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Winter can be a tough time for plants, especially if you live in a colder climate. However, there are steps you can take to help protect your plants from harsh winter weather. We're sharing six tips that can help keep your plants healthy and thriving during the cooler months.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glass, ear muffs, gloves and mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Mulching is a great way to protect your plants from the cold. Mulch acts as an insulator and creates a barrier between the freezing air and the soil. Apply an even layer of mulch around the base of your trees and plants. This will help remove some stress from your plants, especially if they’re continuously freezing and thawing throughout the colder months.
If you want the ultimate protection against the elements for your plants, consider adding a greenhouse. Greenhouses allow you to grow plants year-round, regardless of weather conditions. They create a stable and optimal environment for plants and can even enable you to grow things you wouldn’t be able to grow otherwise. They also help keep plants safe from pests. Greenhouses come in a variety of options to suit your needs, with different designs, material types and temperatures.
Knowing when to water your plants during the winter is key. Use a soil moisture metre or stick your finger (down to the second knuckle) into the soil to establish if it’s time to water. If using the second method, when the soil feels dry, you’re ready to water. If the soil feels moist, you can test again in a week.
Water your plants in the morning during winter as it allows the water to soak into the soil and reach the roots before the temperature drops at night. This ensures your plants get the water they need without risking them getting frost damage.
Covering small or young plants with plastic containers or bottles creates a mini greenhouse for the plant to flourish. This protects the plant from harsh conditions and keeps them warm. Make sure to remove these once the weather warms up, as they will create too much heat for the plants at that time.
If you have plants in containers or pots, consider creating a protective barrier from frost by wrapping bubble wrap, plastic film, or hessian around the pot. This will keep the soil and roots warmer. When wrapping, make sure to wrap loosely and do not cover the entire plant. There still needs to be sufficient air circulation for the plant to survive. Remember to remove the protection once the weather warms up.
Moving plants indoors is an excellent way to protect your most vulnerable plants from the harsh winter weather. Place them near a window with natural light and water regularly. To ensure your plants receive adequate sunlight, rotate them every few days to expose them to different angles of natural light. Avoid placing them near heating vents as this can dry them out.
Leaves can be a valuable resource for your garden. Here’s what to do with autumn leaves and leaf litter.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
