How to Protect Your Trees
Kansas winters can be harsh, and while our trees are hardy, they’re not immune to disease, especially when cold temperatures and moisture create the perfect breeding ground for fungal and bacterial infections. As a tree service provider, it’s important to educate homeowners on how to protect their trees during the colder months to ensure they remain healthy through spring.
Common Winter Tree Diseases in Kansas
Snow Mold (Typhula Blight) Snow mold is a fungal infection that affects grass and trees during the winter. It thrives in areas where snow covers trees for an extended period. The disease causes lesions and can eventually kill branches if left untreated.
Cytospora Canker This is a fungal infection that targets the bark of trees, especially the popular Colorado blue spruce and other conifers. The infection becomes more active during winter when the trees are stressed by the cold and dehydration. It results in discolored, sunken areas on the bark.
Anthracnose Anthracnose, while more common in warmer months, can persist through the winter, affecting hardwood trees such as oaks and maples. It can weaken the tree’s immune system, making it more susceptible to other diseases in the spring.
Fire Blight A bacterial disease that affects fruit trees like apples and pears, fire blight can spread in the winter if there are unseasonably warm spells. The bacteria survive in infected tissue and can cause branches to die back, affecting tree growth in the spring.
How to Protect Your Trees This Winter
Prune Wisely Dead or diseased wood is more vulnerable to infections. Prune trees before the coldest months to remove any weak or damaged branches. Avoid pruning when it's too cold, as open wounds can be susceptible to pathogens.
Avoid Over-Watering Over-watering during the winter can lead to root rot or fungal infections. Trees typically need less water in colder months, so adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Ensure your trees are in well-draining soil to avoid water accumulation around the roots.
Apply Mulch A layer of mulch around the base of trees can help protect their roots from extreme temperature fluctuations. It also helps maintain soil moisture and prevents snow mold from spreading.
Tree Wraps and Protective Covers For young or delicate trees, using tree wraps or burlap covers can protect the trunk from frost cracks, sunscald, and other winter stressors. Just be sure not to wrap too tightly, as this can suffocate the tree.
Stay Vigilant Monitor your trees throughout the winter for any signs of disease or distress. Early detection of issues like discolored bark, mold growth, or unusual leaf drop can help prevent the spread of infections.