Winter Planting, Watering and Pruning

The best time to plant a tree is when the tree goes dormant; this is when the least amount of shock would occur to it. Fall and winter planting gives roots a chance to settle in during the cooler months so the tree gets a jump on the next growing season and is better equipped for summer’s heat. When do they go dormant? For Deciduous trees, it is very obvious when they go dormant. The dropping of their leaves in autumn signals that they are entering dormancy and when you see buds on the trees in spring, this signals that they are leaving their dormant cycle. For Evergreens, you have more leeway on when you can plant. However, you will want to hold off planting until the warm weather ends and you will want to finish your plantings before the heat of summer begins. Winter Watering Although you may not think of winter as “dry” remember that you will still need to make sure that your new plantings get enough moisture. Even if there is snow during the winter, the ground does not absorb any of the water until it starts to melt. Proper Watering for Winter During dry periods in the winter, use your hose and water all of your plant materials. On a sunny day above freezing, turn your hose on a light drip and let it soak the trees for about 15 minutes. For shrub, you will want to do this for about 5 minutes and for perennials about 2 minutes. This will help root development, especially on anything newly planted. Winter Pruning Pruning deciduous plants in the winter promotes fast regrowth in the spring, as most plants are dormant during the winter. It is also easier to see the shapes of deciduous plants in the winter, since their foliage is gone. Why Prune? Reasons to prune in winter: Remove dead, diseased and damaged areas Prevent injury or damage due to weak branches Preparation for storm damage from snow and ice Better to trim correctly without foliage cover Use this time of year to your advantage. Call us today at 908-834-2675 for winter planting and pruning.