Winter Landscaping = Stronger Springtime Growth

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It's no secret that landscaping companies tend to see less business in the winter months. However, it would be a mistake to think that means no maintenance is needed to keep your yard space healthy and prepared for strong spring growth.

Here are three tips to ensure your yard's needs are met during the winter so you can see a bountiful spring landscape.

Continue to Water Evergreens and other Year-Round Specimens

There's a reason Oregon's version of sunshine is call "liquid sunshine." In spite of that, there are many plants that still don't get enough water because the presence of eaves and other overhanging structures, as well as some areas of your yard that may be sheltered from winter moisture, are keeping much-needed water from making its way to the roots.

It’s a good idea to periodically check all of your plants to see if they are getting the water they need. If the soil around a certain plant is chronically dry, you may need to move it to a better spot. If that's not possible, then make sure to provide a source of water regularly for those thirsty evergreens.

A good landscaping company can provide more information on the best growing conditions for different species.

Remove Dead Foliage

Dead grasses, branches, vines and leaves should be cleared away from your winter landscaping and mulched or composted.

Mulch is also great for protecting plants growing in exposed soil from winter’s chill.

Protect Delicate Plants from Winter Weather

Many plants do not fair well in freezing tempuraturs. Fortunately, we don't see drastic drops in temps here in the Sherwood or Portland area. However, many broadleaf evergreens require protection if the temperature drops below 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Other tender plants, such as fragrant daphne, require protection if the temperature dips below 25 degrees Fahrenheit. To protect plants during cold spells, cover them with tarps. Just remember to remove the tarps if the sun appears, otherwise the plants can get overheated.

A small time investment in these winter landscaping tasks will result in gorgeous, thriving spring growth. What landscaping tasks do you find to be the most helpful? Comment below to let us know!

Related articles

• The magic of mulch (seattletimes.nwsource.com)

Water Feature Ideas For Landscape Design

Water features are a terrific way to turn a boring landscape into something interesting and special. Offering a place of serenity as well as an attraction to local wildlife.

Refresh your thinking tool box with some of these ideas and dive into a world of new possibilities.

Small In Scale - Yet Big On Impact:

Outdoor Living Space:

Aerial Display:

Whatever your desired purpose, a few design tips to keep in mind when planning your water features are:

1. What is the overall purpose of the water feature?
   Do you intend to use it for outdoor living space, or to have a quiet place of reflection or to attract wildlife? Decide what it will be used for first.
2. How large is the space?
   If you have a small amount of space to work with, there are many ideas for the best use of that space, but designing the appropriate water feature for the space is key. On the flip side, you wouldn't want a tiny water feature in large space. It would look silly and dwarfed by the rest of the landscape.
3. What is your budget?
   Again, there are many options for different budgets. Decide what your budget is and choose appropriately based on that.

Most importantly, designing and building a water feature that meets your expectations and desires can liven up any backyard or commercial space and add another level of design to your outdoor living space.