Tree bark is the tree’s first defense. Much like our skin protects our organs, bark helps protect a tree’s vital inner layers from insects, diseases, and other physical damage.
Winter elements, like wind, temperature swings, and salt exposure, can threaten bark integrity. With harsh New England winters, trees in Massachusetts are susceptible to winter bark damage.
Common Causes of Bark Damage in Winter
Tree bark splitting in winter is caused by several weather-related conditions, including:
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles – Warm winter days followed by freezing nights can cause bark to expand and contract, causing tree frost cracks. This is especially common when the tree bark is in full sun in the late afternoon with a deep temperature plunge at night.
- Sunscald – Sunscald on trees occurs when bark warms in the winter sun, then suddenly freezes. It’s most common for young trees or thin-barked trees like maples and birches, and is often seen on the southwest side of tree trunks since that’s the area that gets the most sun.
- Road Salts & Deicing Chemicals – Salt damage on younger trees near roads, sidewalks, or driveways happens when salt spray from plow trucks dries out and kills bark cells. Road salt can also cause needle damage on evergreens and root damage. Watch out for discolored bark and delayed bud break in the spring.
- Damage from Pests – Deer rubbing, porcupine chewing on upper limbs, and squirrels stripping the bark from smaller trees can cause bark damage.
Tree Species Most at Risk in Massachusetts
Any tree species can be affected by tree bark splitting in winter, but some are more susceptible than others. The trees most at-risk include:
- Thin-barked trees like birches, maples, and beeches
- Young or newly planted trees without extra protection
- Trees near streets or other surfaces that are regularly de-iced
- Tall, narrow trees or ornamental trees with exposed trunks
How to Help Prevent Bark Damage in Winter
The good news is that, with the right tools and methods, you can protect trees from winter damage. Here are some winter tree protection tips:
- Tree Wraps or Guards – Wraps can help protect young or newly planted trees from sunscald, frost cracks, and other winter tree damage. Use breathable material to prevent moisture build-up, and apply from the base upwards, overlapping each layer by one-third. It’s best to apply wraps before winter weather hits and remove them in early spring. Windbreaks or sunblock cloths can help protect young ornamentals from wind damage and sunscald.
- Strategic Planting for Protection – Select native, cold-hardy tree species sourced from a similar climate that can withstand ice, wind, and cold. Avoid planting salt-sensitive trees near roadways or other areas where de-icing agents are used, and position trees to minimize exposure to intense late-afternoon sun to avoid sunscald.
- Mulching – While it doesn’t seem directly related to tree bark health, healthy roots support bark repair. Make sure to avoid volcano mulching when applying.
What to Do If You Notice Bark Damage
Bark injury in New England winters can cause vertical cracks, peeling bark, and discolored streaks. If you spot any of these symptoms, contact your local certified arborist for inspection.
Some symptoms of tree frost cracks or sunscald on trees don’t appear until spring or even years after damage, requiring long-term monitoring and care once the season changes. If you notice bark damage, avoid removing the bark yourself and let a certified arborist inspect the wound to check if it’s already sealing off damage.
Don’t Ignore Winter’s Hidden Tree Damage
Proactive measures, like mid-winter tree inspections, can prevent long-term structural issues. A certified arborist has the knowledge and expertise to spot bark injury or other winter damage before they cause further issues.
Concerned about frost cracks or bark damage? At Hartney Greymont, we have ISA- and Massachusetts-certified arborists in Needham, Concord, Danvers, Cape Cod, and the surrounding areas who can assess and protect your trees this winter.
FAQ: Winter Tree Bark Damage
The freeze-thaw cycles of winter can cause trees to expand and contract, causing frost cracks or bark splitting. Some tree species, like silver maples and shagbark hickory trees, will naturally go from smooth bark to a more platy and flaky bark as they age.
Road salt and other de-icing agents can dry out tree bark and kill bark cells, causing discoloration and other damage. Read more about how to prevent salt damage to your trees here.
Tree bark protects a tree’s inner layers from pests and diseases. Damage to tree bark compromises this protective barrier, leaving trees more susceptible to damage. While minor bark damage can heal on its own, major cracks or widespread peeling can cause significant damage. Contact your local arborist to inspect the damage and see if action is needed.
Anti-desiccant sprays can be tricky to use. While using one won’t harm your evergreen, getting good coverage can be difficult, and repeat applications are usually required.
GET YOUR TREES READY FOR WINTER
