More snow please!

Until you have lost tons of perennial plants from lack of snow cover.....you may not realize how important and functional snow is to the garden. Snow cover is a very important protector often referred to as an 'insulator.' During the winter months, snow protects the crown and upper root systems from drying out in the winter winds. In the spring, the snow protects the plants from 'heaving.' Heaving is a term used to describe plants 'heaving' up and out of the soil due to the thaw-freeze cycle the frequently happens in early spring. Most days in March & April, there is enough sun and warm air to thaw the surface soil and as soon as the sun drops - so do the temps. Shallow rooted plants like strawberries & mums are more susceptible. Large rooted plants like peonies, daylilies or very mature perennials are not as likely to have issues. Plants that have heaved (should be obvious) should be replanted, lowering them back into a planting hole. In addition to snow - winter mulch is very beneficial, especially if we get little or no snow, or like now, mid-January and most of our snow has melted. You could still apply straw/hay/pine needles at any time. Leaves are not good as they compact down, stay wet, and plants tucked below them can often rot from constant moisture. Last summer was very dry, sparse fall rains, and now only a little winter moisture. Be prepared to water your landscape plants and gardens if we have a dry spring. Please post any gardening questions, love to hear from you!