Your Lawn and Garden in January:

• Winter pruning – Prune trees and shrubs for good structure and to control and guide future growth.
• Deer repellent – Deer browse woody buds and twigs in winter, so continue applying repellents or have us treat your landscape.
• Plan for spring – Seed and plant catalogues are arriving in mailboxes everywhere.  Winter is a great time to start planning next year’s garden and any landscape improvement projects.
• Prepare for snow and ice – If you haven’t already, make sure you have a supply of ice melter and a snow shovel or two ready in case of winter storms.  Check to make sure your ice melter is safe for concrete if it will be applied to concrete or concrete pavers.
• Prep tools for spring – Get lawnmower blades sharpened before the spring rush.  Check over other garden tools to make sure they are clean and ready for service.

Safely Clearing Snow From Your Landscape

If we could choose where snow fell, we could enjoy all the fun snow has to offer—making snowmen, sledding, and more—without the hassle of clearing paths to get to work or run errands. Unfortunately, after enjoying the snow, we’re still left with the chore of clearing driveways and walkways.

Walkways and Driveways

1. Check Your Health Beforehand
Snow removal is hard work, and if you have heart problems or other health concerns, check with your doctor early in the season. If needed, arrange for someone else to handle snow removal when necessary.

2. Shoveling Techniques
Use proper form: bend at the knees rather than the back, and avoid lifting too much snow at once. Take frequent breaks and pay attention to how your back and body feel. If you experience discomfort, stop and rest.

3. Start Early
Fresh snow is lighter and easier to shovel than snow that has settled or formed a crust of ice. Clear paths promptly after a snowfall.

4. Use De-Icers Wisely
Apply ice melt or sand to reduce slipperiness.  Note that overuse can damage nearby plants.  Use chemicals that are safe for the surface you are applying them to – some can damage concrete or concrete pavers.

5. Stay Safe
Keep your phone with you in case of injury, and listen to your body. If something feels “off,” it’s safer to stop and finish later.

Evergreens

While most plants are fine in the snow, a heavy layer can damage evergreens.  Here’s how to care for these plants after a storm:

1. Gently Remove Snow
Use a broom or your gloved hands to brush snow off branches. Sweep upward rather than downward to avoid adding stress to branches already weighed down.

2. Avoid Shaking Branches
Sudden movements can cause branches to snap under the pressure.

3. Leave Ice Alone
If branches are coated with ice, let it melt naturally. Attempting to remove ice can cause more harm than good.

By addressing snow removal thoughtfully, you can maintain safe paths, preserve the health of your evergreens, and protect your property from winter’s challenges.