How to Start Up Your Tree for The Spring Season

Watering

As soon as the ground begins to thaw in the spring season, begin watering your trees so they do not dehydrate – this is especially important if we have a hot and dry spring season. Continue to monitor the soil to determine how much water is needed throughout the spring season. It takes about two years for a tree to become fully established after planting, so regular watering two years after planting is expected.

Fertilizing

Complete a three-part fertilizing treatment in the spring, one per month, in April, May, and June. We recommend using water-soluble fertilizers such as 28-14-14 or 30-10-10 for trees planted the previous season to promote healthy roots, top growth, and greening. These fertilizers can also be used on mature trees. Avoid using fertilizer stakes as the fertilizer is improperly distributed to the root systems. The quantity of fertilizer will vary depending on the fertilizer used and the size of the tree. Follow the specific fertilizer directions, to avoid over-fertilization.

Monitor and Ask Questions

Monitor your newly planted trees throughout all the seasons and reach out with any questions. In most cases, if a tree is struggling, it will be an easy fix of watering more, watering less, applying nutrients, or adjusting an environmental factor. If your tree is struggling, reach out immediately so the FHN team can identify the problem and pass on instructions to fix the issue. Waiting to fix the problem could cause irreparable damage to your tree.

Fertilizer Questions? Check out this video to learn more! 

Fall Prep: How to Shut Down Your Trees for the Winter Season

Protecting trees for winter is essential to help them withstand cold temperatures, harsh weather conditions, and potential damage from frost, ice, and snow.

Mulching

Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, shredded bark, or straw, around the base of the tree. Mulch helps insulate the soil, regulate soil temperature, and retain moisture. Apply mulch to a depth of 2 to 4 inches, but keep it several inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and disease.

Watering

Continue watering trees until the ground freezes, especially during dry periods. Deep watering helps trees retain moisture and reduces the risk of dehydration during the winter months. Water early in the day to allow time for moisture to penetrate the soil before temperatures drop at night.

All you need to know to set up your tree for success for the winter season!

Pruning

Prune dead, diseased, or damaged branches before winter to prevent them from breaking under the weight of snow or ice. Remove any branches that pose a safety hazard or are rubbing against each other. Avoid heavy pruning in late fall, as it may stimulate new growth that is susceptible to frost damage.

Anti-desiccant Spray

Apply an anti-desiccant spray to the foliage of evergreen trees and shrubs to reduce moisture loss through transpiration. Anti-desiccant sprays create a thin, waxy layer on the leaves that helps retain moisture and protect against drying winds and cold temperatures.

Snow Removal

Gently remove heavy snow or ice buildup from tree branches using a broom or soft brush. Use caution to avoid damaging the branches, especially when they are brittle from cold temperatures. Shake off snow from low-hanging branches to prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight of the snow.

Deer Protection

If deer are a concern in your area, protect young trees from browsing damage by installing deer fencing or wrapping the trunks with plastic tree guards.

By taking proactive measures to protect trees for winter, you can help ensure their health and vitality, and cut the risk of damage from cold temperatures, frost, ice, and snow.

How to Apply Anti-Desiccant to Your Conifer

Applying anti-desiccant to evergreen trees is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Choose the Right Time

Apply anti-desiccant spray in late fall or early winter, before the onset of freezing temperatures and harsh winter weather. Aim to apply the spray when temperatures are above freezing and when there is no precipitation in the forecast for at least 24 hours.

Select the Product

Purchase a commercial anti-desiccant spray from a garden center or nursery. These products are often labeled as "anti-transpirants" or "anti-desiccants" and are specifically formulated to reduce moisture loss from plant foliage. We recommend the anti-desiccant spray, Foli-Guard.

Prepare the Spray Solution

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to prepare the anti-desiccant spray solution. Most products come in concentrated form and need to be diluted with water before application. Mix the solution thoroughly in a clean backpack sprayer or large spray bottle.

Choose a Suitable Day

Select a calm, dry day for applying the anti-desiccant spray. Avoid spraying on windy days, as the spray may drift and affect unintended plants or areas.

Spray Application

Start by thoroughly watering the evergreen tree a day or two before applying the anti-desiccant spray. This helps ensure that the tree is adequately hydrated before the spray is applied.

Anti-Desiccant

Spray Coverage

Begin spraying the anti-desiccant solution onto the foliage of the evergreen tree, starting from the bottom and working your way up to the top. Ensure thorough coverage of all foliage surfaces, including the undersides of leaves. Apply the spray evenly to create a uniform coating on the foliage. Avoid over-saturating the leaves, as excessive moisture may lead to fungal problems or other issues.

Allow Drying Time

Allow the anti-desiccant spray to dry completely on the foliage before exposure to rain or freezing temperatures. This typically takes a few hours, depending on environmental conditions.

Repeat Application

Depending on the product's label instructions, you may need to repeat the application of anti-desiccant spray every few months throughout the winter season for continued protection. We recommend re-application throughout extended Chinook winds.

By following these steps, you can effectively apply anti-desiccant spray to evergreen trees to help reduce moisture loss through transpiration and protect them from winter damage.