Winter has come around once more, bringing rainy days and cold weather. Some parts of the UK have even been layered with snow, with probably more to come!
This blog post will help you navigate your garden over the winter months with handy advice on what to plant and how to protect your trees and shrubs.
Stay tuned for a more in-depth guide with all the winter gardening tips you’ll need this season. Here are a few key jobs to keep in mind this December to chase away those winter blues.
Jobs for the garden this winter
Mulch around trees and plants
Winter weather doesn’t just affect trees and plants above ground—it impacts roots beneath the soil too. Protect them by applying a thick layer of mulch over the topsoil. This insulates roots, improves soil condition, and helps retain moisture.
Planting
Winter planting is ideal for new gardeners. Trees are dormant, making it the perfect time to pop them into their new home before spring arrives. Avoid planting when the ground is waterlogged or frozen—choose a mild day instead.
Our native tree saplings can be stored in a cool, dry garage over winter and planted in early spring. Alternatively, plant into a large pot and place in a sheltered location. For more tips, watch our how to repot a tree video.
Choose trees that are native to your area as they’ll be the hardiest and best suited to local conditions.
Wrap and protect trees
Frozen water on leaves or bark can cause sunscald as it thaws, damaging the tree. Here's how to protect them:
- Wrap the heads of evergreen trees in clear plastic overnight.
- Use a common big bag for deciduous tree protection.
- Wrap bark of young trees to prevent animal damage—rabbits love young bark!
Protection from snow and frost
Snow can be tricky to manage - here’s what to do:
- Gently remove heavy snow from branches to prevent breakage.
- Avoid salt-based de-icers. Use calcium, potassium, or magnesium alternatives to protect tree roots.
- Move tender trees to sheltered spots and wrap them with horti-fleece.
- Use bubble wrap around potted trees to insulate roots during harsh frosts.
- Choose terracotta pots over metal—they're more frost-resistant.
Pruning during winter
Winter is ideal for pruning, while trees are dormant and easier to shape. Key tips include:
- Assess and adjust tree structure while branches are bare.
- Winter pruning helps with disease control.
- It’s a great way to improve your garden with minimal disruption.
Citrus tree care in winter
Our citrus trees are customer favourites. Here’s how to care for them in cold months:
- Keep citrus trees indoors over winter.
- Place them away from central heating but in well-lit spots.
- Ensure fresh air circulation.
- Use winter citrus feed for extra nourishment.
- Provide plenty of light to support fruit growth.
Olive and bay tree care in winter
Olive trees and bay trees thrive in warmer climates and need a bit of TLC during UK winters. Here’s how:
- Wrap the tree heads to prevent water from freezing on the leaves.
- Use a big bag for easy overnight protection.
- Cover soil with fabric to prevent frost from penetrating.
- Move trees to a sheltered area of the garden.
Read our full bay tree care guide and olive tree care guide for more details.
Other winter gardening jobs
- Avoid walking on the lawn – dormant grass is easily damaged.
- Dig over clay beds – frost will help break down heavy soil structure.
- Feed hungry hedgehogs – leave food, water, and a pile of leaves for hibernation.
- Top up bird feeders – use nuts, seeds, and fat balls; clean feeders regularly.
- Brush snow off greenhouses – clear heavy snow to let in light.
- Sow seeds and bulbs – plant on mild days when the soil isn’t frozen.
Thank you for reading our winter gardening tips. If you’ve got questions or ideas, reach out to us on social media, we’d love to help!
