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How do I protect new trees from Chinook winds?

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Calgary’s climate is unlike any other in Canada. While Chinook winds can bring welcome warmth during winter, they also pose a serious threat to newly planted trees. Sudden temperature swings, high winds, and dry air can damage or even kill young trees before they establish strong root systems.


If you’ve recently planted trees in your Calgary yard, protecting them from Chinook stress is essential. This guide covers practical steps, based on science and industry best practices, to safeguard your investment. And when in doubt, Evergreen LTD’s ISA-certified arborists are here to help.


Why Chinook Winds Are Hard on Young Trees

Chinook winds can raise temperatures by 20°C or more within hours, creating dangerous freeze-thaw cycles. New trees are especially vulnerable to:

  • Winter desiccation – Dry winds pull moisture from buds and needles

  • Sunscald and frost cracking – Warm sun followed by freezing nights splits bark

  • Windthrow and root movement – High gusts dislodge trees before roots are secure


These issues can significantly impact long-term tree health, or cause failure within the first year.


1. Choose Hardy Trees Suited to Calgary’s Climate

The most effective way to reduce risk from Chinooks is to plant species that are built for Calgary's conditions (Zone 3). Reliable, resilient choices include:

  • Amur Maple (Acer ginnala) – Compact and drought-tolerant

  • Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) – Strong wood, adaptable to poor soils

  • Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) – Durable and wind-resistant evergreen


Calgary-native or prairie-adapted species tolerate rapid temperature swings, dry conditions, and wind exposure better than exotic or tender varieties.


Need help selecting the right tree? Contact Evergreen LTD for expert planting recommendations based on your site conditions.



2. Mulch to Protect Roots and Retain Moisture

Apply 5–10 cm of organic mulch (like wood chips or bark) around the base of new trees. Extend mulch out to the drip line but avoid piling it against the trunk.


Mulch provides key benefits during Chinook conditions:

  • Insulates roots from temperature fluctuations

  • Retains soil moisture when the ground is frozen

  • Reduces surface evaporation caused by warm winds


Evergreen LTD can install proper mulch rings during planting or as part of a fall maintenance service.


3. Deep Watering in Late Fall Is Crucial

Before the ground freezes, give your new trees a slow, deep watering, especially in October and early November.


Why it matters:

  • Keeps roots hydrated during dry winter winds

  • Reduces the risk of winter dieback and needle browning

  • Helps trees enter dormancy in a healthy state


If you’re not sure how much or how often to water, Evergreen LTD offers fall tree care packages that ensure your young trees are winter-ready.


4. Wrap the Trunk to Prevent Sunscald and Cracks

Chinooks can cause frost cracks and sunscald, especially on the southwest side of young tree trunks. To prevent this:

  • Use white tree wrap or burlap from late fall to early spring

  • Wrap from just above the soil to the first branches

  • Remove the wrap in early April


Tree wraps reflect sunlight and reduce bark temperature swings, which is critical for young or thin-barked trees like maples.



5. Set Up Windbreaks for Protection

If your trees are exposed to open areas or high winds, consider installing temporary windbreaks:

  • Snow fencing or burlap screens

  • Strategic shrub plantings as long-term shelter

  • Wooden or mesh barriers staked around the tree


Windbreaks reduce evapotranspiration and wind speed, both of which are critical for preventing desiccation in young trees.



6. Stake Only When Necessary, Then Remove

While staking can help stabilize trees in high-wind areas, improper or prolonged staking can hinder development. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Use flexible, soft ties, not wire or rope

  • Allow the trunk some sway for stronger growth

  • Remove stakes after the first growing season


ISA guidelines recommend minimal, temporary staking only when wind exposure is a known issue. If you’re unsure how to do this safely, Evergreen LTD can stake and monitor young trees for optimal health.


Don’t Let Chinooks Undo Your Hard Work

Chinook winds are part of life in Calgary, but they don’t have to spell disaster for your young trees. By choosing the right species, preparing in fall, and using mulch, wraps, and windbreaks, you can greatly increase your tree’s survival rate.


Evergreen LTD’s ISA-certified arborists are your local experts for Calgary tree care. We understand the climate and how to protect your landscape investment from the region’s toughest conditions.


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