Published: 04 December 2024

As winter arrives, it’s easy to sink into the warmth of our homes and hide away from the cold. However, before we go into hibernation, there’s one last thing you should do—garden prep. Your garden may look ready to rest, but there’s plenty to do before the cold fully sets in.  Preparing your garden now ensures it stays healthy and bounces back when Spring arrives. Here’s how you can best prepare your garden for the chilly months ahead.

7 Garden Preparation Tips This Winter

Clear Dead Plants

The very first thing you should do is to remove any dead plants and debris. This helps to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your garden. Compost what you can and dispose of anything diseased to avoid future problems. Clearing your garden of dead plants and debris can help you make space for Winter crops or give you a clean slate ahead of spring.

Use Frost Covers

Frost can be a garden’s worst enemy. Use frost covers to protect tender plants and vegetables, acting as a cosy winter blanket. This will keep out the wind and moisture that can cause damage to your plants. For small shrubs and perennials, an old blanket or sheet can do the trick. Don’t forget to secure the covers properly to prevent them from blowing away in case of storms.

Don’t Forget Left-Out Tools

As the cold wind settles in, it’s easy for us to shut the doors to our gardens and keep them out of mind until next season. But in this rush you may actually have forgotten to put away your tools or pots. Leaving them exposed to frost or rain can cause rust and damage, shortening their lifespan. Scale your garden for any left-out tools and give them a good clean and store them in a dry place. A bonus tip from us: apply a light coat of oil to metal parts to prevent any rusting over winter.

Disconnect Hoses

If you’re someone who waters their garden regularly, then it’s time to disconnect and drain your hoses. Leaving them connected can lead to cracks and burst pipes caused by freezing water. Avoid this by storing your hoses indoors or in a shed to protect them from the cold temperatures. While you’re at it, turn off outdoor water supplies to avoid any freezing in the pipes.

Create Leaf Mould

Fallen leaves aren’t just a pretty feature of the late seasons—they’re also garden gold! Gather up what you can and start a leaf mould pile in a section of your garden. When the leaves break down, they will result in a rich, crumbly material that’s a fantastic soil conditioner. This in turn improves the structure and fertility of your garden’s soil through a sustainable practice.

Mulch Your Perennials

Perennials may look asleep during winter, but their roots still need protection. Spread a layer of organic mulch, like wood chips or peat-free compost, around their bases to insulate them from the cold. Mulch also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, making your spring gardening easier.

Consider Cover Crops

If you have plant beds or unused garden plots, planting cover crops like clover or winter rye can work wonders. These crops prevent soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and suppress weeds over the winter months. When spring rolls around, simply till them into the soil for a natural boost of nutrients.

Winter is your garden’s break. By taking these steps, you’re not just protecting your plants but also setting the stage for the spring ahead. So, grab your gloves, roll up your sleeves, and give your garden the care it deserves before we’re really in the thick of winter.

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