How to Overwinter Arborvitae

Arborvitae are resilient to cold but still need safeguarding in severe winter conditions.

Applying mulch in fall aids in shielding Arborvitae roots from freezing.

Using stakes and burlap coverings can avert harm from significant snow and ice buildup.

The Importance of Overwintering Arborvitae

Maintaining Arborvitae's health and safety through winter is crucial for its long-term development and survival. While Arborvitae is known for its cold hardiness, extreme temperatures, heavy snowfall, and ice can still pose significant threats. Overwintering helps lessen these dangers, ensuring your plants thrive and are vigorous in spring.

How to Prepare Arborvitae for Winter

Pre-Winter Watering Requirements

Ensuring Arborvitae is adequately hydrated before the ground freezes is essential. Water your plants thoroughly in late autumn, providing approximately 25-40 liters (6.5-10 gallons) per plant. This aids the roots in storing moisture, which is vital for enduring the dry winter months.

Mulching Strategies

Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of Arborvitae before the initial frost. Utilize materials such as wood chips or straw, spreading them to a depth of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches). This mulch acts as an insulating layer, safeguarding the roots from extreme temperature shifts and helping retain moisture.

Pruning and Trimming Advice

Light pruning in late fall can help Arborvitae better withstand the winter. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as these can become entry points for pests and diseases. Avoid extensive pruning, which can stress the plant and diminish its winter resilience.

Protecting Arborvitae from Snow and Ice Damage

Utilizing Burlap for Protection

Wrapping Arborvitae in burlap can offer excellent protection against snow and ice damage. Create a burlap barrier around the plant by loosely wrapping it from the base to the top, securing it with twine. This prevents snow and ice from accumulating on the branches and reduces windburn.

Staking for Stability

For taller Arborvitae, consider staking them to help maintain their structure under heavy snow loads. Drive sturdy stakes into the ground around the plant and tie the branches to these stakes with soft twine. This stabilization technique prevents branches from bending or breaking due to snow weight.

Can Potted Arborvitae be Overwintered?

Selecting the Appropriate Container

If you're growing Arborvitae in pots, choose containers that are robust and slightly larger than the root ball. This provides the roots with more space to breathe and offers better insulation against cold weather. Ensure the pots have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Indoor vs Outdoor Overwintering

For potted Arborvitae, decide whether to keep them indoors or outdoors. While indoor overwintering can offer more controlled environments, it's typically more practical to overwinter them outdoors, using protective measures like wrapping and mulching. Place the pots in a sheltered location, away from strong winds.

Monitoring Arborvitae Throughout Winter

Indicators of Winter Damage

Regularly inspect your Arborvitae for signs of winter damage. Look for browning or needle drop, which signals stress. If you observe such symptoms, take prompt action to address the underlying causes, such as dehydration or physical harm.

Addressing Common Issues

Common winter problems can include dryness, pest infestations, and fungal infections. To troubleshoot, maintain a consistent care routine, including periodic watering if the soil around your plant becomes dry. Inspect your Arborvitae for pests and treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.