Will this winter be as brutal as last year, and will we have to hear the words polar and vortex in the same sentence for months on end? We don’t know the answer to those questions, but regardless of how low the temperatures drop, we do know that winter is well on its way. The good news is that you still have time to prepare your landscape and lawn for the frigid months ahead.
With just a little elbow grease (and definitely some extra layers of clothes), you can protect all that hard work you’ve done over the spring and summer months. Or … you can give us a call, and we’ll have your lawn and landscaping ready to face winter in no time.
Mulch. Even though most property owners pour on the mulch in spring, fall is actually the perfect time to mulch. It helps retain moisture during a dry winter, and protects roots from frost. Aim for 2-3 inches of mulch around trees, shrubs and in flower beds.
Clear out the dead. Although you don’t want to heavily prune in the fall, it’s a great time to tidy up your dead annuals and cut back ornamental grasses and perennials. If you do have dying tree or shrub branches, lightly prune them back. If you have dried hydrangea blossoms, carefully cut them off but don’t remove the stalks (even though they look dead).
Protect. If you have any delicate shrubs (like boxwoods), wrap them in burlap for winter. Protect small plants with overturned plastic pots or buckets, and surround vulnerable trees with shredded leaves. Stock up on frost protection fabric, and prepare to cover any particularly vulnerable plants when necessary.
Look for bugs. If our winter is as cold as predicted, chances are you won’t have to worry about insects feeding on your plants longer than normal. But even so, keep an eye out for any lingering bugs, identify them, and take action with appropriate horticultural soaps or insecticides.
Beware of salt. If you have any plants near corners or high-traveled streets where salt and melting agents are applied, consider placing protective fencing around them. Salt can damage evergreens as well as groundcovers. In addition, if your lawn tends to suffer at the hands of well-meaning snow plows, purchase guide markers (also called snow sticks) to clearly identify curbs or pathways.
Protecting your landscape during the harsh winter months will certainly pay off in spring, when the ground thaws and plants welcome the warmer weather. If you have any questions about these or any other landscaping tips, give us a call. We’re happy to help.
All Seasons is an Indianapolis landscaping company serving the northern and northeastern areas of the city including Geist, Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and more.