Q: Walking through my neighborhood, I see many trees wrapped with white paper. What is the purpose of the wrap?

A: Tree wraps, as they are commonly called, are used to protect young trees with thin bark from sunscald during the winter. Also called “southwest injury”, sunscald occurs when daytime temperatures reach well-above freezing, and nighttime temperatures drop below freezing. The change in temperature causes tree cells to come out of dormancy and become active during the day. When the temperature drops below freezing, the active cells are killed. Sunscald injury can result in sunken or discolored patches, splitting and/or peeling bark. A good rule of thumb is to wrap the trees in late November (Thanksgiving) and remove the wrap in early spring (Easter). Leaving on the wrap can cause girdling and stress to the tree. A young tree may need to be wrapped for several years until the bark has thickened to withstand irregular winter temperatures.

Q: I am nervous to buy bare root plants. Do they really grow?

A: Yes! Bare root plants are often less expensive than container or balled-and-burlapped plants, and an excellent way to plant shrubs, trees and roses in the home landscape. Bare root plants are only available in early spring, and they must be purchased and planted before the plants leaf-out. Before planting a bare root plant, be sure to soak the roots 12-24 hours. A good soaking ensures proper root hydration.

Q: Are wound dressings necessary if I just pruned my tree?

A: No, research has proven that wound dressings can actually prevent healthy healing from a pruning cut and are no longer recommended. Covering the pruning wound impedes the forming of callus tissue. When you prune, make sure you make the final pruning cut outside of the branch collar, a slight swelling at the base of the branch.

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This page updated:  May 26, 2006