WINTER IS NO TIME to hibernate on your fruit trees! Though they may be dormant, they still need your tender loving care to make it through the winter in prime condition for coming seasons.
Embrace Dormancy
Dormancy, that deep slumber for trees, is their way of toughening up against the cold. But coaxing them into this snooze in our mild Texas winters is no easy feat. Avoid waking them prematurely with excess water or early pruning; most dormant trees need very little moisture during winter.
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Leaf Drop and Branch Bathing
As leaves fall, we witness nature's grand unveiling. We see all the tree trunks and branches, their relationships with landscape features, and we have better access to parts of trees that need our attention. Plus, we get so many sunny winter days— perfect for observing and spending quality time outside caring for fruit trees.
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Fruit Removal and Orchard Cleanup
Bid adieu to immature fruits sapping the tree's energy. Also remove any dead or misshapen "fruit mummies" still clinging on—these can be an open invite to pests and disease. And remember to pick up fallen fruit. A clean orchard floor is a great defense against unwanted guests.
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Tag and Stake Check
Tags shouldn't strangle your tree's growth. And sun-worn labels? Swap them out for sustainable tags to track fruit tree info accurately. If tied to a stake, make sure the tree isn’t constricted.
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Organic Armor Spray
Combat pests hiding in bark and buds with neem oil spray. In late winter, safeguard against fungal foes with copper fungicide, which also strengthens new growth against frost damage. Apply them alternately and separately, and during the evening to protect your trees and their beneficial insect pals.
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Mulching for Root Care
Missed out on mulching in fall? Get it done now to protect roots from freezes and to prep them for the Texas heat ahead.
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Well-Timed Pruning
Timing is key for pruning. Early snips could trigger premature growth, making your tree vulnerable to damage and freeze. Aim for mid-February in Central Texas, but keep an eye on the weather forecast. Ideally, try to prune before buds finish swelling and before bud break to direct energy where you want it to grow.
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Loving the "Off Season"
Winter isn't a snooze for fruit tree lovers in Central Texas—it's preparation time! Get ready for spring plantings and invite Figbeard along to share expert advice on your edible landscape dreams.
(www.figgyb.com/) ❦
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© Figbeard 2024. Licensed for reproduction and distribution via the Austin Gardener email newsletter for January, 2024. All other rights reserved.
