Winter Lawn Maintenance

Winter can be a harsh season for lawns and gardens, with freezing temperatures, heavy snow, ice, and dry winds all posing threats to one’s plants and soil. Without proper preparation, cold weather can cause damage to grass, trees, shrubs, and perennials, leading to brown patches, broken branches, and weakened plants in the spring. However, with the right strategies, one can protect one’s landscape and ensure it thrives when warmer weather returns.

In this article, we’ll explore effective ways to shield one’s lawn and garden from winter damage, including tips on mulching, watering, covering plants, and preventing soil compaction. And remember, landscapers, homeowners or gardeners – the professionals are here to help!

1. Preparing One’s Lawn for Winter

A well-maintained lawn before winter sets in is crucial for ensuring its health and recovery in the spring.

1.1 Aerate the Soil

Aeration helps relieve soil compaction, allowing water, oxygen, and nutrients to reach the roots. This improves drainage and prevents ice buildup that can suffocate the grass. The best time to aerate is in early fall before the ground freezes.

1.2 Fertilize in Late Fall

Applying a slow-release, winter-formula fertilizer in late fall strengthens the grass roots and provides essential nutrients for spring growth. Look for a fertilizer high in potassium, which enhances cold resistance.

1.3 Mow to the Right Height

For the last mowing before winter, keep grass at about 2-2.5 inches. If its too long, it can mat down under snow, leading to mold and disease. If its too short, the roots may become too exposed to freezing temperatures.

1.4 Rake and Remove Leaves

A thick layer of leaves can trap moisture, encouraging mold growth and suffocating the lawn. Rake and remove leaves regularly or mulch them into tiny pieces to add nutrients to the soil.

1.5 Avoid Excess Foot Traffic

Walking on frozen or snow-covered grass can cause damage by compacting the soil and breaking grass blades. If possible, keep pathways clear and encourage family and guests to stay on designated walkways.

 

2. Protecting Trees and Shrubs

Winter can be particularly harsh on trees and shrubs, causing broken branches, frost damage, and dehydration.

2.1 Mulch Around the Base

A 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs helps regulate soil temperature and retain moisture. Use organic mulch like wood chips or shredded bark, but avoid piling it directly against the trunk, which can lead to rot.

2.2 Wrap Young and Delicate Trees

Thin-barked trees, such as maples and fruit trees, are prone to sun-scald cracking caused by sudden temperature changes. Wrapping trunks with burlap or tree guards helps protect them from extreme cold and hungry animals.

2.3 Prune Before Winter Sets In

Trimming dead or weak branches before winter prevents snow and ice from breaking them. This also helps trees and shrubs focus on healthy growth in the spring.

2.4 Protect from Wildlife Damage

Deer, rabbits, and rodents often feed on bark and young branches in winter. Use tree guards, chicken wire, or burlap barriers to deter animals from causing damage.

3. Shielding Garden Beds from Winter Stress

Garden beds need special care to survive winter without losing soil nutrients or suffering from frost heaving.

3.1 Apply a Thick Layer of Mulch

A 3-4 inch layer of mulch insulates plant roots, preventing soil temperature fluctuations that can cause plants to heave out of the ground. Use straw, shredded leaves, or compost for best results.

3.2 Cover Tender Plants with Burlap or Frost Cloth

Perennials and delicate plants benefit from protective coverings to shield them from harsh winds and freezing temperatures. Use breathable materials like burlap or frost cloth rather than plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to rot.

3.3 Avoid Late-Season Fertilization

Fertilizing in late fall can encourage new growth, which is vulnerable to frost damage. Instead, feed plants in early fall to allow them time to harden off before winter.

3.4 Water Thoroughly Before the Ground Freezes

Plants still need moisture in winter, but frozen ground prevents water absorption. Water deeply before the first hard freeze to keep roots hydrated through the cold months.

 

4. Preventing Soil Erosion and Compaction

Winter weather can take a toll on one’s garden soil, leading to erosion, nutrient loss, and compaction.

4.1 Use Ground Covers

Low-growing ground covers like creeping thyme or clover help prevent soil erosion by holding the soil in place. These plants can survive under snow and provide protection to the soil.

4.2 Install Windbreaks

Strong winter winds can blow away topsoil, drying out plants and creating erosion. Planting evergreen shrubs or installing temporary fences can reduce wind impact and help retain soil moisture.

4.3 Avoid Heavy Machinery and Foot Traffic

Compacted soil prevents water and oxygen from reaching plant roots. Try to minimize foot traffic and avoid using heavy equipment on wet or frozen soil.

5. Protecting Potted Plants and Containers

Potted plants are more vulnerable to freezing temperatures because their roots are exposed to the cold without ground insulation.

5.1 Move Pots to Sheltered Areas

Placing potted plants in a garage, shed, or against a south-facing wall can help protect them from extreme cold.

5.2 Insulate Containers

Wrap pots in bubble wrap, burlap, or blankets to add insulation. One could also bury them in the ground or group them together to retain warmth.

5.3 Use Cold-Hardy Plants in Containers

Choose winter-hardy plants like dwarf spruces, ornamental grasses, or hardy succulents that can tolerate freezing temperatures.

 

6. Dealing with Snow and Ice Damage

Snow and ice can be both beneficial and harmful to plants, depending on how they accumulate.

6.1 Gently Remove Heavy Snow from Branches

If snow is weighing down branches, gently brush it off with a broom rather than shaking the plant, which can cause breakage.

6.2 Avoid Using Salt Near Plants

Salt used for de-icing driveways and sidewalks can harm plants by drying out their roots. Use sand, calcium magnesium acetate, or pet-friendly deicers as alternatives.

6.3 Create Snow Fences to Prevent Drifts

In areas prone to heavy snowfall, snow fences can help control where snow accumulates, preventing excessive buildup on delicate plants.

 

7. Planning for a Healthy Spring Garden

Taking care of one’s lawn and garden in winter sets the stage for a vibrant, healthy landscape in spring.

7.1 Start Composting

Collect kitchen scraps and yard waste throughout the winter to create nutrient-rich compost for spring planting.

7.2 Plan One’s Spring Planting

Use the winter months to research and plan one’s garden layout, selecting cold-hardy plants that will thrive in one’s region.

7.3 Monitor One’s Garden Regularly

Check on one’s garden throughout winter to identify any issues, such as animal damage, ice buildup, or exposed roots, and take action as needed.

Winter doesn’t have to mean devastation for one’s lawn and garden. With proper preparation such as aeration, mulching, pruning, and protecting delicate plants, one can minimize damage and ensure a smooth transition into spring. Taking these preventive measures will help one’s landscape remain resilient, healthy, and ready to thrive once the warmer weather returns.

By investing time and effort before winter sets in, one will enjoy a lush, beautiful garden that bounces back quickly when the snow melts. And never forget – the professionals are here to help!