A winter gardener’s to-do list for healthy plant growth

Years ago, before I tumbled down the rabbit hole of plant growth and tree biology, I supposed I thought that all growth just stopped during the winter months—as if the cold weather froze everything right in place. That couldn’t be further from the truth, because there’s a world of activity happening beneath the soil, in the hollows of fallen trees, under the duff layer of leaves and organic materials, and in the trunks and bodily structures of plants and trees.

Rather than explain the science myself, here’s an excellent article from the PennState Extension. Did you read it? Good. So if all of these natural processes of growth continue to take place, and wildlife is constantly searching for food and water during a deep freeze, why shouldn’t we get a few things done too?

Winter Projects to Consider

• Providing food, water, and shelter for wildlife
• Plant propagation
• Weeding
• Maintaining tools
• Seed sorting and purchasing

Here in Pennsylvania, we have some truly incredible native trees and shrubs like Eastern Red Cedar, Staghorn Sumac, Crabapple, Hawthorn, Aronia, American Holly, Winterberry, Beautyberry, Viburnum, Inkberry (and many more!) that provide critical habitat and food during the winter. If your garden or landscape doesn’t have plants like this, set out a feeder with dried seeds, berries, or insects this season and consider planting some of these incredible trees and shrubs in the spring. Planting native trees, shrubs, and other perennials fosters a relationship benefiting both the garden and the local wildlife.

Take advantage of the dormant season to cultivate new growth and expand your garden’s diversity. One of my favorite things to do is propagate plant material. It’s an invaluable skill with complexity, learning curves, opportunities for innovation, and rewards. I’ll be taking hardwood cuttings this winter from some of my deciduous trees and shrubs like blueberries, elderberries, and viburnum.