Winter Tree Care Tips and Information about the PLAY Boulder Foundation’s Tree Trust
Mike Reichert on maintaining healthy trees over the winter: (Tree Trust Program Manager, PLAY Boulder Foundation)
The Winter Solstice this year falls on December 21st and marks the return of the light. Even though it isn’t “officially” winter yet, we’ve already had cold temperatures and snow, but also lots of sunshine. The joys of living in Colorado! Watering, soil moisture, and mulching might not be at the front of our minds when it comes to tree care during this time of year, however, these are important steps to take in order to keep trees healthy and happy all year long!
Winter tree care is essential to protecting the urban canopy in the City of Boulder. We can all help to maintain healthy trees in our community by taking a few suggested recommendations from the Colorado Tree Coalition:
Winter Tree Care & Watering Diagram.
Photo credit: Denver Water
Trees and shrubs need a little extra water to get through prolonged dry periods:
From October to April, it is recommended to water trees once or twice a month using 10 gallons of water for each inch of tree diameter. It is important to note, water only when the temperature is above 40 degrees and there is no snow on the ground. Tree root systems can spread two to four times wider than the height of the tree and most of a tree's absorbing roots are in the top 12 inches of soil. Water should be applied in various locations within the drip line (see diagram on the right).
Mulch helps to conserve and retain soil moisture:
Apply organic mulch within the drip line at least three to four inches deep. It is best to remove turf prior to adding mulch. Remember to leave a six-inch space between the mulch and the tree trunk. Mulch materials may include wood chips, leaves, or evergreen needles.
Moisture helps to prevent disease:
Maintaining consistent soil moisture allows for better water absorption and reduces stress on trees. Stressed trees are more vulnerable to disease, insect infestations, and branch dieback.
Inspect your trees regularly, and reach out if you suspect a problem:
If you suspect a problem, consult a professional arborist or reach out to the Colorado State Forest Service.
Photo credit: PLAY Boulder Foundation
What is the PLAY Boulder Foundation?
The PLAY Boulder Foundation was founded in 1976 and is the official non-profit partner of the City of Boulder Parks and Recreation Department. The mission is to support excellence in parks and recreation by mobilizing community support through education, philanthropy and advocacy.
Boulder Rotary Club Volunteer Tree Planting.
Photo credit: PLAY Boulder Foundation
What is the Tree Trust?
The Tree Trust is a program led by the PLAY Boulder Foundation to work with citizens to support trees in Boulder and promote a healthy urban canopy for years to come. One of the goals of the Tree Trust is to train community members to become Tree Tenders. The Tree Trust is a close partner with Cool Boulder to provide nature-based climate solutions to the community.
What is a Tree Tender?
The Tree Tender program educates and empowers citizens to take care of their local trees. Tree Tenders learn basic tree planting and maintenance, facilitate tree distributions, lead volunteers in planting projects, connect and share information with the community, and more. To become a Tree Tender, please fill out the interest form on the PLAY Boulder Foundation website. Keep an eye on the Tree Trust calendar for ways to get involved!
