Those who have just planted shrubs may be concerned about their new plants surviving with no damage. Is there anything a homeowner can do to prevent winter damage?

Actually, there is little one can do to prevent winter damage. Winter damage usually occurs when plants are weak or not acclimated to the sudden climate change. Herbaceous plants such as hosta and hydrangea have long lost their foliage. These types of plants always loose their leaves at first frost.

Plant material that has grown well over the past summer can usually withstand long, cold winters.

Research has shown that shrubs fertilized with copious amounts of phosphorus have a good chance of winter survival. Delay fertilizing plant material past August, especially with nitrogen.

Succulent growth is usually the first part of the plant to receive winter damage. Landscape plants react to cold in a similar fashion to people. The healthier the plant is going into the cold weather, the better its chances are of surviving without incident.

Some plant materials are not cold hardy for this region. Wax myrtle, gardenia, Confederate jasmine and some types of azaleas burn with temperatures below 20 degrees, regardless of the health of the plant. These plants need protection from prevailing winter winds or stark exposure to cold weather.

This region has been blessed with relatively mild winters over the past few years. Temperatures that dip below 20 degrees and into single digits often prove fatal to these types of plants and to non-acclimated plants.

Duration of cold is another factor. A sudden dip for a day or two may only burn plants. Prolonged cold temperatures often kill plants by damaging the root system. Freezing and thawing of the soil plays havoc to newly planted shrubs and lawns. Newly planted shrub and turf roots are exposed to freezing temperatures, often causing significant damage.

A layer of mulch insulates and protects sensitive root systems. Bark, pine needles or other organic mulches are effective as insulators.

Cold, dry wind often dries foliage. Anti-transpirants coat leaves of broad-leafed plants, reducing wind damage yet allows plants to breath and function normally. Nurserymen and landscapers often use these materials in cold, windy weather to reduce transpiration or water loss.

Excessive water loss in frozen soil seriously damages or kills some plant materials. Camellias, hollies and other newly set broad-leafed shrubs can benefit from anti-transpirants during cold, windy weather.

A major factor in winter death of new shrubs is lack of water. Be sure plants have sufficient water during the winter months.

Weather experts forecast a mild winter. Often, these forecasts are just predictions. Therefore, it would be wise to prepare for any sudden change in our winter weather.

Master Gardener

Applications for the Master Volunteer Class are due in the Extension Office by Jan. 7, 2000. If you have an interest in becoming a Rowan County Master Gardener Volunteer, please contact Cooperative Extension at 633-0571.