I live in a temperate area (Pacific NW) and don't usually have to do anything special for trees/shrubs over winter. I do have a young mulberry that is located inside my chicken yard and in the direct path of the prevailing winter wind. I think I should give it some sort of protection for this winter, but am a bit puzzled at what might be best. During the summer, I have had it protected with a tomato cage covered with mesh, to keep the chickens from pecking it, and watered it regularly. I'm thinking I will get some dead fir boughs and tie those up around the tomato cage, but am wondering if I should fill it up with loose bedding as well? I use fir chips for the chickens and have that available. Or perhaps just dry fallen leaves? Or nothing? The tree is sapling sized, perhaps 3-4' tall. Thanks for any insight.
