In the Northeast, late fall is the time to bring out the big guns to prevent transpiration – the loss of water from plant parts mainly leaves. When plants are unable to replenish the water due to frozen soil or drought, dehydration and damage can occur. Last year’s winter wreaked havoc on evergreens. Combined with this year’s dry growing season, they are exceptionally vulnerable. Deeply water plants before the grounds freeze, and continue to water during winter months when above freezing if Mother Nature doesn’t provide. You can create physical windbreaks with stakes and burlap or spray Wilt-Pruf, which is a natural resin derived from pine trees. Let that dry; then, you may as well apply a systemic Deer Spray such as Deer Out as a double whammy of winter protection!