9 Winter Gardening Tips For Plant Protection and Care

by Rodica SEO – October 23, 2022

Winter gardening is a way to get your hands dirty and an excellent way to get some exercise in the off-season. It is all about planning. You need to know your plants are valuable, you need to provide them with the best care possible.Winter gardening is about protecting your plants from cold temperatures, although it is more than that. You can help your plants survive by doing a few things during this time of year, but there are also some things you should not do.Thankfully, this article has outlined some tips for keeping your plants safe and healthy through the winter:

Build a Cold Frame

If you do not have one, build a cold frame. Cold frames are simple to make. They protect plants from frost and extend the growing season by providing extra warmth at night and on cloudy days. You can build your cold frame using wood and plastic sheeting or purchase one at a garden center or hardware store.

Make Your Mulch

Mulch is an essential part of winter gardening because it helps retain moisture in the soil and protects plants from freezing temperatures and wind damage. Mulch also suppresses weeds from sprouting up in your garden beds during winter, so you will not have to pull them out when spring rolls around.You can make your mulch out of leaves, grass clippings, or hay bales, but composted manure works best for retaining moisture in the soil over time because it contains partially decayed organic matter that releases water slowly into the soil as it decomposes further over time.

Bring Plants Inside on Cold Winter Nights

The temperature will drop below freezing during those dark winter evenings, so bring plants inside if they are too sensitive to the cold weather. If you have a greenhouse, place them there until spring arrives again.

If not, bring them into your home and place them in a sunny window where they will be protected from drafts from open doors or windows by placing something soft between them and any drafty areas (like a newspaper).

Fertilize in Winter for a Healthy Lawn in Spring

Suppose you want a lush green lawn come springtime, then now is the time to fertilize your grass. Wait until after the first frost before fertilizing for the nutrients to be absorbed into the soil rather than being washed away by melted snow. Fertilization during this time will give your lawn the nutrients needed to thrive next year when spring arrives again.

Use Raised Beds for Better Drainage in Winter

It is essential if you are growing tomatoes or peppers since they need good drainage to keep them from rotting, as wet soil causes fungal diseases like early blight or late blight.

Raised beds allow water to drain away quickly so it will not stay on top of the ground where these diseases thrive. It would help if you also made sure there are no holes in the sides of your bed where water can collect and stagnate before draining away into the soil below.

Water Plants Regularly in Winter, but Be Careful Not to Overwater

Overwatering causes roots to rot and can permanently harm your plant. Once the weather turns cold, water less frequently but more deeply so that moisture reaches all parts of the root system.

To know if they need water, stick a finger in the soil about 1 inch deep. If damp at this depth, you do not need to add more water yet (but check every day just in case); if it is dry at this level, then water thoroughly (the best way is to up a sprinkler system).

Prune Grapevines and Fruit Trees

Even if you do not have your tractor, it is essential to prune grapevines and fruit trees in winter. The suitable time to prune is when the wood is dormant, which means it is cold and dry (not wet). Winter pruning is necessary for many reasons:

- It keeps plants healthy and prevents disease or pest infestations.

- It increases photosynthesis.

- It helps plants prepare for spring growth.

    Plant Trees and Shrubs in Late Winter

    Plant trees and shrubs during this time because the ground is still relatively warm, so there is plenty of moisture in the soil, which will help them establish root systems quicker than they would if planted during other times.

    Your local nursery can help you choose plants suited to your particular area based on climate conditions. If you come from an area with plenty of winter snow, choose native plants or ones tolerant of cold temperatures, such as evergreen shrubs like rhododendrons or conifers like Douglas fir trees.

    Inspect Your Trees and Bushes for Insect Pests

    Inspect your trees and bushes for insect pests that overwinter in the bark or under leaves. Look for scale insects or mites on bark; aphids, mites, and whiteflies on leaves; borers in woody stems; caterpillars on fruit trees, and roses or other woody plants. If you find pest infestations, treat them immediately before they get worse.

    building a winter cover for your plants

    Generally, everyone complains about gardening in the winter months. However, if you are diligent about these nine tips for winter gardening success, you will have much better garden results come March. In addition to having a beautiful backyard, knowing that you did something positive in your community is a wonderful feeling. So keep gardening through the winter months, and look forward to having the best garden this spring.

