By Scout Nelson
Snow cover plays an important role in protecting garden plants during winter. Cold seasons often bring changing weather patterns, including snow, melting, freezing, and strong winds. These changes can stress plants, especially those with shallow roots.
Shallow roots face a higher risk of winter damage because of a process called frost heaving. This happens when soil freezes, thaws, and freezes again. Cracks form in the soil, allowing cold air to move deeper underground. Roots may rise closer to the soil surface, where they face very low temperatures. When soil temperature drops below 10 degrees, roots can be damaged or even die.
Snow acts like a natural blanket. It traps heat in the soil, limits how deep frost moves into the ground, and helps the soil hold moisture. Early snow cover is very helpful because it keeps soil warmer before the coldest weather arrives.
Soil stays warmer than air even during winter. For example, soil at deeper levels can remain near freezing while air temperature drops much lower. This natural warmth, when protected by snow, keeps plant roots safer from harm.
Dry soil also increases the risk of winter injury. Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil. When snow is missing and soil stays dry, cold can move deeper into the ground, raising the chance of root damage.
Gardeners can protect their plants by choosing plants that fit their local USDA Plant Hardiness Zone. Using plants suited to the climate helps improve winter survival. Adding mulch around plants also helps. Mulch keeps soil temperature steady and saves moisture.
Moving snow onto garden beds is another simple way to protect plants. Even a thin snow layer can give extra insulation.
By using mulch, keeping soil moist, and guiding snow onto plants, gardeners can improve winter survival. These simple steps help protect gardens and keep plants healthy until spring returns.
Photo Credit: adobe-westhoff
Categories: North Dakota, General, Rural Lifestyle, Weather