Trying to establish young trees in the spring can be risky business, particularly in Colorado.  Redland’s Landscape Architecture Team has some advice to help you get the most of the Spring planting season.

Colorado’s warm and sunny days can prematurely wake cells in a tree’s bark from their winter dormancy.  However, when the following nights drop below freezing, sunscald and cracking may occur.

A common solution to prevent this damage is applying a tree wrap.  Tree wrap, which is made from crape paper, can insulate the bark, and prevent sunscald/cracking.  Trees are typically wrapped in October/November, after they have gone dormant.

Equally important as wrapping the tree in the fall, is to remove the wrap the following April.  This prevents girdling around the trunk, and discourages moisture retention, which can promote insect damage and disease.

If you need recommendations for your landscape, or would like to be connected to a local arborist,  contact Redland’s Landscape Architecture Team.