How to protect conifers from wind and sunburn in winter?

Winter tests the strength of nature. When trees lose their leaves and snow covers the ground, conifers stay green amid the cold. But even they need special care to survive frost, wind, and bright winter sunlight. How can you take good care of conifers in winter and keep them looking attractive?

Every plant, like a person, needs to be prepared for tough times. Getting conifers ready for winter starts long before the first freeze. In fall, water the plants well so they can store enough moisture. This is especially important for young seedlings, whose roots aren’t strong yet.

Don't forget to add mulch around the base. Bark, sawdust, or needles help keep moisture in the soil and protect roots from freezing. For extra safety against deep cold, cover the plants with spruce branches. This method keeps them warm and shields them from damage.

Wind is more than just moving air. It can be harmful to conifers. Wind dries out the needles, which is dangerous in winter when roots can’t replace lost moisture. To reduce wind damage, create barriers of snow or add windbreak screens. Modern netting, wrapped around the plants, also offers good protection. Tying the branches can help keep the crown intact and stop it from bending under snow.

Winter sun can also cause problems. Despite the cold, strong sunlight can burn the needles. This often happens in February or March when snow reflects sunlight and makes it stronger. Covering the trees with fabrics or burlap keeps the sun off. It’s best to choose materials that allow air to pass through so the plants don’t overheat and stress.

Sometimes, winter protection needs to be more thorough. Covering plants can help especially exotic species that aren’t used to cold weather. Use materials like burlap, agrofibre, or spruce branches. Avoid trapping heat under the covering, as this can cause rot. Apply protective sprays that form a thin film on the needles. These sprays help prevent moisture from evaporating, especially useful for thujas and cypresses.

When spring arrives and the weather warms, it’s important to remove covers slowly. Start on cloudy days to reduce shock. Removing the cover all at once can cause sunburn or disease. Don’t forget to feed the plants in spring. They need nutrients to recover and grow fast after winter. Fertilizer helps them bounce back and adjust more easily.

Winter is a test, but it also offers a chance to care for your conifers. Knowing how to help them survive winter keeps them healthy and beautiful all year round.

---