As autumn comes to a close, your garden is getting ready for its winter rest. With a bit of care and preparation, you can protect your plants and ensure a healthy, vibrant garden in spring. Here are the essential steps to get your outdoor space ready for the cold season.

1. Clean up the garden

Start by removing dead leaves, fallen branches, and plant debris. This helps prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
Kerepark Tip: Shred the leaves for natural mulch, or add them to your compost.

2. Prune your plants

Winter pruning is key. Trim dead wood, thin out dense areas, and shape plants for the dormant season.

Important: Don’t prune everything! Some plants (like spring-flowering shrubs) should only be pruned after blooming.

3. Protect delicate plants

Some plants are sensitive to frost. Here’s what to do:

• Add mulch around the base (leaves, straw, bark, compost).
• Use frost protection fabric or winter fleece on vulnerable shrubs.
• Bring potted plants indoors, especially tropical or Mediterranean species (like citrus or geraniums).

Mulch also helps retain soil moisture and breaks down to nourish the plants.

4. Prep your lawn

• Mow one last time (not too short).
• Scarify to remove moss and thatch if needed.
• Apply a fall lawn fertilizer high in potassium to strengthen roots before winter.

Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers at this time—they promote growth that can weaken the grass during cold spells.

5. Winterize your tools and irrigation system

• Drain hoses and irrigation lines to prevent freezing.
• Clean and store your tools—sharpen them now to save time in spring.
• Protect clay or ceramic pots: frozen water inside can cause them to crack.

6. Support garden wildlife

Your garden shelters helpful insects and small animals. Leave some natural areas undisturbed—piles of leaves, logs, or branches—for them to hibernate. You can also install bug hotels or hedgehog shelters.

 In summary

Preparing your garden for winter is an investment in its spring revival. With a few smart steps, you’ll protect your plants, support local biodiversity, and make your gardening tasks easier in the seasons ahead.

Need help getting your garden winter-ready?

At Kerepark Lawns and Gardens, we offer tailored winter garden care services: pruning, clearing, mulching, winterizing… Let our team take care of your green spaces so they’re ready to thrive come spring.

Contact us today  !