Broadleaf evergreen shrubs like rhododendrons, hollies, and boxwoods add beauty and greenery to the winter landscape. Come spring, many homeowners are alarmed to see brown, scorched-looking leaves and damaged foliage. What happened? In many cases, the culprit is winter burn—a common but preventable form of cold-weather stress.
What is winter burn?
Winter burn is a form of winter injury that primarily affects broadleaf evergreens. It occurs when plants lose more moisture through their leaves than they can replace through their roots—especially during cold, windy weather when the ground is frozen and water uptake is minimal. The symptoms of winter burn can be exasperated following a year of drought stress, which New England experienced a significant drought in 2024. Think of it like going on a marathon run and not having eaten properly the night before. You have no energy stores to get you through the race.
The damage is done, what do I do now?
If your plants are damaged, delay pruning until late spring. Plants may still produce new growth despite appearing affected. Observe other plants and shrubs in your area for signs of new growth before deciding to prune or remove your shrubs. Additionally, you can conduct a bend test: gently bend the younger branches of your shrub. If the branch snaps, it is likely dead. If it bends, there is potential for new growth in the coming weeks.
Why do other Rhododendrons look better than mine?
It comes down to proper care and location. If your rhododendrons are in full sun on a south or west facing façade, they will struggle. They prefer shade and protection from harsh winter winds.
Options to protect your evergreen shrubs:
- You can cover your shrubs with burlap to reduce desiccation.
- Implement wind breaks, such as fencing.
- Consult your arborist about early winter treatments to reduce desiccation.
- During drought periods from late summer to fall, water your shrubs until the ground freezes. However, be cautious, as overwatering can cause issues such as root rot
- Speak with an arborist about specific treatments to improve vigor in the spring and fall
Consulting an arborist about site conditions can help determine the appropriate care for the location.
