3 Winter Care Tips For Your Landscape | U.S. Lawns - Franklin

Here in Tennessee we typically enjoy mild winters, yet seasonal damage can still happen to outdoor plants across the state in residential and commercial properties. The good news is that much of this damage can be prevented. U.S. Lawns - Franklin has three tips you can use to minimize winter damage to your property’s plants and avoid the cost of replacing plants that couldn’t weather the storm.

Consider proper plant placement.
It’s all too easy to plant first and think about it later, but your landscape needs careful consideration. Where you place your plants matters, since it could mean they face greater exposure to the elements–like salt and excessive wind. Likewise, you want to make sure your plants are hardy enough for our USDA zone 7 winters. Mild winters they may be, but our plants must still be able to withstand temperatures below freezing. Certain types of plants are more temperamental than others. Luckily, there are plenty of hardy vine plants that are tough enough to make it through zone 7 winters.

Mulch and water.
Along with our mild winters, we get constant change. Tennessee weather can certainly be unpredictable with its quickly changing weather, where one day it’s hot and the next day it’s freezing. Adding a layer of mulch to tree rings and landscape beds before winter provides extra insulation for trees, shrubs and perennials in the varying temperatures. You’ll also need to water your plants during dormancy to help prevent them from drying out by what’s called desiccation. Thirsty plants are always more susceptible to damaging winds and injury in the cold weather. Most irrigation systems will be winterized to avoid freezing, but you can use a water truck to deliver moisture on days where the winter weather grows warm.

Have a maintenance program.
Every property needs a good year-round care plan to maintain the health and beauty of the landscape. However, the stresses of winter make it even more important to prepare your plants for the season and minimize ice damage. Freezing precipitation can stress your trees and shrubs. Pruning your trees properly creates stronger branches to withstand winter winds and ice storms. You will also need to control pests and adequately respond to diseases throughout the year to avoid stressed plants. Because the winter season is a stress to virtually all plants, you want them to be as healthy as possible going into the cold weather.

Check out these pretty plants that are hardy enough to make it through the cold.

Here at U.S. Lawns - Franklin, we take great pride in bringing you the most well cared for landscapes in Williamson County. We know first-hand the time and effort it takes to manage a business, and that you need a professional to thoroughly manage your business curb appeal. Contact us today to request your free proposal.