What is Mulch in the Winter Garden?
In climates with cold winters, it’s a good idea to mulch newly planted or less hardy perennials and shrubs over the winter. Good winter mulches include leaves, pine needles, hay, and straw. Apply at least a four-inch layer of mulch over your plants. It’s important not to apply winter mulch too early. It could smother the plant and encourage disease. Wait to apply mulch until after the ground is frozen. This will insulate plants from the alternating freezing and thawing that occurs over the winter. Extreme temperature changes can push plant roots up and out of the ground, damaging or killing the plant. Remove winter mulch in the spring when the soil warms up and plants begin active growth.
