Winter is coming. The days are shorter, and the first frost is just around the corner. You might think your gardening work is done, but a little effort now prepares your soil for a successful spring. Winterizing your garden protects your plants, improves soil health, and saves you time when the weather warms up again.
Clean Up Debris
Start by removing old plants. Dead tomato vines and squash leaves often harbor pests and diseases. If you leave them in the garden, those problems will return next year. Pull up finished annuals and compost healthy plant material. Throw away any diseased plants to stop the spread of infection.
Rake up fallen leaves from your lawn and garden beds. You can shred these leaves to create a natural mulch or add them to your compost pile.
Protect Your Soil
Bare soil is vulnerable soil. Winter winds and rain can wash away valuable topsoil. You need to cover it up. Spreading a thick layer of mulch insulates the ground. It regulates soil temperature and retains moisture.
We recommend using organic mulch or planting a cover crop like crimson clover or winter rye. These crops prevent erosion and add nitrogen back into the soil when you till them under in the spring. Farmer’s Co-op stocks a variety of cover crop seeds perfect for our region.
Care for Perennials and Tools
Some plants need extra help to survive the cold. Add a layer of mulch around the base of your perennials and shrubs. This protects their roots from freezing and thawing cycles.
Don’t forget your equipment. Drain the fuel from your tillers and mowers. Clean the dirt off your shovels and hoes. Rub a little oil on the metal parts to prevent rust.
Visit Farmer’s Co-op Today
Get your garden ready for its winter nap. Stop by your local Farmer’s Co-op in Arkansas or Oklahoma. Our team will help you find the right mulch, cover crop seeds, and tools to close out your gardening season the right way.
