Wrap the trunk
In Colorado, thin-barked trees like Honey Locust, Maple and Linden are susceptible to sunscald and frost cracks because of drastic winter temperature fluctuations. To prevent bark damage, wrap the trunks of younger trees up to the first branches using commercial tree wrap. Leave the wrap on until early April.
Mulch the base
Apply 2 to 3 inches of wood chips, bark or other organic mulch near the base of the tree, but not against it, to reduce soil evaporation, improve water absorption and insulate against temperature extremes.
Recycle leaves
Instead of bagging up autumn leaves, consider layering them around the base of each tree as mulch, or blend them into the yard with a mulching mower to retain nutrients. (This excludes any diseased tree leaves found in fruit trees.)
Give trees a good drink
On days where it is warmer than 42 degrees, water trees in the area extending from the trunk to the extent of the longest branches. Water slowly, with a soaker hose, at the rate of 10 gallons per inch of tree diameter. Contact Autumn Tree Lawn and Landscape for deep root winter watering applications throughout the winter.
Fire-safe your landscape
Prune trees so the lowest branch is no fewer than eight feet from the ground. Remove flammable plants that are within 30 feet of your home. Keep firewood stacked at a safe distance from plants, buildings and flammable materials. Keep grass and weeds short.
