As I’m writing this blog, the first winter storm of the season has advanced across the country bringing snow, lake effect snow and cold from the mid west into the south and east. The forecast for the winter is a repeat of last winter’s cold and stormy season. Many of us are preparing for the cold by winterizing our homes, bringing in more firewood and checking the snow blower to be sure it is working properly. Our landscapes also need to be prepared for winter.
    Winter conditions such as cold, wind and low humidity can cause severe damage to plants, this is especially true for evergreen plants. The damage is caused to plants through the process of desiccation. Desiccation is caused by low humidity, cold temperatures and wind which sucks the moisture out of the plant causing cell damage and death. Most woody perennial plants continue to function well into the winter and roots are active until the soil freezes. When the soil is warm enough moisture is drawn into the plant and the needles and leaves. When the soil freezes this process stops and the moisture in the leaves is then drawn out by the air.
    The solution to this problem is to prepare your plants just as you prepare your house. Adequate soil moisture is key to plant survival. Provide supplementary watering if we have not received good rain up to the time the soil freezes. This can continue well into December and January if the soil has not frozen. A word of caution, however, do not over water which can cause root damage.
    By following these simple steps your plants will have a better chance of surviving the harsh conditions of a Valley winter. Put your plants to bed properly, give them some TLC and they will perform well come spring thanking you with a wonderful spring display.