

What does it take to withstand winter's wrath? Douglas fir trees are particularly versatile and able to grow in the utmost northern U.S. and into Canada.

Plant Winter-Resistant Trees to Combat the Season

December 16, 2014

For some of us, winter landscapes are rather bleak. All we can see from the windows of our cozy homes are colorless lawns, gray skies and bare tree canopies.

We’ve lost the shade from summer and the bright foliage hues from fall. But are your trees missing anything other than leaves in winter?

Certain trees are not able to survive subzero temperatures, frosted grounds and dangling icicles. However, depending on the region in which you live, other trees don’t even flinch at the arrival of winter’s wrath. Read below to find out which trees are hearty enough to survive the winter season:

Northern U.S. and Canada:

If you live in the northern or mid-Atlantic U.S. or Canada, you’re no stranger to freezing winters. Make sure you have the right trees planted that can make it through the harsh season.

  1. Eastern hemlock. This tree can handle it all, as it can grow in northern parts of Canada, northern U.S. states and into the mid-Atlantic region. Eastern hemlocks can tolerate heavy snowfall and frosts.
  2. Douglas fir. These trees are very versatile, tolerating multiple sun exposures and various soil conditions. Douglas firs can grow in the utmost northern states in the U.S. and into Canada.
  3. Kentucky coffee. This tree is not worried about drought or frost and is very versatile. Kentucky coffee trees can grow in Canada and almost any region of the U.S.

Southern U.S.

Although the southern U.S. typically does not experience winters like the north and Canada, there is still the occasional temperature drop, frost or snowfall. Be sure to plant trees that can tolerate a not-so-typical southern winter, just in case Mother Nature strikes.

  1. Needle palm. When you think of palm trees, you probably picture them on a beach and not in a snowstorm. But the needle palm can handle deep winter freezes and subzero temperatures. Yet, they are typically found in Texas, California and Florida.
  2. Sugar maple. These tough trees can tolerate anything from hot, humid weather to cold, frosty climates. In the case of an unusual, southern frost, the sugar maple would have no problem.
  3. Black walnut. This tree can grow anywhere from the northern U.S. to the south. The black walnut is a manageable tree for various soils, full sun exposure and it’s medium in size.

If you happen to have trees planted that may not be so winter-resistant, check out our complete winter resource center or download our winter checklist to help them have healthy, happy winter.

Do you know if your trees are hearty enough to withstand winter? Contact your local, professionally trained Davey arborist for a free consultation.

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