I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas

As I write this, I am overlooking a yard that has seen rain on and off for the last few days. This yard has seen some snow but the unseasonal temperatures have melted it away almost as quickly as it dropped in.

The gardener in me knows though that winter in Canada is a necessity for plant life. Sure, we love that the driving conditions are better, December is t-shirt weather, and shoveling has been minimal – it is relaxing, for sure.

But the plants require the cold, freezing temperatures – at least our perennials do. Right now, there’s a good chance (if you’re experiencing the double digit temps I am right now) that some of your perennials seem to be ready to bloom. Lilacs and other early bloomers are thinking it’s spring.

So, what do you do about it? Honestly, not much. Your plants won’t likely succumb to the cold temperatures when they get here but you may notice that blooms are sparse in the spring. Tend to your plants as you would normally – prune the way you did last year (if the plant requires it), water if absolutely necessary, and provide a burst of colour with some annuals.

For now, though, enjoy the warm temperatures because they surely won’t last.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to each and every one of you! We’ll chat in the new year!