Tips to protect your landscaping from snow and ice

Tips to protect your landscaping from snow and ice

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Did you know that the Salt Lake City area receives an average of 54 inches of snow every year? Though snow is just part of living in Utah, if you don’t make an effort to clean up, you run the risk of permanent damage to your trees, shrubs, outdoor lighting fixtures and even lawn.

When the weather barely rises above 30 degrees Fahrenheit, melting isn’t an option. Instead, you need to take steps to remove it. Don’t worry––we aren’t suggesting you clear your lawn like the grounds crew at Lambeau Field. But there are things you can do to minimize damage and lower your repair bill come springtime.

First, set aside some time to mark your property. One of the easiest ways to prevent snow and ice damage is to mark the edges of your driveway, walkways, flower beds and lawn. If you know where everything begins and ends, you’re less likely to run it over with a snowblower or pile a huge snowdrift on top of it. Make the process easier on yourself by using neon flags or wooden stakes and colorful string.

Second, avoid piling snow up against the trunks of small trees or shrubbery. Though this might not seem like that big of a deal, snow (and wet snow, in particular) is incredibly heavy. Letting snow collect on weak branches will cause them to snap. Snow also stresses the plant, so it may have a hard time recovering when it comes out of dormancy in the spring.

Third, avoid pruning or cutting tree branches that are covered in ice. We understand that you want to get things done and prevent further damage. However, snapping or cutting off frozen branches may damage the tree and make it more susceptible to fungi and other similar issues. Wait until all of the ice melts to do any trimming. By following these three simple tips, you can better prepare your lawn for the spring season. If you have any questions in the meantime, call us at (801) 336-4931.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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