Gardening in Winter ?
It’s the middle of January and the ground is covered with snow. Why is someone submitting an article on gardening? Well, as most avid gardeners know, gardening is pretty much a year round hobby. During the spring and summer we plant, fertilize, and enjoy the fruits of our labor. During the fall we transplant, prepare for winter, and watch our plants die back yet another year. But what about winter -what do we do then? Well, although we may not be physically working in our gardens during the winter months, many things can be happening to improve our gardens come spring.
For those willing to try their hand at growing their own plants from seed, now is the time to think about what you want to grow and begin preparations for planting (purchase seeds, soil, planting containers (flats), etc.). If you prefer to purchase transplants, then you can be thinking about what you would like to add to your garden.
Another thing you can definitely do right now is to look out your windows and/or take a stroll through the snow and look at your garden. Many trees and shrubs are still visible through the snow (whether evergreen or just bare stems) and can be quite beautiful, even in winter. Look and see if there is a bare spot right now that you think could use an evergreen or another type of shrub/plant that looks as good or better in the winter. Perhaps you will notice a spot that could use an evergreen for a little added privacy during the winter or just break up the landscape of snow so it’s more interesting to look at. Certain trees and shrubs can also provide a windbreak and is more attractive then a snow fence or some kind of man-made structure. Also, you can survey your garden and take note of where you receive the most snowfall, drifts, etc. (things that could possibly harm certain plants) and keep this is mind during the spring/summer when you are deciding where to plant new additions to your garden.
Finally, snuggle up with a good gardening book or relax in front of the computer and do a little research during these cold winter months - you can definitely learn some new ways to make your garden more beautiful and productive as well as new techniques and tips to save you unnecessary work and money this coming year.
Remember – “out of sight” should not mean “out of mind” Happy gardening!
