Whitewashing tree trunks aims to prevent pests and diseases, as well as to delay the bud burst of trees, avoiding sunscald damage. In continental climates with drastic changes in sunlight and temperature, whitewashing can reduce the absorption of solar radiation by the tree's above-ground parts, thereby delaying the bud germination period. Whitewashing reflects sunlight, preventing localized increase in branch and trunk humidity, thus effectively preventing sunscald damage.