Keep reading for more insight on how snow can actually be beneficial!
– Prevents soil erosion, offering crucial protection especially in windy or rainy areas.
– Acts as insulation against harsh winds and minimizes freeze-thaw effects.
– Benefits newly planted seeds like grass, shielding them from extreme cold until optimal germination conditions.
– Trapped air between snowflakes acts as a buffer, protecting plants and seeds.
– Snow's weight may bend branches temporarily, but plants typically recover their form after melting.
– Despite concerns, most garden plants are adapted to withstand heavy snow.
– Compacted snow can limit soil aeration, potentially harming non-native plant roots, so understanding plant resilience is crucial.
– Different plants have varying levels of resilience to snow and cold. For example evergreens are adapted to bear snow weight, while some non-native plants may struggle.
Tips: Gently brush off heavy snow, use stakes for support, add mulch for root insulation, water plants before snowfall, and cover delicate plants.
If you can’t help yourself and you feel you have to remove the snow and “save your plants”, do so slowly and when temperatures are not bitterly cold. Colder air increases the risk of branches snapping, counteracting your efforts to help your shrubs.
– Snow mounds can attract resource-starved animals, causing foliage harm.
– Avoid stacking snow on or around plant material to prevent extra weight and potential damage.
A well designed winter display will give you some welcome color this time of year, the dormant pruning will get things under control and ready for spring, and a landscape design will allow you to envision your future outdoor space. American Gardens has the experts to help you with all of these and more!