In the past, we’ve told you about the benefits of planting new trees in the fall. While autumn can be an ideal season for placing young trees, you want to make sure they are protected to survive through cold weather. That’s why Kingsport arborists at Promier Tree put together this guide to help safeguard your young trees this winter.
What qualifies a tree as young?
A young tree is defined by two factors: age and size. Young trees are less than one year old and have a trunk that is between 1 and 6 inches in diameter. Young trees tend to have branches that are long and slender, as well as pointed tops.
Watch for these three threats to your young trees in East Tennessee
Threat 1: Sunscald
Sunscald occurs when tree bark gets too hot, resulting in obvious, visible, permanent damage. Sunscald is most common on the southwest side of trees and can occur during the winter due to reflected sunlight bouncing off snow. You can protect your trees by placing a wrap or even plastic drainage pipe around the lower 2-3 inches of the trunk. Keep this protection in place until the end of March, once spring arrives.
Threat 2: Sapsuckers
A species of woodpecker, a sapsucker, will drill holes a quarter-inch wide in a perfectly symmetrical ring around the entire circumference of a tree. This bird is migratory but remains in east Tennessee until late March. If you have birch, maple, poplar, sweetgum, and apple trees—bad news; these are the favorite species of trees for the sapsucker.
Threat 3: Wildlife
Deer and small rodents like squirrels gravitate to trees as winter approaches. Deer, in particular, are known for chewing on tree bark. Remove too much bark, and it can kill the tree. Make sure the grass surrounding trees is kept cut close. You can also install physical barriers like tree tubes, cloth wraps, or even a fence around the trunk.
Tree Care for All Seasons in Kingsport, Bristol, and Johnson City
When it comes to treating your trees and shrubs, acting fast is key. Like with many things, being proactive is the best course of action. This is especially true when it comes to diseases or pest infestations, which can devastate and even kill a healthy tree. Young trees face a higher risk of a problem, and that’s why the pros at Promier Tree are here to help. Contact us to schedule a tree health evaluation. Each of our evaluations is performed by a certified arborist in Kingsport, who has the knowledge and experience to work with all types of trees in Tennessee. Once the evaluation is complete, we can use that information to develop the best course of action to keep your young trees healthy through the winter. The first year of life is crucial to your tree becoming healthy and strong. A mature tree adds beauty and property value to your home, and winter will be here before you know it. Schedule your evaluation today by calling (423) 765-2626.