    More winter gardening articles:

    Winter Gardening Preparation

    Fall & Early Winter Gardening 

    10 Methods of Preserving Plants in Winter

    Winter/Spring Plants and Blooms:

    Daffodils
    Winterberry
    Witch Hazel
    Dutchman’s Breeches

    Visit our online shop for a wide selection of plants and trees, or come say hi at our store location in Tennessee!
    We offer fast shipping nationwide so you can start transforming your garden today!

    If you have any questions about winter gardening or if you have any other plant needs, don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected], we’d love to hear from you!

    Products from the article

    Daffodil Plant - TN Nursery

    Daffodil Plant

    The Daffodil Plant is a Spring-blooming, trumpet-shaped flower characterized by its vibrant yellow or white petals and central trumpet-like corona. It adds a burst of color to gardens and landscapes. The plant's vibrant colors, from sunny yellows to pastel lemon, create striking visual displays that brighten any outdoor area. Daffodils are famous for being yellow, but there are all kinds of other colors, as well, including white, orange, and even pink. They also feature varieties with more than one of these colors. Therefore, they can form a splendid and colorful swash throughout any garden. They have adorned gardens for thousands of years. Indeed, the Greek name is Narcissus. Currently, it's the national flower of Wales. They've been harbingers of the coming of spring throughout their existence, and because they're perennials, each plant does the same for many years throughout its life cycle. They'll anchor your garden through spring and summer as long-lasting blooms, drawing people's gaze to their grace and beauty. The Blooming Trumpet The Daffodil (Narcissus) Plant Before they bloom, the trumpet of the mature bloom is covered in a waxy shell called a spathe. The spathe is delicate and reflects the entire light spectrum when covered in morning dew. Not every daffodil forms a trumpet, however. They form two kinds of cups: charming double blooms and what's known as the jonquil, which is a beautiful two-toned bloom. Generally, there are two kinds of jonquils: one with primarily white petals and yellow accents and one that's the opposite. Such flowers that sport two exquisite colors can act as a transition between sections of the garden. The Daffodil Plant Can Reach 3 Feet Tall They can grow almost to 3 feet tall and a foot wide. Their mature leaves are tall and straight and only sag toward the end of the growing season at the beginning of August. They last more than a month through the heart of the summer, lending their multicolored cheek to any garden. Because they thrive in containers as much as in the open, they're a terrific accent for window sills, porches, patios, and decks, bringing their polychromatic cheeriness to every part of the garden and the whole property. Partners for Daffodil Plant The bright yellow of the plant pairs very well with other garden residents, including the Northern Blue Star with its deep blue and indigo blooms and the vibrant red of roses or dahlias. The color palette is nearly endless when considering them fresh, with fabulous flexibility. Enhance Your Spring Garden With Daffodils Where do daffodils grow best? Daffodils love soil with good drainage and full to partial sun. Choose an area of your yard with proper airflow to reduce the chances of fungal diseases.  How frequently should I water Daffodils It is recommended to water the daffodils in the growing season but avoid excess watering to prevent the bulbs from rotting.  How do I Propagate Daffodils?  Daffodils can be multiplied through the division of the clumps of bulbs every three to four years. The daffodils can also be grown from seeds, though this process takes longer than bulb division. Harvest seeds when the flowers have withered, sow them in a planting medium, and wait for flowers to come up.  When Should I Plant Daffodil Bulbs Timing is essential. Plant your daffodil bulbs in autumn, before the soil gets frozen for them to have enough time to develop and bloom in spring.  What are some companion Plants for Daffodil Daffodils enjoy the company of other flowers and plants. Grow them with tulips to get a truly floral marriage made in a floral paradise, or grow them with perennials to create a marvelous garden outlook.
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    Witch Hazel Tree - TN Nursery

