Minnesota winters are tough—on us and our trees. While the snow creates a picturesque scene, the harsh storms can leave lasting damage to your landscape. At Birch Tree Care, we’ve spent countless winters helping homeowners across the Twin Cities deal with the aftermath of storms, and we know how devastating the effects can be.
From broken branches to hidden stress on tree roots, winter storms affect the way your yard looks— but they can also jeopardize the health of your trees and the safety of your property. The good news? With a bit of preparation and timely care, you can help your trees weather the storms.
For broader tips on seasonal care, check out our blog on how to winterize your trees.
Why Winter Storms Are Tough on Trees
Winter storms are more than just heavy snowfalls. They bring a combination of factors that can leave your trees vulnerable:
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Bark Splitting
When temperatures drop suddenly, the bark on your trees can contract and crack. This phenomenon, often called frost cracking, exposes the inner layers of the tree to harmful pests, fungi, and bacteria. The damage weakens the tree’s natural defenses, making recovery harder when spring rolls around. Mature trees and thin-barked species like maple or cherry are particularly at risk.
Snow and Ice Build-Up
Snow and ice may look beautiful, but their weight can be devastating for trees. Heavy accumulation on branches can cause them to sag, crack, or snap entirely. Trees with dense canopies or weak structural integrity are especially prone to this kind of damage. In severe cases, the weight can even uproot smaller trees or break multiple limbs at once, leaving the tree vulnerable to infections and pests.
Root Stress
Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause major stress on the tree root system. During warm spells, roots may begin to grow or absorb water, only to freeze when the temperatures plummet again. This repeated stress weakens the root system, making it harder for the tree to draw nutrients and remain stable. Compacted or poorly draining soil can exacerbate this issue, leading to waterlogging or suffocation of the roots.
Lingering Weaknesses
Trees that have already been damaged in the past—whether from storms, improper pruning, or disease—are ticking time bombs during winter storms. Weak branches and structural flaws are more likely to fail under the pressure of snow, ice, or high winds. These pre-existing vulnerabilities can quickly turn into safety hazards, risking property damage or injury.
Understanding these challenges is the first step in protecting your trees. Addressing issues like bark damage, structural flaws, or stressed roots before winter storms strike can significantly reduce the risks. For tips on proactive care, take a look at our guide on how to protect your trees against winter weather.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Trees
Caring for your trees ahead of winter storms doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a proactive approach. Here’s how you can help them weather the season:
Prune Vulnerable Branches
Weak or dead branches are accidents waiting to happen in a winter storm. Removing these now can reduce the risk of heavy snow or ice causing them to break and potentially damage your property or the tree itself.
Add a Layer of Mulch
Mulch acts as a protective blanket for your tree’s root system. A 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree can insulate the roots, helping to regulate soil temperature and prevent stress from the freeze-thaw cycle.
Inspect Your Trees
Take a closer look at your trees for any cracks in the bark, signs of decay, or structural weaknesses. Identifying these early gives you time to address them before winter storms exacerbate the problem.
Consider Professional Support
For older or previously damaged trees, cabling and bracing may be necessary to provide extra stability. These reinforcements can prevent larger branches from breaking or trees from toppling during extreme weather.
At Birch Tree Care, we specialize in preparing your trees for winter’s toughest challenges. From expert pruning to assessing structural vulnerabilities, our team is here to ensure your trees are ready to stand strong against whatever winter throws their way. Don’t wait until the damage is done—contact us today to get a free custom quote and let us help protect your trees.
What to Do If Storm Damage Strikes
Even with the best preparation, storms sometimes come out of nowhere. When a winter storm takes a toll on your trees, taking quick action can prevent further damage to your property and help your trees recover.
That’s where Birch Tree Care comes in. Our team of experienced arborists and technicians provide reliable emergency storm damage assistance services to give you peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
Our services include:
Emergency Storm Services: When hazardous limbs or fallen trees threaten your property, our team responds quickly to remove immediate dangers and restore safety to your space.
Storm Damage Evaluations: Not all storm-damaged trees need to be removed. Our arborists carefully assess the extent of the damage, helping you determine whether a tree can be saved with care or requires removal.
Ongoing Winter Care: Beyond addressing immediate damage, we offer structural pruning and other preventive measures to ensure your trees remain healthy and secure throughout the winter season.
For immediate assistance, trust our emergency storm damage services to handle the job quickly, safely, and professionally. You can learn more about our emergency storm damage assistance services here.
Protect Your Trees Before the Next Winter Storm Hits
Minnesota winters may be unpredictable, but your tree care doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation and professional support, you can safeguard your trees and property all season long.
At Birch Tree Care, we’re here to help—whether it’s preventative care or emergency storm damage assistance. Contact us today and let’s ensure your trees weather the winter together.
