As winter approaches, gardeners face the challenge of protecting plants from the season’s harsh elements. Unlike regions with milder, consistent climates, our winters are unpredictable, with temperatures that can plummet below -25°F one month and climb to 50°F the next. This fluctuation means that preparing our plants for winter is essential. By following a few crucial steps, gardeners can help their landscapes survive — and even thrive — when spring arrives.
Adjusting Watering Habits
Gradually reducing watering as temperatures drop allows plants to “winterize” slowly. If you typically water weekly, shift to every 10-14 days as fall progresses. Plants hardy to USDA Zones 3 and 4 can be watered again after their leaves have changed color and fallen. However, less-hardy plants, such as those suited to Zone 5, require extra care. Avoid encouraging growth by over-watering, fertilizing with nitrogen, or pruning heavily before winter.
In late fall, water landscape plants one last time. This is especially important for evergreens, as they continue losing water through their leaves in winter. Aim to water after deciduous leaves have dropped but before the ground freezes, giving plants a moisture boost that can be beneficial during dormancy.
Pruning Precautions
Avoid pruning unless necessary to remove diseased branches. Plants are dormant once their leaves have changed color and more than 75% have fallen. Pruning too early can trigger unwanted growth and leave plants vulnerable to winter injury. Evergreens, however, can be safely pruned when deciduous plants have shed their leaves.
Protecting Evergreens and Roses
Winter winds and bright sunlight can dry out evergreen plants and roses, especially climbers. Shade these plants or spray them with anti-transpirants like Wilt-Pruf to help reduce moisture loss. Place containerized plants on their sides in a protected area with stable temperatures. For any containerized plants moving indoors for the winter, treat pest issues before bringing them inside.
Safeguarding Young Trees and Mulching
For young trees recently transplanted, protect their trunks with light-colored wrap or white latex paint. This reduces the risk of bark splitting on bright, sunny days, when trees might “forget” that it’s winter and absorb excess sunlight.
After the first hard frost, mulch plants with compost up to two inches deep. For strawberries and roses, mulching is especially important. Mound soil up to one inch above the bud graft union on rose bushes, then add two feet of loose mulch, such as pine needles.
Final Lawn Care
As temperatures drop, mow your lawn to about one inch in height after the first hard freeze. This prevents snow mold, a common fungal disease in areas with heavy snowfall. After the last mowing, spread a thin layer of compost (one half to one inch deep) across your lawn to promote healthy regrowth in the spring.
By following these steps, you can help your plants enter winter dormancy and emerge healthier next season. With some careful preparation, your garden will be ready to face whatever winter brings.
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