    Witch Hazel

     Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a deciduous shrub with sparse, spidery flowers and is versatile throughout the seasons. As it blooms brightly in fall and needs very little maintenance, this shrub is a popular choice for bringing visual interest to any garden.  Witch Hazel Is a Late Blooming Shrub Witch Hazel is a very easy plant to grow and prefers a well-drained, slightly acidic soil type. It does well in full and partial shade and suits most gardens. Put the root ball in a hole twice its size and fill it with dirt and water to keep it moist. Once established, Witch Hazel is spartan, requiring only occasional watering in dry conditions and a bit of pruning to shape or slash off damaged branches. Witch Hazel's Seasonal Blooms and Color Changes  Witch Hazel is prized for its unusual and beautiful flowers, which open late in the fall or winter when most other plants are hibernating. The flowers contain long, rolled petals of different colors, such as yellow, orange, or red. The plant's ovate leaves shade it in spring and summer, becoming yellow before the flowers appear in autumn.  Shape and Longevity Of Hamamelis Virginiana Shrubs  The shrub is spreading and rounded and reaches 10 to 15 feet. Its small size and graceful branches make it wonderful for borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant. Witch Hazel will survive decades of neglect. Witch Hazel Life Cycle TN Nursery  Witch Hazel shrubs are hand-harvested at TN Nursery and shipped as healthy, ready-to-plant plants. These plants set themselves quickly, leaving you with distinctive, fall-flowering, long-lasting flowers. Add Witch Hazel to your yard for an old-school and classic touch!

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    dutchmans breeches

    Dutchman's Breeches

    Dutchman's Breeches is a spring wildflower with distinctive gray-green, finely divided leaves and unique, drooping clusters of white, pantaloon-shaped flowers resembling miniature hanging pants. It is a captivating and delicate spring ephemeral plant that offers several benefits when incorporated into the landscaping. Native to North America, it is a member of the poppy family and can be found growing in rich, moist woodlands, making it an ideal addition to woodland-themed gardens or naturalized landscapes. Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) Blooms March-April  Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria), also known as "Little Blue Staggers," is a white woodland flower that blooms from March to April. This spring ephemeral is also a perennial native to eastern North America. It also grows naturally in the Pacific Northwest. Dicentra cucullaria is often found in the eastern and Pacific Northwestern woodlands of the United States. The flower grows naturally in the wild on forest floors under dappled sunlight, on moist rocky slopes, and along stream banks. After their blooming cycle ends, the flowers go dormant, and their leaves and stems fall to the ground to make way for summer flowers. Dutchman's Breeches Appearance Dutchman's Breeches range from 6" to 12" tall and bloom for about two weeks. Their creamy white or pinkish flowers resemble pairs of old-fashioned Dutch pantaloons hanging upside-down from a clothesline. Each blossom's outer petals form a puffy 'V' shape that converges in a yellow-tipped base. The plant's feathery compound leaves look like fern fronds, changing color from gray-green to pale yellow before disappearing for the rest of the year. Dutchman's Breeches Is Stunning In Landscapes  Little Blue Staggers makes an attractive addition to many landscapes. The plant is especially well-suited to wildflower and woodland gardens and works well in areas shaded by mature trees. Its beautiful flowers, with their delicate and cheeky blossoms, will surely draw attention to your spring greenery. They should be planted in the fall. They grow from bulb-like underground plant structures called corms, which can multiply underground. Mature corms can be divided and transplanted to propagate new plants. Dutchman's Breeches Are Loved By Pollinators It offers nectar to bumblebees, cuckoo bees, and other bees that feed through the plant's perforations as they pollinate the flowers. Ants also help propagate the plant by carrying its seeds into new territory. If you want to add beauty and a touch of humor to your garden, consider planting a few near your trees. These flowers are a sure way to welcome the first flush of spring. Which is the best location for Dutchman's Breeches? It can be planted in part shade and well-drained soils. It's perfect for an organic look in shade gardens or wooded areas.  What does the Dutchman's Breeches plant look like?  It is fern-like with grey-green leaves, producing heads of white pants-shaped flowers in early spring. Its unique booms are striking in any garden.  Hoq w to grow Dutchman's Breeches plant?  Once established, it requires little care. Water the plant when wet and put mulch on top of the soil to keep the moisture in.  Will the Dutchman's Breeches plant work in wildlife gardens?  Yes! It has many early spring pollinators, including bees. It flowers in early spring and will nectar in cold weather when other plants won't.  Can the Dutchman's Breeches plant be cultivated in pots?  Plant it in pots, but place it where there is a combination of partial to whole shade and moist but well-drained soil. That means it's suitable for little gardens.
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    Daffodil Plant - TN Nursery

