Dealing With Snow And Ice In The Garden

After the last week or so we are all acutely aware of just how treacherous the weather can get in winter. It’s only natural that most attention should be focused on the very considerable difficulties people have experienced getting about, whether it’s to and from work or elsewhere, but there are many other considerations that arise when the weather is very cold and frosty.

For instance, if you are a keen gardener, just exactly what can you do to protect your cherished plants and shrubs from the effects of frost, ice and snow?

Action is required immediately, but fortunately, it is relatively easy to frost-proof your garden.

Spread well-rotted manure, leaf mould or bar around the base of the plants and shrubs you want to protect. and while you are in the garden snip away any old withered leaves from your plants.

For container plants and shrubs make sure they are sitting off the ground and surround them with a little bit of bubble-wrap to keep the roots insulated and warm – this, mind you, is the only time you should use bubble-wrap because it can trap moisture which in turn can become ice.  For more delicate plants you need to use special fleece designed for use with plants – you will find it at the local garden centre .

Last, but not least, make sure you spread a little grit and salt on pathways to help keep them clear and easy to navigate in cold weather.

If you happen to have a small pond in your garden then a simple trick is to kick a ball into the pond. This will help create an air hole  for wild life, should the pond freeze over.

So much for frost, what about the snow? If you experience snowfall this winter, brush it away from shrubs and trees in an upwards motion – this will stop branches from breaking. Top up any soil that may have shrunk away from you newer plants or shrubs.

Any frail or especially sensitive plants should be covered up  and placed in an east-facing site with black plastic to avoid rapid defrosting in  the morning sun. And one last thing – try to do all this while avoiding walking on your lawn, because, if not, you are likely to wear it our meaning re-seeding will be required.