Midwest Winter Prep Checklist:
✔️ Clear dead plants and weeds
✔️ Cut back and mulch perennials
✔️ Wrap young trees and shrubs
✔️ Plant spring bulbs
✔️ Water deeply
✔️ Bring houseplants inside
✔️ Add bird feeders and shelters
✔️ Decorate with winter planters
1. Clean Up Spent Annuals and Weeds
Remove any annual flowers, vegetables, and weeds that are past their prime. This helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your beds. Cut back perennials, but leave some seed heads (like coneflowers and ornamental grasses) to provide winter interest and food for birds.
2. Add a Layer of Mulch
A 2–4 inch layer of mulch around your perennials, shrubs, and trees helps insulate the soil, lock in moisture, and protect roots from temperature swings. Use shredded leaves, bark mulch, or straw for a natural blanket of protection.
3. Protect Trees and Shrubs
Young trees and sensitive shrubs need extra care in the Midwest cold. Wrap tree trunks with protective tree wrap to prevent frost cracks and animal damage. For evergreens, consider burlap screens to shield them from drying winter winds.
4. Plant Bulbs Now for Spring Blooms
Imagine your yard bursting with color next spring—daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths all start with planting bulbs now. Plant them before the ground freezes, in well-drained soil, sunny spots, at the right depth, and give bulbs a good boost with bulb fertilizer. A little work this fall means a dazzling show when winter fades.
5. Water Before the Freeze
Give your trees, shrubs, and perennials a deep drink before the ground freezes. Well-watered plants are healthier and less likely to suffer winter damage.
6. Bring Tender Plants Indoors
Tropical plants, succulents, and houseplants should come inside well before frost. Check for pests, prune lightly, and place them in a sunny window or under grow lights.
7. Create a Wildlife-Friendly Winter Garden
Leave some seed heads, berries, and brush piles to provide food and shelter for birds and beneficial insects. Your garden can become a haven for wildlife, even in the snow.
8. Prep for Holiday Décor
After cleaning and mulching your beds, add some seasonal touches! Containers filled with evergreens, berries, and twinkle lights can brighten your porch through the long winter months.
With a little planning, your garden will not only survive but thrive after a Midwest winter. Taking time to clean, mulch, water, and protect plants now will reward you with lush growth and early blooms next spring. Plus, a well-prepped garden looks tidy and inviting—even under a blanket of snow!