Deciduous trees lose their leaves or needles in Winter. They require this cycle, so keeping them in temperate climates or indoors can hurt them long term. Deciduous trees are often prized for their Fall colors, and their bare branches in Winter allow an opportunity to appreciate their intricate branch structure. Many Deciduous trees are specifically displayed during their dormant period in winter.
Children:Protect the root system from sustained freezing temperatures. Move trees into an unheated garage, shed, or cold frame.
Repot right as the buds begin to swell but before leaves unfurl. Comb out old soil and trim back circling roots.
Cut back thick, unwanted structural branches. Deciduous trees heal best from major cuts during early spring before sap flow, or late fall during dormancy.
Cut away 100% of large leaves on healthy trees in mid-summer. This forces a second flush of smaller leaves and increases branch ramification.
Cut back thick, unwanted structural branches. Deciduous trees heal best from major cuts during early spring before sap flow, or late fall during dormancy.
Standard baseline rule: Water thoroughly when the topsoil looks slightly dry. Never let the rootball dry out completely.