What is an important practice for winterizing landscapes?

Cutting back perennials and protecting tender plants is a crucial practice for winterizing landscapes. In many climates, including that of North Carolina, perennials benefit from being cut back in late fall. This process helps to prevent disease and pests from overwintering in the foliage and allows for new growth in the spring. Additionally, protecting tender plants, such as certain shrubs or flowering plants that may not survive extreme cold, is essential. This can involve covering them with mulch, blankets, or other materials to insulate them from freezing temperatures.

In contrast, planting new annuals is generally not advisable during the winter months, as they are typically sensitive to frost and won't survive the colder temperatures. Removing all mulch can expose the soil and roots to temperature extremes and can promote plant stress. Regular watering is important year-round; however, daily watering in winter is often unnecessary and can lead to root rot and wasted water, particularly when plants are dormant.