Plants, no matter how well chosen or maintained, can have a tough time with New England winters. You can, however, keep damage at a minimum. Water until the ground freezes (which is usually not until well into late December) or at least past Thanksgiving to be sure plants are hydrated. Temporary mulch, applied when the ground freezes and removed in spring, can protect more tender plants not by keeping roots warm but by insulating roots against the damaging frost-heave cycle. Applying an anti-desiccant spray at the end of November or later helps protect evergreens – especially newly planted ones – from drying winds and harsh sun.
Burlap, waxed cardboard, Styrofoam, and plywood can all be used to screen plants. All winter wraps should allow some moisture and air to enter. Plants near any area that is sanded, salted, and plowed should be protected with a burlap barrier. Move plants in containers to a garage or covered porch. The container is too large to move? Create a barrier around it.
Deer are a problem for many of us. Repellants are effective when population pressure is moderate. Apply them early and reapply throughout the winter. Temporary fences work even better, especially for large plantings.
Preparing for winter is work, yes, but at least we don’t have to weed!
Weston Nurseries, Inc.
katbergmann
waynemezitt
Melissa
Ann W
