Winter 2024-2025:

Why Central Florida Winters Are Perfect for Garden Care?

Winter in Central Florida is the ideal season to tackle essential garden tasks and prepare for the upcoming growing season, which historically falls between June and September. Here’s how to make the most of this time: 

1. Prioritize Weeding - Weeding should top your winter to-do list. If your garden’s weed situation rates above 3/5, winter weeding is a must to avoid overwhelming growth in the summer. Early preparation ensures a healthier and more manageable garden. 
2. Refresh Your Mulch -Winter is also the perfect time to add or refresh your garden’s mulch. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds—making it an essential tool for preparing your garden for the growing season. Aim for a 2-3 inch layer and keep it a few inches away from plant bases to prevent rot. 
3. Plant with Confidence -Winter’s cooler temperatures offer a perfect window for introducing new plants to your garden. Planting now reduces transplant shock as plants transition from the controlled environment of a nursery to your yard. This gentler acclimation helps them adapt to new feeding, watering, and lighting conditions. 
4. Prune Selectively -Many Florida native plants tolerate pruning during winter. However, each garden is unique. Shrubs/trees like Simpson’s Stopper and Walters Viburmnums, typically bloom in the late winter, so we highly recommend planning this task. Contact us for tailored advice on which plants in your landscape would benefit from pruning this season.  
5. Optional: Cutting Back -While not always necessary, some gardeners prefer to cut back plants such as ornamental grasses or American Beautyberries in late winter. If this is your preference, we recommend waiting until closer to spring. 
6. Managing Frost-Damaged Perennials -Frost damage may appear unsightly, but resist the urge to cut back perennials immediately. The burnt layer acts as a natural shield, protecting new growth underneath. Some plants, like Scorpiontail, and even non-natives such as Pentas, can regenerate leaves beneath the damaged exterior. Wait until winter has fully passed before pruning to avoid further harm.