As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s easy to think that garden work is over for the year. But fall and winter are actually prime times to care for your garden and prepare for the upcoming growing season. Here’s what you can do to keep your garden thriving through the colder months.
Outdoor Care
One of the most important tasks this time of year is planting bulbs. If the ground hasn’t frozen yet, it’s not too late to plant tulips, daffodils, and other spring-flowering bulbs. Make sure to cover them with a 3-inch layer of mulch, leaves, or seed-free straw to protect them from the freeze-thaw cycles that often cause bulbs to shift in the soil.
If your garden is already frozen, avoid walking on the lawn, as this can damage grass blades and soil structure.
Even in milder climates, plants like citrus trees, dahlias, and other delicate species need extra protection during winter. Wrapping them loosely in burlap can help keep them warm.
To protect evergreen trees from snow damage, knock snow off their branches. This is particularly important for Arborvitaes and Leyland cypresses, which are more susceptible to breaking under the weight of snow.
Now is also a good time to reflect on your garden’s performance this past season. Take note of what worked and what didn’t, and decide which plants you want to move come spring. Writing down your observations and taking photos will help you remember these intentions when it’s time to dig up plants in the spring.
If you have leftover seeds, consider trading them with friends or participating in a seed swap at your local library or garden club. Store seeds in a cool, dark place in paper envelopes or glass jars, and be sure to label them—trust us, you’ll forget what they are otherwise.
If pests or diseases affected your garden this year, research companion plants that can help deter them next season.
Indoor Care
For indoor plants, ensure they’re placed near a west- or south-facing window to receive the maximum amount of sunlight. Turn the pots a quarter turn with each watering so all sides get equal exposure. Check for pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. If you find any, rinse the plants under water.
When purchasing poinsettias, carefully check for whiteflies before bringing them inside to prevent an infestation.
If you’re planning to grow Amaryllis for the holidays, it may be too late for them to bloom in time, but you can still pot them now for winter enjoyment. Plant the bulbs with their pointed ends partially above the soil, water them thoroughly, and keep the soil slightly moist. Place them in a warm, sunny spot and increase watering once the bulbs sprout.
Once the Amaryllis begins to bloom, move it to a cooler room to extend the flowers’ life. However, keep them out of reach of children and pets, as they are toxic if ingested.
Helping Wildlife
During the winter months, non-migratory birds rely on us for food. Set up a bird feeder with high-quality seed and make sure to provide water, especially if snow and rain are scarce. Birds will return the favor by eating insects that could harm your garden in the spring.
With these steps, your garden and the creatures that rely on it will stay healthy through the colder months, setting you up for a successful growing season ahead.
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