Winter is Coming
Before Boulder turns into a winter wonderland, there’s a few things I’ve been learning to do in my garden. Here are my tips on prepping my garden before the snow rolls over the Flatirons. Proper preparation is the key to safeguarding plants and setting the stage for a vibrant spring comeback. The first year I lived here, I was sure I lost some natives during the dead of winter, but I was pleasantly surprised when they had doubled in size by the following spring. (Side note: Salvia has done really well in my garden. I have both salvia nemorosa and Mealycup Sage, a type of Salvia, growing on my property in several different gardens. I could probably write a whole post just on growing salvia and why I like it - but this one is supposed to be about winter gardening prep!)
Scanning for disease: Before the first snowflake falls, remove any debris that looks to be harboring disease. This step helps prevent potential issues from lingering into the next growing season. This year, I had some wilted sunflowers that I determined was due to a disease. I removed the plants near then end of the Summer and put them into my main trash can. Normally, I compost everything I can, but in this case I wasn’t sure the best way to stop the spread of disease. I am also (yes, still!) in the process of removing some decaying iris leaves. In this case, I will compost them with no issues.
Removing debris: For most debris, you can leave it as a natural mulch, because pollinators often hibernate in fallen leaves and other debris. If you don’t personally like the look of dead annuals or other debris, consider moving it without actually disposing anything. For some dead annuals that I don’t want to see sticking up in the garden all winter, I relocate to the back of my property, so they can remain intact and hopefully keeping any small insects warm and happy.
Trimming: Trim back overgrown branches and prune shrubs to ensure growth density the following year. Removing dead or diseased wood is crucial, as it prevents the spread of diseases and reduces the risk of branches breaking under heavy snow. Some plants, like lilacs or apache plumes, are happiest when they’re trimmed just before spring. You don’t want to trim them after they start to bud out, so keep an eye on the calendar and trim them in January/February.
I’ll make another post about my 2-year lilac plan I learned from Chicago Botanic Garden from this article. When we purchased our home, the lilacs had run wild for years, and while I love the look of a natural garden, they do need some serious help to stay healthy. Without yearly trimming, lilacs become woody and begin to die off. I have 9-10 large plants nearly the size of a vehicle or larger, so the rejuvenation has turned into an entire massive project. More to come on that, and I can detail out my chainsawing improvements.
Mulching for Insulation: Apply a generous layer of mulch around the base of your plants. This acts as an insulator, protecting the soil and plant roots from extreme temperature fluctuations, which in Colorado runs rampant! Boulder is especially prone to extreme temperatures ranging 50-60 degrees difference in a single day. This is also what makes tree growing so difficult. My suggestion for store-bought mulch is to use organic mulch like straw or wood chips for effective insulation. I have also been using wood pulp from some of the dying trees on my property which is a lot (!!) of work, but I do enjoy the circular aspect of it.
Watering: Hydrate your plants well before snowstorms. Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil, offering additional protection to your plant roots during winter. Be cautious not to water excessively, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. Up here in North Boulder, we have loamy soil, which retains water well while still draining. I’m excited to see how my lavender hold up over the winter, and how they’re looking by the spring.
Protect Tender Plants: For delicate plants and perennials, consider providing additional protection. Use burlap or frost cloth to cover them, shielding them from harsh winds and heavy snow. This is especially important for recently planted or less cold-hardy specimens.
Winterizing Containers: If you have potted plants, move them to a sheltered location or group them together for added insulation. Elevate containers to prevent them from sitting directly on the frozen ground, which can lead to root damage. I have also tried simple greenhouses to keep plants warm throughout the winter.
Tool Storage: Store garden tools and equipment in a dry, protected space. Clean and oil metal parts to prevent rust. Proper tool care ensures they're ready for action come springtime.
Protecting Evergreens: Evergreen plants are vulnerable to winter burn, especially during sunny, windy days. Don’t forget to water them just because the winter seems in full swing. Remember: this is Colorado, you can get sunburned while skiing!
As you prepare for winter, keep an eye on your garden's layout. Consider the placement of plants and whether any adjustments could improve sunlight exposure or protect against winter winds. This forward-thinking approach sets the stage for a successful spring garden. Prepping your garden for winter is a labor of love that pays off when the snow finally melts, revealing a garden ready to burst forth with new life. By following these comprehensive steps, you not only safeguard your plants but also set the foundation for a resilient and thriving garden in the seasons to come. Winter's arrival becomes a serene interlude, knowing your garden is well-prepared for its snowy spectacle.