How to Protect Plants for Winter

As temperatures drop, protecting your plants – especially in living walls such as PlantBlox by Growing Revolution – becomes essential to ensure they thrive come the Spring. During winter months, the PlantBlox design allows minimal watering, with plants going up to six months between top ups. The level of frost protection depends on factors such as: the types of plants in the living wall, the aspect – (whether it’s north or south facing can make a big difference!), and any other environmental conditions such as shading from nearby buildings or structures, or whether the area is prone to higher winds – such as on coastal areas.

It’s also worth noting that if you’ve planted herbs, bedding or perennials then it is natural for these to die back over winter. This gives the perfect opportunity to do any deadheading and pruning back ahead of the resurgence in Spring! Or, if you wanted to freshen things up then it is also a great idea to plant up with hardy evergreens that keep your living wall vibrant and green throughout the Winter months. 

Please note that we thoroughly advice avoid planting in temperatures less than 4-degrees Celsius. This is to protect from root damage – in sub-zero temperatures, roots could snap and cause damage to the plant.

Understanding Winter Plant Protection

Winter plant protection is essential to ensure the survival of your garden plants during the harsh winter months. Different plants have varying needs, and understanding these can help you provide the right care. Tender plants, such as tropical varieties, are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures and frost. These plants require extra care, such as covering plants or moving them indoors, to protect them from the cold.

On the other hand, hardy plants are more resilient and can withstand colder temperatures. However, even these tough garden plants may need some protection from extreme weather conditions. For instance, a sudden drop in temperature or an unexpected frost can still cause damage. By understanding the specific needs of both tender and hardy plants, you can take the necessary steps to protect your garden from winter damage.

When Do I need to protect my plants?

The need for winter protection varies with the weather. It’s generally best to start once temperatures consistently dip below 5°C (41°F) or if frost is predicted. Setting up protection measures early can prevent damage and help plants transition more smoothly into colder conditions.

Do My Plants Need Protection?

Not all plants require winter protection, but many do, especially if they’re non-native or sensitive to low temperatures. Plants like tender perennials, young shrubs, and pot plants are more susceptible to cold and benefit from extra care. Consider the plant type and local climate to determine if winter protection is necessary.

Preparing Plants for Winter

Preparing plants for winter involves several crucial steps to ensure their survival through the colder months. By understanding the specific needs of your plants and taking these preparatory steps, you can protect your garden from winter damage and enjoy a thriving garden come spring.

We’ve outlined the key steps you can take to protect your plants from the harsh weather conditions winter brings, in the sections below.

Protecting your plants from the wind and rain

Winter weather, with its strong winds and heavy rain, can erode soil and damage plants. For protection, use windbreaks like fences or garden fabric, especially for young or top-heavy plants. Proper drainage around the roots helps prevent water-logging, which can lead to root rot. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of plants stabilises soil moisture and reduces the impact of heavy rain.

Use Windbreaks

Set up garden fabric, temporary fences, or screens to shield plants, especially young or top-heavy ones, from strong winds in a cold and windy site.

Anchor Delicate Plants

Stake taller or more fragile plants to prevent them from bending or uprooting in high winds. If you’re looking for extra reinforcement and plant organisation, our PlantBlox Garden System offers a durable, fixed structure, ideal for supporting plants against winter wind damage.

Improve Drainage

Ensure soil around plants drains well to prevent water-logging, which can lead to root rot. Adding sand or gravel to soil can help with drainage.

Apply Mulch

Spread a layer of mulch around the base of plants to maintain stable soil moisture and reduce the impact of heavy rainfall.

Protect Potted Plants

Move pot plants closer to walls or sheltered areas to shield them from direct rain and wind exposure.

Protecting your plants from the frost and snow

Cover with Horticultural Fleece or Burlap

Covering plants with horticultural fleece or burlap can insulate them from frost. Ensure the material is secure and reaches the ground to trap warmth.

How to Insulate Soil and Roots with Horticultural Fleece

For in-ground plants, adding a layer of organic mulch (such as straw, shredded leaves, or compost) around the base of plants helps insulate roots from temperature extremes. This also prevents the soil from freezing, which can disrupt the roots’ ability to absorb water.

Use Frost Cloths

Frost cloths can be placed over shrubs or smaller plants to act as a temporary shield during cold spells.
Additionally, using a cold frame can provide extra protection by trapping heat and blocking frost, making it an effective measure for seasonal gardening.

Brush Off Snow

Gently remove heavy snow buildup from branches to prevent breakage and ensure light access to the plant.

Mulch Around Roots

Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of plants for protecting plants by insulating the roots from freezing soil temperatures.

Water Before Frost

Water plants lightly before a frost to help the soil retain warmth, but avoid overwatering, as excess water can freeze and damage roots. A great way to manage this, is by investing in a watering timer, which you can then set to water the plants at the same time each day.

What Plants Need to Be Covered in Winter?

Tender Perennials

Plants like geraniums, dahlias, and fuchsias should be covered or moved indoors to protect them from frost.

Young Shrubs and Trees

Newly planted trees or shrubs have less-established roots and benefit from protective wraps or a thicker mulch layer.

Potted Plants

Cold easily reaches roots in pots, so wrapping containers or moving pots closer to the house can offer additional insulation.

How to Insulate Soil and Roots

For in-ground plants, adding a layer of organic mulch (such as straw, shredded leaves, or compost) around the base of plants helps insulate roots from temperature extremes. This also prevents the soil from freezing, which can disrupt the roots’ ability to absorb water.

How to Water Plants During Winter

Winter watering requires a light touch. Water the soil around plants during dry winter spells, but avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can freeze in the soil and damage roots. Ensure pots and planters drain effectively, as stagnant water can lead to root rot.

Investing in a reliable watering system, will ensure consistent hydration for your plants, particularly during dry winter spells.

How do you revive a plant that’s too cold?

If a plant has experienced cold damage, bring it indoors or to a warmer area if possible. Gently prune any dead or browned leaves, but avoid heavy pruning as the plant will need time to recover. Water sparingly and provide indirect sunlight, allowing it to stabilise before resuming regular care.

When to Consider Indoor Storage

Plants like succulents, tropical plants, and delicate herbs may not survive winter outdoors. Bringing them inside before the first frost will help them thrive through colder months. A bright, cool indoor spot with moderate humidity is ideal for overwintering.

Keeping your Plant Collection Safe from Winter Damage

Preparing plants for winter is essential for their health and growth in the coming season. By assessing which plants need protection and providing insulation against the elements, you can keep your garden thriving through winter.

Continue to Enjoy Greenery All Winter Long

If you want to continue enjoying lush greenery throughout the colder months, consider bringing the outdoors in with our Indoor Jungle plant bundle. This selection of indoor plants is perfect for brightening up your home, allowing you to experience the benefits of greenery all winter long. Not only will these plants brighten up your indoor spaces, but they also help purify the air, creating a healthier, more refreshing environment to enjoy until spring arrives.