Protecting Your Yews from Winter Damage

Yews are a popular landscaping choice due to their evergreen foliage and hardy nature. However, they are not invincible to the harsh winter weather that can cause damage to their branches and needles. In this article, we will explore the types of winter damage that yews can experience and provide tips for protecting your yews from harm.

The Types of Winter Damage on Yews

Winter damage on yews can come in several forms:

Branch Damage

The weight of snow and ice can cause branches to bend or break. This type of damage is particularly common in younger yews with more flexible branches.

Needle Discoloration

Cold temperatures and lack of moisture can cause the needles on yews to turn brown or yellow. While some discoloration is normal during the winter months, excessive browning can indicate a more serious issue.

Winter Burn

Winter burn occurs when the needles of yews become dehydrated due to exposure to harsh winds and sun. This can cause the needles to turn brown and fall off, leaving the plant vulnerable to disease.

Tips for Protecting Your Yews from Winter Damage

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to protect your yews from winter damage:

Prune Your Yews

Before the winter season begins, prune your yews to remove any damaged or diseased branches. This will help prevent the weight of snow and ice from causing further damage to weakened branches.

Water Your Yews

Make sure your yews are well-watered before the ground freezes. This will help them retain moisture throughout the winter and prevent needle discoloration.

Apply Mulch

Applying a layer of mulch around the base of your yews can help insulate their roots from extreme temperature changes. This will also help retain moisture and prevent winter burn.

Protect Your Yews From The Wind

During periods of high wind, consider wrapping your yews in burlap or another protective material. This will help prevent needle dehydration and protect against broken branches.

A person pruning yews in winter

By taking the necessary precautions, you can protect your yews from winter damage and ensure they thrive year-round. Remember to prune, water, apply mulch, and protect your yews from the wind. With these simple steps, your yews will be able to withstand even the harshest winter weather.

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