Introduction

Winter in Northwest Indiana can be tough on trees. Freezing temperatures, winter sun, wildlife feeding, and road salt all create stress that may not be visible until spring. Taking a few preventive steps in December can help your trees enter winter safely and come out strong when the weather warms.

1. Protect Young and Thin Barked Trees from Sunscald

Sunscald happens when daytime sun warms the bark and night temperatures drop quickly. Thin barked species like maple, cherry, and crabapple are especially vulnerable.

Use breathable white tree wrap or a plastic tree guard from December through early spring. Remove it when temperatures begin to warm. This simple step prevents long vertical cracks and bark injury.

2. Reduce Wildlife Damage

Rabbits, deer, and rodents turn to bark and twigs as food becomes scarce. This can weaken or even girdle young trees.

Use hardware cloth around the base, wrap the trunk with a breathable guard, or place fencing where deer pressure is high. Keeping mulch pulled back from the trunk also reduces hiding spots for rodents.

3. Avoid Salt Injury

Salt from roads, sidewalks, and driveways can damage tree roots and scorch evergreen foliage.

If possible, use alternatives like calcium magnesium acetate on your own walkways. For unavoidable salt exposure, gently rinse soil or foliage during warm spells once ice is gone, and refresh mulch to help buffer the soil.

4. Manage Snow and Ice the Safe Way

Fresh snow can be gently brushed off evergreens. Do not try to remove ice buildup, since this can break frozen branches and cause more harm. If a branch bends heavily under ice, let it melt naturally or call an arborist.

5. Maintain Moisture When Weather Allows

If late fall was dry and you have younger trees, water during warm spells when temperatures are above 40 degrees. Once the soil freezes, watering is no longer effective, so December is your final window.

Final Thoughts

Winter protection is simple and highly effective. With the right steps now, your trees can avoid preventable injury and remain healthy through the cold season.

Contact us today to schedule a risk assessment and winter inspection. Call 219-331-5901