How to Spot Winter Damage on Your Trees This Spring

Spring has finally arrived in Northwest Indiana! As the snow melts and the days grow longer, it's time to take a close look at your trees and see how they weathered the harsh winter months. While trees are remarkably resilient, our local winters can leave behind hidden damage that isn’t always visible at first glance. Freezing temperatures, heavy snow, icy winds, and salt exposure can all stress your trees, sometimes with lasting effects.

Early detection is the best way to prevent small issues from turning into major problems. Here’s what to watch for as you inspect your trees this spring — and what steps to take if you spot trouble.

1. Frost Cracks

Frost cracks are long, vertical splits in the bark, typically running along the trunk. They form when daytime sun warms the tree’s bark, only for nighttime temperatures to plummet, causing the outer bark to contract too quickly. This stress can result in visible cracking.

You’ll most often find frost cracks on the south or southwest side of the tree, as these areas get the most direct winter sun.

What to do:While many trees can naturally seal over minor frost cracks, deep splits create entry points for pests and diseases. Keep an eye on the affected area through the growing season. If you notice signs of oozing sap, fungal growth, or insect activity, call in a certified arborist for an evaluation.

2. Salt Damage

In areas where salt was heavily used to de-ice roads and sidewalks, trees can suffer from salt exposure through both soil absorption and spray from passing vehicles. Salt essentially pulls moisture away from tree roots and tissues, leading to symptoms like:

Browning or scorching of needles and leaves
Wilting or drooping branches
Stunted or underdeveloped buds

Salt damage is especially common on trees planted near busy streets or driveways.

What to do:In early spring, thoroughly water the soil around affected trees to help flush salt deposits out of the root zone. Adding organic mulch can also help retain soil moisture and buffer against further stress. For the future, consider installing physical barriers like burlap screens or snow fences to protect vulnerable trees during winter storms.

3. Broken or Hanging Branches

Even if you cleared fallen limbs after winter storms, there may still be hidden damage in your canopy. Heavy snow and ice can weaken branches without breaking them completely. Look up and check for:

Cracks at branch junctions
Branches that appear sagging or out of alignment
Dead or leafless limbs this spring while the rest of the tree leafs out

What to do:Prompt pruning is essential to remove hazardous limbs and reduce further damage. Clean cuts made by a professional arborist will heal more effectively and lower the risk of decay. Plus, a well-timed spring pruning can encourage healthier growth moving into the growing season.

4. Winter Burn (Desiccation)

Evergreens and broadleaf evergreens, like boxwoods and arborvitae, are especially vulnerable to winter burn. During winter, these trees lose moisture through their needles or leaves faster than their roots can absorb it from frozen ground. This results in browning, yellowing, or even reddening of foliage.

What to do:Prune out dead or severely damaged branches in early spring. Water your evergreens deeply to help them rehydrate and recover. For prevention next winter, consider applying an anti-desiccant spray and ensure your trees are well-watered going into the cold months.

5. Delayed Bud Break

If a tree is unusually late to leaf out in the spring, it could be a sign that the buds were damaged during winter freezes. Some species naturally leaf out later than others, but if one tree looks significantly behind its neighbors, pay attention.

What to do: Give the tree some time — sometimes, they just need a bit more warmth to push out new growth. However, if you continue to see sparse leafing, brittle twigs, or dieback, schedule a professional assessment. Fertilization and care might encourage recovery, but in some cases, the damage could be extensive enough to require pruning or removal.

Don’t Let Winter Damage Go Unchecked

Catching winter damage early can make all the difference between a tree that recovers beautifully and one that declines through the season. Spring is the perfect time to evaluate your trees, address injuries, and set them up for a healthy year ahead.

At NWI ArborCare, we specialize in tree health evaluations and risk assessments, helping homeowners and property managers protect their landscapes. If you spot any of the issues above — or just want peace of mind — our certified experts are ready to help.