We now have a slight covering of snow and the ground has frozen an inch or two in a few places. Now is the time for covering those perennials planted in 2004 or more tender perennials with an extra layer of mulch. I typically mulch my perennials now – when its been cold for a little while and there’s a small amount of frost in the ground. This will help assure that the “thaw/freeze” cycle won’t do a number on my more sensitive perennials. Two years ago, Leif and I put in a huge hosta and shade garden and when we mulched as I have described – we lost one small hosta and that was it out of about 300 plants, one didn’t make it. It’s worth the extra effort.
We have a small supply of bagged mulch left you if need to obtain some more to complete what you need to do. Just give us a call and make sure someone is here to help you!
The other thing to begin to do now is take stock of how your garden and yard is looking now that the growing season is over. Where would you like to see a splash of winter color – red-twigged dogwoods, cranberry shrubs, ornamental grasses, etc. ? Make notes and plans for your gardening for 2005.
