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Preparing your garden, your plants and the outside of your home before winter

Updated: Oct 18

With the onset of winter, it's essential to prepare not only the inside of your home, but also the outside areas to withstand the cold and protect your facilities. Here are a few tips on how to prepare your garden and the outside of your home effectively before the onset of winter temperatures.


winter

Protect your plants and soil


Before the first frosts set in, it's important to prune dead or diseased branches from your trees and shrubs. This will encourage spring growth and prevent branches from breaking off under the weight of the snow.

Spreading mulch around plants helps conserve moisture and protect roots from extreme temperatures. Mulch acts as a barrier against the cold.

For plants that are less resistant to the cold, such as tropical or Mediterranean plants, cover them with winter sails or move them to a sheltered spot if they are in pots.


Maintaining your lawn


Before the first frosts, mow your lawn one last time, but not too short (about 5 cm). This will enable the lawn to withstand the weather better and make it easier to regrow in the spring.

In autumn, scarifying removes moss and accumulated residue to allow the lawn to breathe.

Don't forget to aerate the soil with a fork or hand aerator, especially if the ground is compacted. This will make it easier for rainwater to seep through and oxygenate the roots.


Prepare pipes and watering systems


If you have sprinkler systems or outdoor taps, drain them to prevent the water from freezing inside the pipes, which could damage them.

Make sure you turn off the water supply to outdoor taps and open them to drain off any residual water.


Protect outdoor furniture and equipment


If you have garden furniture, store it under cover (in a garage or garden shed) to prevent it deteriorating from the cold, damp or bad weather. If you can't move them, cover them with waterproof tarpaulins.

Remove dead leaves and other debris that could block gutters and cause leaks or water accumulation during winter rains.


Protect gardening tools and equipment


Before putting them away for the winter, clean your gardening tools and grease the metal parts to prevent rust.

Store all tools, lawnmowers and other equipment in a sheltered place away from damp to extend their lifespan.


Preparing outdoor surfaces and terraces


If you have a wooden, stone or concrete terrace, clean it to prevent debris from accumulating, which could lead to dampness and frost.

In the event of frost, it may be useful to treat exposed surfaces with anti-slip products or to provide suitable mats to prevent slipping.


Securing outdoor electrical installations


If you have any electrical equipment (such as garden lights or fountains), remember to unplug them and protect them from damp. Also unplug anything that won't be used during the winter.


Protecting animals and insects


For animals and insects that are beneficial to your garden, such as hedgehogs and bees, provide shelter for the winter. You can build insect hotels or leave piles of wood and leaves where animals can hibernate.



Preparing your garden and the outside of your home before winter helps to protect your facilities, avoid costly damage and ensure that your outdoor space is ready to return to its full glory as soon as spring arrives. Regular maintenance before the cold weather sets in is the key to keeping your garden and equipment in good condition.




If you'd like to find out more about how to prepare your home for winter, take a look at our practical tips here.



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