If you’ve ever wondered whether your fruit trees—like that favorite apple tree in the yard—actually need a winter coat, you’re in the right place. To give you the best answer, we need to look at a few details about your garden’s setup.
Which trees actually need winter protection?
Generally speaking, a sturdy old apple tree is a pro at handling the cold and doesn’t need much help from us. However, young saplings and trees planted in the fall are a different story. They haven’t had much time to establish themselves, so they definitely need some extra TLC during those freezing winter months.
Focus your efforts on the base of the trunk and the graft union (that little bump where the tree meets the roots). If you have very small trees, it’s also a good idea to protect the crown.
How to winterize your apple tree
You’ll want to get your young or dwarf apple trees ready before the first hard frost hits. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Mulch the roots: Cover the root zone around the base of the trunk with a thick layer of mulch or fallen leaves. This acts like a cozy blanket for the roots.
- Wrap the crown: For very young trees, wrap the crown in garden fleece or burlap and tie it securely. Pro tip: Never use plastic wrap or foil! It traps heat on sunny days and can actually cook or damage your plant.
- Timing is everything: Don’t be too quick to uncover them. Wait until spring has truly arrived and daytime temperatures are consistently warmer. Removing the protection then allows the buds to soak up those first rays of sunshine and develop perfectly.
Why “whitewashing” is a game changer
Applying a lime wash (or white tree paint) to the trunk and main branches can prevent serious frost damage. Rapid temperature swings are the enemy here; they cause the bark to expand and contract, leading to vertical cracks and “sunscald.” This usually happens in January or February when the sun is bright during the day but the temperature plummets at night. This kills the tissue, leaving brown, burnt-looking spots on new growth. A white coating reflects the sunlight and keeps the bark at a more even temperature.
Winter care for potted trees
If you’re growing an apple tree in a pot, it definitely needs protection when the mercury drops. Whatever you do, don’t bring it into a heated house! Instead, elevate the pot on wooden blocks or stones to get it off the frozen ground. Wrap the pot itself in coconut fiber mats or heavy fleece. Keep the top of the soil accessible, though, because watering is still important during dry winter spells—just make sure you only water when the ground isn’t frozen!