It’s that time again – the crisp smell of fall permeates the air, the leaves are changing, natural beauty of our landscaping is fading. Sometimes it is easy to forget that our gardens need to be cleaned and protected for winter.
Our winters here in Western New York often have extreme change in temperature. This can cause serious damage to plant material. For this reason we recommend protecting plants from the freeze /thaw cycle. Wait until the soil has cooled, but not frozen, and apply two to four inches of mulch. Avoid using leaves as mulch. Leaves tend to mat and will exclude water - they are best composted or removed.
Mulch all the way at least to the drip line of the plant (see graphic below).
However, leave two to three inches from the trunks of trees and shrubs. This will help to discourage rodents from feasting on the bark.
More information?
The International Society of Arboriculture has a good resource for detailed information on mulching techniques.
Graphic credits to: 2007 International Society of Arboriculture.
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