How to Protect Your Plants During Winter
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1. Insulate the Root Zone With Mulch
Apply a 2–4 inch layer of high-quality mulch (pine bark, wood chips, or shredded leaves) around the base of the plant.
This stabilizes soil temperature, reduces freeze–thaw cycles, and helps roots retain essential moisture.
2. Hydrate Before a Freeze
Well-hydrated soil stores heat more efficiently.
Water plants the day before an expected frost to reduce the risk of root injury. Avoid waterlogging—moist, not saturated, soil is ideal.
3. Cover Frost-Sensitive Plants
For tender varieties, provide nighttime protection using breathable materials such as:
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Frost cloth / freeze blanket
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Burlap
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Lightweight sheets
Ensure the cover reaches the ground to trap radiant heat. Remove coverings during daylight to prevent overheating and allow photosynthesis.
4. Protect Container Plants
Plants in pots are more susceptible to freezing because their root systems are above ground.
Move containers to a garage, shed, greenhouse, enclosed porch, or indoors where temperatures remain above freezing.
If left outside, group pots together and wrap with insulation for added protection.
5. Wrap Young Trees and Delicate Shrubs
Cold winds and fluctuating temperatures can damage thin bark and tender growth.
Wrap trunks and branches of sensitive species—such as camellias, figs, gardenias, and young Japanese maples—with burlap or frost cloth to prevent cracking, desiccation, and freeze burn.
6. Avoid Pruning During Winter
Pruning encourages tender new growth that is highly vulnerable to frost.
Only remove wood that is dead, diseased, or broken. Perform structural pruning in late winter or early spring.
7. Create Wind Barriers
Winter wind can cause severe moisture loss and leaf burn.
Install temporary windbreaks using:
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Burlap screens
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Snow fencing
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Additional shrubs or evergreens as natural barriers
This is especially important for broadleaf evergreens.
8. Monitor Soil Moisture Regularly
Check soil moisture every few days.
Water when temperatures rise above freezing, ensuring soil does not become completely dry. Consistent hydration reduces stress and prevents winter dieback.
9. Protect Evergreens From Desiccation
Use a professional-grade anti-desiccant (anti-drying) spray on evergreen shrubs and trees to reduce moisture loss caused by wind and low humidity.
Apply during late fall and reapply mid-winter if needed.
10. Use Supplemental Heat for High-Value Plants
For particularly delicate or expensive plants, consider safe supplemental heat sources:
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Outdoor-rated heat lamps
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Small portable greenhouses
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Old-style incandescent Christmas lights (produce gentle warmth)
Always follow safety instructions and avoid direct contact with foliage.
11. Keep Plants Clean and Debris-Free
Remove fallen leaves, weeds, and debris around the base of plants.
Clean surroundings help prevent pests, fungus, and rot during the moist winter months.