From
now until this spring, you may start noticing a few evergreen trees
turning brown. This is generally caused by winter desiccation -- the
drying out or loss of water from plant tissue such as twigs &
needles. This is the main reason for "winter kill" here in Montana. All
trees give off water year-round. Water loss in winter is a special
problem for evergreens.
In late winter, the wind can also cause desiccation of foliage. To
slow water loss, one thing we can do this time of year is to apply a
product called an anti-desiccant spray. Typically, this waxy-looking
material is mixed with water and sprayed onto the branches. It applies
a thin coating over the branches or needles so the plant loses less
water. This can really help newly planted trees.
For more information on protecting evergreens in the winter, click here.
