Winter Tree Care: Protecting Your Portsmouth Trees Through Cold Months

Why Winter Tree Care Matters in Portsmouth

Winter in Portsmouth brings unique challenges for tree health that many property owners overlook. While our mild Virginia winters might seem gentle, sudden temperature drops and occasional ice storms can severely damage unprepared trees.

Proper winter preparation isn't just about surviving the cold months—it sets the foundation for vigorous spring growth. Trees that receive appropriate winter care show dramatically better resilience against pests, diseases, and environmental stress throughout the following year.

Essential Winter Protection Steps

Start your winter tree care by removing dead or damaged branches before the first frost. These weak points become dangerous during ice storms and can damage healthy parts of the tree if they break under weight.

Young trees benefit tremendously from trunk wrapping using burlap or specialized tree wrap. This protection prevents frost cracks and sun scald, two common winter injuries that can permanently damage bark and create entry points for insects and diseases.

Deep watering before ground freeze is crucial, especially for evergreens that continue losing moisture through their needles all winter long. A well-hydrated tree survives cold stress much better than one entering winter already stressed from drought.

When to Call Professional Help

While homeowners can handle basic winter preparation, certain tasks require professional expertise. Large tree pruning, especially near power lines or structures, should always be left to certified arborists with proper equipment and insurance.

If you're unsure about your trees' winter readiness or notice signs of disease or structural weakness, don't wait until spring to address these issues. Professional tree service experts can assess your trees' condition and recommend the best protection strategy for your specific property needs.