Protecting Newly Planted Trees This Winter: How to Care for Your Investment
Planting a new tree is an investment in the beauty, health, and value of your landscape. However, as temperatures drop, newly planted trees face unique challenges. Because their roots are still establishing, they’re more vulnerable to cold damage, water stress, and environmental changes. With the right care, you can help your young trees not only survive but thrive throughout those cold winter months. Here is a small guide to what you can do to protect your rooted friends as the leaves and temperatures drop.
1. Mulching: Nature’s Insulation
Applying mulch around your tree’s base helps regulate soil temperature and moisture during winter. Spread a 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch such as wood chips, bark, or composted leaves. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pest issues. This insulating layer acts like a blanket, protecting young roots from rapid temperature fluctuations and moisture loss.
2. Proper Watering Before the Ground Freezes
Even in cooler weather, young trees still need water. Continue watering newly planted trees until the ground freezes, ensuring moisture reaches 12–18 inches deep into the root zone. During dry spells, give them a deep soak every few weeks. Hydrated roots are less likely to suffer cold injury and will be better equipped for spring growth. If you would like to keep your newly planted trees properly hydrated in these colder months here at Tall Timbers we offer supplemental watering programs throughout the year that focuses on giving them the water they need even in the harshest conditions.
3. Protecting the Trunk from Sunscald and Cracking
During winter, fluctuating daytime and nighttime temperatures can cause the bark of young trees to crack a condition known as sunscald. Wrap the trunk with a commercial tree wrap or light-colored protective material from the base up to the first branches. This helps reflect sunlight and maintain consistent bark temperature. Make sure to remove the wrap in early spring to prevent moisture buildup and pest problems.
4. Guarding Against Animal Damage
Deer, rabbits, and rodents may chew on bark during winter when food is scarce. Use tree guards, mesh wire, or plastic protectors around the trunk to deter feeding. Ensure the guards extend a few inches below the soil line to protect the tree’s base from burrowing animals.
5. Plan for Ongoing Monitoring
Even with the best care, newly planted trees should be checked regularly through winter. Look for signs of frost cracks, broken branches, or animal damage. Lightly brush off snow from limbs if it accumulates heavily, but avoid knocking off ice doing so can cause breakage.
Invest in a Strong Start
With consistent winter care, your young trees will develop strong root systems and be ready to grow once spring returns. Remember: the first few years after planting are critical for long-term health and structure. Taking these steps ensures your investment continues to enhance your property for decades to come.Newly planted trees face serious stress during their first winter between cold, drying winds, temperature swings, and limited root establishment. But following these five protection steps (mulching, deep watering, wrapping, wildlife defense, and ongoing monitoring) gives your trees the best possible chance to survive and thrive.
If you’re in the Colorado Springs, Castle Rock, or surrounding area and want professional help with winter prep a free assessment, reach out and our ISA Certified Arborists are here to advise you on protecting your new trees in Colorado’s challenging climate. Click below to schedule your free winter tree care consultation.