Winter can be tough on your trees, especially their roots.
Your trees’ roots not only anchor them, but they also provide nourishment. But the cold weather can disrupt these vital root functions.
Better understanding what happens to tree roots in the winter can help protect your trees from freezing temperatures and keep them resilient year-round.
What Happens to Tree Roots in the Winter?
When winter’s freeze sets in, tree roots don’t become fully dormant, but they do slow down activity.
You might even wonder, “Do tree roots grow in winter?” They do, but there are limitations. While growth slows significantly, some tree roots can continue growing, especially in areas of the country where soil temperatures stay above freezing and in spots beneath mulch or snow cover where temperatures remain more even.
Unlike tree branches and leaves exposed above ground, tree roots have some insulation from the soil, but in very cold weather — when soil temperatures fall below 15 degrees Fahrenheit — tree roots are at risk of freezing. This can damage root cells, disrupt water and nutrient uptake, and limit your tree’s ability to bounce back in spring.
Signs & Symptoms of Tree Root Damage From Freezing
You may not always notice tree root damage from winter freeze. But as the tree enters the growing season, those symptoms may start to show. Here’s what to watch out for:
Delayed Leafing: Trees with compromised roots often have a slower start to the growing season.
Stunted Growth: Damaged roots struggle to supply nutrients, leading to reduced growth and smaller leaves.
Leaf Yellowing or Browning: If nutrients aren’t reaching the tree effectively, foliage may discolor or drop prematurely.
Sparse Canopy: Frozen or damaged roots can result in a thinner canopy since the tree can’t support normal leaf production.
Wilted or Drooping Branches: Since roots also facilitate water transport, damaged roots may cause branches to droop due to lack of hydration.
These signs can tell you that your tree’s root system needs attention. Monitoring your trees after winter is crucial for identifying potential root issues early.
Can a Tree Recover From Root Damage?
The good news is that trees can recover from minor tree root damage.
If damage isn’t extensive, a tree with healthy overall structure and strong roots can reestablish itself. But severe root damage can lead to long-term effects or even kill the tree if you don’t have a certified arborist address it.
For instance, during the spring, a damaged tree may need supplemental watering, additional nutrients, or pruning to support recovery.
Recovery depends on the tree species, age, and the extent of root damage. Younger trees, in particular, struggle more with root damage than older trees because their root systems aren’t fully developed. Larger, mature trees are often more resilient, although even these trees need care to fully recuperate.
How to Protect Tree Roots in the Winter
Proactive steps can help protect your trees from winter’s harsh effects. Here are some ways to help safeguard tree roots in winter:
Apply Mulch: Mulching insulates the soil and prevents extreme temperature fluctuations. A layer of 2 to 4 inches of shredded hardwood mulch around the base of the tree helps shield roots, keeping soil temperatures steady.
Water Before the Freeze: Watering adequately before winter helps prevent dehydration. When soil has adequate moisture, it’s less likely to freeze to extreme depths.
Create Windbreaks: In exposed areas, windbreaks can shield soil and roots from bitter winter winds, reducing the risk of freezing.
Avoid Soil Disturbance: Disrupting soil can expose roots to colder temperatures. Limit digging or other ground disturbances around tree bases during the winter.
Insulate Younger Trees: Young trees are especially vulnerable to root damage. Placing a burlap barrier around them can help provide extra insulation.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WINTER TREE CARE FOR TREE ROOTS, TRUNKS, AND BRANCHES.
