When the air turns crisp and the days get shorter, it doesn’t mean your gardening duties come to a halt.
Winter is a period for protection, preparation, and planning for the spring ahead. Gathering the important supplies every gardener needs this winter will set you up for success and keep your garden healthy through the cold months.
Use our quick checklist below to equip the hardware you need to handle the winter weather without worry.
Grab Some Mulch
First on the list is a good quality mulch.
A thick layer of straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves acts like a cozy blanket for your garden beds. It insulates the soil, which protects plant roots from harsh freeze-and-thaw cycles that can cause damage.
For example, considering the soil conditions is one of the best ways to prepare nut trees for winter because it prevents those freeze-and-thaw cycles from wreaking havoc on your garden. Mulch also helps retain moisture and suppress early-season weeds that might try to sprout on a warm day.
Cover Your Garden
Next, consider frost cloths or row covers. These lightweight fabrics are a lifesaver for tender perennials and winter vegetables like kale or spinach.
You can drape them directly over plants or use hoops to create a low tunnel, which provides an extra layer of warmth against biting winds and unexpected dips in temperature.
Stock Up On Tools
Don’t forget your tools.
Winter is the perfect time for tool maintenance. A sharpening stone for your pruners and shears, along with some lubricating oil, will keep them in top shape.
Clean spades and trowels will be ready for the first spring thaw, so you can get right to work without delay.
Protect Your Trees
Burlap wraps and twine are also incredibly useful. You can use them to shield the trunks of young trees from sunscald, a condition where the bark cracks due to temperature fluctuations.
They’re also great for tying up shrubs like arborvitae to prevent branches from splaying or breaking under the weight of heavy snow.
Preparing Your Garden for Spring Success
With a little preparation, your garden can not only survive the winter but thrive because of it. The effort you put in now pays off with healthier plants and an easier start to the next growing season.
When you have the important supplies every gardener needs this winter, you are well-equipped to protect your green space and dream of the blooms to come.
Gather your supplies now and start preparing your garden for the winter months ahead.
