What to Do in Your Yard Before a Big Freeze in Georgia

Winter is a magical season, but for many homeowners in Gainesville, an unexpected but predicted big freeze can spell trouble for their landscape. At EarthCare Landscape Management, we’re here to guide you through the essential steps to prepare your yard for Georgia’s colder months. Following these tips can help ensure your garden survives and thrives come spring.

1. Water Your Plants

Surprisingly, plants handle cold better when they’re well-hydrated. Before the freeze sets in, give your garden a deep watering. This can create a protective barrier around the root system, preventing frost penetration.

2. Mulch, Mulch, and More Mulch

Mulch acts as an insulating layer, protecting plant roots from extreme temperature fluctuations. Spread a thick layer of organic mulch around the base of your plants, trees, and shrubs. Not only will this provide warmth, but it also retains moisture, benefiting your plants in multiple ways.

3. Cover Vulnerable Plants

Certain plants are more susceptible to cold damage. Delicate plants, young trees, or tropical species should be covered with cloth, burlap, or specially designed plant frost covers. Remember to remove the covers during the day, allowing plants to breathe.

4. Disconnect and Store Garden Hoses

Water inside garden hoses can freeze, causing them to split. It’s best to disconnect them, drain any remaining water, and store them inside to prolong their lifespan.

5. Protect Your Sprinkler System

To prevent pipes from bursting, turn off the water supply to your sprinkler system and drain any residual water.

6. Harvest Late Crops

If you have a vegetable garden, now’s the time to harvest late-season crops. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes can tolerate a light frost, but it’s advisable to pick them before a major freeze.

7. Move Potted Plants Indoors

Portable plants have the advantage of mobility. Move them indoors or into a garage or shed where they’ll be protected from the freezing temperatures.

8. Prune Selectively

While pruning is essential for plant health, doing it right before a freeze can be detrimental. Pruning stimulates new growth, which is especially vulnerable to cold. However, you should remove any dead or damaged limbs to prevent them from breaking off during a storm.

9. Fertilizer? Think Twice

While fertilizing might seem like a good idea, it can encourage new growth, making plants more susceptible to freeze damage. If you haven’t fertilized by late fall, it’s best to wait until early spring.

10. Stay Informed

Monitor local weather forecasts regularly. Being informed will give you the lead time needed to carry out these protective measures effectively.

Enlist Our Lawn Care Experts for Help

A big freeze might sound daunting (and it certainly doesn’t happen often in Georgia), but with proper preparation, your garden can weather the storm. Taking the time to protect your landscape can mean the difference between a vibrant spring garden and one that’s struggling to recover. At EarthCare Landscape Management, we’re committed to helping Gainesville residents get the best out of their gardens, year-round. Stay warm, and happy gardening!