10 Plants Gardeners Should Always Protect Before It Snows

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Winter is creeping closer, and that crisp edge in the air isn’t just a hint of snow—it’s a wake-up call for gardeners. Your garden may look peaceful now, but once frost and snow roll in, delicate leaves will blacken, stems will snap, and blooms will vanish if you’re not careful. Protecting the right plants before temperatures plummet isn’t just a chore; it’s an act of love for your green companions. Think of it as giving your garden a warm blanket, a sip of hot cocoa, and a pep talk all in one.

For anyone who enjoys seeing a vibrant garden even when the landscape outside is a frosty gray, this guide is your ultimate winter armor. Let’s dig into the 10 plants you absolutely need to shield before the snow flies.

1. Roses – Guarding The Queens Of The Garden

Roses are notoriously sensitive to frost. While they can endure some cold, sharp dips in temperature can damage their canes and ruin next year’s blooms. Start by pruning away any dead or diseased wood; this helps prevent rot from forming under the snow. Next, mound soil around the base of each plant to insulate the roots, and consider covering them with burlap or a breathable frost blanket.

Don’t forget that winter watering is essential—dry soil can freeze faster and cause stress to the roots. For climbing or rambling varieties, tie the canes together gently so wind won’t whip them apart. Protecting roses now ensures that your spring garden will explode with color and fragrance.

2. Hydrangeas – Preserving Their Summer Glory

Hydrangeas are magical in summer, but come winter, some varieties become vulnerable to frostbite. Bigleaf hydrangeas, in particular, need protection because their buds form on old wood. A thick layer of mulch around the base can insulate the roots, and wrapping the plant in burlap shields it from icy winds. Avoid cutting back too much until spring, as pruning now could remove next year’s flowers. If your area experiences harsh freezes, creating a simple frame and draping a frost cloth over it is an effective shield. Hydrangeas are a gardener’s pride, and winter preparation can be the difference between muted buds and glorious blooms.

3. Peonies – Protecting Bulb And Bloom

Peonies are hardy but not invincible. Their large buds and roots can be damaged by sudden freezes, leaving you without the dramatic spring display they’re known for. Cut back the stems only after they’ve turned brown to avoid inviting pests or diseases. Adding a generous layer of mulch provides insulation, keeping the soil from freezing too deeply.

For potted peonies, move them to a sheltered location or bury the pot in the ground if possible. These precautions are simple, but they protect years of growth and effort. Come spring, you’ll be rewarded with the enormous, lush blossoms that make peonies legendary.

4. Tomatoes – Winter’s Bitter Enemy

While tomato plants are annuals in most climates, gardeners often grow them long enough to be heartbroken when frost arrives. Even a light frost can turn leaves black overnight. For plants still producing fruit, harvest anything that’s near ripeness. Cover remaining plants with frost cloths, hoops, or even cardboard boxes lined with newspaper for extra warmth.

Greenhouse growers or cold frames can extend the season dramatically. Tomatoes demand warmth, so any insulation or relocation can save you from losing weeks of work. Your fall salads and sauces depend on this little act of defense.

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5. Hostas – Guarding Their Lush Foliage

Hostas are champions of shade gardens, but their tender leaves can suffer from early frost. While the roots survive cold, the foliage may blacken, which detracts from your garden’s winter appeal. Cut back leaves only if they’re fully dead, but keep mulch around the base to protect the crown. In areas with heavy snow, hostas may actually benefit from a blanket of snow, but early, thin frost is a threat. Consider wrapping them lightly or adding a layer of straw for extra security. Come spring, your hostas will bounce back, thicker and healthier than ever.

6. Lavender – Shielding Aromatic Beauty

Lavender is hardy in some climates, but harsh winds and frost can dry out its roots and stems. Before the first freeze, prune lightly to prevent breakage and protect the base with a mound of mulch or straw. Potted lavender deserves special attention—bring them inside if the forecast predicts extended sub-zero temperatures.

Avoid heavy covering that traps moisture, which can encourage mold or rot. The goal is to keep the plant dormant but safe, so next year’s fragrance and blooms return unfazed. Lavender responds well to careful winter prep, giving your garden its signature scent come spring.

7. Citrus Trees – Tropical Guests In Winter

Citrus trees bring sunshine to gardens, but winter can be unforgiving for them. Frost can cause leaf drop, fruit damage, or worse. Move potted citrus indoors or into a greenhouse before temperatures dip below 30°F. Outdoor citrus trees benefit from frost cloths or even wrapping the trunk with insulating materials.

Keep the soil slightly moist to avoid stress, but avoid overwatering, which can freeze and damage roots. Protecting citrus isn’t just about survival—it’s about keeping those bright fruits around to light up your winter landscape.

8. Dahlias – Safeguarding Summer’s Showstoppers

Dahlias are notorious for their sensitivity to frost. Unlike bulbs, their tubers cannot survive freezing soil. Dig up the tubers after the foliage dies, gently brush off the soil, and store them in a cool, dry place over winter. Labeling each variety prevents mix-ups, and placing them in peat moss or vermiculite ensures they won’t shrivel.

For gardeners in mild climates, mulching in place may suffice, but most will need storage to protect these bold blooms. The effort is worth it—spring returns with dahlias ready to shine.

9. Camellias – Winter Blooms In Waiting

Camellias offer a burst of color when most other plants are dormant, but their buds are delicate and prone to frost damage. Mulch around the base to keep the roots insulated, and use a frost cloth or burlap to protect buds from sudden freezes. Avoid heavy pruning in late fall; wait until after flowering for the best results.

Positioning camellias near a wall or sheltered area can also shield them from biting winds. By giving them winter protection, you ensure your garden won’t lose its early-season charm.

10. Hellebores – Shielding Early Bloomers

Hellebores, often called Christmas or Lenten roses, are early bloomers that can face winter weather head-on, but extreme frost can still harm buds and foliage. A layer of mulch is your first line of defense, followed by light frost coverings if harsh weather is predicted.

Remove any old leaves to reduce fungal risks, but leave emerging buds untouched. In containers, moving them to a sheltered spot can save delicate flowers. Hellebores are resilient, but preemptive care ensures a spectacular display even in chilly months.

Keep Your Garden Thriving Through Winter

Winter doesn’t have to be a time of loss in the garden. With a little foresight and care, your favorite plants can survive snow, frost, and freezing winds, ready to rebound with vigor come spring. Every act of protection—from mulching to covering or moving pots—pays dividends in blooms, foliage, and overall garden health.

Did you have a favorite plant that survived last winter against the odds? Maybe a tip or trick that worked wonders? Drop your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.