Winter Protection for Young Thin Barked Landscape Trees

Prevent bark splitting of young and thin-barked trees, such as fruit and maple trees. Wrap trunks with light colored tree wrap, or paint them with white latex (not oil-based) paint, particularly on the south- and southwest-facing sides.

Protect shrubs such as junipers and arborvitae from extensive snow loads by tying their stems together with twine. Carefully remove heavy snow loads with a broom to prevent limb breakage.

Protect broadleaves, evergreens or other tender landscape plants from excessive drying (desiccation) by winter sun and wind. Canvas, burlap or polyethylene plastic screens to the south and west protect the plants. Similarly, shield plants from salt spray on the street side.

Provide winter protection for roses by mounding soil approximately 12 inches high to insulate the graft union after plants are dormant and temperatures are cold. Additional organic mulch such as straw compost or chopped leaves can be placed on top.

By B. Rosie Lerner
Purdue Extension  - Consumer Horticulturist