Question
trees
I have 8 trees and usually I make sure I shake off any snow so they don't split or break. But recently we got an unusual 30in. of snow and I couldn't get back to the trees. Some have already split and others turning brown on the bottom and starting spread apart. What can I do to save them. If I can get the snow off would wrapping them in burlap help them to return to their original form and save them.
AnswerHowdy Donna from Coach Dave,
I work for The Home Depot and come across Arborvitae questions quite a bit.
Your idea of wrapping them is great. I would apply a generous amount of bark, saw dust or mulch to the roots for creating a mound-like barrier before wrapping. This will help alleviate the stress of frost that snow creates on most shrubs.
The exposed new growth will also be spared the freezing temperatures. Believe it or not, watering at this time is not advised. The water turns to ice and freezes roots, not allowing water absorbing into the roots. Do not trim the damaged branches at this time because of the shock it will cause. Another thing to watch out for is using salt to get rid of the snow because salt kills most plants.
When the first hint of spring hits unwrap them and wait at least 3 weeks till you trim off the dead plant material. This will assure the plants energy is used to repair itself. Spring is also a great time to fertilize with a slow release evergreen granules.
I have seen people actually spray paint their burlap green, let is dry, then cover their shrubs so as to keep the look of the plant intact during the Winter. Note: make sure you let the burlap completely dry out before storing, so as not to create a moldy material. Plastic is another accepted material, although it does not look natural like burlap does.
If I can help with more information just let me know,
Yours Respectfully,
Coach Dave
