January 23rd

By Mutt Mulligan

Yards Need TLC in Winter

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean your yard care should go into hibernation. In fact plants shrubs and trees need some extra TLC during the wintertime in order to remain vibrant this spring.

Yard work shouldn’t end even when the temperatures plummet.

Remove snow carefully: Brush – don’t shake – snow off trees and shrubs to keep them from breaking. Ice and frozen snow are best left to melt off on their own.

Water wisely: If you haven’t experienced your first hard freeze yet you should keep watering to give your plants a better chance of survival.

Cover cautiously:If you are experiencing freezing temps, covering your plants can be a good idea. But watch for warm weather days, and consider uncovering the plants when temperatures spike for a few days, then recovering them at night.

Prune prudently: Late winter is a good time to prune ornamental trees and roses.

What are your favorite ways to protect plants from winter cold?