Will Frost Hurt Newly Planted Trees?

Frost can be a serious threat to newly planted trees, particularly in areas where the frost season is prolonged. An unexpected frost, particularly in the early or late stages of the growing season, can cause severe damage to your newly planted trees, and in some cases, result in their death. When you consider the time and money that you have invested in growing your trees, it makes sense to understand the effects of frost and take measures to protect your investment.

What is Frost?

Frost is the formation of ice crystals on the surface of plant tissues. When temperatures drop below freezing point, the moisture in the plant tissues freezes and expands, causing damage to the cell walls. This damage can be catastrophic to tender, newly planted trees, particularly those with thin bark, and may result in wilting, leaf loss, and in some cases, death.

What are the Effects of Frost on Newly Planted Trees?

Newly planted trees are particularly susceptible to frost damage, as they have not had the time to establish a strong root system or develop a thick bark to provide insulation. Frost damage can affect both the leaves and the branches of a tree. It can cause wilting, discoloration, and curling of the leaves, and in severe cases, the leaves may drop off. In addition, frost can cause damage to the tree’s cambium layer, which can result in cracking or splitting of the bark, leaving the tree vulnerable to diseases and pests.

How Can You Protect Your Newly Planted Trees From Frost?

There are several things that you can do to protect your newly planted trees from frost damage. One of the simplest ways is to cover the tree with a blanket or plastic sheeting overnight when a frost is expected. This will help to trap the heat of the earth and prevent the temperature from dropping too low around the tree. You can also wrap the trunk of the tree with insulation or a tree wrap to protect the cambium layer from the cold. Another effective method is to spray the tree with water before the frost. The water will freeze on the tree, forming a protective layer of ice that insulates the tree from the cold. Make sure to remove the ice in the morning after the frost has passed.

What Should You Do If Your Newly Planted Tree is Damaged by Frost?

If your newly planted tree has been damaged by frost, it is important to act quickly to minimize the damage. If the leaves have wilted, water the tree immediately to rehydrate the leaves. You can also apply a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content to help the tree recover. If the bark has been cracked or split, it is essential to apply a sealant to protect the tree from pests and disease. In severe cases, it may be necessary to prune off damaged branches to prevent further damage to the tree.

Conclusion

Frost can be a serious threat to newly planted trees, but with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can protect your investment and ensure that your trees grow healthy and strong. By understanding the effects of frost, and taking measures to protect your trees, you can minimize the damage and help your trees recover from any damage that occurs. If you are unsure about how to protect your newly planted trees from frost, speak to a professional arborist who can offer you expert advice and guidance.