As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s time to start preparing your garden for winter. Giving your garden a bit of extra care before the frost sets in can make all the difference in maintaining its health and vitality. Winter prep is essential to ensure your plants, soil, and tools are in top shape when spring comes around. Here’s your go-to guide on how to get your garden winter-ready!
1. Clear Out Dead Plants and Weeds
Dead plants and weeds can harbour pests and diseases, so it’s essential to remove them before the cold settles in. Trim back perennial plants, clear away any debris, and dispose of it properly to avoid spreading disease. Leaving your garden beds tidy will also prevent pests from overwintering and make planting easier in the spring.
2. Protect Your Perennials and Shrubs
Certain perennials and shrubs need extra protection to survive harsh winter conditions. Apply a layer of mulch or compost around the base of these plants to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures. For particularly fragile shrubs, consider wrapping them in horticultural fleece or a protective cover.
3. Prepare Your Lawn
Winter can be hard on lawns, but a little prep can keep it looking lush. Rake away fallen leaves to prevent mould and disease. Giving your lawn one final mow (leaving the grass a bit longer) and aerating the soil will help keep it healthy through the colder months. You can also apply a winter-specific lawn fertilizer to strengthen grass roots and improve resilience.
4. Tidy Up Garden Tools and Equipment
Your garden tools deserve some winter care, too! Clean, sharpen, and oil tools to prevent rust, and safely store them in a dry space. Drain garden hoses and insulate any outdoor taps to protect against freezing.
5. Prep Your Soil
Winter is the perfect time to enrich your soil for next year’s growing season. Spread a layer of compost, manure, or mulch over the garden beds to nourish the soil and prevent erosion. When spring arrives, your soil will be in prime condition for planting.
6. Plant Winter-Friendly Crops and Spring Bulbs
While summer blooms may be behind us, certain hardy vegetables—like garlic, onions, and winter greens—can thrive in colder temperatures. Plant spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses before the ground freezes for an early splash of colour next year.
7. Check and Feed Your Birdfeeders
Winter is tough for birds, so now’s a great time to set up and fill bird feeders. This will help support local wildlife and bring some life to your garden even on the dreariest winter days. Remember to clean feeders regularly and keep them stocked with food to encourage birds to return.
Additional Tips for a Healthy Winter Garden
Prune Trees and Shrubs: Winter is the ideal time to prune certain trees and shrubs as they’re dormant, reducing the risk of disease.
Protect Fragile Pots: If you have clay or ceramic pots outside, bring them in or cover them to prevent cracking.
Store Garden Furniture: Protect furniture from snow and moisture by storing it in a shed or covering it with waterproof tarps.
Winter prep might feel like extra work, but your garden will thank you come springtime! These steps will keep your outdoor space healthy, thriving, and ready to bounce back with vigour in the new season. So, grab those gardening gloves and get ready for a beautiful winter-ready garden!
