As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, many Pacific Northwest gardeners may feel tempted to hang up their trowels and retreat indoors. But not so fast, says renowned horticulturist and author Marianne Binetti. With the right approach, you can keep your garden thriving even through the chilliest months.
Protect Tender Plants from Winter's Wrath
One of Binetti's key pieces of advice is to take proactive measures to safeguard your more delicate plants. "Many of our favorite summer bloomers, like geraniums and abutilons, are only half-hardy and need a bit of extra care to make it through the winter," she explains. Binetti recommends moving potted plants under the eaves of your roof or onto a covered patio to shield them from the wet, rainy conditions that can lead to root rot. "It's the rain, not the cold, that poses the biggest threat," she notes.
Embrace the Dormant Season
For bulbs and tubers like dahlias and begonias, Binetti suggests digging them up, allowing them to dry, and then storing them in a cool, dry spot like a basement or garage. "Don't cut them back - you want to force them into dormancy so they can rest up for a strong comeback next spring," she advises. And when it comes to perennials like peonies and lilies, there's no need to dig them up at all. "These plants are fully winter-hardy in our region, so you can just let them be," Binetti says.
Get a Head Start on Spring
While many gardeners are tempted to hunker down during the colder months, Binetti encourages Pacific Northwesterners to use this time wisely. "Take advantage of our mild winters to get a jumpstart on spring planting," she suggests. She recommends sowing cool-weather crops like peas, lettuce, and kale in late winter, as well as planting native plants that will thrive in the region's climate. "By getting a head start, you'll be rewarded with an earlier harvest and a lush, vibrant landscape when the warmer weather arrives," Binetti promises.
The Bigger Picture
What Binetti's winter gardening tips really underscore is the importance of working with nature, rather than against it. By understanding the unique growing conditions of the Pacific Northwest and tailoring your approach accordingly, you can keep your garden healthy and productive all year round. So don't let the chill of winter dampen your green-thumbed ambitions - with a little seasonal know-how, you can ensure your outdoor oasis remains a year-round source of joy.