Cara to Winterize Anda Garden Before the First Frost

Work before winter determines spring recovery.

Frost Date

Find via extension. Complete tasks 2+ weeks before. Watch forecasts.

Perennials

Cut to 3-4 inches after hard frost. 3-4 inches mulch over crown. Not too early. Extra for marginal plants. Mound roses.

Tender Bulbs

Dig gladiolus, dahlias, cannas. Cure, store in paper bags with peat at 40-50F.

Soil

Add compost now. Freeze-thaw breaks it down. Cover bare beds or plant cover crop.

Clean Up

Remove dead annuals. Diseased to trash. Clean and oil tools. Drain hoses. Insulate faucets.

Irrigation

Blow out in-ground lines before freezing.

Containers

Empty terra cotta and ceramic. Store inside. Frost-rated pots can stay against house.

Plan

Note what worked. Order spring seeds in late winter. Garden journal improves you year over year.