Protect Existing Trees
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
11/07/2025
In August 2025, the RCMG Climate Responsiveness Project released a guide describing climate responsiveness actions. Now, they’re sharing a series of newsletter articles to help volunteers explore some of the practical steps featured in the guide.
Winter winds, snow and ice are on the way, bringing glee to all who love winter sports, but havoc on the roads and even in our yards, gardens and green community spaces. Winter can be a time to reflect on what went well during the past growing season and what we might like to change next year. Maybe we have thought about planting a new tree and will use the winter months to research possible trees and how to properly plant a tree.
First, however, we should think about protecting our investment in existing trees, including those that are mature and those that are newer additions. Trees capture and store carbon dioxide. About one-half of a tree’s dry weight is carbon and a single tree can store as much as 10 pounds of carbon each year. Trees also provide shade and food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
It may seem counterintuitive, but cutting down diseased trees protects existing trees. Winter is the perfect time for removing ash trees infested with emerald ash borer. This protects and prolongs the life of not-yet-infested ash trees in our neighborhoods. Be sure to consult with a certified arborist licensed to work in Ramsey County. Late winter is also the best time to prune existing trees for preventive maintenance. This includes proper removal of dead and dying branches, branches that rub together and branch stubs.
New trees in your yard or on the boulevard also need protection. One of the most important steps is to prevent root damage from extreme cold. In a dry fall, like we had in 2024 and are currently experiencing, trees should be watered heavily before the ground freezes. If there are dry cracks in the soil around the tree, fill those with more soil. Then create a “donut” – not a mountain -- of shredded wood mulch around the tree 3”-4” deep. Be sure to leave a 6” space between the tree trunk and the mulch ring to prevent the formation of new girdling roots.
Newly planted trees, especially those with thin bark like maples, honey locust and linden, are susceptible to sunscald and bark splitting. To prevent this, wrap the trees with a commercial tree wrap or white tube guard. Remove the wrap in the spring and repeat the process yearly for up to 5 years.
Trees are essential for the health of our families, cities, forests and the planet. Let’s do what we can this winter to protect our investment in existing trees.
For more ways to protect existing trees, see How You Can Be a Climate Responsive Gardener by the RCMG Climate Responsiveness Project.
Further Reading
