The Royal Horticultural Society has shared some top tips on how to protect your garden from the snow and frost – and it’s not too late to do so
Plants need some extra care during the cold conditions(Image: PA)
The Royal Horticultural Society has shared crucial steps to winter-proof your garden. The sudden drop in temperatures this week, bringing frost and snow across the UK, can wreak havoc on your carefully curated outdoor space.
However, there are measures you can take. Yellow and amber weather warnings have been issued as many areas have seen temperatures plummet below zero. Ideally, gardens should already be prepared for winter, but it’s not too late to protect your plants and trees.
According to the RHS, improving shelter, staking plants, mulching, and wrapping pots can prevent winter damage to gardens. These methods are ideal for safeguarding trees, shrubs, tender plants, and garden structures.
Even hardy plants may need a bit of help to withstand extremely cold conditions. Protective wrappings should ideally be applied before the first frost, so if you haven’t done so yet, now is the time, reports the Express.
Avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilisers, which can encourage sappy growth, and consider covering vegetable patches to prevent nutrient leakage when the soil is exposed.
Mulching can stop soil from becoming overly compacted and eroded, which often occurs after heavy rainfall.
Lastly, wrap your plants in horticultural fleece to shield them from harsh weather and cold temperatures.
The weather in your garden can significantly influence how you prepare it for winter. There will be warm and cold spots, so it’s crucial to position your plants thoughtfully.
Get your garden winter ready before more snow(Image: Getty)
If you have a wall facing south, it will be warmer, while the colder spots are likely to be on the north side of your house. Keep containers dry and sheltered.
You could even group them together for mutual protection. However, remember to place bubble wrap or straw beneath the containers to prevent the roots from freezing.
Another method to avoid this is by digging a hole and burying the pot with only the rim visible. It’s a good idea to check your garden structures at this time of year, as the wind will start to increase.
Ensure any loose panels or fences are secured. Rain can also cause damage to gardens during winter, so ensure you have an appropriate drainage system.
If not, trees with shallow roots could potentially be uprooted in strong winds. If you suspect any branches could break under its weight, clear snow from trees and hedges.
Simply shake off any accumulating snow and consider whether you need to prune any branches to make them more secure.
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