Tree Roots – When do They Grow

Q: During mild Atlanta winters are the roots of my young oak trees active during dormancy or does the entire tree shut down? Put another way, would a dry winter or a wet winter make any difference in a tree’s eventual growth?

A: Any time the soil temperature is above fifty degrees F. a tree’s roots can grow and absorb nutrients and moisture if it needs any. That said, since there are no leaves on your trees in winter not much is needed by the trees, so the effect of winter moisture on tree growth is minimal.