Timely Winter Gardening Tips and Having Exotic Plants Responsibly

Hello More Than Gardeners,

It’s almost February and thankfully the temperatures are holding up. It might feel like your garden has gone completely dormant. However, there’s still plenty to observe, care for, and plan during this time. Here are a few announcements and tips to help you stay engaged with your garden and and Nature itself this season:

Announcements:

We’re currently booking early consultations for spring projects! Whether you’re thinking about a new design, planting, or an eco-friendly upgrade, now is the perfect time to start planning.
Stay tuned for our upcoming workshop on creating sustainable landscapes—we’re excited to share tips and inspiration with you soon!

Timely Winter Gardening Tips:

Keep an Eye on Your Trees and Shrubs: Heavy snow and ice can cause damage. Brush off excess snow gently with a broom to prevent branches from breaking.
Look for Animal Activity: Winter is a critical time for local wildlife. Check your property for signs of animals—like rabbits or deer—that might be nibbling on bark or stems. Consider adding protective wraps or barriers to vulnerable plants.
Check for Winter Weeds: Believe it or not, some invasive weeds continue to grow through winter. Take a moment to inspect garden beds on milder days.
Assess Drainage Issues: Snow melt can reveal areas where water pools or drains poorly. Identifying these spots now can help you plan for spring fixes like rain gardens or improved grading
Plan for the Future: Use this time to dream big for your garden. Whether it’s adding native plants, creating better pollinator habitats, or designing a beautiful feature, winter is the perfect time to strategize for the growing season.

Winter is also a great opportunity to reflect on the joy your garden has brought to your life and consider new ways to make it even more sustainable and fulfilling in the year ahead.

Having Exotic Plants Responsibly

Did you know that humans have been using and migrating plants across regions since the beginning of time? While native plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems, it’s also possible to enjoy exotic plants responsibly—ensuring they don’t harm the environment.

At More Than Gardens, we encourage mindful practices when incorporating exotic plants into your home or garden. Here are some tips to get the best of both worlds:

Keep Exotic Plants Indoors or in Planters: Houseplants and contained planters are perfect for exotic species, reducing their chances of spreading into natural ecosystems.
Prevent Seed Spread: After exotic plants flower, trim them before they set seed to avoid unintentional spreading to nearby natural areas.
Make Educated Planting Decisions: Be a responsible land steward by understanding the needs and potential risks of exotic plants before introducing them to your property.

By managing your land mindfully and incorporating science-backed strategies, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of exotic plants while contributing to a thriving, balanced ecosystem.

Do you need help creating a mindful garden or landscape?

Reach out to us today! We’re here to guide you in cultivating a garden that’s both beautiful and ecologically sustainable.

Together, we can create spaces that harmonize human needs with nature’s well-being.

Warm regards,

Agatha

More Than Gardens Inc.