While keeping driveways and walkways clear is essential for safety, it is also crucial to remember the impact these winter tasks can have on your landscaping. We have seen firsthand how improper snow removal can lead to significant damage to lawns, shrubs, and trees. This guide offers practical advice to help you protect your plants throughout the winter months. Our goal is to ensure your landscape emerges from the snow healthy and vibrant when spring arrives.
Potential Landscaping Damage from Snow Removal
When winter hits, the focus understandably turns to managing snow. However, the methods used for snow removal can inadvertently cause harm to the plants and grass that surround your home. Heavy equipment, like snowplows, and even manual shoveling, can physically damage delicate landscape elements. Accidental bumps from plows can gouge bark or break branches. Shovels can also inflict damage if not used carefully, especially when scraping close to established garden beds or the base of trees.
Beyond physical harm, chemicals used for de-icing pose a serious threat. Rock salt is common, but it is highly toxic to plants. When it melts snow, it dissolves into the soil and prevents roots from absorbing water. This can lead to wilting, browning, or the death of plants. Furthermore, the sheer weight of piled snow can compact the soil, suffocating root systems. Heavy snow loads can also cause branches to snap, especially on less hardy species.
Pre-Snowfall Preparation
The best defense against winter damage is proactive preparation. Before the snow starts to fly, taking a few key steps can make a world of difference. For trees and shrubs, especially those with weaker branches, consider strategic pruning. Removing dead or damaged branches can prevent them from breaking under heavy snow. This tidies up the plant and reduces the risk of significant breakage when the weight of snow becomes substantial.
For evergreen plants, which can suffer from dehydration in winter, consider installing snow fences or wrapping vulnerable shrubs with burlap. Snow fences can redirect blowing snow away from sensitive areas. Burlap wraps offer physical protection from plows and the abrasive effects of salt spray. Finally, if you have potted plants that are not rated for the Minnesota winter, the simplest solution is to move them to a sheltered area until spring.
Safe Snow Removal Techniques
When it is time to clear snow, adopting safe practices is paramount. When shoveling, try to lift and toss the snow rather than scraping aggressively near plants. If you need to clear snow from around the base of shrubs or trees, use a gentler approach. Pushing snow away rather than digging into the soil helps prevent root disturbance.
When it comes to de-icing, explore alternatives to traditional rock salt. Products like calcium chloride can be less harmful to plants and concrete. Never pile snow directly on top of plants, as the weight and prolonged cold can cause significant damage. It is always better to designate a separate area for snow accumulation.
Protecting Specific Types of Landscaping
Different elements of your landscape require specific considerations. For lawns, the primary concern is compaction and ice formation. Avoid walking or driving on frozen, snow-covered lawns, as this can crush grass blades. If you must clear snow from a lawn area, do so lightly. Allowing snow to act as a natural insulator is often best for the grass.
Shrubs and hedges are particularly vulnerable. If heavy, wet snow accumulates, gently brush it off branches with a broom to prevent snapping. Be mindful of plow placement, ensuring snow is not piled against their trunks.
For trees, focus on protecting the bark and avoid using salt near their root zones. Flower beds should be clearly marked with stakes or flags before the first storm. This reminds anyone performing snow removal services where the sensitive zones are located.
Post-Snow Removal Care
Once the immediate task of snow removal is complete, follow-up care can aid recovery.
If snow was heavily compacted around the base of trees, consider gently loosening the top layer of soil once it thaws. This improves air circulation and drainage.
Inspect your property for signs of damage. Look for broken branches or scraped bark. Addressing these issues promptly by trimming small branches will set your landscape on the path to a healthy spring.
For more information on identifying winter plant stress, you can review resources from the University of Minnesota Extension.
Long-Term Strategies for Winter Protection
To ensure your landscape thrives, consider long-term strategies. When selecting new plants, look for species known to be winter-hardy in our region. Choosing the right plants from the start is an effective way to prevent future problems.
Furthermore, maintaining a good layer of mulch around trees and in garden beds offers vital insulation. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature and protects roots from extreme freezes.
Another crucial aspect of protection is proper watering before the ground freezes. Ensure your landscape, especially evergreens and newly planted trees, is well-watered in the fall. This allows them to enter the winter hydrated, making them more resilient to the drying effects of cold air.
This foundational care in the autumn pays dividends throughout the year. For ongoing needs, our team provides expert guidance and seasonal cleanup to keep your property in top shape.
What This Means for Your Property
Taking these preventative steps is an investment in the longevity of your landscape. By understanding the risks, from physical damage by plows to chemical damage from salt, you can make informed decisions. Implementing pre- snowfall preparations and using safe removal methods are vital components of winter protection. These measures ensure your garden beds, lawns, and trees remain healthy through the harsh months.
Proactive care minimizes the need for costly repairs or replacements come spring. Whether it is choosing resilient plants or ensuring proper watering, these strategies contribute to a beautiful outdoor space. For homeowners seeking reliable assistance with lawn care and seasonal protection, consulting with experienced professionals can offer peace of mind.
