Hey, green thumbs of LA! Winter has come, and while some might think it’s the time for gardens to take a nap, we’re here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be! Just because it’s a bit chilly doesn’t mean your garden has to turn into a winter wasteland. With a little TLC and some smart preparation, you can keep your garden game going strong even when temperatures drop. So, grab your gardening gloves and let’s dive into our tips for gardening effectively during Winter!

1. Choose winter-worthy plants

Los Angeles might not have blizzards and snowstorms, but the air still gets plenty nippy in the winter. A good first start to gardening in the colder months is opting for plants that love the winter weather here in the City of Angels. Consider these local favorites:

  • California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica): A splash of gold to brighten up your garden beds and our state plant to boot!
     
  • Manzanita (Arctostaphylos): Drought-tolerant and full of character, these red-barked tiny trees are the perfect ornament for a garden with a cool aesthetic.
     
  • Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum): These shrubs are tough as nails – hardy enough to easily resist the cold, drought, and soil erosion! In yards on a steeper incline, they’re especially helpful for preventing your soil from sliding.

2. Protect Your Garden from the Cold:

Not all plants are ready for a winter chill, especially those that were born and raised under the hot LA sun. While plants like these likely won’t be flourishing in the colder months, you can still take steps to shield them from Jack Frost’s bite.

  • Extra Blankets: Spread a generous layer of mulch around your plants. This cozy organic blanket will help keep their roots insulated from the chill. 
     
  • Cozy Coats: When it gets cold, we bundle up in layers – help your garden do the same. Wrapping your plants in frost cloth, burlap, or even just clear sheet-plastic will go far in shielding them from those chilly winds.
     
  • Huddle for Warmth: If you’ve got potted plants, bring them a bit closer to the house or under a patio cover. The heat produced by your home will help them stave off the chill.

3. Warm Up Your Soil:

Plants may not be able to cozy up around the fireplace, but they do appreciate warm soil. Pamper your soil, and your plants will thank you:

  • Compost Comfort: Just like the advice above about mulch, layering compost over your soil will help insulate it from the cold while providing your plants with the nutrients they need to survive the winter.
     
  • Mild-Mannered Watering: Water your plants in the morning to give them time to soak up the sun during the day. Wet soil will retain the heat better than dry soil!

4. Trim and Tidy Up:

Winter isn’t the time for your garden maintenance to go into hibernation. Keep things neat and tidy for a healthier, happier garden come spring:

  • Prune with Purpose: Trim away dead or damaged branches to encourage new growth. It’s like giving your plants a winter haircut, but less dramatic.
     
  • Weed Wipeout: Weeds are infamously impossible to kill – the cold is no exception. Even during the winter months, you’ll have to keep a watchful eye for weeds and make sure they don’t totally take over your garden!

And that’s a wrap, LA garden enthusiasts! Winter gardening in the City of Angels is all about selecting savvy flora, providing a touch of warmth, and maintaining a tidy haven. Let’s transform this winter into a thriving season for your garden. So, grab those gloves, embrace the winter hues, and let your garden dance to its own unique beat. 

Have any tips about caring for your garden in the cold? We’d love to hear from you at lastormwater@lacity.org. Until next time, happy cultivating!