Whitewashing Trees—What Is It For, And Should You Be Doing It?
Have you ever seen a tree with a trunk that's been painted white? It's called 'whitewashing', and while it may look unusual, it’s actually a protective measure that’s been around for decades, used by orchard owners, gardeners, and farmers alike. But like many traditional practices, it has a mix of solid reasoning, common myths, and more modern alternatives. So what does whitewashing actually do, and is it something you should consider for your own trees?
What is Whitewashing?
Whitewashing is mainly used to protect the trunk of young or thin-barked trees from sunscald. During winter, when the sun hits bare trunks and reflects off the snow around it, it can heat up the bark during the day. As night falls and temperatures drop quickly, that bark can then crack from the stress. White paint helps reflect the sunlight and softens the swing in temperature, helping to prevent those cracks from forming in the first place.
A Secondary Benefit
While sun protection is the main purpose, whitewashing can also offer some protection against pests. Some insects are less likely to burrow into or lay eggs on whitewashed bark. The layer can also act as a mild deterrent to rodents and rabbits who chew on bark during winter. It's not foolproof, but it can help when combined with other protective measures.
Is it Just Paint?
Traditional whitewash is made from a mix of water, lime (calcium hydroxide), and sometimes a bit of salt. Today, many people use a diluted mixture of white latex paint and water, usually one part paint to one or two parts water. It's important not to use full-strength paint or oil-based varieties, as they can suffocate the tree. The goal is to coat the trunk in something breathable and reflective, not to seal it tight.
When's the Right Time?
Late fall or early winter is the right time to whitewash, especially before the coldest weather hits. Use a wide brush to apply the mixture to the lower trunk, from the base up to where the first branches start. Focus on the south- and southwest-facing sides, since those areas get the most sun and suffer the most damage. You may need to reapply each year, especially if it washes off with rain or snow.
What Trees Need This?
Not every tree needs this kind of protection. It's most helpful for young trees, especially fruit trees like apple, peach, and cherry, which have thinner bark. Mature trees with rough, thick bark don’t usually need this kind of help, as they're able to withstand temperatures swings on their own. Though, if you live in a region with strong winter sun and freezing nights, your trees are more at risk and may benefit from this kind of care.
What are the Risks?
When done correctly, whitewashing isn't harmful, but doing it wrong can cause problems. Using the wrong type of paint, applying too thick a layer, or sealing in too much moisture can all lead to disease or decay. If you live in a humid area, trapping moisture under paint can be worse than doing nothing at all. Know your climate, your trees, and choose your materials carefully.
Whitewashing trees might seem old-fashioned, but it has a real place in thoughtful tree care. If you have young fruit trees or saplings in cold, sunny regions, this simple method can save them from bark damage and stress. It's not essential for every tree or every yard, but where it fits, it can be a smart, low-cost solution. The key is doing it the right way, for the right reasons, and with the right materials.