How to Help Your Trees and Perennials Recover After a Low-Snow Winter
In Calgary, winter snowfall is often a key factor in protecting trees and perennials from harsh conditions. Snow acts as a natural insulator, shielding roots from extreme cold and providing essential moisture as it melts in the spring. But what happens when winter brings little to no snow? Dry, exposed soil, fluctuating temperatures, and increased stress can make it harder for your plants to thrive when spring arrives.
If your yard has suffered through a dry winter, here are some steps you can take to help your trees and perennials bounce back.
1. Start Watering Early if there’s low-snow
One of the biggest challenges after a low-snow winter is dry soil. Without a snowpack to melt and provide moisture, trees and perennials may struggle with dehydration as soon as the weather warms up.
- As soon as the ground thaws, start deep watering your trees and shrubs.
- Give perennials a slow, deep soak to replenish lost moisture.
- Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to ensure water reaches the roots rather than just wetting the surface.
This early watering is essential to prevent drought stress and encourage strong spring growth.
2. Mulch to Retain Moisture
A good layer of mulch can help your trees and perennials retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Apply 2–4 inches of organic mulch (like shredded bark, wood chips, or compost) around the base of trees and flower beds.
- Keep mulch a few inches away from tree trunks to prevent rot and pest issues.
- Replenish old mulch that may have broken down over the winter.
Mulch helps the soil stay damp for longer, reducing the need for frequent watering.
3. Prune with Care After Low-Snow
Winter can be tough on trees and perennials, especially if they’ve been exposed to extreme cold without the insulating benefit of snow. Check for signs of winter damage:
- For trees: Look for dead, broken, or diseased branches and remove them to encourage new growth.
- For perennials: Trim back any winter-killed stems but wait until new growth emerges to see what is still alive.
Proper pruning will help plants direct energy into healthy new growth rather than struggling with damaged branches or stems.
4. Fertilize Wisely
After a tough winter, your trees and perennials may need a nutrient boost to encourage strong spring growth. However, fertilizing too soon or too aggressively can do more harm than good.
- Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide steady nutrients over time.
- Choose a balanced fertilizer for perennials, or one high in phosphorus to promote root growth.
- For trees, a deep-root fertilization treatment can help replenish lost nutrients.
If you’re unsure about fertilization, SuperYards can help assess your soil and recommend the right treatment for your yard. SuperYards is the expert in lawn care Calgary trusts.
5. Watch for Signs of Stress
Trees and perennials may take longer to wake up after a winter with little snow. Keep an eye out for warning signs such as:
- Wilting or drooping leaves (a sign of dehydration)
- Slow or stunted growth
- Browning or dying branches
- Cracks in tree bark (which may indicate sunscald from winter exposure)
Catching these issues early gives you a better chance of helping your plants recover before summer arrives.
Let SuperYards Help Your Yard Thrive
After a low-snow winter, your trees and perennials need extra care to bounce back. SuperYards offers expert tree and garden maintenance services in Calgary, ensuring your plants get the attention they need. Whether it’s deep watering, mulching, pruning, or fertilizing, we’re here to help your yard stay healthy and beautiful all season long.
Contact SuperYards today to book a spring maintenance service and give your yard the best possible start to the growing season!