It's snowing... here are 7 ways to protect your garden right now
The first snowfall of the season has arrived, with sub-zero temperatures reaching much of the UK. In the garden, these wintry conditions can cause harm to plants, but a few proactive measures can ensure they survive. As we expect to see more snow blanketing gardens across the UK this week, the experts share their top tips on how to protect your outdoor space from snow.
1. Cover tender plants
Tender plants, perennials and anything newly planted will need some extra TLC. 'It's best to cover these plants to offer them insulating protection. One of the simplest ways to do it is to cover them with an upturned bucket or flowerpot but you can also use protective garden fleece,' says Chris Bonnett, founder of online garden centre, Gardening Express.
2. Protect shrubs and trees
You can wrap larger shrubs and trees with burlap or special tree wraps to shield the trunks of young or sensitive trees from snow and ice. Chris says it’s important to shake off excess snow from branches to prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight.
3. Move potted plants to a sheltered spot
Container garden? If you’ve got a collection of potted plants, move them to a sheltered spot and wrap the sides to keep the plants insulated. ‘Bubble wrap or a fleece plant cover are both good to use,' says Chris, but keep them outside. 'Remember to not bring the plants indoors because the sudden increase in temperature can kill them,' he explains.
4. Keep watering
‘It’s also important to keep your plants watered because they might struggle to draw up water from their roots if the soil is frozen or covered in snow,’ says Chris. The best time to do this is in the middle of the day when temperatures are a bit warmer.
5. Protect your garden furniture
Garden furniture needs protecting too. If you have the space, move it into the shed or garage or a more sheltered part of your garden. Alternatively, protect your furniture with covers or tarps.
'Even sturdy materials like synthetic rattan and aluminium benefit from covers to shield them from rain, snow, and dirt,' says Jon Saeed, managing director at outdoor lighting specialists, Lighting Legends. 'Opt for breathable, weather-resistant covers that allow moisture to evaporate, which prevents mould growth. Canvas and vinyl are excellent materials for covers, as they’re durable and offer reliable protection.'
6. Don’t walk on the lawn
Avoid walking on a snow-covered lawn as it will damage the turf underneath. 'That's because it compacts the snow, making it harder for the grass beneath to breathe and receive essential nutrients,' Chris explains.
7. Look after your pond
Keep your fish and pond plants safe when temperatures plummet. If your pond freezes over, break a hole in the ice to allow for gas exchange, and if there’s snow on the ice, make sure to clear it to allow light into the pond.
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