Winter may slow visible growth, but it’s one of the most important seasons for tree and shrub care. Proper winter maintenance helps protect roots, reduce cold stress, and prepare plants for strong, healthy growth once spring arrives.
Whether you’re caring for evergreen trees, flowering shrubs, or newly planted landscape trees, these winter tree care tips will help your plants survive winter and thrive across all USDA growing zones.
Why Winter Tree and Shrub Care Is So Important
During winter dormancy, trees and shrubs conserve energy while focusing on root survival. Even though growth pauses above ground, plants are still affected by cold temperatures, drying winds, soil moisture fluctuations, and freeze-thaw cycles.
Without proper winter plant care, trees and shrubs can experience:
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Root damage from freezing soil
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Dehydration, especially in evergreens
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Increased pest and disease pressure in spring
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Weak or delayed spring growth
Thoughtful winter care protects long-term plant health and reduces stress before the growing season begins.
Watering Trees and Shrubs During Winter
One of the most common winter landscaping mistakes is stopping watering altogether. Trees and shrubs still need moisture, especially during dry winters.
Winter watering tips by zone:
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Zones 3–5: Water during mid-day thaws when soil is workable
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Zones 6–7: Water during dry spells, especially before hard freezes
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Zones 8–10: Continue regular deep watering as needed
Evergreen trees and shrubs need particular attention, as they continue to lose moisture through their foliage even in cold weather.
Water deeply, avoid frozen soil, and focus on newly planted trees and shrubs.
Mulching for Winter Root Protection
Mulch is one of the most effective tools for protecting trees and shrubs in winter. It helps insulate roots, regulate soil temperature, and retain moisture.
Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
Benefits of winter mulching:
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Reduces freeze-thaw stress
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Protects shallow roots
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Retains soil moisture
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Improves overall soil health
Mulching is especially important for newly planted trees, flowering shrubs, and evergreen plants.
Winter Pruning: What to Prune and What to Leave Alone
Winter is an ideal time to prune many trees because they are dormant and easier to shape.
Best candidates for winter pruning:
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Deciduous shade trees
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Non-flowering shrubs
Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs that bloom on old wood, as winter pruning may remove flower buds.
Always remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to reduce disease risk and improve airflow.
Protecting Trees and Shrubs From Cold and Wind Damage
Cold temperatures, strong winds, and sudden freezes can stress plants across all regions.
Ways to protect plants in winter:
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Use frost cloths during extreme cold events
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Wrap young or sensitive trees
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Shield plants from drying winter winds
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Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers during winter
Protection is especially important for evergreen shrubs, citrus trees, and newly planted landscape plants.
Supporting Root Health and Soil During Winter
Winter is not the time to push top growth, but it is the perfect time to focus on root health and stress reduction.
Healthy roots allow plants to:
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Store energy efficiently
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Recover faster from cold stress
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Enter spring with stronger growth potential
Improving soil biology and root strength during winter sets plants up for long-term success.
Using MitoGrow to Prepare Plants for Winter and Spring
MitoGrow is a plant biostimulant designed to support root development, improve nutrient efficiency, and help plants manage environmental stress. Unlike traditional fertilizers, it does not force rapid growth, making it well-suited for winter use.
You can find MitoGrow here:
How MitoGrow Helps During Winter
MitoGrow works at the root and cellular level to:
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Support healthy root systems
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Improve stress tolerance
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Enhance nutrient uptake
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Strengthen plants before spring growth
Using MitoGrow in Winter
MitoGrow can be applied during winter during mild weather when soil is not frozen. Because it does not stimulate excessive top growth, it’s safe to use while plants are dormant.
Winter benefits of MitoGrow:
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Helps plants recover from cold stress
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Prepares roots for spring growth
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Supports newly planted trees and shrubs
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Improves overall plant resilience
Using a biostimulant during winter helps plants transition smoothly into the growing season, resulting in stronger spring performance.
Popular Trees and Shrubs to Focus on in Winter
Winter is a common time for homeowners to plan and shop for landscape upgrades. These categories are especially popular in January and February:
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Evergreen Trees – for year-round structure and privacy
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Privacy Trees and Shrubs – ideal for winter planting and spring establishment
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Flowering Shrubs – preparing for spring blooms
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Fruit and Citrus Trees – planning and root establishment before active growth
Choosing climate-appropriate plants ensures better winter survival and long-term success.
Final Winter Tree and Shrub Care Tips
Winter care is about protection, preparation, and patience. Focus on consistent moisture, root insulation, thoughtful pruning, and stress reduction rather than rapid growth.
By supporting trees and shrubs during winter, you’ll see healthier foliage, stronger root systems, and better performance once spring arrives.
Related Winter Care Guides:
Winter Tree and Shrub Care FAQs
How often should I water trees and shrubs in winter?
Water during dry periods when the soil is not frozen. Frequency depends on your climate, but newly planted trees and evergreens should not dry out completely.
Is winter a good time to plant trees and shrubs?
Yes. In many zones, winter is an excellent time to plant container-grown trees and shrubs because roots can establish before spring growth begins.
Should I fertilize trees and shrubs in winter?
Avoid traditional fertilizers during winter. Focus on root support and soil health rather than pushing new growth.
Do evergreen trees need winter protection?
Yes. Evergreens can lose moisture through their foliage in winter and benefit from proper watering, mulching, and wind protection.
Can I use MitoGrow during winter?
Yes. MitoGrow supports root health and stress tolerance without forcing growth, making it suitable for winter application during mild conditions.
Should I prune shrubs in winter?
Only prune shrubs that do not bloom on old wood. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs during winter.
Does mulch help protect roots from freezing?
Yes. Mulch insulates soil, reduces temperature swings, and protects roots from freeze-thaw damage.
How can I prevent winter plant damage?
Maintain soil moisture, apply mulch, protect plants from wind, and avoid fertilizing during cold weather.
Is winter tree care different by zone?
Yes. Colder zones require more freeze protection, while warmer zones focus more on moisture management and wind protection.
When should I start spring prep after winter?
Late winter and early spring are ideal for soil prep, pruning, and root support as temperatures begin to rise.
