{"id":7249,"date":"2024-01-15T21:59:22","date_gmt":"2024-01-15T21:59:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bartlett.com\/blog\/?p=7249"},"modified":"2025-10-27T20:45:08","modified_gmt":"2025-10-27T20:45:08","slug":"frost-cracks-in-trees","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bartlett.com\/blog\/frost-cracks-in-trees\/","title":{"rendered":"Frost cracks in trees"},"content":{"rendered":"

Frost cracks are vertical cracks in a tree that are caused by temperature changes. They occur during winter when the daytime sun warms the bark causing tissue expansion. Later, when the sun goes down and the temperature drops quickly, the outer layer cools and contracts faster than other portions. This expansion and contraction results in vertical cracking. Cracks can be several feet long and a few inches wide.<\/p>\n

Imagine being outside and exposed to cold temperatures all winter. Sure, trees are adapted to outdoor living. However, they are not always well suited to being alone in the open. Exposure to winter weather and changing temperatures can be particularly problematic for trees that are planted outside their hardiness zone. Young trees are also more susceptible to winter injuries<\/a>.<\/p>\n

In fact, when it comes to frost cracks, they usually occur on trees with a thin bark, especially young trees. Further, when a tree’s stem<\/span> is fully exposed to the southern or south western winter sun, it is more vulnerable. Usually this side of the bark warms the fastest so damage is commonly seen on the south or southwestern side.<\/p>\n