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THE HOME
Even as the seasons change, there’s still plenty to do.
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ooler weather may mean bonfires, scarves, and comfy sweaters, but it also means it’s time to prepare the plants that you’ve lovingly tended over the summer for the coming winter. Winters in Maryland can bring harsh temperatures—especially in January and February—so any gardener should be aware of what plants can tolerate and know how to keep them happy over the winter months.
Bringing Plants Indoors Typically, Frederick’s first frost occurs around mid-October; gardeners should plan to bring in any plants that will not survive winter weather before then. Most tropical plants do not tolerate weather below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, so the palm tree that’s been sitting on the deck for the past few months will need to be brought inside. Certain herbs need to come inside before nighttime temperatures consistently drop to the mid to low 30s, but rosemary, oregano, marjoram, sage, tarragon, and thyme typically survive Maryland winters outdoors. Some other cold-hardy plants like hostas, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans can also survive, springing back to their glory when the weather turns warm again. Before bringing plants indoors, check them for bugs and other pests. Some larger pests like caterpillars and grasshoppers can be removed by hand or with a quick spray of the hose. Mealybug or scale infestations can be treated with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, mix one tablespoon of liquid castile soap with one quart of water and spray it onto the affected plant. Keep infested plants away from healthy plants until the pests have been removed. Garden plants need to be transplanted into adequately sized pots before being brought indoors. Be careful to not damage the roots of the plant when digging an herb for transplant. Also, make sure plants are placed in an area of the home that receives enough sunlight for them to stay happy. Some herbs like mint and cilantro fare well in shade, but other herbs like basil and lavender prefer sunny spots. If kept inside in favorable conditions, annual herbs and flowers can continue to grow through the winter. In spring, perennials can be replanted after the last frost—typically in late May. Pay attention to local weather reports to learn when it is safe to begin bringing plants outdoors again for the season.
WINTER GARDENING CHECKLIST • Make sure you’ve picked any remaining fruits, vegetables, and flowers in your garden; compost dead flowers and rotted produce.
• T rim dead leaves and remove any dead plants from the garden.
• Bring cold-sensitive plants indoors; double check for bugs and pests.
• T ransplant plants into pots to bring indoors.
• S pread compost over garden for nutrients.
• Mulch to protect soil and remaining plants.
• Neatly store your gardening tools in a dry, covered spot.
• S tart planning next year’s garden!
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