How to Winterize Your Shrubs
Shrubs are good way to add character and depth to your garden.
Aesthetics tend to play a bigger role than suitable habitat does when it comes
to shrub selection. Winterizing your shrubs is an important part of keeping
your shrubs healthy throughout the winter. Let’s look at how to winterize your
shrubs.
#1 Prune the Branches
During the fall months prune the branches of your shrubs as
part of your preventative measures. Accumulation of snow/ice throughout the
winter months can stress and your shrubs. Remove the smaller and weaker
branches. The thicker branches that are attached to the trunk should be able to
withstand the weight during the winter months.
#2 Build a Tepee
You can increase the strength of your shrubs just by building
a tepee over them. Start with bamboo rods and erect them over your shrubs forming
a pyramid shape. If you have a row of shrubs you can use two thin pieces of
plywood to build your tent.
#3 Get some Mulch
Pile mulch around the base of your shrubs to prevent moisture
loss during the winter months. Mulch will control rapid fluctuations in temperature.
#4 Wrap it Up
Use tree wrap to protect your shrubs. This is specially
designed for this purpose and it is a very versatile tool available to help you
battle against the winter weather.
You can erect a screen, by stretching it between wooden
stakes. This will do a great job of shielding shrubs from harsh sunlight and
strong winds. A tree-wrap can also prevent frost cracks that will damage
the trunks of your shrubs. Winter sun can cause f the wood to expand, causing the
formation of splits and cracks.
Preparing your shrubs for the winter ensures that they have
a much better chance of surviving.