Arboreal Preparation in Chilly Vancouver

Western Canada has unusually mild winters with little snow. Cold air from the Arctic sweeps into Western Canada during this time; but little of the draft hits Western areas due to the presence of the Rocky Mountains. Despite having this gentle climate, it is still important to fortify plants in the yard or there’s a risk that they will succumb to the cold.

During the cold months, trees are subjected to temperature fluctuations that put stress between the outer bark and inner wood. These stresses involve expanding and contracting as the temperature changes. Because of this, cracks called frost can easily form on the bark. Older trees may be able repair themselves and recover. As for younger trees with softer tissues, a good North Vancouver arborist may advise wrapping the bark in layers of insulating material to prevent frost, as well as reduce moisture loss.

The impact of frost can be more pronounced if the tree is growing. A growing tree can easily expose its young cells to the cold. A reliable North Vancouver arborist may also strongly advise against pruning at this stage so as not to encourage tree growth. Fertilizers with elevated amounts of quick-release nitrogen should also be avoided.

Drought can also be a problem when groundwater is frozen underground for an extended period of time. By the time early spring has arrived, the sun will have evaporated all the water at the top of the tree, while the groundwater is still solid ice and cannot be utilized by the plant. Unfortunately, there is no sure way to avoid this; but the top approach is prevention. Organic mulch can be piled up at the base of the trunk. This creates a layer of insulating air from the cold, as well as slowing down moisture loss.

Branches become more brittle as they get exposed to the cold for a significant period of time. Thus, it is important to regularly prune branches of dormant trees, removing the weak and vulnerable ones. Smaller trees can also be housed in a small makeshift tent. Larger evergreens can have their branches reinforced using a rope.

The last possible issue when caring for trees during winter is rodent infestation. Rodents will gather at trees as they forage for scarce food. Mice, squirrels and rabbits can do significant damage to the bark as they chew away, resulting in girdled trees. This can be fixed by leaving some space between the mulch and the base of the trunk. If mice is still present, you can consider placing bait. Rabbits can be deterred easily using a wire mesh enclosure.

If you don’t have time in your hands, and prefer the work done by a professional North Vancouver arborist, then there are plenty of companies that specialize in arboreal services. The Tree People offers reliable North Vancouver tree service that range from pruning, trimming, to the removal of damaged or dead trees. It is one of the best tree company that specializes in tree removal and maintenance.