How to prepare the garden for winter: step-by-step instructions

Winter is approaching, and preparing the garden for winter is an important step for successful gardening. This process involves a series of actions aimed at protecting the soil and plants from adverse weather conditions. Let's take a closer look at each step.

Step 1: Garden Cleanup

The first step is a thorough cleanup of the garden, removing plant residues, leaves, and sticks. Get rid of all stems and leaves that no longer serve a purpose. This will not only improve the appearance of the plot but also help prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Compost healthy plants and leftovers to use them as fertilizer in the future.

Step 2: Soil Preparation

The foundation of successful gardening is quality soil. During this period, plow the soil to a depth of about 20-30 cm using a tiller or a shovel. This will improve the soil's structure, enrich it with oxygen, and help eliminate parasites that can survive the winter. The plowing should be completed before the onset of freezing temperatures.

Step 3: Adding Fertilizers

Autumn is an excellent time to add fertilizers to the soil. Add compost, manure, complex mineral fertilizers, or other organic fertilizers. This will enrich the soil with necessary nutrients and improve its fertility. Fertilizers should be evenly distributed across the plot and incorporated into the topsoil.

Step 4: Plant Preparation

Protect delicate plants from the cold by covering them with special shelters or dry leaves. You can also transplant shrubs to a more sheltered location or cover them with dry straw. Before winter, trim the dry parts of the plants to prevent fungal diseases and improve ventilation. Wrap shrubs and trees with special materials to protect them from frost and wind.

Step 5: Rodent Protection

In the autumn, rodents can pose a serious threat to your garden. Install traps or use poisons to protect the garden from mice and moles. Regularly check traps and inspect the soil for signs of their activity. Protect the roots of trees and shrubs by wrapping them with metal mesh to prevent damage from rodents.

Step 6: Winter Mulch

The final step in preparing the garden for winter is applying winter mulch. Cover the soil with a layer of mulch, such as fallen leaves, straw, or peat, about 5-10 cm thick. This will help retain heat, even out the soil temperature, and prevent the roots of plants from freezing. Mulch also helps reduce weed growth and retain moisture in the soil.

By following this comprehensive guide, you will prepare your garden for winter and ensure a successful start in the next season. With all these measures, your garden will be ready for the cold and will delight you with a bountiful harvest in the spring and summer. Remember that taking care of plants in the autumn is crucial for their health and productivity.