Button Up Your Beds

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Preparing your garden for cold weather is essential to protect your plants from frost, freezing temperatures, and other winterrelated issues. Take these basic steps to prep your garden for the coming months.

CLEAN UP

Remove any dead or diseased plant materials, leaves, and debris from the garden. This helps prevent the growth of mold and pests during the winter.

PRUNE AND TRIM

Trim back any overgrown or dead branches on shrubs and trees. This reduces the risk of damage from the colder weather.

MULCH

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of trees, shrubs, and perennial plants. Mulch helps insulate the soil, maintain moisture, and regulate temperature fluctuations. Use organic materials like straw, leaves, or wood chips.

WRAP DELICATE PLANTS

If you have delicate plants or shrubs that are susceptible to cold damage, consider wrapping them with burlap or frost cloth, which provides extra insulation while allowing air flow and light penetration.

PROTECT CONTAINER PLANTS

Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location, as containers are more vulnerable to extreme cold. If you are unable to move them, group potted plants close together to create a barrier that offers some protection.

WATERING

Continue to water your garden, as plants still need moisture in the winter. However, reduce the frequency of watering, as plants generally require less water in colder months. Water early in the day to allow excess moisture to evaporate before nighttime, preventing frost damage.