Horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach explain that homeowners can do a few things now to reduce winter damage to trees and shrubs. To prevent damage from rabbits, place chicken wire fencing or hardware cloth around plants, in most cases 24 to 35 inches tall should keep the rabbits out.

To prevent damage from salt, mix salt with abrasive materials like sand or cat litter and avoid potting salt-laden snow and ice near trees and shrubs. Also, it is recommended to thoroughly soak the ground near trees in the spring, to help flush the salt from the root zone of plants, or alter the drainage pattern to direct winter run-off away from ornamental plants. For more information contact the ISU Hortline.