Winter weather can be tough on plants, and Colorado gardeners have to take extra precautions to protect their flowers, trees, and vegetables from freezing temperatures and snow. Whether you’ve recently planted new seeds or need advice on caring for aging trees, consider implementing these tips this season.

3 Ways to Protect Your Plants During Winter

1. Cover Them When Possible

Do whatever you can to add warmth to tender annuals, patio pots, herbs, and vegetable plants. Cover them with frost cloths, bedsheets, or large, upside-down pots to protect them from the elements.

Move patio pots indoors temporarily, even if it’s just into the garage. Add a layer of mulch around young trees and flower beds to help trap heat in the soil. This will also protect newly planted seeds.

2. Prune Damaged Parts

Some damage during the season is inevitable. Thankfully, you can minimize it by being attentive and tackling problems during late winter. If you notice diseased, damaged, or dead branches, have them removed in February or early March. This will encourage healthy growth in the spring.

The rules for flowering trees are a bit different. Early blooming variants like apricot and magnolia trees should be pruned after they finish blooming. On the other hand, late blooming breeds like dogwood and catalpa should be pruned in early spring. Understanding the needs of your specific plants will ensure the best care.

3. Brush Away Snow

Snow can provide excellent insulation for plants, but too much of it can cause fragile limbs and stems to break. After a snowstorm, take a brush or broom and gently sweep the snow away from the branches of young trees.

Don’t try to remove ice; you can accidentally damage vulnerable limbs. Plants will experience less damage if you gently brush away the snow after every couple of inches instead of waiting until the snow is deep.

If you need seeds to replenish or start a garden in Dove Creek, CO, stop by Carhart Feed & Seed Co. Known for selling quality animal feed, seeds, and farm supplies, they also carry plumbing fixtures, batteries, and veterinary equipment. Their knowledgeable staff will help you protect your greenery this winter. Call (970) 677-2233 to learn more about the products they offer.