How to winterize your yard

With winter months closing in, it's not only important to prepare your home and vehicle for colder weather. Your yard needs some attention, too.

Proper pruning and protection of shrubs and trees will help them survive the winter months, and will lead to healthy growth come spring.

Identify shrubs and prune accordingly.

Shrubs that bloom in the spring should be pruned immediately after flowering. Shrubs that bloom in the summer should be pruned during the dormant winter months. Shrubs should not be pruned late in the growing season as it will promote new growth that can be damaged by winter frost.

Cut weak, dead and damaged branches.

Use pruning shears to cut away weak, dead and damaged branches. Always cut a branch where it grows from the stem or live shoot. Cut the stem at an angle and leave a small branch bark collar.

Thin out old growth

Use shears to thin out old, scraggly growth and crowded branches. Remove excessive, small inside branches to open the plant up without stimulating new growth.

Cut away low branches.

At the bottom of the shrub, cut away crowding branches that are too low. Be sure to leave healthy shoots that serve as the main structure of the shrub.

Carefully prune rose bushes.

For rose bushes, first cut away dead wood. Then, remove thin branches that compete with the healthy branches. Choose four or six of the healthy branches, and shorten them by about one-third to one-half of their total height. To further protect a rose bush, clear away debris from under the bush and spread mulch or hay around the base, piled at least a foot high. Never spread before November, as rose bushes need exposure to cool temperatures to build hardiness.

With these tips, your yard will be ready to weather the winter and set you up for success in the spring.

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