Winter landscapes can be beautiful, but for trees and shrubs, the colder months come with real challenges. From heavy snow weighing down branches to sudden freezes damaging roots, winter can take a toll on your plants—especially younger or newly planted ones. Fortunately, with the right steps, you can protect your trees and help them thrive year-round.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to shield your trees from harsh winter weather, whether you can plant during the cold season, and what temperatures require extra precautions.
Can You Plant Trees or Shrubs in the Winter?
One of the most common questions people ask is: Can you plant trees in the winter? The short answer: yes, in some cases.
If the ground isn’t frozen and you’re working with deciduous or evergreen trees, planting trees in the winter can be possible—especially in milder climates. The same goes for planting shrubs in winter, though it’s generally better to aim for early winter or late fall, when the soil is still workable.
Can You Plant Evergreens in the Winter?
Evergreens are hardy and often tolerate cold weather well. But can you plant evergreen trees in the winter? You can, if the soil is not frozen and you can water the roots after planting. This ensures they begin to establish before freezing temperatures harden the ground.
Planting bushes in winter also follows this logic: as long as you can dig a hole and provide water, many shrubs can be planted and will remain dormant until spring.
Can You Plant Trees in December?
If the weather has been mild and the soil isn’t too cold, planting trees in December can still work in some regions. However, always check the forecast and avoid planting just before a deep freeze or snowstorm.
Why Is Snow Dangerous for Trees?
Snow looks gentle, but it can cause major damage. Wet, heavy snow can weigh down branches, especially those of evergreens or trees with multiple central stems. This can lead to:
- Broken limbs
- Splintered trunks
- Stripped bark
- Structural damage to young trees
Some trees bounce back in spring, but others may experience permanent damage. So it’s important to know how to respond during a storm.
Should You Remove Heavy Snow From Trees?
If you notice snow piling up on your trees, especially on evergreens, you might wonder if you should intervene. In most cases, yes—but with care.
- Gently brush off snow using a soft broom or your hands, moving upward rather than downward to avoid snapping branches.
- Never shake frozen branches, as they’re brittle and more likely to break.
- Avoid using hot water or salt to melt snow around tree bases; this can damage roots.
Remember, protecting newly planted trees from frost and snow is just as important as shielding mature ones.
How to Protect Trees From Winter Damage
1. Mulch Around the Base
Applying a layer of mulch helps insulate roots and regulate soil temperature. Use 2–4 inches of organic mulch around the base (but not touching the trunk) to prevent freeze-thaw cycles that can damage roots.
2. Wrap Young or Thin-Barked Trees
Trees with delicate bark, like young maples or fruit trees, are prone to sunscald and frost cracks. Use tree wrap or plastic guards from late fall through early spring to prevent damage.
3. Stake New Trees
Wind and snow can loosen newly planted trees. Use flexible ties and stakes to keep them upright through the winter months.
4. Use Burlap or Covers for Shrubs
Winter tree protection often includes covering smaller plants. For how to protect small trees in winter, burlap screens are a simple solution. They block harsh winds and keep heavy snow from piling on branches.
5. Water Before the Ground Freezes
A hydrated tree handles winter stress better. Deeply water your trees in late fall, especially evergreens, to help them stay hydrated through dormancy.
What Temperature Should I Cover My Plants?
Knowing when to take action is key. Here’s a general guide:
- Above 36°F (2°C): Most plants are fine.
- 32°F (0°C): Cover tender plants and small trees, especially if frost is forecasted.
- 28°F (-2°C) or lower: This is the point where many plants begin to suffer damage. Cover trees and shrubs with frost cloth or blankets overnight.
At What Temperature Do Plants Freeze?
It depends on the plant, but many outdoor plants begin to freeze at 28°F (-2°C) or below. This is when water in the plant’s cells begins to crystallize, leading to tissue damage.
How to Cover Trees in Winter
If you’re wondering how to keep a tree warm in the winter, the answer isn’t heat—it’s insulation and wind protection.
- Use frost cloth, burlap, or tree blankets on nights when temperatures drop significantly.
- Ensure covers don’t touch foliage directly if possible.
- Remove covers during the day to let plants breathe and receive sunlight.
This method of tree freeze protection helps reduce stress from extreme temperature swings.
How to Protect Outside Plants From Freeze
Besides covers and mulch, you can:
- Group potted plants together near walls for added warmth.
- Use plastic jugs of warm water near the base to radiate heat.
- Create windbreaks using fences, screens, or hedges.
Winterizing your landscape is about layering small protections that add up to better plant survival.
Final Thoughts: Winter Care Can Make a Big Difference
Winter may seem like a time to forget about gardening, but it’s actually a season of quiet preparation. Trees and shrubs that receive the right care during these months will emerge healthier and stronger come spring.
From understanding when and how to protect young trees from winter, to making smart decisions about planting trees in the winter, every action helps ensure your landscape stays vibrant year-round.
So when the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, don’t just admire your trees from indoors—give them the protection they need to thrive.