    Daffodil Plant

    The Daffodil Plant is a Spring-blooming, trumpet-shaped flower characterized by its vibrant yellow or white petals and central trumpet-like corona. It adds a burst of color to gardens and landscapes. The plant's vibrant colors, from sunny yellows to pastel lemon, create striking visual displays that brighten any outdoor area. Daffodils are famous for being yellow, but there are all kinds of other colors, as well, including white, orange, and even pink. They also feature varieties with more than one of these colors. Therefore, they can form a splendid and colorful swash throughout any garden. They have adorned gardens for thousands of years. Indeed, the Greek name is Narcissus. Currently, it's the national flower of Wales. They've been harbingers of the coming of spring throughout their existence, and because they're perennials, each plant does the same for many years throughout its life cycle. They'll anchor your garden through spring and summer as long-lasting blooms, drawing people's gaze to their grace and beauty. The Blooming Trumpet The Daffodil (Narcissus) Plant Before they bloom, the trumpet of the mature bloom is covered in a waxy shell called a spathe. The spathe is delicate and reflects the entire light spectrum when covered in morning dew. Not every daffodil forms a trumpet, however. They form two kinds of cups: charming double blooms and what's known as the jonquil, which is a beautiful two-toned bloom. Generally, there are two kinds of jonquils: one with primarily white petals and yellow accents and one that's the opposite. Such flowers that sport two exquisite colors can act as a transition between sections of the garden. The Daffodil Plant Can Reach 3 Feet Tall They can grow almost to 3 feet tall and a foot wide. Their mature leaves are tall and straight and only sag toward the end of the growing season at the beginning of August. They last more than a month through the heart of the summer, lending their multicolored cheek to any garden. Because they thrive in containers as much as in the open, they're a terrific accent for window sills, porches, patios, and decks, bringing their polychromatic cheeriness to every part of the garden and the whole property. Partners for Daffodil Plant The bright yellow of the plant pairs very well with other garden residents, including the Northern Blue Star with its deep blue and indigo blooms and the vibrant red of roses or dahlias. The color palette is nearly endless when considering them fresh, with fabulous flexibility. Enhance Your Spring Garden With Daffodils Where do daffodils grow best? Daffodils love soil with good drainage and full to partial sun. Choose an area of your yard with proper airflow to reduce the chances of fungal diseases.  How frequently should I water Daffodils It is recommended to water the daffodils in the growing season but avoid excess watering to prevent the bulbs from rotting.  How do I Propagate Daffodils?  Daffodils can be multiplied through the division of the clumps of bulbs every three to four years. The daffodils can also be grown from seeds, though this process takes longer than bulb division. Harvest seeds when the flowers have withered, sow them in a planting medium, and wait for flowers to come up.  When Should I Plant Daffodil Bulbs Timing is essential. Plant your daffodil bulbs in autumn, before the soil gets frozen for them to have enough time to develop and bloom in spring.  What are some companion Plants for Daffodil Daffodils enjoy the company of other flowers and plants. Grow them with tulips to get a truly floral marriage made in a floral paradise, or grow them with perennials to create a marvelous garden outlook.
    $6.99
    $6.99
    Witch Hazel Tree - TN Nursery

