Fall is a great time to start growing plants in the garden. With bright, sunny days to compliment cool temperatures, this creates a perfect climate for the next growing season. However, the weather in New England consists of four distinct seasons: short springs, humid summers, cool falls, and harsh winters filled with heavy snowstorms.
Winter Garden
While you might have already prepared your home for winter, there are other steps you can take for your garden as well. Here are 4 winter tips to prepare the gardeners of New England.
Store Seasonal Features
Seasonal features like wall fountains are great for adding style and structure to your garden. If you have previously added a fountain to your yard during the spring or summer months, you will need to consider the proper steps of maintenance. Consider that your fountain may have large amounts of exposure to moisture.
When the temperatures drop, the water will freeze and expand. As a result, the fountain will become cracked or damaged. With proper care, wall fountains will make it through cold weather without harm.
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Protect Plants from Frost
According to Author and Farmer, Eliot Colemen, plants can still grow during the winter season. Using tall, unheated plastic shelters will provide extra insulation and keep plants protected from dry, harsh winds. While you might want to grow your seeds indoors, another option would be to use season-extending fabrics. You can cover your frost-sensitive plants with humidity-resistant fabric to keep them warm during the winter.
Combine Berries and Bushes
Consider incorporating seasonal berries with bushes into the landscape. The burst of bright colors will not only create an appealing garden design, it will also attract native birds and wildlife. You can also add winterberry branches into winter-safe plant containers to add style to your garden landscape while supporting the local wildlife.
Enhance Garden Structures
Embrace your garden landscape with structures that are stylish for every season. According to the National Wildlife Federation, installing native plants will survive all year long. Just be sure that they are part of the local ecosystem. You can also try adding a twig wreath or hang nesting boxes for birds. Always monitor the boxes for any invasive species that are known to harm other native species.
Furthermore, learn to embrace the beauty of an unexpected winter garden landscape. With the right protection and care, a garden with a dusting of snow and a red cardinal in a tree is a delightful sight to enjoy all season long.
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