Although we revel in autumn’s beautiful colors, it is an undeniable indicator that winter is not far behind. And although winter brings with it the delight of the holiday season, crisp air, and, depending upon your geographic location, beautifully driven snow, the effects of often harsh winter weather conditions can certainly take a toll on even well-kept landscaping trees. Even geographic locations, like Austin, Texas, that generally are not subject to such harsh winter conditions, such as heavy snow or ice, may occasionally witness them. Therefore, it’s important to know how to cope with issues such as how to protect your landscaping trees’ limbs from the weight of snow and ice.
Consider two things concurrently: First, the typical winter weather conditions for your region and, second, the species of trees that you would like to grow. This may not always be possible, as, in many cases, property owners must work with existing landscaping trees when a property is purchased.
However, if you are purchasing a property in which you are able to make decisions regarding which trees are planted, you are at an advantage. Planting a landscape from the outset of its development allows you an opportunity to research the types of trees that are best suited to the winter weather conditions customary to your location. Obviously, the hardier the tree, the better able it may be to withstand the weight of ice and snow. Some of the hardiest trees typically include maple, sycamore, elm, and oak.
It may be worth your while to work with an Austin arborist to see which landscaping trees are not only better able to provide function (such as shade) during the summer months, but also better able to maintain their integrity and provide function (such as a windbreak) during uncharacteristic winter weather situations.
Another benefit of working with a professional arborist, and an undeveloped landscape, is that he/she can not only recommend species of trees that are hardiest for typical weather patterns, but can also recommend those species which have less branches or more concealed branches due to flowering. Dense blooms provide a sort of shelter for tree branches. You may find evergreens to be invaluable to your landscape if you reside in an area prone to harsh winters.
It is also quite important to routinely maintain the integrity of your landscaping trees. This may include pruning or the removal of dead, dying, or weakened branches. Trees whose health and integrity are maintained throughout the duration of the other seasons are better able to proliferate during winter, especially when atypical conditions exist within a specific region. Work with a professional Austin tree trimming specialist to maintain your trees and prevent damages due to winter weather.
Any geographic location may become vulnerable to weather conditions that are not necessarily the norm for that particular area. Keeping this in mind can lead to healthy landscaping trees year-round. By consulting the expertise of an Austin tree care authority, you can keep your trees healthy throughout winter, whether typical or not, and beyond.
About the Author: Andrew Johnson is the owner of Central Texas Tree Care, a leading provider of Austin tree service in Central Texas. Certified ISA Austin arborist services including: tree trimming, tree removal, tree care and oak wilt treatment. For more information on Austin tree service, please visit https://centraltexastr.wpengine.com.
