It’s no secret that the impending winter weather can be very hard on plants and trees – particularly if you live in a cold-weather zone like southeast Michigan.  Cities like Rochester Hills, Birmingham and Bloomfield, for example, know all to well the devastating effects that a long, cold winter can potentially have on their landscape. 

Because your plants and trees likely represent substantial investments in your landscaping budget, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to protect these investments from the winter elements. 

Not surprisingly, it all begins with watering in the fall.  Such a simple strategy will go a long way in protecting your trees and shrubs from the scorching winter sun and wind. 

Although it may be tempting to “forget about” your trees and shrubs when the gardening season winds down, it is nevertheless critical to keep your trees, shrubs and woody plants thoroughly watered – to the tune of approximately one inch of water per week.  This is especially true of newly planted trees and shrubs and all evergreens.

Because evergreens do not lose their leaves during the winter months – and because they continue to transpire through the cold months — they need an adequate storage of moisture.  Without this moisture, “dehydration” can result in browning or burning of foliage.

So that your trees and shrubs remain the picture of health in the spring, it is imperative that you take the necessary steps in the fall to prepare for the winter months – and it all starts with watering!!  For additional information, please consult a certified arborist.  At Arbor Tree, we are certified and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.