Around the beginning of February, we get a little taste of spring. Yes, it’s still cold, and there’s always the possibility of a big snow. But at the same time, we can feel the days slowly growing longer. Before we know it, spring will be here, full of life and growth. Then summer will make an entrance with leafy trees–and weekly mowing. On beautiful winter days, we may get an urge to start working on our landscapes. But is it safe to landscape in winter? What are some things we can do to start preparing our outdoor spaces for the fun days ahead? And what landscaping activities should we avoid while there’s still a chill in the air?
What Landscaping Activities Should I Avoid In Winter?
Bitter cold and frozen ground create obstacles to planting. Avoid planting when the temperature doesn’t break 35 degrees during the day. And wait to plant if the ground freezes to six inches or more. Frozen ground prevents roots from getting established. However, with temperatures in the 40s and above, you can do quite a bit.
How Can I Improve My Landscape in Winter?
Unless the ground is frozen solid, you can do a surprising amount of planting. Winter is an ideal time to plant some trees and shrubs, as long as the ground isn’t frozen. Winter planting gives hardy plants time to acclimate and prepare for the summer heat. Find a reputable landscaper who knows which plants will thrive with a winter planting and which ones need to wait.
Late winter is an ideal time to prune trees and shrubs. Pruning while the plant is dormant makes it easier to recover in time for spring growth. They’re also easier to work with without all of their leaves.
Winter is a perfect season for cleaning garden beds and removing large weeds and vines that are hard to manage in summer. It’s often easier to hand-pull weeds in damp winter soils and remove ivy and other invasive plants that can take over in summer.
Winter is a terrific time to start if you’re considering adding hardscaping elements like patios, retaining walls and firepits. Your Epling landscaping crew usually has more availability for big projects during the winter months. It’s a great way to push projects forward for summertime fun.
Winter is also an excellent time to install outdoor lighting. Your landscaping company is less busy and has time to get creative. Outdoor lighting also creates cozy outdoor spaces and improves safety and security on long winter nights.
Finally, January and February are perfect months to reach out to your landscaper and get those plans going for spring and summer. Whether your project is large or small, advance planning is the way to go. Your landscaping team has the time to put together thoughtful proposals and get a jump on the summer rush.
At Epling Landscaping and Lawn Service, our team embraces the winter chill while thinking spring. We’re at your service for winter planting, cleanup and pruning, as well as hardscaping and lighting projects. Now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment and plan for a vibrant 2023.
