Winter in Northeastern Pennsylvania brings its own set of challenges for homeowners who want to keep their outdoor spaces healthy and beautiful year-round. The cold temperatures, snow, and ice can take a toll on your landscaping if you’re not prepared. But with a few simple winter landscaping tips, you can protect your yard, trees, shrubs, and hardscaping so everything looks great when spring arrives.
At Crimson Valley Landscaping in Rockford, IL, we’ve helped homeowners navigate winter’s tough conditions for over 20 years. Whether you’re managing a residential yard or a commercial property, these tips will help you maintain a thriving landscape all winter long.
1. Mulch Your Garden Beds
Adding a fresh layer of mulch in late fall or early winter helps insulate the roots of your plants and shrubs from fluctuating temperatures. Mulch acts as a protective blanket, keeping soil temperatures stable and preventing frost heaving—when soil freezes and thaws repeatedly, pushing plants upward and exposing their roots.
Use organic mulch like shredded bark or hardwood chips for best results. Aim for about 2-3 inches of coverage but avoid piling mulch directly against plant stems or tree trunks to prevent rot.
2. Prune Dead or Damaged Branches
Winter is a great time for dormant pruning. Removing dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs not only improves their appearance but also prevents broken limbs from becoming hazards under the weight of snow or ice.
Focus on branches that cross or rub against each other, and thin out crowded areas to promote healthy airflow. If you’re unsure about which branches to prune, Crimson Valley Landscaping can help with professional pruning services to keep your trees safe and healthy.
3. Protect Shrubs and Young Trees
Shrubs and young trees are especially vulnerable during winter. Consider wrapping delicate plants with burlap or using protective tree wraps to shield them from harsh winds and ice damage.
For added protection, install windbreaks or fences on the windward side of your garden to reduce exposure. Also, avoid piling snow from your driveway or sidewalks near plant bases as road salt and chemicals can harm vegetation.
4. Care for Your Hardscaping
Hardscaping elements like patios, walkways, and retaining walls also need winter care. Before the snow starts, make sure your pavers or stonework are sealed to prevent water infiltration that can cause cracking during freeze-thaw cycles.
When removing snow, avoid using metal shovels or harsh chemical deicers that can damage surfaces. Opt for plastic shovels and pet-safe ice melt products to keep your hardscape safe and looking great.
5. Plan for Spring Landscaping Now
January is the perfect month to start planning your spring landscaping projects. Whether you want a new patio, outdoor lighting, or a complete landscape redesign, early planning means you’ll beat the spring rush and have a head start on making your outdoor space amazing.
Crimson Valley Landscaping offers expert landscape design consultations and project planning services to bring your vision to life—contact us anytime to schedule a consultation.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to be a downtime for your landscape. With proactive care and professional support, your yard can stay healthy and ready for the warmer months ahead. Following these winter landscaping tips can protect your plants, preserve your hardscape, and keep your property looking great year-round.
If you’re in Rockford, IL, or nearby and want help maintaining or improving your landscape this winter, contact Crimson Valley Landscaping today. Our experienced team is here to support all your winter landscaping needs through every season.
