WINTER DRYING

WINTER DRYING

Winter drying, winter injury and winterkill are synonymous terms applied to a foliage disorder common with evergreens. Winter drying typically occurs on warm, windy days tollowing a period of cold i subfreezing) weather, when moisture loss through the foliage is greatly accelerated, while replacement of the transpired water is restricted because the soil is either frozen or too cold to permit water absorption throughout the roots. The incidence of winter drying is greatest on poorly drained sites and in open, unprotected areas, which are subject to full sun and drying winds.

Symptoms of winter drying typically become evident in the spnng after the resumption of growth. On narrow-leaved species, symptoms usually begin as a browning of the tips of the affected foliage, while the browning begins at the tips and along the margins of broad-leaved species. Where buds have been killed, twig and branch dteback is also evident. Symptoms of winter drying are generally most pronounced on the windward side of the plant or die side, which receives the greatest amount of sun. usually, the south or southwest side

Selecting hardy plant species and planting sites will minimize this problem. Also ensunng evergreens are well watered m the late fall is helpful in preventing this disorder. For more information or to schedule an appointment for a complimentary consultation with me, call 877-BARTLETT today, or e-mail me at wood@bartlett.com.

BARTLETT

TREE EXPERTS