As winter settles into Middle Tennessee, garden enthusiasts and homeowners alike face the task of maintaining their landscapes through the colder months. With proper care and preparation, your garden can thrive, setting the stage for a vibrant return come spring. Here are some expert tips to ensure your landscape remains healthy throughout the winter season with Hewitt Garden & Design!

Protecting Plants

The number one way to protect your landscape during winter is by keeping it properly mulched. Mulching provides a protective layer that insulates roots and maintains soil moisture. If temperatures begin to dip beyond Zone 7’s typical range, cover sensitive plants using breathable fabrics like bed sheets or burlap, avoiding non-breathable materials such as plastic tarps. Generally, dormant plants don’t require covering until new growth

Pruning

Winter is an optimal time to prune trees and larger shrubs. This season offers a clearer view of a tree’s structure, enabling precise cuts. Pruning in winter also helps control disease, as pests and pathogens are less active. However, verify the correct timing for specific plants to avoid disrupting blooming cycles.

Watering

Even in winter, ensuring the ground remains moist is imperative. While natural rainfall usually suffices, monitor your garden and water as necessary, particularly for new plantings and evergreens. These plants are more susceptible to winter desiccation and can benefit from occasional deep watering during dry spells.

Monitor Weather and Rainfall

Keeping an eye on weather forecasts and rainfall is essential. Sudden temperature drops or unexpected dry spells might require additional protective measures for your plants or supplemental watering to keep your landscape in optimal condition.

Plan New Plantings and Projects

Winter is a perfect time to reflect on your landscape’s design and plan for the growing season ahead. Take stock of what worked well last year and what could use improvement. Whether you’re considering new flower beds, walkways, or installing trees and shrubs, this planning phase ensures you’re ready to begin when spring arrives.

Winter Planting

Winter dormancy is an excellent time to plant larger trees, evergreens, and woody ornamentals. The cooler temperatures reduce transplant shock, allowing these tougher plants to establish themselves without the stress of summer heat. While we recommend holding off on planting perennials and more sensitive plants, seize the opportunity to strengthen your landscape’s backbone with hardy additions.

Soil Health and Preparation

Healthy soil is the foundation of a vibrant garden. Use winter downtime to test your soil’s pH levels and nutrient content. Add amendments, like compost or organic fertilizers, to enrich your soil and improve its structure, ensuring it’s ready for spring growth.

About Hewitt Garden & Design

Winter landscaping in Middle Tennessee requires a strategic approach to ensure your garden remains robust and ready for the changing seasons. At Hewitt Garden and Design Center, we are here to support your winter gardening endeavors with expert advice and quality supplies. Whether protecting existing plants, planning new projects, or embracing winter planting opportunities, we are committed to helping you create a beautiful landscape year-round. 

Visit us at Hewitt Garden & Design to explore how we can support your gardening journey. Here’s to a healthy garden and a colorful spring ahead!