Protecting Evergreen Shrubs in December: Essential Winter Care Tips for a Thriving Garden

Introduction

Evergreen shrubs bring structure, color, and life to the garden all year round, even when other plants have lost their leaves. However, the harsh winter months, especially in December, can be challenging for these plants. Cold winds, heavy snow, and dry conditions can all stress evergreen shrubs, leading to browning, breakage, and even death. Proper care and protection during winter ensure that your evergreen shrubs remain healthy and vibrant, ready to continue adding beauty to your garden. This guide will explain why protecting evergreen shrubs in December is essential, how to do it effectively, and answer common questions to help you maintain a thriving garden throughout winter.

Why Protecting Evergreen Shrubs in December Is Important

Prevent winter burn: Cold, dry winds can strip moisture from evergreen leaves and needles, causing browning, known as winter burn. Protecting shrubs from these conditions helps them retain moisture and stay green.
Avoid breakage from snow and ice: Heavy snow and ice can weigh down branches, causing them to snap or bend. Properly supporting and protecting shrubs helps prevent this damage.
Minimize water loss: Even in winter, evergreens continue to lose water through their leaves. Protection ensures that they don’t dry out, especially when the ground is frozen and roots cannot absorb water.
Maintain plant health: Stress from cold, wind, and moisture loss can weaken shrubs, making them more susceptible to diseases and pests. Proper winter care strengthens their resistance and promotes healthier growth in spring.

Types of Evergreen Shrubs That Need Protection in December

Different evergreen shrubs have varying tolerance levels to cold, but many benefit from extra care during the winter months:

Boxwood (Buxus)

Description: Known for its dense, green foliage, boxwood is often used for hedges and topiaries. It is vulnerable to winter burn and requires careful protection during harsh winters.
Best protection: Burlap wraps, anti-desiccant sprays.

Holly (Ilex)

Description: With its glossy leaves and bright red berries, holly is a classic winter shrub. Cold winds and heavy snow can damage its leaves and branches.
Best protection: Windbreaks, burlap covers, and regular watering before the ground freezes.

Rhododendron

Description: Rhododendrons have large, leathery leaves that can suffer from desiccation during winter. They are prone to leaf curling as a sign of stress.
Best protection: Mulching, windbreaks, and proper watering.

Juniper

Description: Junipers are hardy but can still suffer from winter burn, particularly in exposed areas. Heavy snow can also cause branch breakage.
Best protection: Wrapping branches, mulching, and using anti-desiccants.

Yew (Taxus)

Description: Yews are versatile, shade-tolerant evergreens that can experience winter damage if exposed to extreme cold or drying winds.
Best protection: Burlap screens, mulching, and adequate moisture.

How to Properly Protect Evergreen Shrubs in December

Taking the right steps to protect your evergreen shrubs can mean the difference between a thriving plant and one that struggles through winter. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Apply Mulch Around the Base

Why mulching matters: Mulch insulates the roots and soil, keeping the ground warmer and helping retain moisture. It also prevents soil from freezing and thawing, which can damage roots.
How to mulch: Spread a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips, straw, or compost, around the base of the shrub. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

2. Water Thoroughly Before the Ground Freezes

Why hydration is essential: Evergreens lose water through their leaves even in winter. Giving them a good drink before the ground freezes helps ensure they have enough moisture to last through dry spells.
How to water: Deeply water the soil around the shrub, focusing on the root zone. Make sure the water penetrates at least 6-8 inches into the soil.

3. Use Burlap Screens or Wraps

Why burlap works: Burlap provides a breathable shield that protects shrubs from harsh winds and sun exposure, reducing the risk of winter burn.
How to use burlap: Create a windbreak by staking burlap a few inches away from the shrub, or loosely wrap the shrub in burlap, securing it with twine. Ensure there is enough space to allow air circulation.

