Deer and rabbits are notorious for nibbling on our trees and shrubs during the wintertime. Kim Gaida from Dundee Nursery in Plymouth passed along a few helpful tips to keep your trees in tip top shape during the dead of winter.
One way to battle hungry wildlife is to apply repellents to your trees and shrubs. Granular repellents can be sprinkled around gardens and plants. Keep in mind, however, that once they become covered with snow, they become less effective.
Liquid repellents can be sprayed onto the stems of the tree or shrub and they create a scent barrier. They may need to be reapplied during the winter, but you can only do so as long as it’s above 32 degrees. Kim says you should read the product’s label for exact directions.
There are a few types of tree protectors you can purchase. Plastic covers are tubular and usually white in color. You open them and wrap them around the trunks of trees.
You can also use tree wraps. They come in brown and white. Regardless of whichever type of cover you choose, make sure to remove them in the spring. They are not meant to be left on year-round.
Kim says another way to ensure your trees and shrubs are healthy going into the winter is to continue to water them with an inch of water until the ground freezes.
Renee Banot
rbanot@twelve.tv
October 26, 2012