For many garden plants winter can be a difficult time, especially for those plants that come from warmer climates. Even hardy, native plants can benefit from a little extra care to get through the cold, wet months. Here are our seven top tips to help protect your plants this winter.
7 Tips to Keep Your Plants Safe in Winter
- Avoid waterlogged pots
Most plants dislike sitting in cold, soggy compost. If a pot becomes waterlogged or frozen, it’s likely the plant won’t survive. Mediterranean plants like lavender don't like sitting in cold, wet compost. To reduce the risk, raise pots up on pot feet to improve drainage.
- Insulate potted plants
Even hardy plants in pots can struggle in winter since their roots are more exposed. Give them extra protection in cold areas by wrapping pots in fleece or bubble wrap to insulate them against frost, placing the hardiest plants on the outside.
- Shelter from harsh weather
Move pots up against a sheltered wall to shield them from wind and heavy rain.
- Protect tender tubers
Plants like dahlias, gladioli, and begonias die back in winter, but their tubers can survive. In mild areas, a thick mulch of straw may be enough. In colder climates, dig up tubers in the late autumn, let them dry for a couple of days, brush off excess soil, and store them in trays of compost in a cool, dry, frost-free place. Replant them in spring.
- Winter care for banana plants
Bananas add a tropical touch but need protection. After the first light frost, cut leaves back to the top of the stem and wrap the plant in horticultural fleece covered with hessian. In colder areas, add a wire frame around the plant, fill the space with straw, and cover with plastic to keep out snow and rain.
- Bring tender geraniums indoors
Before it gets frosty, move geraniums inside and cut them back to encourage bushier growth next year. Place them on a sunny windowsill and water just enough to keep the compost slightly moist.
- Mulch garden beds
Add a 5cm layer of mulch in late autumn to help improve the soil structure, reduce compaction and erosion, and support strong, healthy plant growth.
We’ve got everything you need in our garden centre in St. Albans to keep your plants happy and healthy this winter. Come and visit our friendly team at Carpenters Nursery, they’re always ready to help!
