Garden ~ Freeze Prep

 

If the forecast is to be believed we will have some snow in the coming days. Let me help you make sure your garden is ready for the turn in the weather. I know my children are excited about the prospect of snow, and you can be too with a little prep work.

 

Let’s start off with potted plants. If they are normally outside be sure to water them in the day leading up to winter weather. This will help protect your plant before a freeze by drinking in extra moisture. If your plants need to come inside be sure to spray both sides of the leaves with insecticide suitable for your plant, to kill off any unwanted insects. You do not want to introduce new insects to any plants already inside your home.

 

On to the garden, you can add a layer of mulch or compost to any plants you still have in the ground. If you happen to be growing some winter greens, you can take some cuttings but do not cut too far back, you do not want to kill your plant. Be sure to water your garden as well. The same principle applies to plants directly in the ground as those in pots.

 

There are still some plants you might need to cover to protect the plant from freezing. A frost cloth or heat retaining blanket might be useful. If you do not have either of those, a small blanket with a plastic bag to cover with can work just as well.

 

Be sure to cover and protect all your water spigots. After you have watered your garden turn off all your automatic water timers and cover the ends with an insulated product to help prevent it from freezing. The last thing anybody wants to deal with is a broken water line.

 

In the end prepare as best you can to keep your garden healthy and warm before this winter storm. After all any snow we get will only help your soil. It can provide nitrogen that is pulled out by the plants during growth. We love it when nature helps to replenish the soil naturally. We hope each of you stay warm and safe.