Garden Prep for Winter
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s time to tuck your garden in for its long winter nap. Preparing your outdoor space now not only protects your plants but also sets you up for success come spring. Here are five simple tips to help get your garden winter-ready.
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Clean Up Dead Plants & Weeds Start by removing spent annuals, weeds, and any diseased plants. This cleanup prevents pests and plant diseases from overwintering and returning with a vengeance in spring. Healthy plant material can be composted to enrich your soil for next year.
- Protect Perennials & Bulbs Perennials need a little extra care before the frost sets in. Trim them back as needed, and add a layer of mulch around the roots to insulate them from harsh temperature swings. Don’t forget to plant spring bulbs before the ground freezes for a cheerful pop of color when winter finally gives way.
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Enrich the Soil Autumn is the perfect time to feed your soil. Add compost, well-rotted manure, or other organic matter. Microbes continue working in the soil even in cooler weather, breaking down nutrients so they’ll be ready for your plants when growing season returns.
- Prep Tools & Equipment Garden tools need care, too! Clean, sharpen, and oil them so they’re ready for spring. Drain garden hoses and cover outdoor faucets to prevent freezing. Store delicate garden décor indoors to protect it from frost damage.
- Winterize Lawn & Beds Rake up leaves from your lawn to prevent smothering the grass. Shred or compost those leaves to reuse as mulch in your beds. If you have raised beds, consider covering them with a tarp or garden fabric to protect the soil from erosion and heavy winter rain. With just a little effort now, you’ll save yourself time, money, and frustration when spring rolls back around. Think of it as tucking your garden in with a cozy blanket—come warmer days, it will wake up healthy and ready to thrive!
