How to Winterize Your Central Texas Garden by Georgiana Wells
When planning a garden in Texas, most people have traditionally focused on native plants that can withstand the brutal summers. But as climate change worsens, more gardeners are realizing the importance of planning for cold temperatures. Anyone who lived in the San Antonio area and survived February’s snow storms knows just how bad winter can get. As the cold weather approaches, it is time to prepare the garden for winter. Deciding what to save, what to let go, and what to leave alone can be daunting. You don’t have to stress, though. This guide will help you with the decision making process so you can be more prepared for a productive spring.
What to save First and foremost, save the plants that hold special meaning. For 28 | Winter 2021
example, Great Grandma’s heirloom roses cannot be replaced by a new plant from the nursery, so it and other significant plants should be prioritized for safe keeping through the winter. The next category would be your most valuable plants such as citrus trees, exotic flowers, or one-of-a-kind plants. Value may be determined by replacement cost or how hard it is to find a particular specimen. After you’ve taken care of sentimental and valuable plants, if it is still possible to save more of your garden, focus on older, established plants or natives. These will have a higher survival rate than younger, non-natives that are not adapted to the potential temperature extremes. If there is still space or time, protect tender perennials and cool weather plants that will survive the rest of the season.
