There are lots of interesting things happening in your garden when it is cold outside. In today’s blog article, we are going to explore some of what is happening that you may see or be aware of.

Trees

Trees are storing water in the spaces outside of cells so that if it freezes, it will not damage the cells. By the way, do not prune trees when the temperature is below freezing because branches can become brittle, and your cuts may not end up where you want them.

Insects and Bugs

Some, like Queen bumblebees hibernate over the winter. Others, like butterflies overwinter as caterpillars or pupae in the leaf litter. Spiders lay eggs that lay dormant in the winter. Spiders lay eggs that are cold hardy and hatch when the weather improves. This is why it is better for the critters to leave leaf litter and deep pruning of perennials until spring because that leaf and stem waste is home to lots of life overwintering in your garden.

Microorganisms

Many microorganisms lie dormant over the winter waiting for temperatures to rise. Fungi continue growing under the ground, albeit very slowly.

Weather Phenomena

You may notice some interesting icy features in your garden. If you see what looks like thick, feathery ice crystals on plants after a cold and clear night, easily brushed away, that is called hoar frost. If you see delicate needles of ice after a cloudy or foggy night, that is called rime ice and it mostly forms on the windward side.

Enjoy what your garden has to offer while it is cold out. The days are getting longer, and soon it will be spring! 

Art Knapp has 15 locations across British Columbia and is well known as the go-to garden centre for everything garden-related. Art Knapp, himself, began the business in the 1940's, and now, 80 years later, you can find more than he ever dreamed of in our stores. Come and see us on King George Boulevard in Surrey. 

If you have any questions about this article or want to talk to us about gardening, just give us a call at (604) 596-9201.