Snow Burn

Answer:

Winter burn can be a common problem for evergreens, but with proper care and preparation, you can protect your plants and keep them healthy throughout the cold months. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding and preventing winter burn:

What is Winter Burn?

• Definition: The browning of evergreen foliage due to moisture loss.
• Cause: In winter, frozen ground prevents plants from replacing lost water, leading to dehydration.

Causes of Winter Burn

1. Drying Winds: Strong winds strip moisture from needles.
2. Cold Temperatures: Prolonged freezes make it hard for plants to access water.
3. Bright Sun: Reflective sunlight on snow increases transpiration.
4. Salt Damage: Road and sidewalk salts can harm roots and foliage.
5. Animal Damage: Wildlife may feed on foliage, causing injury.

Signs of Winter Damage

• Scald: Bleached or yellowed needles.
• Browning: Needles turn brown, often on the windward or sunny side.
• Dieback: Foliage and branch tips die.
• Root Injury: Roots damaged by frozen soil or salt.
• Heaving: Plants pushed out of the soil due to freeze-thaw cycles.

How to Prevent Winter Burn

1. Water Thoroughly Until Freeze
   • Ensure plants are hydrated throughout fall, especially evergreens.
   • Deep watering helps roots store enough moisture for winter.
2. Apply Anti-Desiccant Spray
   • Use products like Wilt Stop to coat foliage and reduce moisture loss.
   • Apply on a dry day when temperatures are above freezing.
3. Avoid Problematic Locations
   • Plant evergreens in spots shielded from strong winds and for yews and boxwood, avoid direct winter sunlight.
4. Use Burlap or Screens
   • Wrap burlap loosely around shrubs or create windbreaks to block harsh conditions.
   • Ensure airflow to prevent mold or rot.
5. Choose Resistant Varieties
   • Select evergreens known for winter hardiness:
     • ‘Rushmore’ Arborvitae
     • ‘Techny’ Arborvitae
     • Junipers

Additional Tips

• Mulch: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to insulate roots and retain moisture.
• Monitor: Check for signs of stress throughout the winter and reapply protection as needed.
• Pruning: Wait until spring to prune any damaged branches to encourage healthy regrowth.

With these proactive steps, your evergreens will have a much better chance of emerging green and healthy when spring arrives. Happy gardening! 🌲