Protecting Utah Trees from Winter Damage

Experts share tips to combat browning, cracking, and wildlife threats to trees and shrubs during the cold season

Feb. 5, 2026 at 8:23pm

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Winter weather in Utah can take a toll on trees and shrubs, causing issues like leaf/needle browning, trunk cracking, and wildlife damage. Experts advise taking preventative steps like deep fall irrigation, using antidesiccant sprays, wrapping young tree trunks, and installing protective barriers to combat these common winter problems and help plants emerge healthier in spring.

Why it matters

Utah's cold, dry winters pose unique challenges for the state's trees and shrubs. Understanding the types of winter damage and how to mitigate them is crucial for homeowners and landscapers to maintain the health and longevity of their plants.

The details

One major issue is leaf or needle browning in evergreens, caused by frozen soil preventing roots from replacing moisture lost through foliage. Deeply irrigating plants before freeze-up and using antidesiccant sprays can help. Rapid temperature swings can also crack trunks and limbs, while winter sun can lead to sunscald damage. Wrapping young tree trunks provides protection. Wildlife like deer, rabbits, and voles frequently feed on bark when food is scarce, so exclusion fencing or mesh is recommended.

  • During extended dry periods in winter, additional irrigation may be needed, particularly for newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials.
  • Wrap the trunks of young trees with fabric tree wrap in the fall and remove it in spring, continuing this until the tree develops thick, corky bark.

The players

Utah State University Extension

Provides fact sheets on managing damage from various wildlife common to Utah landscapes.

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The takeaway

By taking proactive steps like deep fall watering, using protective wraps and sprays, and installing barriers against wildlife, Utah homeowners and landscapers can help their trees and shrubs withstand the challenges of winter and emerge healthier in spring.