The majestic Sequoia tree is known for its resilience, grandeur, and longevity, but when it’s young and newly planted, especially in regions with cold winters, it needs a little help getting through the fall to winter transition. If you're caring for a young sequoia, proper seasonal maintenance is essential to ensure your tree survives and thrives. At National Sequoias, we specialize in helping growers nurture their trees, no matter the season. Here's how to keep your young Sequoia strong through the colder months.
Understand Dormancy
As temperatures drop, your Sequoia will naturally go dormant. This is a good thing, it conserves energy and protects the tree from frost damage. Your goal is not to keep the tree warm, but cold and dormant. Before the first freeze, water it thoroughly to lock in moisture without encouraging new growth. During winter, make sure the pot doesn’t dry out, keep the soil consistently moist to protect the roots.
Shelter Potted Sequoia Trees in Unheated Spaces
If your Sequoia is still in a 1, 2, or 3-gallon container, place it in an unheated garage, shed, or barn for the winter. This protects the roots from freezing winds while keeping the tree dormant. Avoid heated spaces, as they may confuse the tree into waking too soon. Potted trees are especially vulnerable, so this step is critical.
Protect Planted Sequoia Trees with Wind Barriers
For Sequoias already planted in the ground, cold, dry winter winds pose the biggest threat, often causing winter tip burn, browning or dead tips. Install a simple wind block; stake fabric, like burlap or landscape cloth, a few feet around the tree to break the wind and keep out wildlife.
Color Change is Normal
Younger Sequoias might change color during winter, turning bronze in color. This is a natural response to stress, your tree is not dying. These pigments already exist in the tree and will fade as spring weather returns. Wind-protected trees are less likely to discolor, so a good wind break does this job well.
Watching Snow, Moisture, and Wildlife
Brush off heavy snow that might damage young branches. Check soil moisture periodically. If the ground isn’t frozen and the soil is dry, give the tree a light watering. Your wind barrier also helps keep animals away, but in wildlife-heavy areas, additional fencing and protection may be useful.
Grow With Us
Caring for a young Sequoia through the winter doesn’t have to be complicated but does take attention. At National Sequoias, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us for new saplings before Winter arrives, care tips, supplies, and support to help your Sequoia tree become a living legend.
