A heavy blanket of snow can transform your neighborhood into a picturesque winter wonderland. While visually stunning, this beautiful snowfall often brings unique challenges for both your home and garden. In this guide, we’ll walk through essential steps for preparing your garden and property for heavy snowfall.
By taking these precautions, you can effectively protect your valuable outdoor investments, ensure the safety of your property, and ultimately gain invaluable peace of mind when the winter storms arrive.
Safeguard Your Garden and Trees
For shrubs and small trees, consider wrapping them loosely with twine or burlap to protect them from damage. This holds the branches together, which prevents them from catching too much snow and breaking under the pressure. It’s also a good idea to add a fresh layer of mulch around the base of your plants to insulate their roots from freezing temperatures.
Larger trees require a different approach. Look for any dead or weak branches that could fall during a storm. If you can safely reach them, it’s best to prune them. For higher branches or more complex jobs, calling a professional arborist is a wise choice.
Clear and Protect Your Pathways
When snow piles up, you’ll need clear paths for safety. Before the first flake falls, inspect your walkways, driveway, and any other paved areas. Repair any cracks or uneven spots to prevent them from worsening with the freeze-thaw cycle. A smooth surface also makes shoveling much easier.
Stock up on de-icing materials, such as rock salt or a pet-safe alternative. Store them in a dry, accessible spot so you’re ready to go when the storm hits. A quality snow shovel is another must-have. If you have a large driveway, researching the best snow plow brands could lead you to a tool that saves you a lot of time and effort throughout the winter.
Secure Your Home’s Exterior
Your house itself needs to be ready for the extra weight and moisture of a snowstorm. Start by cleaning your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause water to seep under your roof and into your home, resulting in costly damage.
Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles and have them repaired. A sound roof is your first line of defense against the elements. Also, disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses and turn off the water supply to exterior faucets. This simple step prevents pipes from freezing and bursting.
Your Winter Preparation Checklist
With a bit of foresight, you can enjoy the winter wonderland without worrying about your property. Protecting your plants, clearing your walkways, and securing your home’s exterior are all manageable tasks that yield great rewards. Following these steps for preparing your garden and property for heavy snowfall sets you up for a safe and stress-free season. Now you can relax with a warm drink and watch the snow fall, knowing your home is ready.
