Proper winter landscape maintenance sets the stage for a lush and vibrant spring. Taking the right steps in January and February protects your lawn, trees, and garden from seasonal stress while ensuring they flourish when warmer weather returns. Here’s what you need to know to keep your landscape in top shape this winter.

Key Winter Landscape Care Tasks

1. Prune Dormant Trees and Shrubs

Winter is the perfect time for pruning, as most trees and shrubs are dormant. Removing dead or diseased branches improves overall plant health and encourages strong spring growth. Proper pruning also enhances the shape and structure of your plants, reducing the risk of damage from winter storms.

2. Protect Plants from Frost and Freezing Temperatures

Cold temperatures and frost can be harsh on plants. Use mulch to insulate soil and retain warmth around roots. For sensitive plants, consider using frost cloths or burlap wraps to shield them from freezing temperatures. “Watering plants before a freeze can help protect them from cold injury. Soil that is well watered absorbs more heat and then reradiates heat, helping to increase the elevated temperature around the plants” (Mississippi State University Extension, n.d.).

3. Apply Pre-Emergent Weed Control

Weeds begin germinating before spring arrives, making winter an ideal time to apply pre-emergent herbicides. This proactive step helps prevent weeds like crabgrass from taking over your lawn when temperatures rise, reducing competition for nutrients and ensuring a healthier landscape.

4. Maintain Hardscapes and Outdoor Features

Cold weather can take a toll on patios, walkways, and outdoor structures. Inspect hardscape areas for cracks or damage and address repairs before spring. Cleaning and sealing surfaces now will also help prevent long-term wear and tears.

Get a Professional Consultation

There is no right or wrong time to enhance your outdoor living space. The best time for your landscaping project will depend on your specific needs, priorities, and budget. Consulting with a professional landscaping company that understands your area’s unique weather patterns will help you determine the ideal timing based on your project’s scope.

Start planning your dream landscape now with Grassroots. Since 2004, Grassroots has been serving the Bryan/College Station area, building a strong reputation throughout the Brazos Valley for delivering meticulous landscaping services and exceptional customer care. Contact our team today to request a project quote and take the first step toward your perfect outdoor space.

References

Mississippi State University Extension. (n.d.). Protecting plants from cold temperatures. Retrieved from https://extension.msstate.edu/publications/protecting-plants-cold-temperatures