How to Protect Your Landscape from Snow and Ice Damage

A closeup shot of snow-covered blooming Rowan plants on a winter day

As winter approaches, preparing your landscape for the cold snap is crucial to prevent snow and ice damage. At Creekside Outdoor Living, we understand the importance of safeguarding your green spaces against the harsh winter elements. Here are essential steps to protect your landscape and ensure it emerges in spring as vibrant as ever.

Evaluate and Fortify Trees and Shrubs

Assessing Tree Health

Before the first frost hits, inspect trees and shrubs for any signs of disease or weakness. Weak or dead branches are more likely to break under the weight of snow and ice, posing a risk to your landscape and safety. Pruning these vulnerable limbs can prevent damage and promote the plant’s overall health through the winter.

Wrap Delicate Shrubs

Some shrubs, particularly evergreens and those with delicate branches, benefit from being wrapped in burlap. This protective layer shields them from cold winds and heavy snowfall, helping to prevent breakage and desiccation.

Prioritize Lawn Care

Aerate and Fertilize

Aerating your lawn before winter allows for better water and nutrient absorption, strengthening the roots and preparing the grass for a healthy spring revival. Applying a winter fertilizer enhances root growth, giving your lawn a head start once the warmer weather returns.

Keep It Clean

Ensure your lawn is free of leaves and debris before the snow falls. A clean lawn prevents mold and disease from developing under snow cover, which can damage the grass.

Protect Water Features and Irrigation Systems

Winterize Irrigation Systems

Water left in irrigation lines can freeze, causing the pipes to burst. Drain your irrigation system and, if possible, blow out the lines with compressed air. This step is crucial to avoid costly repairs come spring.

Care for Water Features

If you have a pond or fountain, consider how freezing temperatures will affect it. For ponds, a small heater or aerator can keep water moving and prevent it from completely freezing over, protecting aquatic life. Fountains and other water features should be drained and covered to protect them from the elements.

Guard Against Rodent Damage

Wrap Tree Trunks

Rodents can cause significant damage to trees and shrubs during the winter, chewing on bark and branches. Wrap the base of young trees with plastic guards or metal hardware cloth to keep these pests at bay.

Mulch with Care

While mulch can protect roots from freezing temperatures, applying it too early or too thickly can create a cozy habitat for rodents. Wait until the ground begins to freeze before applying a moderate layer of mulch around plants and trees.

Secure Outdoor Furniture and Decor

Store or Cover Outdoor Items

Patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor decor should be stored in a shed or garage or covered with waterproof covers. This prevents rust and wear from exposure to snow and ice.

Adjust Landscape Lighting

Inspect and Adjust Lighting

Ensure that all landscape lighting is in working order and appropriately positioned. Snow and ice can alter the terrain of your landscape, potentially burying or damaging lights. Adjusting lighting not only adds winter charm to your landscape but also improves safety by illuminating walkways and driveways.

Plan for Snow Removal

Strategize Snow Piling Locations

When planning for snow removal, consider where you’ll pile the snow. Placing it in an area that won’t affect your landscape or cause water damage when it melts is essential.

Choose Ice Melt Wisely

Use calcium chloride or magnesium chloride instead of rock salt to melt ice on walkways and driveways. These materials are less harmful to plants and soil.

Creekside Outdoor Living Can Help with Winter Landscape Preparation

Choosing Creekside Outdoor Living for your pre-winter landscape preparation means entrusting your outdoor space to experts dedicated to preserving its beauty and health through the toughest seasons. Our comprehensive approach ensures every aspect of your landscape is protected, from lawn and plant care to water feature maintenance.

Preparing your landscape for winter doesn’t have to be daunting. With Creekside, you have a partner ready to help you every step of the way to protect your green spaces from snow and ice damage. Reach out to us today to get your landscape ready for winter and ensure a lush, vibrant return in spring.

CREEKSIDE IS AN AUTHORIZED UNILOCK CONTRACTOR AND IS ICPI CERTIFIED.

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