The Benefits of Winter Root Care You Probably Haven’t Considered
When people think about winter tree care, they usually picture pruning, storm cleanup, or checking for broken limbs. But the real action during winter is happening underground. Even though your tree looks dormant above the surface, the root system is still active—absorbing moisture, storing energy, and preparing for spring growth.
Ignoring root health in winter can leave your trees stressed when warm weather returns. Giving the root zone a little attention now can make a noticeable difference in how your landscape performs all year.
Roots Stay Active Even When the Tree Looks Dormant
Winter dormancy slows down the visible parts of the tree, but the roots continue working whenever soil temperatures are above freezing. In Southern Utah, that’s most of the winter. This makes the season a prime opportunity to support root development and correct issues that may have built up during the hot, dry months.
Soil Compaction Gets Worse in Winter
Snow, foot traffic, and even the freeze‑thaw cycle can compact the soil around your trees. Compacted soil limits oxygen flow and makes it harder for roots to expand. Winter is a great time to address this with soil conditioning or aeration techniques that improve structure and allow roots to breathe again.
Winter Moisture Matters More Than You Think
St. George winters are dry, and long stretches without moisture can dehydrate roots. Deep watering during warm spells helps prevent winter drought stress—a common but overlooked issue in desert climates. Trees that go into spring well‑hydrated grow stronger and recover faster from seasonal stress.
Mulching Protects and Insulates the Root Zone
A proper mulch layer helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and protect roots from sudden cold snaps. It also reduces competition from weeds and improves soil quality as it breaks down. Winter is the perfect time to refresh mulch and give the root zone a stable environment.
Salt and De‑icing Products Can Damage Roots
Salt runoff from sidewalks and driveways can seep into the soil and burn delicate feeder roots. If you notice browning, thinning, or dieback on the side of the tree closest to treated pavement, salt exposure may be the culprit. Winter root care can help buffer the soil and reduce long‑term damage.
When to Call Master Arbor
If you’re unsure what your soil needs—or whether your trees are dealing with compaction, drought stress, or salt exposure—our certified arborists can evaluate the root zone and recommend the right treatments. Winter is the ideal time to strengthen your trees from the ground up so they’re ready for a healthy, vigorous spring.
