Shrubs

Evergreen shrubs are particularly susceptible to winter burn, a type of desiccation damage caused by cold temperatures, wind, and sun. Even though these plants keep their leaves during winter, moisture loss can exceed root absorption, leading to browning, needle drop, and dieback. After decades of gardening in both Sonoma Valley and Iowa Zone 5, I’ve…

Newly planted shrubs and trees face their first winter with undeveloped root systems and little natural resilience. Cold temperatures, wind, frost, and fluctuating moisture levels can stress or even kill young plants. After decades of gardening in Sonoma Valley and Iowa Zone 5, I’ve developed practical techniques to help newly planted shrubs and trees survive…

Pruning shrubs and trees before winter helps prevent damage, reduces disease risk, and encourages healthy growth in spring. However, winter pruning is not the same as summer pruning—knowing what to cut and what to leave is key. After decades of gardening in both Sonoma Valley and Iowa Zone 5, I’ve developed practical methods that balance…

Winter doesn’t mean your shrubs and trees stop needing water. Even when temperatures drop, dry soil, frozen ground, and desiccating winds can stress plants, especially evergreens and newly planted trees. After decades of gardening in Sonoma Valley and cold Iowa Zone 5 winters, I’ve developed practical winter watering strategies that work in both warm and…

Preparing shrubs and trees for winter is essential for maintaining plant health, protecting roots and branches, and ensuring vigorous growth in spring. After gardening for decades in Sonoma Valley’s mild winters and Iowa Zone 5’s harsh cold, I’ve developed practical methods that work in all zones. Proper winter preparation—from pruning and mulching to wrapping and…