No matter which part of Minnesota you call home, you’re well aware of how harsh the winters can be. With average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°F and snowfall accumulating between 35 and 70 inches, thriving during these months can be difficult—especially for trees and shrubs! However, taking proactive steps to care for your perennials will increase the likelihood that they’ll not only survive the harsh winter conditions, but return in the spring, stronger and healthier than ever!
Prune your perennials…but be mindful of timing.
You probably already know the role that pruning plays in the health and longevity of your plants. However, pruning at the wrong time can actually cause more harm than good. A late-winter or early-spring pruning when trees and shrubs are still dormant will allow ample time for them to recover before the energy demands of budding begin. It’s also the time when plants are the least prone to disease and other pathogens that can enter the trees at their “wound” sites.
Insulate the ground around your trees and shrubs.
Mulching around the base of trees and shrubs before autumn’s freezing temps arrive will do wonders when it comes to insulating root systems from frost and cold. Believe it or not, warm, nourished, healthy roots continue to grow throughout the winter and lend themselves to healthier, more vibrant foliage.
Be proactive against winter pests.
Yes, winter pests are real! While many insects including various crop pests migrate south during the winter, the majority of insects remain, adapting to survive. In addition to going into diapause, or creating antifreeze proteins known as cryoprotectants, one way insects adapt is by burrowing into tree bark or holes in trees to keep warm. That’s why it’s important to spray your trees in late-winter or early-spring before these pests get a chance to hatch or wake up from hibernation.
Learn about the do’s and don’ts of dormant oils here.
Protect your plants and trees from hungry animals.
The food supply for local wildlife is sparse during the long, cold winter months. Maybe you’ve noticed deer nibbling on tree bark and exposed bushes in your neighborhood. If you want to protect your perennials, consider wrapping tree guards around the trunks of your trees. Tree guards come in many forms. They can be made from plastic or metal and come in spirals, sleeves, and mesh. Once you select the one that’s right for you, make sure it extends 3-4’ up the trunk of your trees to protect them from wildlife antlers, munching, and snowdrifts.
Fencing is another effective way to keep wildlife away from your plants and trees. Place fencing at least 4-6’ away from your trees and 5-8’ high to keep deer and other animals from leaning over it or hopping the fence. While plastic deer fencing is more affordable, wire fencing is much more durable and likely to withstand even heavy, drifting snow.
Manage snow.
A heavy snow load will often break off big, beautiful tree boughs. To prevent this, gently shake or brush off low-hanging branches after a big snowfall.
Tip: Snow can be helpful too! If you don’t have much or any mulch around your trees and shrubs, pile snow around their bases to help insulate their root systems.
Avoid salt damage.
Indeed snow can damage your trees, but ice may be an even bigger threat because where there’s ice, there’s salt. Just as you would use tree guards or fencing to protect perennials from wildlife, consider using these methods to safeguard trees and shrubs near roads from the damaging effects of road salt.
Also, consider using sand or grit instead of ice-melt to keep your driveway and walkways safe. Salt inevitably gets shoveled or blown into your yard and comes into contact with nearby trees and other plants. Even plants under the snow are affected when the snow melts in the spring!
Minnesota winters are no small challenge. Prioritize the health and vitality of your trees and shrubs now to create a stunning landscape you’ll cherish for years to come. If the cold weather has you dreaming of spring, contact us to discuss your 2025 landscaping projects!