Tips for Winterizing Backyard Shrubs

 

Fall is almost here and for many of use that means we need to offer some protection for our plants and shrubs. After all our landscaping in the backyard oasis must survive the cold months and thrive for the following summer season.

Plants are relatively easy to protect for the winter. I clear out any damaged leaves and stems, cut back plants and remove any weeds. After the first heavy frost I will lay down a thick layer of mulch and consider the plants safe from the harsh cold my area gets hit with.

Shrubs need a little more protection form the cold and weight of the snow. A heavy snow can break branches and even cause the truck to crack. To prepare my shrubs for winter I cut back any shrub that has grown wild during the summer, provide a soft wrap to keep the shrub in shape if necessary and I will provide a burlap wrap for the shrubs that are hit by the most wind and snowy areas in the yard.

To help the burlap keep its shape I use two techniques: the burlap frame and the burlap wrap.

The burlap frame is used in the areas with the most wind or snow. I either make a square or rectangular frame or forage for one. (I find rectangular frames at grocery stores and companies that get a lot of shipments.) I will secure the frame in place and cover the side with burlap. For a heavy snow I will cover the top of the frame, stretch it in place and tie down.

I use a burlap wrap to help keep a shrub that has delicate branches in place and not to get weighed down by snow that will break the branches. It will also protect a shrub from cold winds that may affect the plants growth or flowers the following year.

I use burlap because it breathes well but protects the plant. It’s also cheap. You can also buy commercial tree wrap. It breathes like burlap but will cost more.

In severe Snow Belt areas many landscapers and homeowners will construct a more protective triangular A frame to protect new or tender shrubs from the winter weather.

It’s never too early to start to plan for protecting your plants and shrubs. The time you take to protect your landscaping will pay off with healthier plants and shrubs and may even save them.