Advices for winter time
Tree liming
Whitewashing the stem of a tree will protect it from overheating during sunny days and hence will prevent the tree from starting its vegetation too early. When exposed to prolonged heat in winter the tree starts producing resin juices which freeze when temperature drops below zero. This causes the tree branches to explode and break. This greatly reduces productive capabilities of a tree. When liming, MAROLEX sprayers are an essential tool, especially the PROFESSION PLUS sprayer. This model is equipped for use with thick liquids such as lime solution, water based paints, as well as herbicides and pesticides. This device is a perfect solution for those on a budget. Every gardener or farmer should have a tool like that in their possession.
Plant protection
Neglected gardens require additional care. Use of anti fungal solutions in increased concentration is recommended. It is important to apply this treatment before buds start to appear. This will save them from being burned.
Other suggestions
Fruit trees and shrubs should not be the only concern in our garden. Decorative plants also need to be taken care of. Coniferous trees are a beautiful decoration of our winter garden. They are specifically exposed to large snowfall that causes their branches to snap and break. Tying them up to the main stem will prevent that from happening.
Pruning and forming
The February-March period is the best stage for plants to undergo pruning and overall cosmetic cuts. They should be performed just before buds start appearing but well after coldest days are over. Pruning:
- ensures that a new tree will evolve into a well-shaped tree and bear the most fruit
- enables the tree to receive the most sunlight
- allows for moisture to stay in the tree for as long as possible
- removes unnecessary sprouts that will not bear any fruit
- limits excessive growth that is not always acceptable for fruit trees
The above guidelines are rather harsh and should mostly be applied to all apple trees as opposed to plum, orange or cherry which need to be dealt with more delicately. They are susceptible to all diseases that spread through cuts and open wounds. Only diseased and excessive sprouts should be removed. During the same period all shrubs should be also pruned. Old and diseased sprouts need to be removed. All blackcurrant cuts need to be made on a ground level which ensures that new branches will be strong and productive. Red and white currant sprouts are only shortened by half. All raspberry sprouts that are older than two years need to be removed as well. It is extremely important to protect bigger cut areas from diseases and excessive heat by applying special healing paste or paint.
