Protect evergreens from harsh winds
Q: What is the best thing I can do for my evergreens this winter?
A: The very thing we love about evergreens, year-round greenery, is also a potential weakness. Because evergreens' leaves remain living in all seasons, they require water. Frozen winter soil makes water uptake more difficult. Strong winter winds and sunny days can also strip plants of moisture. The result, called winter desiccation, browning or burning, is brown patches on the tree, usually on the wind- or sun-facing side. Tree death can occur in extreme cases.
So what can be done to help evergreens survive, if not thrive, in harsh Midwest winters?
Well, with new plantings, place the tree where it is protected from cold winter winds. With established trees, burlap shields can be erected on the south, southwest and windward sides of the evergreen. A simple barrier made of wooden stakes and burlap will do the trick. Evergreens can also be wrapped with burlap or another durable, breathable fabric.
Remember to leave the top of the tree exposed to the sunlight and leave some room for air to circulate. The tree is alive and needs sun and air to photosynthesize.
Anti-dessication sprays are available but many studies have shown they are not effective.
The best thing you can do is to make sure to water thoroughly before winter sets in, particularly if there has been a dry fall. A 3- to 4-inch layer of wood chips or shredded bark around the base of the evergreen will conserve water and prevent the soil from a deep freeze.
If trees continue to suffer in the winter, even after the suggested precautions are taken, then transplanting to a more protected location in the spring may be advisable.
— Scott Taves
• Provided through the Master Gardener Answer Desk, Friendship Park Conservatory, Des Plaines, and University of Illinois Extension, North Cook Branch Office, Arlington Heights. Call (847) 298-3502 on Wednesdays and Saturdays or (708) 725-2400 on Tuesdays or email northcookmg@gmail.com. Visit web.extension.illinois.edu/mg.