“Check out stored bulbs, rhizomes, roots, corms, etc. of Canna, Dahlia, Gladiolus, and other summer flowering “bulbs” and cull any that are rotting or have shriveled beyond recognition.” *
*Ron Kujawski, Berkshire Botanical Garden, January 13, 2025
“Do some winter planning this month. When the plants lose their leaves, the sight lines open areas that need attention. You can determine which areas are unsightly and should be removed, which areas should be opened for a better view and what spaces need additional plants for structure or color.
Gently brush heavy snow from the branches of trees and shrubs.
Allow ice to melt naturally from plants to avoid damage. Removing ice by hand or with a blow dryer almost always damages the buds and branches. Your plants will appreciate your patience!
Recycle your Christmas tree by leaving it outdoors for wildlife, cutting it down into mulch, or donating it to your community.
Avoid applying salt on icy pathways; try sand or birdseed instead. Winter salt inevitably soaks into the soil, which can cause quite a bit of stress for your plants.
Support your local birds by cleaning and refilling your feeders. Disinfect them monthly to reduce the spread of contaminants and diseases.
Water your plants in containers–even if they’re dormant. Dormant does not mean dead, so your plants still need water. Lightly water your containers to keep the soil moist (not wet) so the roots stay healthy.
Dust on your houseplants can block sunlight and reduce photosynthesis. Clean the dust off the foliage every few weeks to keep your indoor plants healthy and happy.” **
**Great Garden Plants, January 2025 (Online)
Notes
- Good article about Soil in January-February, 2025 issue of Fine Gardening magazine.
- Interesting book with many photos: “Plants for the Winter Garden” by Warren Leach.
- I have used unscented cat litter on icy areas.
Help Lines
- Massachusetts Horticultural Society: MHSHelpline@MassMasterGardeners.org
- New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill (Formerly Tower Hill Botanic Garden): Hortline@NEBG.org
Judy Dembsey is the chair of environmental education and a member of the board of the Acton Garden Club.
