A new landscape is an exciting investment—but the first winter is often the biggest test. While we carefully select plants we believe will thrive, young trees, shrubs, and perennials still need a little extra care to make it through the colder months successfully. With some proactive steps, you can protect your investment and set the stage for a strong, healthy spring.

Protecting Young Deciduous Trees

Deer may not always eat young deciduous trees, but they do love rubbing antlers on tender bark in the fall. Damage often begins as early as September. Protect your trees by:

• Paper Tree Wrap: Wrap trunks from the ground to the lower branches, then remove in March to avoid trapped moisture or pests.

• Plastic Tree Wrap: Choose ventilated options and remove in spring. Avoid DIY black drain tile, which traps heat and can cause frost cracks.

• Caging: Build a hardware cloth fence several feet from the trunk and bury the base to block deer and rodents. This also works for shrubs.

Safeguarding Arborvitae

Most arborvitae are irresistible to deer. To protect them:

• Deer Sprays: Apply multiple times in fall before freezing temps set in.

• Burlap: Wrap trees directly or create a burlap fence with stakes for better airflow and easier spring removal.

Caring for Perennials

You may have heard the old adage, “Sleep, creep and leap,” in regards to perennials.  The first year they sleep – all the activity is going on underground where they are developing new root systems. Help them establish by:

• Watering during warm, dry fall stretches (only if soil is dry).

• Adding 2–3 inches of mulch to stabilize soil temperature.

• Deciding whether to cut back in fall or leave stems for winter interest and wildlife habitat.

Protecting Shrubs

Some shrubs are more vulnerable to animal damage. Tips include:

• Roses: Modern landscape varieties don’t need covering—just mulch and moisture until freeze.

• Rabbit-prone shrubs (burning bush, barberry, serviceberry, etc.): Use sprays or cages for protection.

• Junipers: Watch for vole damage; prune out affected branches in spring.

• Rhododendrons & Azaleas: Use burlap fencing or anti-desiccant sprays to prevent winter burn.

Winter can be tough on new landscapes, but a little preparation goes a long way. By protecting young trees, safeguarding evergreens, watering and mulching perennials, and guarding vulnerable shrubs, you’ll give your landscape the best chance to thrive. Come spring, you’ll be rewarded with strong, healthy growth that continues to build the outdoor space you envisioned.

Our team can help work with you to ensure your new landscape has the best chance of survival over winter. Get in touch today for assistance.