Winter Care for Outdoor Planters: Keep Your Plants Thriving in the Cold

As temperatures drop, your outdoor planters need a little extra attention to withstand the winter months. Without proper care, freezing conditions can damage both your plants and the containers themselves. Follow these essential tips to keep your planters in great shape all season long!

1. Choose the Right Planters

Not all pots are made for winter weather. Terracotta and ceramic pots can crack in freezing temperatures due to moisture expansion and therefore need taken inside during the winter months. Instead, you could choose to opt for durable materials like:

• Fiberglass

• Plastic

• Metal

• Concrete

  
  

2. Protect Your Plants from Frost

Some plants can survive the cold, but others need extra protection. Here’s how to help:

• Mulch: Add a layer of mulch around the base of your plants to insulate the roots.

• Covering: Use burlap or frost cloths to shield plants from harsh winds and freezing temps.

• Move Them: If possible, relocate planters to a more sheltered area like a porch or garage.

3. Adjust Watering Habits

Plants need less water in winter, but they shouldn’t dry out completely. A few tips: Water only when the soil is dry. Avoid watering before a freeze, as excess moisture can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage to prevent ice buildup in the soil.

4. Use Cold-Hardy Plants

If you want a winter-friendly planter, consider these cold-resistant plants:

• Evergreen shrubs (Boxwood, Juniper)

• Winter-flowering plants (Hellebores, Pansies)

• Hardy ornamental grasses
  

5. Elevate and Insulate Your Planters

To prevent pots from freezing to the ground or cracking:

• Place them on pot feet or wooden boards to improve drainage.

• Wrap them in bubble wrap or burlap for extra insulation.
  

By following these simple steps, you can keep your outdoor planters healthy and beautiful even through the coldest months.

What’s your go-to method for winter planter care? Let us know in the comments!