    Witch Hazel

     Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a deciduous shrub with sparse, spidery flowers and is versatile throughout the seasons. As it blooms brightly in fall and needs very little maintenance, this shrub is a popular choice for bringing visual interest to any garden.  Witch Hazel Is a Late Blooming Shrub Witch Hazel is a very easy plant to grow and prefers a well-drained, slightly acidic soil type. It does well in full and partial shade and suits most gardens. Put the root ball in a hole twice its size and fill it with dirt and water to keep it moist. Once established, Witch Hazel is spartan, requiring only occasional watering in dry conditions and a bit of pruning to shape or slash off damaged branches. Witch Hazel's Seasonal Blooms and Color Changes  Witch Hazel is prized for its unusual and beautiful flowers, which open late in the fall or winter when most other plants are hibernating. The flowers contain long, rolled petals of different colors, such as yellow, orange, or red. The plant's ovate leaves shade it in spring and summer, becoming yellow before the flowers appear in autumn.  Shape and Longevity Of Hamamelis Virginiana Shrubs  The shrub is spreading and rounded and reaches 10 to 15 feet. Its small size and graceful branches make it wonderful for borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant. Witch Hazel will survive decades of neglect. Witch Hazel Life Cycle TN Nursery  Witch Hazel shrubs are hand-harvested at TN Nursery and shipped as healthy, ready-to-plant plants. These plants set themselves quickly, leaving you with distinctive, fall-flowering, long-lasting flowers. Add Witch Hazel to your yard for an old-school and classic touch!

    $26.99
    $26.99
    dutchmans breeches

    Dutchman's Breeches

    Dutchman's Breeches is a spring wildflower with distinctive gray-green, finely divided leaves and unique, drooping clusters of white, pantaloon-shaped flowers resembling miniature hanging pants. It is a captivating and delicate spring ephemeral plant that offers several benefits when incorporated into the landscaping. Native to North America, it is a member of the poppy family and can be found growing in rich, moist woodlands, making it an ideal addition to woodland-themed gardens or naturalized landscapes. Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) Blooms March-April  Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria), also known as "Little Blue Staggers," is a white woodland flower that blooms from March to April. This spring ephemeral is also a perennial native to eastern North America. It also grows naturally in the Pacific Northwest. Dicentra cucullaria is often found in the eastern and Pacific Northwestern woodlands of the United States. The flower grows naturally in the wild on forest floors under dappled sunlight, on moist rocky slopes, and along stream banks. After their blooming cycle ends, the flowers go dormant, and their leaves and stems fall to the ground to make way for summer flowers. Dutchman's Breeches Appearance Dutchman's Breeches range from 6" to 12" tall and bloom for about two weeks. Their creamy white or pinkish flowers resemble pairs of old-fashioned Dutch pantaloons hanging upside-down from a clothesline. Each blossom's outer petals form a puffy 'V' shape that converges in a yellow-tipped base. The plant's feathery compound leaves look like fern fronds, changing color from gray-green to pale yellow before disappearing for the rest of the year. Dutchman's Breeches Is Stunning In Landscapes  Little Blue Staggers makes an attractive addition to many landscapes. The plant is especially well-suited to wildflower and woodland gardens and works well in areas shaded by mature trees. Its beautiful flowers, with their delicate and cheeky blossoms, will surely draw attention to your spring greenery. They should be planted in the fall. They grow from bulb-like underground plant structures called corms, which can multiply underground. Mature corms can be divided and transplanted to propagate new plants. Dutchman's Breeches Are Loved By Pollinators It offers nectar to bumblebees, cuckoo bees, and other bees that feed through the plant's perforations as they pollinate the flowers. Ants also help propagate the plant by carrying its seeds into new territory. If you want to add beauty and a touch of humor to your garden, consider planting a few near your trees. These flowers are a sure way to welcome the first flush of spring. Which is the best location for Dutchman's Breeches? It can be planted in part shade and well-drained soils. It's perfect for an organic look in shade gardens or wooded areas.  What does the Dutchman's Breeches plant look like?  It is fern-like with grey-green leaves, producing heads of white pants-shaped flowers in early spring. Its unique booms are striking in any garden.  Hoq w to grow Dutchman's Breeches plant?  Once established, it requires little care. Water the plant when wet and put mulch on top of the soil to keep the moisture in.  Will the Dutchman's Breeches plant work in wildlife gardens?  Yes! It has many early spring pollinators, including bees. It flowers in early spring and will nectar in cold weather when other plants won't.  Can the Dutchman's Breeches plant be cultivated in pots?  Plant it in pots, but place it where there is a combination of partial to whole shade and moist but well-drained soil. That means it's suitable for little gardens.
    $6.99
    $6.99

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