How to Over Winter Trees That Didn't Get Planted

If you have purchased trees but didn't get around to planting them before winter, don't worry! There are several methods that you can use to overwinter your trees until spring. By taking the proper precautions to protect them from harsh winter conditions, you can ensure that your trees will survive and thrive once they are planted in the ground. Here are some tips to help you overwinter your trees successfully:

Protect Your Trees from Frost and Wind

If your trees are small enough, you can protect them from frost and wind by covering them with burlap or frost blankets. This will help to insulate them and prevent them from getting damaged by cold temperatures and strong gusts of wind. Be sure to secure the covering firmly around the base of the tree trunk to prevent it from blowing away.

If your trees are too large to cover with blankets or burlap, you can create a windbreak to shield them from the wind. You can do this by building a barrier out of straw bales or other materials that will block the wind but still allow plenty of air to circulate around the tree. This will help to prevent your trees from drying out and becoming damaged.

Keep Your Trees Moist

Even though your trees are not in the ground, it is still important to keep them moist throughout the winter. This will help to prevent them from becoming dehydrated and stressed, which can make them more vulnerable to disease and pest infestations.

You can water your trees once a week, or as often as needed, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Be sure to water early in the day so that the moisture has a chance to soak in before temperatures drop at night. Avoid watering when the temperature is below freezing, as this can cause the soil to freeze and damage the roots of the tree.

Protect Your Trees from Rodents and Pests

Rodents and pests can be a threat to your trees throughout the winter. They may be tempted to nibble on the bark and twigs of your trees, which can cause serious damage and even kill them over time.

You can protect your trees from rodents by wrapping the trunks with wire mesh or other protective materials. This will prevent them from chewing on the bark and damaging the tree. You can also set up traps or use natural repellents to keep rodents away.

To protect your trees from pests, you can spray them with insecticide or use natural solutions such as neem oil or garlic spray. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid using chemicals that could harm the tree or the environment.

Monitor Your Trees throughout the Winter

Finally, it is important to monitor your trees throughout the winter to make sure that they are surviving and thriving. Check them regularly for signs of stress or damage, such as wilting leaves, broken branches, or discoloration.

If you notice any problems, take action immediately to address them before they become more serious. This may involve pruning damaged branches, adjusting the watering schedule, or treating the tree with pest or disease control products.

By following these tips, you can overwinter your trees successfully and ensure that they will be healthy and strong when it is time to plant them in the ground. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy trees for years to come!