Just because it is winter doesn’t mean you have to stop growing in your garden! Many winter plants are low maintenance, but you will need to protect them from the elements and any pesky critters that may want to make a meal of your crops.
Protect Plants from Harsh Winds
A windbreak is a row of trees or shrubs planted in such a way as to provide shelter from the wind. Windbreaks can be used to protect crops from damage caused by strong winds. In addition, windbreaks can help to keep the ground from drying out by reducing evaporation. They can also reduce noise levels and provide homes for wildlife.
When selecting plants for a windbreak, it is important to choose species that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. Once the windbreak has been installed, it is important to maintain it by pruning dead branches and removing competing vegetation. With proper care, a windbreak can provide years of protection for your crops.
Cover Your Crops
As any gardener knows, frost and freeze can wreak havoc on tender crops. The icy weather can damage plants and make it difficult for them to recover. To protect your plants from frost and freeze, it is important to cover them with frost cloth or plastic sheeting. Frost cloth is a lightweight fabric that helps to insulate plants from the cold.
Plastic sheeting provides an additional layer of protection, and it can also help to trap heat around the plants. Both frost cloth and plastic sheeting are available at most hardware stores. When selecting a frost cloth or plastic, be sure to choose a material that is permeable to air and water. This will help ensure that your plants get the ventilation they need while still being protected from the cold.
These sheets also protect animals. As it gets colder and food sources grow sparse, you may find more and more critters in your yard trying to eat your plants. For added protection, consider installing a few Nite Guard products around your garden. We recommend Nite Guard Solar to keep all predators at a distance!
Mulch Your Crops to Keep Them Warm(er)
If you have any hardy root crops growing in your garden, you can easily protect them with a hefty layer of mulch. Mulch is a layer of material, such as straw, leaves, or grass, that is spread over the soil around plants. It helps to insulate the ground and keep it warm, protecting roots from the cold.
Mulch also helps to prevent wind and rain damage, and can even provide some extra nutrients for plants. In addition, mulching can help to suppress weeds and conserve moisture in the soil. So, if you want to give your crops a little extra protection from the cold weather, consider mulching them with a thick layer of organic material.
Nite Guard Solar
Nite Guard Solar is a solar-powered device that emits a flashing light at night imitating that of a predator’s eyes blinking! They are completely weatherproof, so you don’t have to worry about snow and ice damaging them. Nite Guard Solar makes pesky critters stay away from your crops, your animals, and your property.
Although the cold weather can be harsh on crops, with a little bit of preparation and care, you can protect your plants and ensure a successful harvest. By installing a windbreak, mulching your plants, and using frost cloth or plastic sheeting, you can keep your crops safe from the elements and animals and help them thrive. Remember to check in on your crops often. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a bountiful harvest this winter!
If you have any questions about Nite Guard products, contact us today!