Fiery autumn foliage is a visual reminder for gardeners. Fall brings a new focus to preparing their green spaces for the cold season ahead. Even landscapes brimming with natives need a thoughtful balance of preservation and planning. We’re here to help ensure your natives remain in good health through the winter and have the best opportunity to grow back stronger than ever during spring.
These key steps help ensure your native garden survives winter and thrives in the new year.
Understand Your Native Plants
The first step is understanding the specific needs of your plants. Natives, particularly those with natural communities, have adapted to local climates. Variations exist between species and within microclimates.
Catalog your plants and research their frost tolerance, water requirements, and dormancy patterns. This helps tailor the care each plant receives.
Mulching for Protection
Everyone recognizes the benefits of mulching during spring. , Winter mulching has its own set of advantages. A layer of organic mulch around the base of your native plants providesinsulation from cold.It alsoprotects roots from frost heave.
A layer about 2-4 inches deep of straw, shredded leaves, or bark chips is adequate. Mulch also helps hold soil moisture, a precious resource during winter dry spells.
Prune with Precision
Pruning requires patience, precision, and careful execution, especially when dealing with native plants. It’s as important to recognize which plants don’t need pruning as it is to tend to the ones that do. Removing dead or damaged branches is important maintenance. Be sure to know the right pruning time for each plant’s best care. Pruning can enhance size, structure, and enhanced blooms without compromising natural form. To learn more, consult gardening resources online or contact local experts.
Hydration Matters
Like in summer, proper hydration is essential for plant survival during winter.Winter precipitation is often sporadic. Give your native garden a thorough watering before the ground freezes. This helps plants enter winter with ample moisture reserves. Take care to not overwater which can lead to root rot. The right balance between hydration and drainage is key to any healthy garden.
Some Natives May Need Frost Protection
Native plants have evolved to withstand winter’s chill. Extreme cold can still threaten the survival of young or vulnerable plants. New plantings may needa layer of frost cloth or burlap for extra insulation.
Tree stakes or cages can support taller plants and prevent heavy snow and ice damage. Avoid using plastic for frost protection, as it can trap moisture and lead to fungal issues.
Prepare for Wildlife Visitors
One of the best parts of growing natives on your property is providing food and cover for local wildlife. Your native garden can offer a haven for various birds and other animals.
Consider leaving some seed heads and plant debris as food sources during winter. This can also deter foraging animals from harming vulnerable plants.
Plan for Spring Renewal
Winter preparation also lays the groundwork for spring renewal! Take note of areas needing extra planting or adjustments in the coming months. Consider introducing early-blooming native flowers or plants that provide early-season nectar for pollinators. Planning ahead ensures your garden bursts into life as soon as the winter frost retreats.
The Best Natives Start at Forrest Keeling
Forrest Keeling has been growing for over 75 years. A commitment to innovation allows us to provide customers with the best native plants. Our natives have risen to regional and national prominence due to our RPM growing method. Our RPM-produced plants are the highest-performing natives on the market.
Contact Forrest Keeling for more information about native plants for your next project.
Forrest Keeling… it’s where the best trees begin!