Winter Trees
TOM: Think your backyard winter trees are hibernating right now? They’re actually getting ready for spring and they could use your help this winter. Hi, I’m Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I’m Leslie Segrete with today’s Money Pit Home Improvement Minute.
TOM: During winter, trees build food reserves, take up water and continue to grow. But they’re still vulnerable and they need extra care so that they can thrive in spring.
LESLIE: Start by blanketing the soil underneath your trees with a thin layer of composted organic mulch. Then add a bit of fertilizer to encourage root growth.
TOM: Also, remove deadwood and do a little green wood pruning of declining and poorly placed branches. As you work, just make small pruning cuts to minimize exposure to the branch’s heartwood.
LESLIE: Young trees that haven’t developed tough trunks should be wrapped for protection against the elements and local wildlife. And continue light watering for any trees in cool, unfrozen soil when precipitation is low. I’m Leslie Segrete.
TOM: And I’m Tom Kraeutler. For more Money Pit Home Improvement Tips, visit moneypit.com.
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