Plants play a strange role in winter festivities. There’s a wreath on the door, a light-adorned tree in the living room, and perhaps a few sprigs of mistletoe. As warmth moves indoors, though, it’s important to look out your window: gardens struggle in winter.
With hardened frost, waterlogged soil, and limited daylight, it’s no wonder gardens suffer. Winter puts strain on plants. Here’s how to protect your garden – because the best gardeners know that it’s possible to thrive, not just survive.
Mulch, Watering & Root Protection
Temperature fluctuations are nobody’s best friend. Winter mornings are notorious for freeze-thaw cycles, which damage root health and stunt growth. That’s where mulch comes in. Adding two to four inches of protective material acts as insulation – creating a stable environment for your precious plants. Bark chips or straw are common choices. Just keep this material a few centimetres from the plant’s stem to avoid rot.
In terms of watering, timing is key. Check the weather forecast and always aim to water before frost.
Protect Vulnerable Plants: Covers, Cloches & Windbreaks
Bombproof plants might have been trending in 2025. Still, while hardier specimens flourish, those sensitive souls among your flowerbeds need extra attention.
Gentle geraniums or fragrant basil are prime examples of vulnerable plants. Usually, breathable barriers do the trick; consider throwing burlap or frost cloth over flowers and herbs. However, windbreaks are effective (those breezes create an uncomfortable chill) and, as a gold standard precaution, individual cloches.
Smart Pruning, Tidying & Preparing for Spring
Winter might be here, but spring is coming. In just a few months, plants will burst into bloom and new growth – adding different demands for gardeners. Get ahead of the curve; it’s amazing what a quick tidy-up can achieve. Removing dead leaves and pruning broken branches promotes pre-spring recovery. This strategy also reduces the risk of fungal or pest issues. A well-timed afternoon of spring preparation can keep your garden thriving.
Look After Wildlife, Containers & Soil Health
A beautiful garden revolves around life. Those starlings that flitter around your pond? The frozen ground leaves them hungry; add extra food to feeders. The squirrels that dash up the old oak? Their water is scarce, so keep bird baths unfrozen. Look at your garden’s ecosystem, and make tweaks as necessary.
If not moved to sheltered positions, container plants will quickly shout for help. Their roots are more vulnerable than in-ground plants, so consider insulating wraps or south-facing walls. Similarly, soil often benefits from enrichment. Don’t forget the humble houseplants, too. Reducing watering and increasing light is key to keeping houseplants alive and thriving this winter.
Gardening is a full-time job. But with these four strategies, you’ll have a thriving garden this winter.
