Resources
UNH Extension Resources
Countrybrook Farms proudly supports New Hampshire gardeners by connecting you with trusted educational resources from the University of New Hamphshire (UNH). Their website offers science-based information on gardening, landscaping, pests, soil testing, and plant health.
Clicking the link below will take you to the UNH Extension website.
Getting your plants ready for winter is all about protecting their roots, preventing damage, and helping them survive the cold months ahead. Here are some simple ways to put your landscape to bed for the season!
🌿 How to Prepare Your Plants for Winter
1. Add a Layer of Mulch
Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around trees, shrubs, and garden beds to help insulate roots and retain moisture. Keep mulch away from plant stems and tree trunks.
2. Give Plants a Good Drink
Continue watering trees and shrubs throughout the fall, especially evergreens. Plants need moisture going into winter, particularly before the ground freezes.
3. Clean Up Garden Beds
Remove diseased foliage, weeds, and fallen debris. Leave healthy ornamental grasses and some perennial seed heads for winter interest and wildlife.
4. Protect Sensitive Plants
Use burlap, shrub covers, or windbreaks to protect vulnerable plants from harsh winds, heavy snow, and winter burn.
5. Plant Your Spring Bulbs
Fall is the perfect time to plant tulips, daffodils, and other spring-flowering bulbs before the ground freezes.
6. Bring Houseplants Indoors
Before nighttime temperatures get too cold, bring tropical plants inside. Check for pests and give leaves a gentle cleaning before bringing them indoors.
🍂 A few extra fall reminders
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Stop fertilizing most outdoor plants as they approach dormancy.
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Avoid heavy pruning of spring-flowering shrubs until after they bloom.
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Drain and store garden hoses before freezing temperatures arrive.
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Protect young trees from animal damage with appropriate trunk guards.
A little fall maintenance goes a long way! Taking the time to prepare your plants now will help protect your investment and give your landscape a healthier start when spring rolls around. 🌱