If you’ve ever driven through rural areas or browsed gardening forums, you may have spotted a curious sight—tree trunks painted white. At first glance, it might seem decorative or even symbolic, but this simple act has a long-standing, practical purpose rooted in tree care.
Gardeners and orchard keepers have used white paint for generations to protect trees from one of winter’s lesser-known threats: sunscald.
Sunscald happens when freezing night temperatures are followed by sunny afternoons. The sudden warming can trick the tree into “waking up,” causing its bark to expand, only to contract again once the temperature drops. This rapid shift often leads to cracks and damage—especially in young or thin-barked trees like fruit trees. Left unprotected, this type of stress can harm the tree’s health over time.
That’s where the white paint comes in.
By reflecting sunlight, the paint helps keep the bark at a more consistent temperature, reducing the risk of injury. But not just any paint will do—experts recommend using water-based latex paint, typically mixed with water in a 1:1 ratio to make it gentler on the tree. Some gardeners even mix in a bit of joint compound to add extra protection and discourage pests.
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