Winter is officially here. For the past month, I have been fielding questions about potted evergreens in outdoor containers. People are asking about the care of their plants through the cold, winter months. Also, some people, more recently, are asking about using a potted evergreen for use as Christmas décor which is a wonderful trend.
To me, the two biggest challenges with caring for your winter container gardens / potted evergreens are:
You never want plants to be dry going into any cold snaps. Here in Central Virginia, we can have some cold days, along with some warm spells. You can use your finger and stick into the soil to feel for moisture. Use common sense here and water when no moisture is detected. Personally, I thoroughly water all my containers once or twice a week only. Be sure to water until you see water coming out of the bottom drainage holes. No need to be doing any fertilizing during the winter unless you have blooming pansies, which are trying to grow and bloom for you this winter.
The roots of our plants are more susceptible to cold damage than any other part of the plant. Generally, temperatures of zero or below have the potential to kill the roots of all but the toughest plants. Here is where the soil becomes our ally with protecting the roots. Soil has a substantial insulating effect on roots, and sufficient moisture makes it harder for the soil to completely freeze. While the air temperature might be frigid, the moist soil could be anywhere from 10 to 15 degrees warmer. My plants in all my containers are not root-bound and have sufficient soil for protection. Also, I will toss a little mulch on the top of my containers for further protection. Personally, I leave all my containers in the same location year-round. Yes, some people will move their containers up against the house for the winter—which is fine to do. I prefer not to.
HAPPY WINTER GARDENING!!!!!!!!!
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