Now that spring is here, what will the winter leave behind? That's a legitimate question, given that we have not seen most of our landscapes since prior to Thanksgiving. The answer will depend on our individual situations, but here is what has already become visible with the snow's retreat.
Rabbit damage: Pesky rabbits have damaged many landscape plants through the winter. Damage has even been seen on many plant types often listed as not susceptible to winter foraging. The deep snow banks have allowed the damage to extend well up into the branches as well. For now, all you can do is prune out the damaged areas and make a note to protect these plants from damage next November.
Vole damage: The deep and persistent snow gave both moles and voles a layer of safety as they ate through our lawns. The retreating snow has left large areas marked by the "race track" like paths of these critters. The damage is rarely permanent, growing back in a few weeks with a stuff raking and fertilization.
Snow removal damage: A quick look around shows the damage a shovel or plow blade can do as it scrapes across the lawn. De-icing salts can also leave areas of brown, unsightly grass along heavily-salted walks, drives, and roadways. If this is occurring in your yard, try using less hazardous salts such as calcium chloride or potassium chloride. There is not much you can do to prevent damage caused by plow blades and shovels, especially when the damage most likely occurs during the hear of battle as snow piles increase and our patience with removing the snow decreases.
Winter burn on evergreens and broadleaf evergreens: Not only did the winter produce abundant snow but also periods of sub-zero temperatures accompanied by wind. The result of this weather condition is the browning which is visible on our white pines and broadleaf evergreens like boxwood. Once again the damage is inflicted and not much can be done after the fact. Next winter, consider applying anti-desiccants to susceptible evergreens in October. Also, make sure all your evergreens are well watered at the time of ground freeze.
Who knows what next winter will bring, but if we learn the lessons from this winter, we just might be able to avoid the problems next year.
Vande Hey Design Center
