Stop Winterkill Before It Happens: Rethink Burlap for Your Plants

Why Your Winter Protection Methods Might Backfire

Winter can be a harsh adversary for gardeners, particularly in the Okanagan Valley, where evergreens often take center stage in our landscapes. However, the conventional wisdom surrounding plant protection, like using burlap wraps, may actually do more harm than good. If you've ever seen your cedars browning despite your efforts, it might be time to rethink how you prepare for winter.

In 'Stop Winterkill BEFORE It Happens: Why Burlap Might Be Killing Your Plants', the discussion dives into the ineffective use of burlap for plant protection, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end.

The Science Behind Winterkill

It may come as a surprise that winterkill is less about frigid temperatures and more about water loss. During the winter, evergreen trees continue to lose moisture due to a process called transpiration, where the leaves release water vapor. This can be particularly pronounced when the ground is frozen, restricting the plant's ability to take in water through the roots. When coupled with intense winds and bright sun, your plants can easily lose a staggering 25% to 40% of their water content. The real danger lies in the cells collapsing from dehydration—a condition that becomes visible only in spring with dead or damaged branches.

Rethinking Burlap: A Common Mistake

Originally used in the early 20th century as a windbreak, burlap might not always be the protective shield we think it is. When wrapped too tightly, it can smother plants, depriving them of sunlight, which is essential for photosynthesis. Studies conducted by the University of Minnesota between 2020 and 2022 indicate that wrapping cedars in burlap did not show any significant benefits compared to those left unwrapped. With science leading the way, it begs the question: Are we wasting time and resources with burlap?

Smart Alternatives to Protect Your Evergreens

Instead of relying on burlap, consider several methods that have proven effective in preserving your evergreens:

Windbreaks: Your First Line of Defense

Investing in a proper windbreak can significantly minimize moisture loss during winter. This can include snow fences, landscaped fabric, or even surrounding plants that will cut down harsh winds. Placing these on the southwest side of your garden—where northern winds are often most intense—will make a notable difference in preventing desiccation.

Prevent Water Loss with Anti-Desiccant Sprays

Consider using anti-desiccant sprays, which create a protective waxy layer on plant leaves. This seal helps reduce water loss by blocking the stomata—the plant's 'breathing' pores. Such sprays have been successfully applied both indoors and outdoors, and they're particularly useful if your plants were unable to absorb enough water before the freeze. When you're planning ahead, don't underestimate their efficacy in maintaining moisture levels.

Hydration: Prep Before the Cold Sets In

If conditions allow, deep watering before the temperature drops can work wonders for your plants. Not only does it hydrate them, but it can also slightly raise soil temperature, making it easier for them to survive when winter hits. A well-watered plant can endure 25-40% moisture loss more effectively than a dry one.

Mulching: The Unsung Hero of Plant Care

Mulching is an often-overlooked strategy that guards the soil moisture and temperature. It prevents rapid evaporation from the soil, ensuring that roots have continued access to water as winter progresses. As ice and snow cover the ground, mulch acts as insulation, maintaining a stable environment for your evergreens.

Recovery: Helping Winter-Stressed Plants

If your evergreen shows signs of winterkill, it's crucial to allow them time to heal. Avoid trimming dead branches too early in the growing season, as this can damage the cambium layer crucial for nutrient transport. Instead, wait until new growth is apparent. Nutrient-rich foliar sprays can also provide essential minerals and vitamins, helping damaged plants recover their health and vitality.

Embracing a Winter-Ready Garden

As we step into the colder months, remember that how we protect our evergreens can make all the difference between a thriving landscape and a barren one. Instead of sticking to potentially harmful traditional methods like burlap, embracing these science-backed practices will enhance your garden's resilience against winter's challenges.

For Okanagan gardeners, adapting to changing climate conditions is vital. Your plants deserve the best chance at survival, and implementing these innovative techniques can ensure they come back thriving in the spring.