Protecting Evergreens From Winter Burn

By Emma Johnson · October 11, 2026

What Causes Winter Burn

Winter burn (desiccation injury) occurs when evergreen needles or leaves lose moisture faster than frozen roots can replace it. Sunny winter days with dry wind are the worst conditions — needles photosynthesize and transpire while roots cannot absorb water from frozen soil.

Symptoms

Browning starts at needle tips and outer edges, typically on the south and west sides of the plant (most sun and wind exposure). Damage appears in late winter or early spring but the injury occurred weeks earlier.

Prevention Strategy

Deep watering in fall: Water evergreens thoroughly until ground freeze. A hydrated plant enters winter with full moisture reserves.
Anti-desiccant spray: Apply in late fall and reapply during a mid-winter thaw. Products like Wilt Pruf coat needles and reduce transpiration by 50–80%.
Wind barriers: Erect burlap screens on the windward side (typically west/northwest). Do not wrap tightly — allow air circulation.
Site selection: Avoid planting evergreens in exposed south-facing spots or near heat-reflecting surfaces (walls, pavement).

Recovery

If burn occurs, wait until spring growth begins before pruning. Brown needles may hide live buds underneath. Scratch the bark — green tissue means the branch is alive and will re-leaf.

Protecting Evergreens From Winter Burn

What Causes Winter Burn

Symptoms

Prevention Strategy

Recovery

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