5 Ways to Winterize Your Landscape for a Healthier Spring
1. Why Winter Prep is Essential
Burlap used to protect plants from dry winter winds.
Winter may seem like a dormant period, but your landscape still requires attention to survive the cold months. Proper winterization protects your plants, prevents soil erosion, and lays the groundwork for a lush, green spring. Beyond plant health, winter is an ideal time for hardscaping and lighting installations—both of which can enhance your property’s value and appeal. With the slower season, you may even find better pricing for these services.
2. Focus on Lawn Care
Aerating Lawn
Your lawn will thank you for a little TLC before the ground freezes. Here’s how to set it up for success:
Fertilize Before the Frost: Use a slow-release fertilizer to keep your lawn nourished during dormancy. This helps promote healthy root growth for spring.
Overseed with Cold-Hardy Grasses: Adding tall fescue or other cool-season grasses can fill in bare spots and ensure a lush, thick lawn when the weather warms up.
Aeration is Key: Break up compacted soil to allow water, nutrients, and oxygen to reach the roots. Fall or early winter is the perfect time to aerate.
3. Protecting Plants and Shrubs
Wire Mesh Protecting Small Trees From Pests like Deer
Cold temperatures can take a toll on your shrubs and perennials. Protect them with these strategies:
Mulch Matters: Add a layer of mulch to your garden beds to insulate roots and retain moisture. Aim for 2–4 inches around plants, but avoid piling it against stems.
Wrap Delicate Shrubs: Use burlap or plant covers to protect sensitive plants from harsh winds and frost. This is especially important for evergreens and tender perennials.
Prune Carefully: Remove any dead or diseased branches, but avoid heavy pruning, as it may encourage new growth vulnerable to freezing.
4. Preventing Winter Water Issues
Winterizing a Spigot to Prevent Freezing
Winter can lead to water pooling in your beds and yard, which may cause root rot or soil erosion. Here’s how to combat this:
Install French Drains: Direct water away from your home and garden beds with an effective drainage system. At Greenscape Outdoors, we specialize in French drains that protect your landscape while preserving its beauty.
Adjust Your Irrigation System: Winterize your sprinklers to avoid frozen pipes and leaks.
5. Hardscape Maintenance & Upgrades
Winter is the ideal time to maintain or enhance your hardscape features. Since plants are dormant, there’s less disruption to your yard during these projects.
Seal Your Pavers: Protect your walkways and patios from the freeze-thaw cycle by applying a high-quality sealer.
Retaining Walls & Lighting Installations: With fewer active projects in the winter, hardscaping services are often more cost-effective. Retaining walls provide structure, while outdoor lighting adds warmth and security to your property.
Ready for a Healthier Spring? Let Us Help!
Winter is more than a time to hibernate—it’s a chance to get your landscape in top shape for spring. Whether you need help with lawn care, drainage solutions, or hardscape upgrades, Greenscape Outdoors is here to make your vision a reality. Contact us today to schedule your winter prep services or start planning for spring.