Sadly, in the UK, we are not blessed with good weather all year round. The good news is that winter garden care does not have to be demanding. In fact, you can simplify maintenance when you make smart choices.
Here are some practical ways to keep garden upkeep minimal over winter while still looking after your outdoor space properly.
Decking
If you have traditional timber decking, winter maintenance does matter. Timber decking should be swept regularly, kept clear of debris, and given a gentle clean before winter fully sets in. Over time, you also need to consider sanding, oiling, and varnishing to protect the wood.
If you are thinking longer term, switching to composite decking boards can significantly reduce winter maintenance. Composite decking does not absorb moisture in the same way timber does, so it is far less prone to rot. You also don’t have to worry about warping and algae growth.
Garden furniture
Outdoor furniture always suffer with the winter weather. Rain, frost, and wind can quickly cause wear and tear, especially if furniture is left exposed. If you are not going to use your garden furniture over the winter season, there’s no point keeping it outside.
More often than not, the best option is to store furniture away, in a shed or garage. Clean and dry everything first to prevent mould, then stack items carefully to avoid damage. Make sure to store cushions in a dry and warmer place, preferably inside your home.
You can also look into self-storage options, which is ideal for households with no garage or shed space. Most self-storage units also come with climate control, which means your garden furniture will be safe from extreme temperatures and moisture.
Plants and greenery
Winter garden care for plants should be light, especially as most preparation has already been done in autumn. At this stage, maintenance is more about protection.
Mulch and compost are your winter garden’s best friends. Add a layer around the base of plants to help insulate roots and retain moisture. For the most fragile shrubs, it’s worth investing in covers with specialist horticultural fleece to protect them from frost.
There is no need for regular pruning or feeding during winter, as most plants are dormant. In fact, this could lead to damage.
The pond
If you have a pond, it’s time to consider pond maintenance. How do you winterise your pond? The good news is that once winter is here, the maintenance work reduces. But, you want to make sure that you’ve cleaned your pond and removed all debris BEFORE winter hits.
During colder months, you can set a pond net to prevent leaves and debris from falling into the water. It’s also a good idea to use a pond heater or floating de-icer if you keep fish in the pond and aquatic plants. Bear in mind that neither plants nor fish need care once water temperatures drop. If it is below 10°C, fish metabolism slows down. They will not require feeding in winter if your pond water gets cold.
If you fear winter garden care, consider it your sign to make peace with it. In winter, your garden doesn’t need extra care. In fact, winterising your garden, whether plants or equipment, will ensure that you can spend the winter stress-free and practically maintenance-free.
*This is a collaborative post
