The Globe Maple is known for being a tough, winter-hardy addition to any yard. But even though it’s a sturdy tree, you can’t just “set it and forget it” once the temperature drops. To keep your tree happy and healthy, there are a few winter care steps and protective measures you should keep in mind. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
What kind of winter protection does a Globe Maple need?
The level of protection your tree needs depends on a few different factors. Generally, you’ll want to focus on two main goals:
- Protecting the roots from deep freezes
- Shading the trunk to prevent bark splitting
Protecting the roots of young Globe Maples
A fully grown, established Globe Maple is a pro at handling the cold; its roots are deep enough that frost usually isn’t an issue. Young trees, however, are a different story. They haven’t built up that same resistance yet and need a little extra help during their first year in the ground. You have two great options here:
- Cover the root zone with a thick layer of leaves, mulch, or brushwood.
- Use a coconut fiber mat to blanket the base of the tree.
Wait until temperatures stay consistently above freezing for several days before removing the cover. If you take it off too early, condensation can build up, creating the perfect damp environment for an unwanted fungal infection.
Why winter shade is a must
Winter weather can be tricky. When you have a cycle of freezing nights followed by bright, sunny days, the bark of the Globe Maple can get stressed. This often leads to “frost cracks,” which act like open wounds that invite diseases right into the tree. You can significantly lower this risk by providing some shade.
Try wrapping the crown in a breathable shading net. For the trunk, you can use garden fleece or reed mats. If you’re in a pinch, even leaning a few wooden boards against the sunny side of the tree can provide a quick emergency shield.
How do you care for a Globe Maple during the winter?
The best time to prune your Globe Maple is between autumn and the start of winter. It’s actually okay to do some pruning during light frost. Before the heavy winter sets in, a bit of fertilizer can help strengthen the tree’s cell walls, making it more resilient.
Don’t forget the water! Even in winter, your tree needs a drink. Because Globe Maples have shallow roots, they struggle to pull moisture from the frozen surface soil. Keep an eye out for a frost-free day and give it a good watering to keep it hydrated until spring.
