Winter in Virginia can be beautiful, but it also brings challenges for your trees and shrubs. Cold temperatures, wind, ice, and snow can all stress your landscape, potentially causing damage if your plants aren’t prepared. That’s why winter care is essential to keep your property healthy and looking great year-round.

At Shenandoah Landscape Services, we know that proper tree and shrub care during the colder months helps ensure a vibrant and resilient landscape come spring. Here are some expert tips to help your trees and shrubs survive—and thrive—this winter season.

Why Winter Tree and Shrub Care Matters

Many homeowners think trees and shrubs just “sleep” in winter and don’t need attention. While it’s true that growth slows, winter is a vulnerable time. Freeze-thaw cycles can crack bark, snow and ice can break branches, and dry winter winds can cause moisture loss.

Taking simple tree and shrub care steps now can prevent costly damage, preserve your plants’ health, and keep your property safe.

1. Inspect and Prune Dead or Damaged Branches

Before heavy snow or ice accumulates, it’s smart to prune any dead, broken, or weak branches that could easily snap. Removing these vulnerable limbs reduces the risk of injury to your plants, your home, and your family.

Our ISA-certified arborists at Shenandoah Landscape Services can assess your trees’ health and recommend precise pruning that maintains their natural shape while protecting them from winter hazards.

2. Apply Mulch for Moisture and Temperature Control

Mulching around the base of trees and shrubs acts like a cozy blanket, helping the soil retain moisture and regulate temperature swings. Spread 2 to 4 inches of organic mulch—such as shredded bark or wood chips—in a ring around your plants, but keep it a few inches away from trunks to avoid rot.

Mulching also suppresses weed growth and improves soil quality as it decomposes.

3. Protect Young or Sensitive Plants

Young trees, newly planted shrubs, and species sensitive to cold may benefit from extra protection. Wrapping trunks with breathable tree wrap prevents sunscald and bark cracking, common winter injuries caused by sudden temperature changes.

For shrubs, consider burlap screens or temporary windbreaks to shield them from harsh winds.

4. Water When Weather Allows

Even though growth slows, trees and shrubs still need moisture during winter—especially evergreens. If your area experiences a dry spell without rain or snow, give your plants a deep watering on warmer days to keep roots hydrated.

Be mindful not to water when the ground is frozen, as this can damage roots.

5. Watch Out for Salt Damage

If you use de-icing salt near sidewalks or driveways, be cautious. Salt can harm roots and foliage, leading to discoloration and dieback. Using alternatives like sand or calcium magnesium acetate, or creating barriers to protect plants, can minimize salt damage.

Why Choose Shenandoah Landscape Services for Winter Tree and Shrub Care?

With decades of experience serving the Shenandoah Valley and Northern Virginia region, Shenandoah Landscape Services offers professional tree and shrub care that prepares your landscape for whatever winter throws its way.

Our team of certified arborists and landscape experts provide:

• Winter pruning and hazard branch removal

• Mulching and soil health advice

• Protective plant wrapping and winterizing services

• Emergency storm damage cleanup

• Year-round maintenance plans

We understand the unique climate challenges Virginia properties face and tailor our services accordingly.

Ready to Protect Your Trees and Shrubs This Winter?

Don’t wait for the next storm to damage your landscape. Contact Shenandoah Landscape Services today to schedule a winter tree and shrub care consultation. Let us help keep your property healthy, beautiful, and safe all year long.