Winter can be a tough time for plants and they run a risk of drying out. Plant roots cannot absorb water from the soil when the ground freezes and they are forced to use water stored in their leaves and stems. This situation can be dangerous for shrubs and evergreens, which are unable to lose their leaves/needles during winter.
Anti-desiccants are made particularly for this problem. If your tree needs extra protection during the winter, it might be wise to consider using them.
What are Anti-desiccants?
Also known as “anti-transpirants,” anti-desiccant sprays reduce wasted water by coating evergreen trees’ leaves and needles with a protective layer. Some anti-desiccants are made with chemical polymers, but others are made with more natural ingredients (like pine oil).
One application should get a tree through a moderately cold winter. Harsher temperatures, however, may require you to apply the spray twice (most likely in December and again a few months later).
Anti-desiccants wear away as the months pass. These sprays are advertised as biodegradable, but check the ingredients list to determine the safest choice for your plants.
Using Anti-desiccants
Commonly, anti-desiccants are used on broadleaf evergreens (azaleas, boxwoods, hollies), conifers (cedars, junipers, pines), or tender stems (hydrangea, rose cane). The spray bottle instructions should help you understand how to apply the products, but here are some tips:
- Temperature. Anti-desiccants should be applied at a temperature of 40-50 degrees with no rain or precipitation. It should be applied while leaves are dry to help the spray dry.
- Timing. You can damage your plants if you do not allow a little time to elapse after warm months and before spraying. Make sure the plants are dormant before using the anti-desiccant, to avoid trapping water in the leaves.
- Thoroughness. Spray the plant completely. Plants lose water from top to bottom.
Anti-desiccants could be a friend to trees and shrubs during the winter season. Bolster your plants for the rough winter with the guidance of Dave Lund Tree Services. Take advantage of our 36 years of experience by calling 1-800-363-0511.