How to check if a tree is frozen in winter: a reliable method
The main “insulating” material for trees in winter is nothing other than snow.
If the cold season is snowless, the likelihood that plants, especially those that were planted 1-2 years ago, will not survive increases significantly.
To check if frost has caused damage, use this tried and true method.
To do this, cut off half of a 1-3 year old branch using pruning shears and carefully examine the cut.
If it is green, it means that the tree has survived the harsh winter without any damage.
In the case when the cut has a slightly brown tint, almost brown, then this is a sign that the tree has frozen. But it has a chance to recover.
Fertilizing in spring and summer will help bring the seedling back to life.
A dark brown or black cut in 80% of cases, unfortunately, indicates that the tree is dead. To be sure, you should dig up the tree and examine the roots.
The same shade of the root system indicates that the plant can no longer be helped. If the roots are alive, dig the tree back in, cut off the frost-damaged shoots and add fertilizer – perhaps the “operation” will be successful.
