If you are not used to this type of climate, a snowfall, once the wonder has passed, can confuse the inexperienced gardener. In this area, we have a lot of misconceptions. In order to make no mistakes, here's how to disentangle the true from the false.
Snow effectively protects plants from the cold
True. Snow is an excellent insulator, especially because it contains a lot of air. The temperature differences are reduced, the ground freezes less deeply and the plants are sheltered, like in an igloo.
Coarse cooking salt is good for clearing snow from alleys lined with plants.
Coarse cooking salt is good for clearing snow from alleys lined with plants.
False. When melting, salt penetrates the earth and disturbs the roots. In large doses, it is a real poison. Shovel your walkways and instead use river sand that you can then sweep towards the lawn or flower beds.
The branches of conifers fear the snow.
True. If after the snow there is a risk of freezing, it is good to shake the branches of your tree to relieve them of this weight responsible for their breakage. It's faster with a blower, and especially recommended for young plants. In evergreens, camellias in particular, snow stagnating on the leaves can cause burns. Finally, columnar conifers can warp. To maintain their silhouette, circle them with flexible wire, from their base to the top.
Stepping on a snow-covered lawn will not damage it.
False. All the footprints as well as the furrows of the wheelbarrow permanently imprint on the grass and leave very unsightly yellowish patches.
Snow is rich in nutrients.
True. Like storm rains, snow contains all kinds of fertilizer particles. Store it in a bucket. Once melted and at room temperature, it will be perfect for watering your potted plants.
Read also :
Garden: our tips for a good winter
How to protect your garden from the cold?