How Do You Keep Outdoor Plants Alive in the Winter?

Caring for outdoor plants during the winter months can be tricky. They need to be able to withstand cold temperatures and receive enough sunlight to stay healthy, while also avoiding dehydration due to the dry air. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that your outdoor plants survive the cold season and flourish come springtime.

1. Choose Hardy Plants

When selecting outdoor plants for your garden, consider those that are known for their hardiness in cold weather.

Some popular varieties of perennial plants include pansies, violas, primroses and ornamental cabbages. Shrubs such as boxwood, holly and juniper tend to do well in colder climates too.

2. Protect Your Plants from Frost

To protect your outdoor plants from frost damage, cover them with a frost cloth or a bed sheet when temperatures drop below freezing. Make sure the fabric is draped loosely over the plant so it doesn’t trap heat or moisture, which could cause rot or mold.

3. Provide Adequate Watering

During the winter months, outdoor plants will require less water than during other times of the year due to lower temperatures and shorter days.

However, they still need enough water to stay healthy and hydrated. Check your soil regularly by sticking your finger into it up to an inch deep; if it feels dry then water your plants.

4. Add Mulch

Lay down a thick layer of mulch around your outdoor plants at least two inches deep in order to insulate them from extreme temperatures and protect the roots from freezing soil conditions. Choose a mulch type such as bark chips or shredded leaves that will adequately retain moisture without becoming soggy.

Conclusion:

By choosing hardy varieties of plants and taking steps such as providing adequate watering and adding mulch for insulation purposes, you can ensure that your outdoor plants will thrive during even the coldest winter months.

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Chris Powell