leaves are gone, your trees are dealing with strong sun on cold days, drying winds and sudden temperature swings that can damage bark before spring even gets here.
Young trees, thin-barked species and newly planted trees feel this stress the most, and once winter injury sets in, it often affects growth for years.
That is why wrapping and winter protection matter. When professionals choose the right materials and the right timing for each tree, it reduces stress, prevents avoidable damage and helps your landscape stay healthy from season to season. Winter may be short, but the way your trees handle it makes a big difference all year.
Trees handle a lot during the winter months, from strong winds to temperature swings and salt spray that can damage bark and branches. Young trees, newly planted trees, evergreens and thin-barked species are especially vulnerable.
When a professional evaluates your landscape and applies the right winter protection, it shields trees from injury that would otherwise carry into early spring and beyond. A small amount of care at the right time supports stronger growth, healthier bark and a landscape that stays resilient year-round.
Not every tree in a yard has the same level of vulnerability. Professionals look at the type of tree, the thickness of its bark, the age of the tree and where it is planted.
Thin-barked trees like crabapple, maple and cherry often need protection because their bark reacts quickly to rapid temperature swings. Young trees and newly planted trees also fall into this category since their trunks have not developed the durability that mature trees have.
Location matters too. Trees that sit in open areas or face direct winter sun are more likely to experience sunscald or frost cracks. The southwest side of a tree trunk is especially exposed during winter days.
Trees near driveways can be hit with salt spray that dries out bark and needles. Even the soil plays a role. Once the ground freeze sets in, roots cannot pull moisture easily, so the tree has fewer natural defenses.
A professional assessment takes every one of these factors into account. While mature trees with thick bark often do well without extra protection, sensitive species and younger trees benefit greatly from a properly installed tree wrap.
Before any tree wraps are applied, a professional takes time to evaluate its base and the surrounding landscape. This includes checking the mulch, soil moisture and overall root health.
Mulch helps regulate temperature once the ground begins to freeze, but too much mulch around the tree trunk can trap moisture and attract pests. Properly assessing the base ensures the tree can hold moisture without creating conditions that harm the bark.
Pruning may also be part of late fall preparation. Removing damaged or crossing branches limits the chance of breakage under snow or ice. Assessing branch structure also helps the tree enter winter in a stronger and more balanced condition.
From there, professionals determine which trees need extra protection. Tree wrap may be recommended for thin-barked or young trees. Burlap may be used for trees exposed to winter winds or salt spray. Each decision is made based on the species, age and health of the tree.
Evergreens add color and structure to cold weather landscapes, but they face their own set of winter challenges. Because they keep their foliage year-round, they continue losing moisture even when the ground is frozen. Winter burn is a common problem and happens when needles dry out after exposure to steady wind or cold sun.
Arborvitae and other evergreens are especially sensitive. Long, windy stretches or areas exposed to passing traffic can lead to browning, needle loss or permanent damage. Trees planted close to plow routes are also at risk of salt spray injuries.
Professionals often use burlap for evergreen protection. Instead of directly wrapping the trunk, burlap can be placed as a screen that blocks harsh winter winds or limits sun exposure. This helps evergreens maintain their natural color and structure through the winter months while reducing the risk of moisture loss.
Winter protection is not something that stands alone. It connects directly to how well trees grow, leaf out and recover when spring begins. Trees that experience winter injury may show slower growth or miss sections of bark that never fully heal. By protecting tree trunks and bark during winter days, you reduce the stress a tree carries into the growing seasons ahead.
Thoughtful winter care also preserves natural resources and keeps your landscape healthier in the long run. When trees stay strong through harsh winter weather, they require fewer corrective measures later and continue to support a balanced outdoor environment.
Winter protection is one of the quieter parts of tree care, but it plays an important role in maintaining year-round structure and beauty.
Winter brings challenges that trees cannot avoid on their own. Sunscald, winter winds and salt spray can create lasting stress, especially for thin-barked trees, newly planted trees and young trees still developing their defenses.
When a professional evaluates your landscape and provides the right winter protection, your trees enter early spring healthier, stronger and better prepared for the seasons ahead. A small amount of care during winter months creates a landscape that keeps thriving year after year.
To learn more about landscape maintenance for your home, download our free ebook, How to Maintain Your Landscape and Transform It Into a Beauty You'll Love. If you're ready to get started on your new landscape project, or simply want to learn more about the process, you can contact our team here to schedule a free consultation. We'd love to talk to you!