Hi! John Morgan here.  As many of you know, I have been caring for my father as he fights cancer.  We spent most of the summer in the ICU at The James Cancer Center in Columbus, OH and later a skilled nursing facility as he regained his strength.  Thankfully, he’s home and doing better now.

As a result, this meant that, along with not hosting Bob’s LIVE, I had to put my garden on hold during the summer.  By fall it was completely overgrown with weeds and wildflowers that had made their way into beds from my nearby meadow garden.  This past weekend I took some time to clear off the bulk of the weeds.  Look for a video soon on how you can bring back an overgrown garden.

As autumn leaves fall and a crisp chill fills the air, it's time to bid farewell to the vibrant colors of summer and prepare your garden for the winter ahead. While the temptation to retreat indoors may be strong, taking the time to clean up your garden before winter sets in is essential for ensuring a successful and thriving landscape come spring. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to winterize your garden, preserving its beauty and setting the stage for a fresh start when warmer days return.

1. Clearing out Debris:

Begin by removing any fallen leaves, dead plants, and other debris scattered throughout your garden. This not only gives your garden a neat and tidy appearance but also prevents the accumulation of damp areas that can invite pests and diseases. Consider composting healthy plant material to enrich your soil for the next growing season.  As for any diseased plants or seed-bearing weeds, fall is a great time for a bonfire.  Just be sure to observe any burning restrictions in your area and stay with the fire until it is extinguished.

2. Pruning and Trimming:

Pruning is a crucial step in maintaining the health of your garden. Trim back dead or diseased branches to encourage new growth and enhance the overall structure of your plants. Pay special attention to perennials, shrubs, and trees, cutting back any overgrown or wayward branches. However, be cautious not to over-prune, as some plants benefit from the protection of their spent foliage during the winter.

3. Mulching for Insulation:

Applying a layer of mulch around the base of your plants is like tucking them in for a cozy winter nap. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, preventing extreme fluctuations that can stress plant roots. Additionally, it acts as a protective barrier against weeds and erosion. Use organic materials such as straw, leaves, or bark chips to insulate your garden beds effectively.

4. Protecting Vulnerable Plants:

Certain plants are more susceptible to winter's harsh conditions, especially frost-sensitive varieties. Consider wrapping delicate shrubs with burlap or providing a layer of straw around the base of plants to shield them from freezing temperatures. For potted plants, move them to a sheltered location or group them together for added insulation.

5. Winterizing Tools and Equipment:

As you prepare your garden, don't forget about the tools that help you tend to it. Clean and oil your gardening tools to prevent rust, and store them in a dry place. Empty and store hoses to prevent freezing, and consider draining irrigation systems to avoid damage from expanding ice.

6. Planning for Spring:

While winterizing is about preparing for the cold season, it's also an opportunity to plan for the future. Take note of your garden's layout, the performance of different plant varieties, and any changes you'd like to make. Consider browsing seed catalogs and planning your spring planting, so you're ready to hit the ground running when the weather warms up.

Winterizing your garden is a labor of love that pays dividends when the first signs of spring emerge. By taking the time to clean up, prune, and protect your plants, you're investing in a healthy and vibrant garden that will bring you joy throughout the changing seasons. So, embrace the chill, and let the beauty of your winterized garden inspire you for the growth and renewal that awaits in the coming year.