UPDATE: A winter weather advisory has just been issued for the Berkshire region as snow falls, prompting urgent preparations for garden landscapes. Gardeners are advised to act swiftly to protect young plants and trees from harsh winter conditions, including chewing pests, wind, and ice.
With temperatures dropping and winter weather arriving, it’s crucial to set up protective barriers around valuable new plantings and young trees. Gardeners in Berkshire should prioritize marking locations of oak trees with landscape flags to prevent misidentification once leaves fall. The risk of damage from browsing rabbits and deer is high, making simple chicken wire fences essential for safeguarding seedlings.
“Creating a protective dome with chicken wire can deter deer and rabbits, especially when other vegetation is available,” shares a local gardener.
To ensure evergreens remain healthy through winter, temporary burlap fences are recommended. This multi-functional barrier acts as a windbreak, protects against road salt spray, and offers shade from intense sunlight reflecting off snow. Gardeners are encouraged to measure their plantings and construct burlap fencing to shield their evergreens effectively.
As the season progresses, gardeners can enjoy the vibrant blooms of hardy mums, but these annuals will not survive winter freezes. They are best used as placeholders in pots, which can be replaced with winter greenery like pine or hemlock in the coming weeks.
For those looking to add a festive touch to their homes, now is the time to prepare for a live Christmas tree. Digging the planting hole in advance—ensuring it matches the pot size—will make post-holiday planting seamless.
Authorities recommend that gardeners continue to cut back old foliage from ornamental perennials. This practice not only enhances the garden’s appearance but also reduces the risk of disease by removing potential pathogens.
As the days shorten, the need for indoor greenery grows. Spider plants are a great option for novice gardeners, as they are pet-safe and thrive with minimal care. Additionally, Narcissus bulbs can be forced into bloom in just three weeks without soil, making them an appealing choice for winter decor.
“Embrace the beauty of winter gardens,” urges local horticulturists, highlighting the importance of observing how plants interact with their environment even during colder months.
For gardeners in the Berkshire area, the call to action is clear: prepare your landscape NOW to ensure a thriving garden come spring. Don’t delay—secure your plants and enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons!
Stay tuned for further updates on weather conditions and gardening tips as winter progresses.
