Hello, dear readers, and welcome to another insightful session on lawn care. Today, we're embarking on a horticultural adventure with Katie Wagner from Utah State University Extension in Salt Lake County. We're diving into the world of tree protection and mulch, learning how to keep your garden lush and your trees healthy during the winter months.

Sun Scald and Southwest Injury in Trees

Our journey begins in a bustling urban area of Salt Lake County, where Katie introduces us to a common ailment known as sun scald injury or "southwest injury" in trees. As the name suggests, this type of injury typically affects the southwest-exposed side of the tree. During winter, when the sun shines and snow on the ground reflects light onto the tree trunk, the affected area heats up. The tree's cells become active, thinking it's springtime. However, when temperatures drop to freezing at night, these cells are killed. Over time, this can lead to severe cracking and tree damage, potentially resulting in the tree's demise.

Sunscald Protection

Katie highlights the importance of protecting young trees, which have thin bark, making them more susceptible to sun scald injury. To shield them, she recommends using white tree wrap. White material reflects sunlight away from the tree trunk, keeping it cooler. This protective wrap is essential in late fall or early winter, and it should be removed in early spring to prevent pest and disease issues.

The Power of Mulch

Next, we explore the benefits of mulch. Katie demonstrates how a layer of mulch can prevent lawnmower and weed whacker injuries to tree trunks. Moreover, mulch provides a stable reservoir of water year-round and acts as an insulating blanket during the winter. To ensure proper mulching, aim for a two to three-inch layer that extends out to the tree's drip line, where water drips down and feeds the roots.

A Mulching Mistake

Katie points out a common mistake: overly piling mulch against the base of the tree. This "volcano mulch" not only looks unattractive but also poses a threat to the tree's health. It can provide an entry point for pests and diseases. Proper mulching involves exposing the tree's root flare and maintaining a clear space around the base.

Watering for the Winter

Katie wraps up with advice on winter tree care. Proper watering is crucial before the dormant season arrives. She demonstrates the use of a soaker hose, which provides a slow, deep watering for the tree. This ensures that the tree is well-hydrated before the ground freezes.

In Summary

By the end of our educational journey, we've learned how to protect our trees from sun scald, the importance of mulch, and the significance of appropriate watering for the winter months. Remember, this isn't the best time for fertilization or major pruning of your trees and shrubs. Keep that in mind for early spring.

For more gardening tips and advice, don't forget to check out the Utah State University Extension website. Happy gardening, and may your trees and shrubs thrive year-round!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCw1_f0Jvwk&ab_channel=UtahStateUniversityExtension

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