How Do I Winterize My Plants?
As the colder months approach, taking steps to winterize your plants will help ensure their health and vitality come spring. Here’s a guide on how to protect your trees and garden from winter’s harsh conditions.
1. Tree Guards
Tree guards protect tree trunks from winter damage such as sunscald, trunk splitting, and pests like rabbits and rodents.
How to Apply:
Start at the Base: Begin wrapping the tree guard around the trunk at the base.
Wrap Carefully: Wind or twist the spiraled guard around the trunk. It should fit snugly but not too tightly, allowing for some airflow.
Ensure Proper Fit: The guard should go on easily without constricting the trunk.
Tree guards are especially beneficial for young trees and newly planted specimens.
2. Mulching
Mulch acts as a natural insulating layer, protecting the soil from temperature extremes and preventing excessive water evaporation.
How to Apply:
Layer Thickness: Spread a 3-inch thick layer of mulch in your garden beds.
Focus Areas: Pay particular attention to newly planted shrubs and perennials to shield their roots from frost and temperature fluctuations.
Type of Mulch: Use organic materials like wood chips for best results.
3. Covering Your Plants
Covers like burlap or tree wraps protect evergreens and fragile trees from harsh winter elements and sun damage.
How to Cover:
Attach Burlap: Secure the burlap to the top of the central branch of the tree.
Wrap Around: Begin wrapping the burlap around the tree, moving from the top to the ground. Ensure the burlap covers the trunk and lower branches.
Overlap: Wrap up the tree again, slightly overlapping the burlap to ensure complete coverage.
Secure: Tie three pieces of twine around the tree at the top, middle, and bottom to keep the burlap in place.
4. Watering
Continued watering helps ensure that plants are well-hydrated before the ground freezes.
How to Water:
Timeline: Keep watering your plants until late October or early November, depending on your local climate.
Watering Amount: Provide enough water to penetrate the soil to the root zone but avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot. (Our watering blog has more information)
Additional Tips
Inspect Regularly: Check your winterizing materials throughout the season to ensure they are intact and not causing any damage.
Avoid Heavy Loads: Be cautious of snow or ice buildup on covers, which can lead to breakage or damage.
