How to Protect Your Trees from Winter Damage

Introduction

Michigan winters are no joke. With subzero temperatures, heavy snow, and icy winds, your trees endure some of the harshest weather conditions in the country. While trees are naturally resilient, extreme winter weather can cause serious damage to their branches, bark, and roots—especially if they’re young, newly planted, or poorly maintained.

Effective winter tree care is not just about aesthetics; it’s about preserving the health and longevity of your landscape. In this article, we’ll cover practical and proven strategies for tree protection during Michigan’s unforgiving winters.

1. Mulch Around the Base of Your Trees

One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your trees from freezing temperatures is by applying a thick layer of mulch around the base.

Why Mulch Matters:

Acts as insulation for tree roots
Regulates soil temperature
Retains moisture during dry winter months
Reduces soil erosion from snowmelt and ice

Spread 2–4 inches of organic mulch (like wood chips or shredded bark) in a circle around the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to avoid rot.

2. Prune Dead or Weak Branches Before Winter Hits

Proper pruning in late fall is a crucial part of winter tree care. Snow and ice can weigh down branches, increasing the risk of splitting or breaking—especially for already weak limbs.

Michigan Tree Tip:

Hire a certified arborist to assess and prune your trees before the first snowfall. Removing damaged or overgrown limbs minimizes the chance of winter breakage and helps the tree conserve energy.

3. Use Tree Wraps for Young or Thin-Barked Trees

Trees with thin bark—like maple, ash, or linden—are vulnerable to a condition known as sunscald, where fluctuating winter temperatures cause the bark to crack.

Tree Protection Tips:

Wrap trunks with breathable tree wrap from base to first branches
Remove wraps in early spring to prevent moisture build-up
Consider using burlap screens to shield trees from harsh winds

This extra barrier helps prevent frost cracks and discourages rodents from chewing the bark.

4. Avoid Salt Damage

Salt used for melting ice on roads and sidewalks can be extremely harmful to your trees. When it seeps into the soil, it dries out roots and disrupts nutrient absorption.

How to Reduce Salt Stress:

Use calcium chloride instead of sodium chloride for nearby walkways
Erect burlap barriers between trees and salted areas
Flush the soil with water during thaws to dilute salt buildup

For property owners in Michigan, managing salt exposure is a critical component of tree protection.

5. Remove Heavy Snow Carefully

Snow-covered trees can look beautiful, but that extra weight is no friend to your branches.

Do:

Gently brush off soft snow using a broom or gloved hand
Support drooping branches with temporary stakes

Don’t:

Shake or strike frozen branches—they may snap

Quick action after a snowstorm can prevent structural damage and keep your trees upright and healthy.

6. Keep an Eye Out for Winter Pests

Even in cold weather, some pests remain active and can cause damage by feeding on bark, twigs, or overwintering inside trees.

Common Winter Tree Pests in Michigan:

Voles (gnawing around the base of trees)
Scale insects
Overwintering larvae in the bark

Inspect trees regularly and consult a tree care professional if you notice any unusual damage or insect activity.

Conclusion

Michigan winters can be brutal, but with proactive winter tree care, you can protect your landscape and ensure your trees emerge strong in the spring. From mulching and pruning to wrapping and pest control, each step plays a vital role in preserving the health and beauty of your trees year-round.

🌳 Need help winterizing your trees? Contact County Tree LLC today for expert tree protection services tailored to Michigan’s climate. We’re here to keep your trees standing tall—no matter what winter brings.