Winter is always a challenge for your garden, but there are several steps you can take to protect it from frost and snow.
If you’re considering putting your property on the market in the next few months, you don’t want to go to the expense of replacing plants that couldn’t make it through the winter.
To make your garden look wonderful when spring comes around, follow these simple steps to protect your perennials, trees and shrubs from the ravages of winter.
Young plants
Pay special attention to recently planted trees and shrubs as they will struggle to adapt to the change in temperature, especially in the soil.
Drink order
It’s essential to water your plants before the arrival of the first frost as this will help prevent roots from entering a vicious cycle of freezing and thawing. Well-watered roots tend not to freeze, whereas dry roots will suffer in frozen soil.
Mulch mania
Putting mulch at the base of your plants will do more than anything else to protect them from frosts and snow, which squeeze roots out of the ground. Layer 6 inches of leaf and straw mulch so your plants survive the tough times. Do this after watering.
Clip away
Your plants will be grateful for a light prune, so they don’t have to maintain more foliage than necessary.
Light bulb moment
Some bulbs, such as dahlias and gladiolus, suffer during harsh weather. You need to dig them out and bring them indoors. Brush off the dirt, but don’t clean with water as this encourages rot and disease. The optimal time to do this is once the first frost has arrived.
It’s all roses
Roses need deep watering but don’t fertilize or cut them back. Pile extra soil at their base and add mulch on the mound. While most are hardy, tea roses are particularly vulnerable to the worst winter can do.