Autumn is not only the time to harvest and prepare plants for winter, but also the time to protect trees from adverse conditions. Some gardeners neglect whitewashing trees, forgetting that it plays an important role in protecting the bark and buds from frost, sun and pests, said experienced gardener Veronica Polivkina in her Zen channel “Vegetable garden with Veronica Polivkina” (16+).
Why apply whitewash to tree trunks in the fall:
- Prevents sunburn of frozen bark, which can occur in winter under bright sun.
- Reduces the negative impact of sudden temperature changes, which can lead to cracks in the bark.
- Destroys and repels some pests that hibernate under the bark.
- Thanks to the disinfecting properties of lime and additives, it prevents fungal and bacterial diseases.
Garden whitewash recipe with additives:
- Slaked lime 1 kg
- Water 3–4 l
- PVA glue or drying oil 50–100 g (they can be replaced with laundry soap, since the glue creates a film that prevents the wood from breathing).
- Copper sulfate 50 g (can be replaced with ash or iron sulfate).
How to make the solution correctly:
- Dissolve the lime in water, stirring thoroughly until smooth.
- Add PVA glue or drying oil to improve the adhesion of the whitewash to the bark.
- Add copper sulfate to prevent disease.
- Let the solution sit for a while and stir before applying.
How to apply to trees:
- Carry out work in dry, windless weather.
- Use a brush or paint roller to evenly coat the trunks and lower skeletal branches of the trees.
- Treat trunks from the root collar to the first skeletal branches.
- For young trees, cover the entire bark, and for adults, cover only the trunk to a height of 1.5–2 meters.
What to pay attention to:
- Re-whitewash in early spring for additional protection against sunburn.
- Do not apply too thick a layer, as this may make it difficult for the bark to breathe and cause it to retain moisture.
- Plan whitewashing on days without frost so that the solution does not freeze on the brush and is easily applied to the surface.
