There’s nothing like harvesting beautiful summer vegetables from your home garden. But can you still garden during the wintertime?
Of course, you can! Just because the weather changes, doesn’t mean you have to pause the planting.
But the question is, how is it done? Keep reading to learn the 5 best winter gardening tips.
1. Plant, Plant, Plant
This is some of the most simple gardening advice, but it’s important! If the ground isn’t frozen solid or covered in snow, you can still plant seeds.
If possible, sow your seeds a month before the first frost. Try planting greens such as kale or spinach, as they will hold up well during winter. Even though the weather has changed, you should still continue to water them regularly.
And if you’re a beginner with little gardening knowledge, it’s all good! Websites dedicated to gardening like progardeninghelp.com are great for planting tips.
2. Keep the Mulch Coming
To create some insulation, add a generous layer of mulch on top of your vegetables. It should be about a foot thick. By doing this, you are stabilizing the temperature of the vegetable roots.
And for the best harvest, add your mulch before the ground is completely frozen!
3. Get a Cold Frame
If you’re a beginner, you might not know what a cold frame is, but it’s merely a bottomless box with a glass lid.
This box goes around your plants to keep them from being damaged by harsh wind or frost. Yet, it still allows light in to nourish the plants. While you can buy one, it is also possible to make a cold frame if you’re looking for a DIY project.
4. Build a Tunnel
This may sound like a lofty task, but not to worry. The tunnels you’re building are above ground and go over the plants to protect them from the harsh winter.
This method is effective for any sized garden, so you can adjust the length and width of your tunnel accordingly. You can also build your own tunnel with inexpensive metal or PVC hoops that are covered with a secured row cover.
5. Cover With a Cloche
A cloche is another cheap way to extend the harvest and keep your plants safe during the winter. However, unlike the tunnel or cold frame, cloches are individual coverings.
You can either buy them or build your cloches right at home. But either way, your cloche should be clear so you can still see the growth of your plant over time. If you want to tackle this project, take an old plastic bottle or gallon milk jug, cut out the bottom, and place it over your seedling.
And once your seedlings turn into delicious vegetables, websites like healthyhappylife.com can give you ideas for plant-based meals!
Now Go Try Some Winter Gardening
Who said winter gardening was off-limits? While it brings a different set of challenges than summer gardening, it is still a great way to keep in touch with nature year-round. Now go plant some delicious winter vegetables!
If you found these tips helpful, check out more of our articles on nature.
