Winter Dormancy for Trees: What to Know

If you have trees in northern latitudes, you know they will go dormant. Dormancy is important for many trees and shrubs. It helps them survive the freezing temperatures of winter. However, sometimes, dormant trees look dead when they are not. Or, you may think your tree is dead if it remains dormant past winter. Discover more information about dormancy.

What Is Tree Dormancy?

Trees go through a cycle of growth and dormancy in a yearly cycle. In the spring, trees grow leaves that supply food for growth. Trees form terminal buds in late summer before they shed their leaves in the fall. Most trees have bare branches and show few signs of growth in winter. In the spring, they grow new leaves.

When Do Trees Go Into Dormancy?

The exact time your trees go dormant depends on the species, the amount of daylight, and the temperature. Most northern trees will start to shed their leaves once the amount of daylight significantly diminishes. The temperature change can also signal the tree to go dormant, but it is not as reliable as longer nights.

Do Trees Need Care During Dormancy?

Most trees don't need as much care when dormant compared to their growth period. The dormant period is also a good time to perform other care. Dormancy is a good time to prune away dead branches. Consider removing troublesome branches that could cause problems if they load up with snow.

Take steps to insulate your younger trees with mulch to protect their roots. You can also fertilize your tree at this time. If possible, try to aerate the roots to give them the maximum amount of nutrients and water possible. If you aren't sure about your trees' specific care, a professional tree care company can help.

How Can You Tell If a Tree Is Dormant or Dead?

Dormant trees exhibit all the classic signs of a dead tree with their bare limbs. When the tree becomes dormant early or stays dormant well into spring, you may wonder if it is dead. Discover three ways to tell if your tree didn't make it through winter.

The Tree Is Brown or Brittle Inside

Some arborists may tell you to do a scratch test on the trunk or branch to see if it is still alive. If it is moist and greenish inside, then it's likely alive. If it's brown and brittle, you may have a dead tree.

The Tree Has Few or No Buds

Your tree should have healthy buds even in winter. However, if your tree lacks buds or the buds look shriveled, then your tree may be sick or dead. Check around the whole tree to see if the problem affects your entire tree or just a couple of branches.

The Tree's Bark Looks Poor

Your tree's trunk should not be missing a lot of bark. It should also not have signs of disease or fungus.

What Should You Do If Tree Is Dead or Dying?

A dead or sick tree is a safety hazard, especially in winter. Winter snow and ice could put so much weight on a dead three as to topple it over. Even dead branches are dangerous. Therefore, if you suspect you have a dead tree, have a tree specialist check it out as soon as you notice a problem.

Most trees that are native to colder areas will survive dormancy with few problems. However, trees that were sick before winter may not survive the cold. If you aren't sure your tree is dead, check with a specialist. But if you suspect you have a completely dead tree, don't take the risk of a potential fall. Contact Baumann Tree for an assessment and removal.