Caring for your garden during frost and snow

30th November -0001

As weather conditions such as frost and snow can increase the risk of damage to your plants and other items in your garden, there are steps that you will need to take to ensure that they are protected.
Providing your garden with regular care during weather conditions such as frost and snow will also help to provide a safer and better environment for wildlife during the cooler months.

If you are planning to grow a selection of plants during winter, then select hardy plants that are suited to the area where you live. This will help to reduce the risk of them being damaged by frost.
Any tender plants should be sheltered under trees or shrubs. If you have a heated greenhouse, then consider moving your tender plants in there to keep them protected.

Cold frames will also help to keep tender plants protected. If you do not have a set already, then you may wish to consider adding one to your garden, as they offer a wide range of benefits.
Gabriel Ash offers a selection of cold frames that are suitable for all types of garden.

Cold frames come in a variety of designs and will help to keep your plants at their best not only in winter but also all year round.

If your plants have been affected by frost, then do not worry, as there are steps that you can take to prevent further damage.
To keep your damaged plants strong and to encourage growth, use a balanced fertiliser with equal amounts of Potassium, Phosphorus and Nitrogen. Any affected tender plants should be moved to a greenhouse or other sheltered area. Keep your plants protected from the early morning sun, as they will defrost quickly and be damaged further if they are exposed to it.

Snow will help to insulate your plants, but may damage branches and leaves, so pay attention to your trees during snowfall.
Remove heavy layers of snow from branches to reduce the risk of them bending or breaking. Keep them supported using string, as heavy snow can cause them to be pulled out of shape.

Your greenhouse will also need extra care during heavy snowfall. Remove heavy layers of snow from your greenhouse panes, as this will help to provide plenty of access to light and will reduce the risk of panes becoming cracked or damaged under the weight of the snow.
Check that any heaters within your greenhouse are working efficiently.

During severe weather conditions such as snow, you will also need to make sure that your garden is a safe for yourself and for others. Make sure that any paths or steps in your front or back garden are free from snow to prevent them from becoming slippery.

During winter, wildlife will also need extra food and shelter. Make sure that any birdbaths in your garden are not frozen and fill your bird feeders. Avoid trimming hedges or bushes with berries as these will help to provide birds with extra shelter and food during the winter.