How can I prevent frost cracks?

Q. How can I help prevent winter frost cracks on my newly-planted trees?

A. There are things you can do to prevent frost cracks from occurring, mostly by ensuring that young trees are protected from extreme winter temperature fluctuations between daytime and nighttime.

HOW? The best way to do this is to wrap the tree trunk with something that will block sunlight (like burlap, or a light or white material). We suggest using a craft paper tree wrap in a tan color and held in place with masking tape (so the tree is not harmed by girdling).

WHEN? The best time to apply the wrapping is in fall after the leaves drop, and the best time to remove it is when the buds break on trees in the spring.

HOW LONG? Wrapping trees from Thanksgiving to St. Patrick’s Day is a good rule of thumb.

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Answer Provided By ...

Jerry Somalski

Jerry is a Landscape Designer, Project Manager, and the President of Bay Landscaping. He began learning about plants and landscape design as a young boy, hoeing in the family nursery and tagging along with the landscape crews who taught him the tools and methods of the trade. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Central Michigan University, he returned to the family business. Jerry has an enthusiastic yet practical approach to landscape design, focused on choosing the right plants (ones that thrive in the mid-Michigan climate) for the right place to create sustainable and spectacular landscapes. He loves to share what he knows with gardeners throughout Michigan! Learn more about Jerry >>