
As winter sets in across Douglas County, including areas like Parker, Castle Rock, Aurora, and Highlands Ranch, snowstorms can bring beauty and stress to your landscape. While snow provides plant insulation, it can also cause damage, mainly if heavy snowfall accumulates on trees, shrubs, and other plants. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your plants and trees from the damage caused by snow and ice during winter months.
1.Monitor Snow Accumulation on Trees
When a snowstorm hits, one of the first things you should check is the accumulation of snow on your deciduous and evergreen trees. The weight of wet snow can quickly become overwhelming for tree branches, causing them to bend or break under the pressure. Regularly check trees, especially during and after storms, to prevent significant damage.
What to Do During a Storm
if you notice snow piling up on your trees, gently shake it off using a long tool like a broom handle. Start at the lowest branches and work your way up. This technique is essential because shaking snow from the top down can place additional weight on the lower branches, potentially causing them to break. Starting from the bottom ensures the lower branches don’t get overloaded. Make sure you’re doing this safely—if snow is too heavy or if the tree seems at risk of breaking, it’s best to avoid handling it yourself and call in a professional.
In areas like Parker and Castle Rock, where heavier snowfalls are common, keeping an eye on trees like cottonwoods prone to breaking can save you from costly repairs. If you have any trees already leaning or branches forming a sharp “V,” exercise caution. These trees could be prone to falling under heavy snow, and standing or placing items under them could be hazardous.
Dealing with Evergreens
Columnar evergreens, such as upright pines and spruces, are especially vulnerable during snowstorms. The weight of heavy snow can cause these trees to spread apart, potentially damaging their structure. Gently shaking the snow off will minimize the risk of damage to your evergreens.
2. Inspect for Broken Branches and ‘Hangers’
After the storm has passed, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect your trees and plants for any signs of damage. Look for broken branches or “hangers”—branches still attached but hanging by a thread. These damaged branches can become a problem over time, leaving wounds that make the tree susceptible to disease or insect infestations.
If you notice any broken or hanging branches, it’s best to contact a professional arborist to remove them safely. Please do not attempt to handle them yourself, as there is always a risk of injury when dealing with large, broken branches. Proper pruning can prevent long-term damage and ensure your trees remain healthy throughout the winter.
3. Rehab for Upright Evergreens
If you have upright evergreens bent out of shape due to heavy snow, don’t despair. You can restore their natural shape by carefully wrapping the branches. You can find specialized materials at local garden centers in areas like Highlands Ranch that are designed for this purpose. Wrapping the branches gently and securely can help them return to their upright position, reducing the risk of permanent damage and allowing the tree to grow correctly once the weather warms up.
4. Handling Ornamental Grasses
Heavy snow and ice can also take a toll on ornamental grasses in your yard. If the grasses have been crushed under the weight of snow, they won’t spring back. Unfortunately, once the grasses are bent or flattened, they won’t recover, and it’s best to cut them back.
The best time to trim ornamental grasses is early spring before new shoots grow. You can use this time to tidy up your landscape and prepare for the growing season. While it may seem like a chore now, cutting back your ornamental grasses is essential for their health, as it encourages fresh growth and a more vibrant appearance in the spring.
5. Safety First: Downed Wires and Hazardous Areas
Winter storms can cause more than plant damage; they can also bring down power lines and create safety hazards. If you discover any downed power lines on your property—especially those tangled in toppled trees or branches—assume the wires are live and dangerous. Please do not attempt to approach or touch them, as there’s a risk of electrocution.
If you could, immediately contact your local utilities company to report the downed wires. Many utility companies in Douglas County, including those serving Parker, Castle Rock, and Aurora, have emergency crews available to assess and repair electrical hazards safely. If the downed wires pose an immediate risk to your safety, please call emergency services immediately.
6. Long-Term Tips for Winter Snow Protection
Winter snow can be beautiful, but taking steps to protect your landscape is essential. By taking preventative measures now, you can minimize the risk of snow-related damage to your plants and trees, preserving the health and integrity of your landscape for years to come.
- Install snow fences: In areas where snowdrifts are common, snow fences can help divert the snow from your plants and trees. These can be especially useful in open areas of your yard.
- Use mulch around the base of trees and shrubs: Mulching helps insulate the roots and prevent freezing, which can be especially beneficial during extreme winter weather.
- Prune trees before winter: Trimming dead or weak branches can reduce the risk of breakage from heavy snow.
Conclusion
Winter storms can be unpredictable, but with some planning and regular monitoring, you can protect your plants and trees from damage caused by snow and ice. Whether you live in Parker, Castle Rock, Aurora, or Highlands Ranch, following these tips will help ensure your landscape survives the winter months and is ready to thrive in the spring. Remember, it’s always best to consult a professional to avoid unnecessary risks if you ever feel unsure about handling snow removal or tree damage.
Stay safe, and keep your landscape in shape for the upcoming seasons!
Click “DO IT FOR ME” to request a FREE quote.Source: customer-service@bestyard.com in collaboration with Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado