09 Feb Tree protection & winter drought
By: Toso Bosic, Yard Whispers
Many parts of Alberta are under drought conditions, causing widespread tree mortality across the landscape (urban, acreage, farm, county or province wide) with profound effects on the function of tree/forestry ecosystems and overall environment. As summer and fall drought continued into winter with no snow on the ground to protect root systems, tree roots will further suffer from winter drought and physical damages.
As winter casts its dry cold and icy shadow, trees face a unique set of challenges, especially in regions already experiencing drought. Winter drought, characterized by a scarcity of water insulation and snow protection to roots during the colder months, poses a threat to the well-being of trees. Despite the leafless appearance and apparent dormancy, trees are engaged in a complex dance of survival during this period. Roots remain mostly inactive but can and do function and grow during winter months whenever soil temperatures are favorable, even if the air aboveground is brutally cold.
Unlike the more conspicuous summer drought, winter drought often goes unnoticed, as the ground may appear frozen and devoid of visible signs of moisture scarcity. However, trees and their roots continue to lose water through transpiration, albeit at a slower rate compared to the growing season.
It’s important to note that newly planted trees are at a higher risk of sustaining injuries from the winter cold compared to mature trees. Additionally, coniferous trees, during the winter months, might lose water through their needles faster than their roots can absorb, resulting in brown needles during the spring—an occurrence known as winter browning in coniferous trees.
How to Promote Root Health
- Mulching
- Snow fences
- Hay and straw bales barriers
- Windbreak walls
- Examine soil and seal cracks
- Avoid any pruning or other physical damages
- Avoid any salt damages