Most shrubs and trees require no special preparation
for winter, aside from making sure they are
watered and old flower heads are removed.
Trees with smooth bark will benefit from tree
wrap. Starting at the base of the tree, wrap the trunk
to the lowest branch, overlapping each layer by 1/3.
Secure at the top with duct tape or twine. Remove
the tree wrap by the end of April.
Broadleaf evergreens, such as Holly and Rhododendron,
can be sprayed with Wilt Pruf to prevent
dissecation. Apply late in the season while temperatures
are still above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. You can
reapply mid-winter if there is a brief warm spell.
Wilt Pruf can also by sprayed on any plant, with
or without leaves, that is in a very windy location.
Use with caution on plants with very fine needles
(Hemlock, Arborvitae, Juniper); follow the product’s
instructions on the label.
Plants sensitive to wind or sunburn can also be
wrapped with burlap. Wrap in late fall and secure
with twine or staples. Burlap can also be used to
protect plants from deer and rabbits.
A-frame shrub protectors can be placed over
plants that are under the drip line of your roof to
protect them from snow or ice damage. They will
also provide some protection from wind and sun.
Spray-on deer and rabbit repellants can be
applied mid- to late fall. Follow the product’s
instructions on the label for effective coverage.
A small group of shrubs require special winter
care: Buddleia (Butterfly Bush), Caryopteris, Vitex
(Chaste Tree), Scotch Broom, Big Leaf Hydrangeas
(pink or blue flowering varieties). After the leaves have fallen from these plants, apply 12–18” at this
time. Caryopteris, Scotch Broom and Hydrangeas
can be cut back to green growth in the spring. The
mulch should be removed in spring as the temperature
warms.
The following plants are slow to start growing in
the spring, so a little patience is required: Butterfly
Bush, Caryopteris, Chaste Tree, Ornamental Grasses,
Hardy Hibiscus.
