How to Protect Your Expensive Shrubs from Winter Damage

The Threat of Winter Desiccation

The most common cause of winter plant death isn't actually the cold temperatures; it's dehydration, known as winter desiccation. Evergreens, in particular, continue to lose moisture through their needles during the winter, especially on windy, sunny days. However, because the ground is frozen solid, their root systems cannot pull up replacement water, leading to severe winter burn.

Proper Late-Season Watering

The single best defense against winter desiccation begins in November. You must ensure your evergreen shrubs and newly planted trees enter the winter fully hydrated. Give your landscaping deep, thorough soakings right up until the ground freezes. A fully saturated root system provides the plant with the internal moisture reserves it needs to survive prolonged freezing periods.

Mulch as an Insulator

A fresh layer of organic mulch is essential for winter protection. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of hardwood mulch around the base of your vulnerable shrubs, being careful not to let the mulch touch the bark of the trunk.

Mulch acts as a thermal blanket, insulating the soil against rapid temperature fluctuations. It prevents the destructive cycle of the ground constantly freezing and thawing, which can physically heave smaller plants right out of the soil.

Physical Protection Structures

For extremely sensitive or newly installed broadleaf evergreens, physical protection may be necessary. Do not wrap plants tightly in plastic, as this creates a greenhouse effect that will cook the plant on sunny winter days.

Instead, build a simple structure by driving four wooden stakes into the ground around the plant and wrapping burlap tightly around the stakes. This creates a breathable windbreak that shields the foliage from harsh, drying winter winds while still allowing essential air circulation.