Old Man Winter Is Here…

Is your garden ready for winter?

We just got back from a much-needed vacation, and boy, did the temperature change while we were away! When we left, it was a pleasant 20°C, but when we returned, it was a crisp 5°C. That sudden drop in temperature got us thinking about all the work that needs to be tackled in the garden before old man winter really arrives.

Addressing all the garden tasks before winter sets in can be a bit overwhelming, but that’s where this newsletter comes in. Think of it as a friendly nudge to remind you of the essential steps to prepare your garden for the colder months and ensure it’s in great shape for the next season. Plus, this prep work will help safeguard your garden from any potential damage over the winter. Let’s dive in!

Various tasks to be completed before winter arrives!

We understand that every garden is unique, and the tasks to be done can vary. To help you prepare for the colder months, we’ve put together a general checklist of essential tasks. Keep in mind that not everything on this list will be necessary for everyone, so feel free to tailor it to your garden’s specific needs.

Winterize Water Lines: If you use an irrigation or drip system, it’s crucial to thoroughly blow out your lines before the temperatures drop below freezing. Neglecting this step can lead to broken lines, which can be a costly issue to fix. Don’t forget to disconnect hoses and empty water barrels as well.

Clean Up Leaves: For those of us with large leaf-dropping trees, the fall cleanup can be quite a job. However, you can view this as an opportunity. Use those leaves as insulation and natural fertilizer for your garden beds. Running a lawnmower over the leaves and mulching them makes them great for insulating your garden beds, keeping critters out, and reducing the number of yard bags you need to put out.

General Clean Up: It’s time to tidy up and store away items that shouldn’t be left outside during the winter. This includes tools, random pots, and patio furniture. Organizing your outdoor space will not only make it look neat but also protect your belongings from the harsh winter conditions.

Pruning/Trimming: The timing of pruning or trimming your plants can vary, so you’ll need to research the specific needs of your garden. Some plants benefit from a late fall cutback, while others prefer pruning in early spring. Consider your local climate and the unique requirements of your garden.

These tasks should help you prepare your garden for the winter months and safeguard your gardening investments. Remember, not all tasks on this list may apply to your garden, and there may be additional ones specific to your garden’s needs. Think of this as a friendly reminder to get your garden ready for the upcoming season and make the most of this time in your outdoor haven. Happy gardening!

5 Key Takeaways

Winterize Water Lines: It’s crucial to properly prepare your irrigation or drip system for winter to prevent freezing and potential damage to pipes. This task ensures your watering system remains functional in the spring.

Leaf Management: Utilize fallen leaves as natural insulation and fertilizer for your garden beds. You can mulch leaves with a lawnmower and use them to protect your plants from the cold and reduce the number of yard bags needed.

General Cleanup: Tidy up your garden by organizing tools, pots, and patio furniture. Proper storage will not only make your garden look neat but also protect your outdoor items from winter weather.

Pruning/Trimming: Research the specific requirements for your garden plants. Pruning or trimming may be necessary, but the timing can vary depending on the plant type and your local climate.

Customized Approach: Remember that each garden is unique, so the tasks required for winter preparation may differ. Tailor your checklist to address your garden’s specific needs.

By following these key takeaways, you can ensure your garden is ready for winter and emerges strong and vibrant in the spring.

What’s next?

Now that the vibrant colours of summer are transitioning into the warm hues of fall, it’s the perfect time to turn your thoughts toward the kitchen garden of your dreams for the coming year. The planning phase is where the magic begins, and we’re here to help you make it a reality.

We’re excited to announce that we are now accepting design consultation appointments for the upcoming gardening season (2024). To ensure that you receive the personalized attention you deserve, we’re limiting our design consultation slots to four clients per month until March. These sessions are incredibly popular and tend to fill up quickly, so securing your spot as soon as possible is essential.

Our design consultations are a unique opportunity to collaborate with us. Whether you’re dreaming of a beautiful kitchen garden layout, seeking construction services, or looking for a tailored plan, our team is dedicated to making your vision come to life.

Additionally, don’t forget to stay connected with us on social media. Our platforms are brimming with gardening insights, exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses, and real-time updates. We cherish the opportunity to engage with our gardening community and learn from your individual gardening journeys. Join our ever-growing family of plant enthusiasts on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.

Don’t hesitate to reach out and start the conversation today. Share your gardening aspirations, ask questions, and let us guide you towards transforming your vision into a flourishing reality. We’re honored to be a part of your kitchen garden success story!

We are here to help you achieve your gardening goals! Reach out with any questions that might come up throughout your journey. 

We are excited to announce that there are some new DIY plans on our Etsy store. Whether you need some more storage in the garden, are looking to spruce up your curb appeal or are looking for a new way to grow your tomatoes, we have something for you!

Check it out here – https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/WillowLaneGardenCo

Best regards,

Tessa & Kyle
Willow Lane Garden Co.

P.S. Tag us in your garden photos and stories on social media. We’d love to see your green thumb in action!