New England is sunny and warm one day, cloudy and freezing twenty-four hours later.  These extreme rapid temperature drops, combined with a lack of moisture, cause severe damage to the trees.  Plants and trees struggle to find enough moisture during the drought of cold winter months.   The extremely dry conditions can cause foliage to become crisp, turn brown, and die off. 

 

Another major winter concern for the trees is frost cracks.  Frost cracks can happen in trees if the bark has been warmed by the sun right before a severe temperature drop.  The most common sign of frost cracks is when the tree bark is split open exposing the layers underneath to the harsh New England elements.  In the late winter and early spring, overnight frost may be damaging to all plants and trees.  Frostbite will appear on the plants and trees as black buds or leaves.

It is important to be aware of possible winter tree damage to keep your trees, plants, and property safe.