Winter in Ocean County brings chilly winds, frosty mornings, and sometimes heavy snowfall. While it may seem like trees are simply standing still, waiting for warmer days, they are actually undergoing critical changes to survive the season. The cold temperatures, shorter days, and occasional storms can put stress on trees, making them more vulnerable to damage. Ice and snow can weigh down branches, causing breakage, while fluctuating temperatures can lead to frost cracks in the bark. Even evergreen trees, which keep their foliage year-round, are at risk of winter burn due to dehydration. Understanding how trees react to winter conditions is essential for maintaining their health. At Ben Bivins Tree Experts, we provide expert Ocean County tree service to help trees withstand the harsh winter months and prepare for a strong comeback in spring. Let’s explore how winter affects trees and what can be done to protect them.
Cold Stress and Frost Cracking
Winter’s freezing temperatures can cause stress on tree bark, leading to frost cracks—long, vertical splits in the trunk caused by rapid temperature fluctuations. During the day, the sun warms one side of the tree, causing it to expand, and at night, sudden drops in temperature make it contract quickly, leading to cracking. Some trees, like maples and fruit trees, are particularly susceptible to this condition.
Winterburn on Evergreens
Unlike deciduous trees that shed their leaves, evergreens retain their needles year-round, making them vulnerable to winterburn. Cold winds and dry air can deplete moisture from the needles, causing them to brown and die. This is especially common in trees like arborvitae, pines, and boxwoods. A layer of mulch and occasional watering during dry periods can help mitigate this damage.
Root Damage from Freezing Soil
Tree roots remain active throughout the winter, but when soil freezes deeply, it can limit their ability to absorb water and nutrients. Younger trees and those with shallow root systems are more vulnerable. To protect roots, adding a layer of mulch before the first freeze can help insulate the soil and retain moisture.
Ice and Snow Load Damage
Heavy snowfall and ice accumulation can weigh down branches, leading to breakage. Certain trees, such as willows and birches, have flexible branches that may droop significantly under the weight. Proper pruning before winter and gently brushing off excess snow (without shaking branches, which can cause more damage) can help prevent breakage.
Animal Damage
During the winter months, food sources for wildlife become scarce, leading animals like deer, rabbits, and rodents to feed on tree bark and twigs. This can cause girdling, where the bark is stripped away in a circular pattern, potentially killing the tree. Wrapping tree trunks with burlap or plastic tree guards can protect against animal damage.
Winter Dormancy and Bud Protection
Trees enter dormancy in winter to conserve energy and protect themselves from extreme weather. Buds for spring growth are often protected by scales, but late winter thaws followed by sudden freezes can damage them. Choosing native and cold-hardy tree species can help minimize bud damage.
How to Help Trees Survive Winter
- Apply Mulch: A layer of mulch helps insulate roots and retain moisture.
- Prune Wisely: Remove weak or damaged branches before winter to reduce the risk of breakage.
- Wrap Tree Trunks: Use burlap or tree guards to protect against frost cracks and animal damage.
- Water During Dry Spells: If the ground isn’t frozen, watering during dry winter months can prevent dehydration.
Winter can be tough on trees, but with the right care and precautions, they can endure the season and emerge strong in the spring. If you’re concerned about the health of your trees this winter, consider reaching out to a professional tree care service to assess and protect your landscape.
Protecting Your Trees Through Winter and Beyond
Winter can be tough on trees, but with the right care, they can emerge stronger when spring arrives. Proper mulching helps insulate roots from freezing temperatures, while strategic pruning can prevent branches from breaking under the weight of snow and ice. For young or sensitive trees, wrapping them in burlap can provide extra protection from harsh winds and frost. Additionally, watering trees before the ground freezes ensures they have enough moisture to sustain them throughout the season. If you’re unsure how to care for your trees this winter, professional guidance can make all the difference. Our Ocean County tree service specialists are here to help, whether it’s winter pruning, tree health assessments, or emergency tree care after a storm. Don’t wait until damage occurs—contact us today for expert tree care that keeps your landscape safe, healthy, and beautiful all year long.
Winter is a challenging season for trees, as both deciduous and evergreen varieties face unique threats during the colder months. Understanding these seasonal challenges can help homeowners take proactive steps to maintain tree health and safety. This knowledge is not only crucial for tree health but also for preventing potential hazards like falling branches or weakened structures. If you’re in need of professional guidance, Smithville tree companies can provide expert winter care for your trees.
Winter Challenges for Deciduous Trees

Deciduous trees are known for shedding their leaves in the fall, but their vulnerability doesn’t end there. Winter brings many challenges. Deciduous trees enter a dormant state during winter, conserving energy by shedding leaves. This process helps reduce water loss, making it easier for the tree to survive the season. While dormancy is beneficial, it also signals the need for extra protection, as the absence of leaves leaves branches exposed to the cold. Additionally, winter’s cold temperatures can lead to frost cracks. These are vertical splits in the trunk caused by sudden temperature drops. Furthermore, heavy snow and ice accumulation on branches can cause them to break. Root systems may also suffer damage from frozen ground, which restricts the tree’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. Smithville tree companies often advise pruning weak or dead branches in fall to prevent potential winter hazards.
Winter Challenges for Evergreen Trees
Evergreens, with their lush foliage throughout the year, face a different set of challenges during winter. Unlike deciduous trees, evergreens retain their needles year-round. While this provides a consistent source of greenery, it also makes evergreens more prone to winter desiccation. This is a form of dehydration caused by cold winds drawing moisture from the needles. This can result in browning or needle drop. Applying anti-desiccants or protective wraps can help prevent moisture loss. Like deciduous trees, evergreens are sensitive to snow and ice. The dense foliage of evergreens makes them prone to snow accumulation. When heavy snow sits on branches, it increases the risk of breakage, which can compromise the tree’s health and structure. Smithville tree companies recommend gently removing excess snow from evergreen branches to prevent snapping.
Smithville Tree Companies Care Tips for Winter
Taking proactive steps can help maintain the health of both deciduous and evergreen trees during winter. First, apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of trees, but not encroaching on the trunk, to insulate roots from freezing temperatures. Mulch also retains moisture, which is vital during dry winter spells. Secondly, watering is important. Water trees deeply before the ground freezes, as this provides a reserve of moisture. In mild winters, periodic watering on warmer days can prevent dehydration. Lastly, contact us to schedule pruning. Removing weak, dead, or diseased branches before winter minimizes the risk of breakage. Proper pruning improves tree structure and reduces stress.
When to Call a Tree Professional
Despite best efforts, some winter tree issues require professional intervention. Contact Smithville tree companies like Ben Bivins Tree Experts if you notice any of the following:
- Broken or hanging branches: These pose a safety risk and should be addressed promptly.
- Signs of pest infestation: Insects like bark beetles may seek shelter in trees during winter.
- Visible cracks in the trunk: Frost cracks can worsen without proper treatment.
- Professional tree services can perform assessments, handle pruning, and offer guidance on tree health throughout the season.
Prepare Your Trees for Winter’s Challenges
Winter’s harsh conditions demand extra care for both deciduous and evergreen trees. By understanding the unique challenges posed by the cold season and taking the right steps to protect your trees, you can ensure they stay healthy and vibrant. If you’re unsure how to winterize your trees or need expert help, Smithville tree companies offer a range of services to keep your trees safe and sound. Don’t wait until it’s too late—prepare your trees now for a safer winter.