The fall season in the Tri-Cities can be hit or miss. Sometimes they’re a little on the colder side and sometimes there can be a bit mild. But just to make sure you prepare for the harshest conditions, you will want to ensure your trees receive enough water going into the cold season.
Wrap Your Trees
Why can it be important to wrap trees in preparation for cold weather? Cold temperatures can damage plants in several ways. Plants that are not hardy in Eastern Washington will be killed or injured during the winter unless protected in a microclimate.
Injury is more prevalent and more severe when low temperatures occur in early fall or late spring, when there is little or no snow cover during the winter or when low temperatures are of prolonged duration. Pronounced fluctuations in temperature can be extremely detrimental to plants throughout the fall, winter, or spring.
Pull Away Mulch
Thin, fine particles like compost or finely shredded bark are best laid only 2 inches to no more than 3 inches deep around most plants and trees. If you put down a thicker layer than that, you risk reducing oxygen to the roots.
If the particle size of your mulch is larger, like straw, pine needles, chunks of bark, or rock, they can be applied up to 4 inches deep. The larger spaces between the chunks allow more air and light in, so you will need a thicker layer for effective weed control, water conservation, and protection from cold.
Keep in mind that having trees on your property comes with a little bit of maintenance. With just a little tree maintenance, you can prevent most major pitfalls. You won’t have to be worried about trees causing property damage or even worse, personal injury. We look forward to discussing your needs. We have trained arborists in the Tri-Cities that are professional and that can answer any questions you have.