Native plant species are famous for their resiliency and environmental benefits. But even the toughest need a helping hand sometimes. Here’s how to help maintain your native plants through winter and prepare for spring.
Understanding Winter Dormancy
Native plants are well-adapted to seasonal changes, including winter dormancy. Like all plants, they have natural rhythms throughout the year.
As temperatures drop, plants enter a restorative phase. They redirect energy to their roots to conserve resources for the next growing season. This process is an essential part of the native plant life cycle. It also ensures successful plant regeneration.
Selective Pruning
Winter is a good time for selective pruning in your native plant garden. In the absence of leaves, you can study the plant’s structure and uncover issues. Remove any dead or diseased branches. This promotes air circulation and prevents the spread of diseases. Thinning crowded branches creates an opportunity for better light penetration.
Prune shrubs that bloom on new wood in fall or winter. This includes native smooth, or wild, hydrangea. To avoid losing spring blooms, don’t prune species that bloom on old wood. This includes native shrubs like oakleaf hydrangea, sweetspire, ninebark, and inkberry holly. If necessary, prune these after blooming before they start pushing out next year’s buds.
Selective pruning of old stalks can control the size and shape of the plant and encourage new growth.
Mulching for Insulation
Major temperature changes are stressful for most plants, natives included. A layer of organic mulch around the base of your plants provides insulation. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, prevents frost heaving, and conserves moisture.
Use materials like straw, shredded leaves, or bark mulch. A layer two to four inches thick gives optimal protection. Don’t mound mulch against the plant stems, as this can create a haven for pests.
Hydration Matters
Most natives are drought-tolerant to a degree, but all plants need adequate water. Periodic watering, even in winter, is essential for plant vitality. Take care with evergreens that lose moisture through their needles. It is generally better to water early in the day to allow soil to absorb moisture before temps drop in the evening.
Wildlife Friendly Practices
Winter is also a challenging time for wildlife. Gardeners can create a wildlife refuge with the food and cover of native plants.
One idea is to leave seed heads of perennials and grasses. These provide a vital food source to several species during winter. Also, don’t be afraid to let leaf litter accumulate in some areas. This natural debris provides shelter for overwintering insects and their larvae.
Protecting Against Frost
Frost can be a concern during winter, especially for young or tender plants. Cover your most vulnerable natives with burlap or other non-plastic frost blankets. Plastic can trap moisture, causing more problems.
Planning for Spring
Winter is a great time to review your landscape’s inventory. Take note of areas that need adjustments or extra plantings once the weather warms up. Research native plants that thrive in your region. Consider incorporating natives into your garden design to increase biodiversity and reduce maintenance.
Forrest Keeling Has Native Plants for Year-Round Interest
Native plants have the unique ability to thrive year-round with minimal maintenance. Knowing proper plant care techniques helps your landscape thrive.
Contact Forrest Keeling for ideas on the best species for your site. You can also access our current inventory in real-time at ForrestKeelingNursery.com.
Forrest Keeling…it’s where the best trees begin!