Even if the cold and frost have arrived, the gardeners cannot rest. Things can be done in the garden all year round, even in the cooler months. Regardless of where you live, plants will need care to start spring off on the ‘right footing’. But what things can be done in the garden during winter?
Cover beds to kill weeds
If you have garden beds that seem desperate because they are overgrown with weeds, cover them completely with black plastic. Leave the beds covered throughout the winter to kill all the weeds, and you’ll be ready to plant when spring rolls around.
Prepare your perennials
After the soil has frozen over the winter, cut perennials about three inches above the ground and add a thick layer of mulch to keep the soil warm.
Plant bare root
Speaking of fruit trees… if you want to plant a deciduous one now will be a good time. You can use bare root feet, which are cheaper; they will hold the same if they are in a vegetative stop. It is not only valid for fruit trees, but also for any tree or shrub in the same situation (it is a common method among rose bushes).
Compost
Another thing that can continue to be made is compost. If you have a compost bin, or if you have an area of the garden that you are not using at the moment, you can gradually put the vegetable remains there to, over time, get a soil rich in nutrients that your plants will love.
Protect sensitive plants
Young trees and shrubs that could be damaged by the winter cold should be covered. Don’t use plastic for this, or it will kill the plants. Material like burlap will provide protection for young, sensitive plants. Use a string to hold the fabric in place and check the plants periodically to make sure they will survive the winter.
Read Some Gardening Books
While the weather is cold and crummy, and you cannot go in garden during winter, it’s the perfect time to curl up inside and do some research. Work on your gardening reading list during the winter months, to get inspired for the new planting and growing season ahead.
Photos via Pinterest.
