Winter may seem to be a “non-season” as far as gardening is concerned, but winter is part of nature’s plan. In fact, in the northern temperate zone we have an advantage that the warmer zones do not have … namely the churning and replenishment of the soil through internal grinding and mixing caused by alternate freezing and thawing. This gives our plants a chance to take up newly released nutrients and to have a looser soil at the beginning of the season so roots can grow deeper.
Many of our plants need cold weather in order to complete their life cycles. Apple trees need a certain amount of cold days to produce their fruit; all our spring bulbs need to be cold for a period of time so that they will grow and bloom.
Some items of interest
• BUNDLED HOUSES… trap air inside because of insulation and insulated windows. Fumes from smoking, breathing, household cleaners, and cooking get trapped inside. New air is needed to keep your living space fresh. Open the doors and windows a few times to let air in. Room air purifiers are also available.
• FIREWOOD AND INSECTS… keep firewood outside until you are ready to burn it. Otherwise, insect eggs could hatch inside.
• FROZEN LAWNS… are fragile. Refrain as much as possible from repeatedly walking on frozen turf.
• SNOW ON BOUGHS…of shrubbery can get heavy, ice and cause damage. Healthy shrubs can better withstand the weight because the branches are more supple. Try to keep snow from piling up so damage doesn’t occur.
• BIRDS—FOOD & WATER… It’s really nice to watch birds excitedly feeding in your back yard. Once you start, though, they can get dependent, so don’t stop. And try to put water out during their feeding times. They need it.
• SAND & SALT… If plain sand isn’t good enough to keep your walks and steps safe, mix it with calcium chloride, and use it as sparingly as possible. Any salt can damage turf and plants.
