Preparing Florida Trees and Shrubs for Winter Weather

As the temperatures start to dip during the winter months, it’s essential to take good care of your Florida trees and shrubs. Florida rarely sees harsh winters or freezing temperatures. But the cold weather months can still be a big change for tropical plants. Cooler weather can cause stress on trees and landscape plants, especially the more sensitive plants. We have some helpful tips for preparing your Florida trees and shrubs for the cool weather ahead.  

How to Prepare Your Florida Landscape for Winter Months

Before winter is even a question, set your plants up for success. The types of plants you choose, and where you plant them in your landscape will determine how they thrive in different seasons. Avoid planting tender plants in low areas that leave them at risk of cold winds. You also want to make sure irrigation systems are prepared to reach all areas of your landscape and that the soil has good drainage.  

How to Protect Sensitive Plants from Cooler Temperatures

While freezing temperatures are rare in Florida, it’s important to know how to respond if a hard freeze is in the forecast. Naturally, the best way to protect trees and plants from cold damage is with proper maintenance and fertilization. Maintaining healthy trees and shrubs will make them more resilient to environmental stressors. But when sensitive plants need extra protection, check out the following tips.  

Cover Plants

When the temperature takes a plunge, covering your plants can shield them from the cold. Using materials like blankets, burlap, or frost cloth helps to trap heat and protect delicate foliage from frost or freezing temperatures. Remember to secure the covers properly, especially during windy nights, to ensure maximum protection for your plants. If you have any potted plants that can be moved easily, move them inside to protect them from winter weather.  

Mulch

Applying a layer of mulch around the base of your trees and shrubs can act as a natural insulator. Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil and regulates the soil temperature, keeping the root systems cozy and protected. Just make sure not to pile the mulch against the trunk of the trees as it can cause rotting. 

Watering

Put your irrigation system to work! Proper hydration is crucial, even in the colder months. Before a cold snap, ensure your plants are well-watered. Moist soil holds onto heat better than dry soil, providing extra warmth to the roots. However, be mindful not to overwater as excessive moisture can also harm the roots. 

Caring for Florida Trees During Winter

Fruit Trees

Fruit trees in Florida need special attention during winter. Pruning them in late winter helps promote healthy growth in the early spring. Also, covering young fruit trees or those prone to cold damage can prevent the cold temperatures from harming delicate or developing fruits. 

Newly Planted Trees

If you’ve recently planted trees, they’re more susceptible to cold stress. To protect them, consider wrapping their trunks with tree wraps or using tree guards. Also, adding a layer of mulch around the base helps regulate soil temperature and moisture, promoting their healthy establishment. 

Winter Palm Tree Care

Palm trees add to the beauty of Florida lawns but can be sensitive to cooler temperatures in the rare case of a hard freeze. Young palms are more at risk of cold damage because their root systems haven’t had time to fully develop. The best way to protect your Florida palms is to water them adequately, especially during a dry spell. You can also apply a protective layer of mulch around their base to preserve their health during winter months.  

Florida Tree and Shrub Care Services in the Greater Melbourne Area

For Central Florida homeowners in Melbourne and surrounding areas, Pearce Lawn Care is the local lawn care provider you can trust. Since 1994, we’ve provided professional lawn care and tree and shrub care services for your Florida landscape. Our services include lawn weed control, fertilization, lawn pest control, aeration, and more. We know what it takes for Florida lawns, trees, and shrubs to thrive year-round in this climate. With our tree and shrub care program, you can rest assured that your landscape plants have all the necessary nutrients and insect protection going into the cooler months. We service Melbourne, Palm Bay, Malabar, Indian Harbour Beach, Grant-Valkaria, Indialantic, Satellite Beach, and surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free quote!