Begin to use garden notes, photos and sketches to assess areas which need plants
Determine types and quantities of plants to order
Order plants from seed and nursery catalogues
Chores and Maintenance:
Inspect ornamental trees and shrubs for scale insects
If a thaw occurs, apply an antidesiccant to newly planted narrow-leaved or broad-leaved evergreens
Check for frost heaving on perennials and cover with extra mulch as necessary
Use wood ashes from the fireplace as a good source of potash
Avoid the use of salt to melt snow, as it is toxic to most plants. Use sawdust, sand or cat litter instead
Check on dahlia, canna and gladiolus bulbs for rotting and/or drying out
Keep bird feeders filled throughout winter
Pruning/Fertilizing:
Prune away storm-damaged branches promptly. This prevents tearing of the bark
Prune forsythia, pussy willow, quince, etc. for forcing indoors
Indoors:
When buying houseplants in winter be sure to wrap them well for the trip home. This prevents the foliage from freezing and protects tropicals from drafts
Give houseplants as much light as possible as days grow shorter
Provide houseplants with increased humidity; mist often or place plants over a tray of moist pebbles
As house plants grow more slowly during winter, increase the time between waterings but do not cut back on the amount of water
On frigid nights protect indoor plants from freezing; move them away from the glass or cover glass with thick newspaper or cardboard
Continue to clean leaves of large and smooth leaved houseplants like dracaena, philodendron, ficus etc.
Inspect houseplants for insect pests. Remove pests by hand and spray with insecticidal soap if needed
Clean clay pots by soaking overnight in a solution of 1 gallon water, 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup bleach
