While trees and shrubs may appear dormant during winter, the cold season plays a crucial role in their health and spring growth. Although dormancy helps plants survive harsh conditions, prolonged cold, late frosts, and sudden temperature swings can disrupt their natural cycles and impact their vitality when warmer weather returns. Many homeowners wonder, “Does cold weather affect plant growth?” The answer is yes—cold temperatures influence plant health in several ways. Understanding these effects can help you recognize signs of winter damage and take steps to support recovery in the spring.

Winter Damage to New Spring Growth

Winter-related damage often becomes apparent in spring when trees and shrubs begin budding. If temperatures drop sharply just as new growth is developing, it can result in stunted shoots, damaged leaves, or even plant dieback. Deciduous trees may have buds that fail to open or leaves that emerge inconsistently. Flowering shrubs could display fewer blooms or blossoms that wilt prematurely. If a plant cannot complete a full growth cycle, its overall health may decline, making it more vulnerable to disease and environmental stressors.

Disrupting Dormancy

Trees and shrubs depend on dormancy to withstand winter, but unseasonal warm spells can trick them into breaking dormancy too early. If they begin growing prematurely and another cold snap occurs, this tender new growth is highly susceptible to frost damage. To help stabilize soil temperatures and prevent premature dormancy breaks, applying a layer of mulch around the root zone in late fall can serve as insulation, reducing the impact of extreme fluctuations.

Impact on Nutrient Absorption

Cold weather affects plant growth by limiting root function. Even in winter, roots must absorb moisture and nutrients to support future growth. However, frozen ground can restrict this process, leading to deficiencies at a critical time. When plants enter spring with depleted resources, their growth and flowering potential suffer. To mitigate this, ensuring proper hydration before the ground freezes can help trees and shrubs store the necessary nutrients. The health of a plant in early spring often depends on how well its roots maintained nutrient absorption throughout the winter months.

Other Common Winter Damage to Trees and Shrubs

Cold weather can cause visible physical damage to plants, including:

• Frost Cracks – Rapid temperature drops can cause bark to contract too quickly, leading to splits in the trunk.
• Sunscald – Winter sun exposure can overheat tree bark during the day, only for temperatures to plummet at night, damaging cells and leading to peeling or discolored bark.
• Winterburn – Evergreens can lose moisture faster than they can absorb it from frozen ground, resulting in dry, brown foliage.
• Salt Damage – De-icing salt can be harmful if absorbed by the soil or if it comes into direct contact with branches and foliage, leading to browning and dieback.
• Snow & Ice Breakage – Heavy snow and ice accumulation can weigh down branches, increasing the risk of breakage.

Protecting Your Landscape from Winter Stress

Taking proactive steps in the fall can help trees and shrubs withstand the challenges of winter. Proper watering, mulching, and structural pruning can minimize damage and improve resilience. Additionally, consulting with a certified arborist can provide guidance on how to prepare your landscape for winter and address any concerns about potential damage.

While winter conditions can be unpredictable, thoughtful care and preparation will set your plants up for a strong and healthy spring recovery. Reach out to us to learn more and protect your outdoors!