Protecting plants, trees and shrubs during winter months - WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and Sports

MADISON (WKOW) -- Homeowners should think about the best ways to protect their plants, trees and shrubs from snow, ice, winds and freezing temperatures.

Here are a few tips:

Remove Broken Limbs.  If a limb breaks due to snow, ice and wind, have it removed as soon as weather permits; it will help the tree or shrub heal better as the warmer temperatures approach. Damaged trees are more prone to disease.

Never Shake Branches. Homeowners should gently brush off snow.  Shaking the limbs may break them. Use hands to scoop the snow away from plants to protect them from settling snow. 

Minimize Salt Damage. Salt and melting agents for snow and ice can damage plants and trees by drawing water away from their roots.  Get rid of extra salt by flushing the soil out with plenty of water.  

Watch Out for Winter Warm Spells. If plants are covered with burlap or other wrappings, consider ventilating them during the day and re-covering them at night.

Becky Kielstrup, landscaping professional, joins Wake Up Wisconsin Weekend to give us more easy tips to keep your plants, trees and shrubs healthy during the winter.

Click here for more information.