Winter Work

In the absence of snow, it’s easy to limb up this copse of River Birch (B. nigra) and keep the landscape looking tidy.

Winter work in the landscape business here in the north used to mean plowing snow. With today’s shifting climate however, snow biz has drifted…. from reliably profitable, to an occasional necessity. While global warming isn’t exactly a good thing, there is a silver lining. Milder winter temperatures mean more opportunities to service the landscape in the off-season, a once unheard-of possibility.

Of course, winter pruning has always been a thing. With no leaves to obscure the view, there’s no better time to reduce overgrown shrubs, and clean out the interior of trees large and small. There’s also less weight and less to dispose of when trimming in winter. The lack of consistent snow cover only increases the window for accomplishing these tasks.

With landscapes more visible there is more scrutiny of condition. Some sites may benefit from an occasional cleanup of branches, late leaves or perennials, or litter and debris to keep them looking sharp all season long. The weather is so mild at times that beds can be edged and patios installed.

Even lawns can benefit from a soil conditioner like lime or gypsum applied appropriately during warm spells.

Milder winters mean less pest kill-off too. Be prepared for early grub applications and preemergent weed killer.

And of course in the garden, a meditative walk on a mild winter’s day reveals nature’s details of dormancy, a subtle hidden beauty that hints at greater promise, and defies the often bleak description of common observance. The perfect time to dream and plan for fast-approaching spring.