7December 2025
North Jersey winters bring freezing temperatures, harsh winds, and road salt exposure that can severely stress trees, shrubs, and perennials. For homeowners in Midland Park, Wyckoff, Waldwick, Ridgewood, and Glen Rock, prepping your landscape in late fall is essential to ensuring healthy regrowth in spring.
This guide outlines the most effective ways to protect your plants from freeze damage, tailored specifically to North Jersey’s climate and common landscape species.
Why Winter Protection Matters in North Jersey
Cold-weather stress is one of the leading causes of landscape decline in the region. Freeze–thaw cycles can heave soil, crack tree bark, and damage roots, while salt exposure dries out foliage and soil. Young trees, thin-barked species, broadleaf evergreens, and tender perennials are the most vulnerable.
QuietCare Landscaping provides winterization services designed specifically for the soils, weather patterns, and plant varieties found throughout Bergen County.
1. Mulch Around Tree Bases to Insulate Roots
Applying mulch in late fall helps stabilize soil temperatures and retain moisture. This is especially important for popular North Jersey trees such as maples, dogwoods, redbuds, cherries, and newly planted oaks.
A 2–3 inch mulch layer protects roots from freeze–thaw cycles. Be sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and rot.
2. Wrap Young Trees to Prevent Cracking and Salt Damage
Young and thin-barked trees are at risk of:
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Frost cracking
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Sunscald
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Salt injury near plowed roads and sidewalks
Species commonly needing protection in Bergen County include cherry trees, maples, beeches, and ornamental varieties. Burlap or breathable wrap shields bark from sudden temperature changes and reduces damage caused by winter winds and road salt.
3. Cut Back Perennials for Frost Protection
Many North Jersey perennials—such as hostas, coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, daylilies, asters, and sedum—benefit from being cut back after the first hard frost.
This reduces risks of:
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Snow mold
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Rot
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Overwintering pests
After cutting them back, cover the base with shredded leaves or mulched material to insulate roots through the winter.
4. Protect Shrubs and Sensitive Ornamentals
Shrubs frequently exposed to wind or winter sun can dry out or experience leaf burn. Common shrubs needing protection in this region include:
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Boxwoods
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Hydrangeas (especially big leaf varieties)
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Azaleas and rhododendrons
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Japanese holly
Burlap wind screens or wraps can reduce moisture loss, while mulch at the base helps moderate soil temperature.
5. Professional Winter Protection Services for North Jersey Landscapes
QuietCare Landscaping offers customized winter protection services that address:
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Local climate and wind exposure
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Soil type and drainage
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Species-specific needs
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Salt exposure from nearby roads
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Yard layout and vulnerable areas
Professional care helps prevent expensive plant loss and ensures a strong, healthy landscape come spring.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your trees, shrubs, and perennials for winter is one of the smartest long-term investments you can make for your property. With North Jersey’s unpredictable winter conditions, proper insulation, trimming, and protective wrapping can mean the difference between damaged plants and healthy spring growth.
Call to Action
QuietCare Landscaping provides expert winter protection services for homeowners in Midland Park and surrounding North Jersey towns.
For professional help preparing your landscape for winter, call 201-663-5387 or visit QuietCareLandscaping.com.