Evergreens are the backbone of a winter landscape, standing tall while everything else retreats. They hold their deep greens against the gray sky, their branches dusted with snow, defying the season’s harshness. But winter isn’t always kind to them. Bitter winds, heavy snow, and dry air can stress even the toughest trees and shrubs. Without the right care, evergreens can suffer from browning, breakage, and dehydration.
The good news? You can help. A few simple strategies will keep your evergreens strong and healthy through the coldest months, ensuring they emerge in spring just as vibrant as before.
Shield Against Harsh Winds and Cold Damage
Winter winds do more than make you shiver—they steal moisture from evergreen needles faster than the tree can replace it. When the ground is frozen, roots can’t absorb water, leading to dry, brittle foliage. This is called winter desiccation, and it’s one of the biggest threats to evergreens in cold climates.
To protect against it:
- Wrap vulnerable evergreens with burlap or a breathable fabric to reduce wind exposure.
- Use windbreaks, like temporary fencing or strategically placed shrubs, to shield smaller trees.
- Water deeply before the ground freezes so roots have enough moisture stored for the months ahead.
Cold stress doesn’t just dry out evergreens—it can also lead to winter burn, where needles turn brown and die. If you notice discoloration, act fast to prevent further damage.
Keep Heavy Snow from Crushing Branches
A gentle snowfall creates a picture-perfect winter scene, but heavy, wet snow can snap delicate branches under its weight. Ice storms pose an even greater risk, encasing limbs in a frozen grip that makes them prone to breakage.
To prevent damage:
- Shake off excess snow with a broom, brushing gently from the bottom up to avoid snapping branches.
- Avoid knocking off ice, as this can do more harm than good. Let the ice melt naturally.
- Tie up multi-stemmed shrubs, like arborvitae, with twine to prevent them from splaying under the weight of snow.
Snow damage isn’t always immediate, but when limbs are bent for too long, they lose their natural shape and become more susceptible to breaking.
Prevent Salt Damage to Needles and Roots
Salt keeps roads safe in winter, but it’s a silent killer for evergreens. When plowed snow piles up near trees, salt-laden runoff soaks into the soil, disrupting water absorption. Meanwhile, salt spray from roads can land directly on needles, burning them and causing ugly brown patches.
To minimize salt damage:
- Choose salt-tolerant evergreens if planting near roads or driveways.
- Create a barrier, like a burlap screen, to block salt spray from reaching branches.
- Use sand or calcium-based deicers instead of traditional rock salt near your trees.
Salt damage often appears in early spring, when needles brown and drop. A little prevention now can save months of recovery later.
Hydration Matters – Even in Winter
It may seem strange to water trees in winter, but evergreens lose moisture year-round, even when the ground is frozen. If they enter the season already dehydrated, they’re at greater risk of winter burn.
Give your evergreens a deep, slow watering in late fall before the ground freezes. On mild winter days when the soil isn’t frozen, a mid-season watering can also help prevent winter stress. A layer of mulch around the base will lock in moisture and insulate the roots against temperature swings.
Evergreens Deserve Winter Protection
They might look strong, but even the hardiest evergreens need a little help getting through winter unscathed. Protect them from drying winds, heavy snow, and salt damage, and they’ll reward you with rich, green foliage year after year.
Winter doesn’t have to be a battle. With the right care, your evergreens will stand tall, thrive, and greet spring stronger than ever.
