Think of mulch as a winter blanket for your garden. We recommend adding a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds to regulate soil temperature and lock in moisture. This barrier protects roots from harsh freezes, prevents soil erosion, and reduces weed growth in the spring.

Not every plant can handle Delaware’s cold temperatures. We encourage you to bring tender perennials, tropical plants, and certain annuals inside or into a sheltered area. A little care now goes a long way in preventing frost damage and ensuring these plants return strong next season.

Late fall is the perfect time to prune. By trimming back overgrown perennials, shrubs, and grasses, you help your landscape prepare for healthy spring growth. We recommend removing dead or damaged branches to lower the risk of pests, disease, or breakage from heavy snow and ice.

Winter storms and melting snow can cause serious water issues if your drainage isn’t ready. We suggest inspecting gutters, downspouts, and low-lying areas to make sure water is flowing away from your home and landscape. Proper drainage helps protect plant roots, prevents erosion, and reduces the risk of icy walkways.

Young trees, newly planted shrubs, and frost-sensitive plants need an extra layer of defense. We recommend wrapping them with burlap, frost blankets, or protective covers, and adding mulch around the base to insulate their roots. This simple step shields plants from freezing winds and frost heaving, helping them survive the cold.

Winter doesn’t have to leave your property looking bare. We encourage homeowners to incorporate hardy, cold-tolerant plants such as evergreens, holly, winter pansies, and ornamental cabbages, all of which grow well in Delaware. Placing them near entryways, garden beds, or walkways adds vibrant color and texture that keeps your property looking welcoming, even on snowy days.

Walkways, patios, driveways, and retaining walls take a beating during freeze-thaw cycles. We recommend repairing cracks, loose stones, or damaged pavers before winter sets in. This prevents further damage and helps keep your property safe and fully functional year-round.

Preparing your landscape for winter isn’t just another chore, it’s an investment in the health of your property. From nourishing your soil to safeguarding your hardscapes, these steps will ensure your landscape wakes up strong and ready to grow in the spring.

Our Wilmington landscaping experts are here to help every step of the way. Whether it’s seasonal plant care, hardscape repair, or full-service maintenance, we encourage you to trust our team to keep your property looking its best all year long.