Another January day in the 50s? The buds are swelling, crocus are blooming. Only one other recorded winter was this warm and dry. Will these extreme conditions be harmful to our trees and shrubs? We don’t need to panic; our care can help.
Trees and shrubs do have energy reserves; they have evolved to be capable of living through difficult conditions. Many shrubs need less water and can regrow from their roots. It is normal for buds to be swelling somewhat in January. Trees and shrubs are making leaf buds all winter so that when the day length and warmth of spring arrive, the leaves can unfurl and start photosynthesizing. And if temperatures drop dramatically or suddenly and kill buds, a healthy tree has “back-up” buds and enough energy to develop a new set of buds. However, multiple successive seasons of stressful conditions can cause serious damage or death. Here’s how we can help trees get through difficult times:
Water trees and shrubs deeply once or twice a month in the winter, 10-20 gallons per trunk diameter inch (more for older, larger, and weaker trees); water during the warmth of the day (40 degrees F or above), when there is no snow cover. Water with a slow running hose, a sprinkler, a drip bucket(s) or a watering bag, in a wide ring beneath the ‘drip-line’ (the outer edge of the branch canopy). This is where the tree’s feeder-roots are located. Do not water right next to the trunk, or in only one spot. Try for equal distribution on all sides.
- Mulch: a 2” layer of shredded leaves, wood chips, straw, etc. helps hold moisture around the roots and to keep soil biology alive, and mulch can insulate the roots. Insulating the ground can keep trees, shrubs and perennials in winter dormancy, and less likely to make premature growth.
- Soil Biology: When spring does come, feed the soil biology with organic matter, rock minerals and a little organic fertilizer. Organic matter holds water and feeds those carbon-based organisms that bring water to the roots. Soil life strengthens the plants so they can tolerate more stress, and bloom and fruit better. Vitality is the best protection against all stresses, including drought, global warming, insect pests and diseases. Plants send nutrients to the soil life; they don’t see themselves as separate from the soil organisms. We humans should treat them as partners.
- Don’t use pesticides and fungicides if you want healthy soil and plants. This is not a theory. Stop using poisons and watch your plants become healthier.