❄️ Winter Weather Prep at the Garden: Getting Ready for What’s Ahead

Winter is knocking on the door, and if you’re anything like us here at 1737, you’re already keeping one eye on the weather and the other on the garden. Cold snaps have a way of sneaking up on us, especially here in the South, and a little preparation now can make all the difference later.

The good news? You don’t need to overthink it. A few intentional steps will help protect your plants, your soil, and all the hard work you’ve poured into your garden this season.

Let’s get into it.

🍂 Mulch Is Your Best Friend

If there’s one thing I’ll never skip in winter prep, it’s mulch.

A good layer of mulch acts like a blanket for your soil. It helps regulate temperature, keeps moisture in, and protects roots from those sudden freezes we’re known for.

Use what you have:

• Straw
• Shredded leaves
• Pine needles
• Wood chips

Just be sure not to pile it directly against plant stems. A few inches around the base is perfect.

🥶 Cover What Needs Covering

When frost or freezing temps are in the forecast, it’s time to cover up your tender plants.

Old sheets, frost cloths, or even light blankets work great. The key is to make sure the cover reaches the ground so it traps warmth from the soil. And don’t forget to remove them once the sun comes back out.

Avoid plastic directly on the plant it can do more harm than good.

🪴 Bring Containers In Close

Plants in pots feel the cold faster than anything in the ground. If you can, move them closer to the house, onto a porch, or into a garage overnight.

If moving them isn’t an option, group them together and wrap the pots with burlap or blankets for extra protection.

🌱 Tidy Up, But Don’t Overdo It

Winter is a great time to clean up the garden, but you don’t have to strip everything bare.

✔️ Remove diseased plants
✔️ Clear out spent veggies
✔️ Add compost to beds

But it’s okay to leave some plants standing. They protect the soil, provide habitat, and remind us that rest is part of the growing process too.

🌾 A Little Heart Behind It All

This season always reminds me that rest is just as important as growth. The garden may look quiet right now, but beneath the soil, good things are still happening.

A little preparation now means a stronger, healthier start come spring. And just like in life, sometimes all we can do is cover what we can, trust the process, and let God do the rest.

From our garden to yours, stay warm, stay rooted, and keep growing. 🤍