Winterizing New Trees & Shrubs

Ben HenryMay 17, '20
Winterizing New Trees & Shrubs

Watering

It is important to continue watering newly planted trees and shrubs until the temperatures are consistently cold. It is not uncommon to continue watering through November and December.

Fertilizer

Use fertilizer spikes or a granular fertilizer in the fall (September/October to achieve improved growth in the following spring. Do not fertilize evergeens. This can encourage new growth that could be damaged by upcoming freezing temperatures. Trees that drop their leaves can be fertilized until the ground freezes.

Mulching

Applying mulch is one of the best things you can do for your plants. Not only does mulch help conserve moisture around the root zone, but it also helps keep the soil cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Protect from Salt Spray

Construct a burlap wall in front of your shrub to protect it from salt spray in winter.

Tree Wrap

Wrap tree trunks with tree wrap to protect the trunk from sun scald.

Apply Dormant Oil Spray

Apply dormant oil in late winter when evening temperatures are above 40° at night for at least a week.

Wilt-Pruf or Rock Shield Spray

To protect against damaging, drying winter winds, use Wilt-Pruf or Rock Shield spray on broadleaf evergreens (boxwood, holly, azalea, and rhododendron). Wilt Proof will protect any newly planted shrub. Apply before frost.

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