4. Protect Branches from Snow and Ice

Prevent damage from heavy snow: Snow and ice can weigh down branches, causing them to bend or break. Gently shake off heavy snow after storms to prevent damage.
How to support branches: Use twine to loosely tie up branches, or place a wooden frame around the shrub to support the structure. Avoid tying branches too tightly, as this can cause damage.

5. Apply Anti-Desiccant Sprays

Why use anti-desiccants: These sprays form a protective layer on the leaves, reducing moisture loss and preventing winter burn. They are especially useful for broadleaf evergreens like rhododendrons and holly.
How to apply: Spray the foliage on a mild day when temperatures are above freezing. Reapply as needed throughout the winter, following the product instructions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Protecting Evergreen Shrubs in December

Winter care for evergreens is relatively straightforward, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Over-wrapping shrubs: Wrapping shrubs too tightly can restrict airflow and lead to mold growth. Always use breathable materials like burlap and leave space for air to circulate.
Ignoring watering needs: Many gardeners assume that evergreens don’t need water in winter. However, dry conditions can lead to serious damage. Water deeply before the ground freezes and during winter thaws.
Using plastic covers: Plastic can trap moisture, leading to condensation and fungal issues. Stick to breathable fabrics for winter protection.

Benefits of Protecting Evergreen Shrubs in December

Prevents winter burn and browning: Proper protection reduces moisture loss from leaves, keeping shrubs green and healthy throughout winter.
Avoids breakage and structural damage: Supporting branches and clearing heavy snow prevents breakage, ensuring your shrubs maintain their shape and integrity.
Encourages strong spring growth: Healthy shrubs come out of winter strong and ready to grow, leading to more vigorous growth and lush foliage in spring.

Best Practices for Protecting Evergreen Shrubs in December

Monitor weather forecasts: Pay attention to cold snaps, heavy snow, and windy conditions. Be prepared to take action when adverse weather is predicted.
Check protection regularly: Inspect your shrubs throughout winter to ensure that the burlap, ties, or other protective measures are still in place and haven’t been disturbed by wind or animals.
Choose location wisely: If planting new evergreens, consider placing them in sheltered locations that offer some natural protection from harsh winds.

Common Questions and Answers About Protecting Evergreen Shrubs in December

Why should I protect my evergreen shrubs in December?

Evergreens are vulnerable to winter burn, moisture loss, and damage from snow and wind. Protecting them ensures they remain healthy and continue to thrive year-round.

How can I prevent my evergreens from turning brown in winter?

Use burlap screens to shield them from cold winds, apply anti-desiccant sprays to reduce moisture loss, and water deeply before the ground freezes. Mulching around the base also helps retain moisture.

Should I cover my evergreen shrubs with plastic?

No, avoid using plastic as it can trap moisture and cause fungal issues. Use breathable materials like burlap instead.

When should I apply anti-desiccant spray to my shrubs?

Apply anti-desiccant spray on a mild, dry day in late autumn or early winter. Follow the product instructions for reapplication throughout the season.

How do I protect my shrubs from heavy snow?

Gently brush off snow to prevent it from weighing down branches. Consider tying up branches loosely with twine or placing a wooden frame around the shrub for support.

Is it necessary to water evergreens in winter?

Yes, evergreens can suffer from dehydration, especially if the winter is dry. Water thoroughly before the ground freezes and during winter thaws if needed.

Can I mulch my evergreens in December?

Yes, applying mulch in December helps insulate the roots and retain moisture. Make sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

What’s the best way to set up a windbreak for my shrubs?
- Use stakes to set up a burlap screen on the windward side of the shrub. Position the screen a few inches away from the plant to allow air circulation while shielding it from cold, drying winds.
**Can pruning help protect my evergreen shrubs in winter

?**
– Light pruning can be beneficial to remove damaged or weak branches that might break under snow. However, avoid heavy pruning, as this can stress the plant in winter.

How often should I check my shrubs during winter?
- Inspect your shrubs regularly, especially after storms. Check that any protective measures, such as burlap wraps or supports, are still in place and adjust them if necessary.