Winter in Pennsylvania isn't exactly "gentle" on trees.

Between snow loads, ice storms, freezing temps, and rogue wind gusts, it's amazing any branches survive at all.

Unfortunately, when the snow starts falling, so do the bad ideas about how to "save" your trees. Some winter tree care myths sound logical — but following them can actually make things way worse.

Here’s a reality check: what you think helps your trees in winter might be the thing that gets them killed.

Let’s bust the most common myths wide open before your landscape turns into a cautionary tale.

Myth 1: "Shake Heavy Snow Off Branches to Protect Them"

Reality:

It’s tempting to grab a broom and "help" your trees by shaking off heavy snow. Resist the urge.

• Shaking frozen branches can cause cracks you can’t see.

• Brittle, cold wood snaps more easily under sudden stress.

• Your "helpful" actions often cause the exact limb break you were trying to avoid.

Correct Move:

• Use a soft upward motion with a broom if snow is fresh and light.

• If it’s icy or the branch is already bending, leave it alone.

Mother Nature made trees flexible for a reason. Sometimes letting them ride it out is safer.

Myth 2: "Wrap Trees in Plastic to Keep Them Warm"

Reality:

Wrapping trees tightly in plastic traps moisture, promotes fungal growth, and can cook bark during sunny winter days.

• Moisture plus temperature swings equals disease city.

• Plastic doesn't breathe — it steams.

Correct Move:

• Use breathable burlap if you must wrap young or sensitive trees.

• Focus on root protection (mulch!) and proper species selection instead of "tree snuggies."
  

Myth 3: "Trees Don't Need Water in Winter"

Reality:

Trees still lose moisture in winter through a process called transpiration. They just do it slower.

• Dry, frozen soil = root dehydration.

• Evergreens especially suffer without moisture.

Correct Move:

• Water deeply before the ground freezes.

• During mild winter thaws, give young or sensitive trees supplemental water if the soil is dry.

Moisture = resilience. Dry roots = disaster once freeze-thaw cycles kick in.

Myth 4: "Winter Damage Will Heal Itself in Spring"

Reality:

Wishful thinking is not a tree care strategy.

• Cracked limbs get worse with every freeze and thaw.

• Small cracks invite rot and pests.

• Split trunks almost never "self-heal" without intervention.

Correct Move:

• Have damaged trees inspected professionally after major storms.

• Remove hazardous limbs before they become full-blown emergencies.

Ignoring winter damage now = bigger, pricier problems by spring.

Myth 5: "If a Tree Has Survived Winters Before, It’s Fine"

Reality:

Every winter is different. Age, past droughts, pests, hidden root damage — all pile up quietly.

• Yesterday’s strong tree could be today’s liability.

• Past survival doesn’t guarantee future performance.

Correct Move:

• Regularly inspect even mature trees.

• Watch for signs of stress like early needle/leaf loss, sudden leaning, or deep bark cracks.

Winter is no time to play the "it’ll probably be fine" game.

Quick Winter Tree Care Tips That Actually Work

• Mulch smart: 2-4 inches of mulch protects roots from deep freezes.

• Prune safely: Remove dead/damaged limbs before storms hit.

• Brace young trees: Proper staking prevents uprooting.

• Inspect after storms: Catch damage early.

• Know when to call a pro: Emergency tree services exist for a reason.

Following real advice beats homemade hacks every time.

FAQs About Winter Tree Care in Pennsylvania

Is it ever safe to knock ice off trees?
No. Ice needs to melt naturally. Knocking it off usually causes more harm than good.

When should I wrap trees for winter?
Only sensitive or very young trees, using breathable material like burlap.

Do trees still need watering in January?
If there's a warm spell and the ground thaws, young or newly planted trees might need a deep drink.

How do I know if a winter-damaged tree needs removal?
Large cracks, leaning, or major bark splitting are big red flags. Get a professional inspection.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Winter Myths Wreck Your Trees

There’s a lot of bad tree advice floating around out there once the snow starts falling. Knowing the difference between real tree care and "that sounds like a good idea" can save you thousands in storm damage repairs.

Your trees deserve better than Internet rumors and half-baked ideas.

When in doubt, trust proven strategies — and when you spot real trouble, trust the experts.

Worried about winter tree damage?
Visit Precision Tree Experts to schedule a winter tree inspection or emergency service today!