January, 2017
WELCOME to the New Year.
PLANTS LOSE MOISTURE IN WINTER
I know the severe weather is coming, and am trying to prepare myself and my garden for the inevitable. Plants lose a lot of moisture during the winter, especially the evergreen plants. If you are unable to give your plants extra water, do make sure to keep a layer of mulch or leaves on top of the root systems in order to keep moisture in the soil. A nice layer of snow on the ground would be a big help.
SNOW & ICE
Try to brush heavy snow off of evergreen trees and shrubs. If allowed to stay, the snow could cause abnormal spreading between branches. Such damage is frequently seen in Boxwoods, Arborvitae and Upright Junipers and ‘Sky Pencil’ Japanese Holly. If desired, you can bind the plants with twine, fishing line or vinyl coated wire before the first snowfall. Though somewhat visible, it will protect the plants without your help. The binding can easily be removed in the spring.
Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do about ice. If you attempt to break off the ice, you are likely to damage the plant even more. Just hope the ice melts as quickly as possible. In the spring, careful pruning can fix most of the winter damage. New spring growth will take care of the rest.
DO YOUR PRUNING SHEARS NEED HELP?
I have prepared a Tool Sharpening Clinic to teach you how to sharpen your own tools. If your group would like me to offer this FREE, 1 hour clinic, just let me know. These cold winter months offer the perfect opportunity to get your tools in shape.
STAY WARM.
