New Jersey Winter Garden Prep: A Tidy Garden with Nature in Mind
As winter approaches here in northern New Jersey, it’s the perfect time to get your garden ready for the cold months ahead. Many of us love the look of a neat, well-organized garden, but it’s possible to keep things tidy while also supporting local wildlife. A few simple adjustments can help your garden stay beautiful while providing much-needed shelter for beneficial insects and other creatures.
1. Leave Stems Standing for Pollinators
If you prefer a more polished look, the idea of leaving plants standing might seem counterintuitive. But leaving about 12 to 18 inches of plant stems intact over the winter can make a big difference for local pollinators like native bees. These beneficial insects rely on the hollow stems of perennials to nest and hibernate through the cold season. Cutting everything to the ground takes away their shelter and disrupts the delicate balance of your garden’s ecosystem.
In northern New Jersey, native perennials such as Monarda (bee balm), Solidago (goldenrod), and Echinacea(coneflower) offer a safe space for insects and help protect the plant’s crown from harsh weather. By holding off on heavy pruning until early spring, you’ll provide a safe haven for these tiny creatures while keeping your garden looking neat and cared for. You can trim any remaining stems once temperatures consistently warm up to over 50 degrees and the insects have emerged.
2. Embrace the Structural Beauty of Native Perennials and Grasses
Winter doesn’t have to mean a bare, empty garden. Many native plants offer stunning structural interest that can transform your landscape into a winter wonderland. Instead of cutting everything back, let certain plants stand tall through the colder months to add texture and beauty to your garden.
In northern New Jersey, plants like Eryngium (sea holly), Echinacea, Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem), and Panicum virgatum (switchgrass) all offer gorgeous winter silhouettes. Their strong, upright forms catch the light beautifully on frosty mornings, creating a natural sculpture garden right in your backyard.
3. Plan Ahead for Spring: Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together
As you prepare your garden for winter, it’s also the perfect time to think ahead to spring. Winter is a great opportunity to envision how you want your garden to look when everything comes back to life. Whether you’re dreaming of colorful blooms, pollinator-friendly plants, or a refreshed design, planning now will help you get the most out of the next growing season.
At Summersweet Design, I’m here to help you create a garden that’s not only beautiful year-round but also supports local wildlife and pollinators. Whether you prefer a neat, structured design or a more natural, relaxed look, I’ll guide you in choosing the right plants and layout for your space.
