Winter Protection
Alberta ’ s harsh winters can be tough on plants . Apply a thick layer of mulch around perennials , trees , and shrubs after the ground has frozen . This helps insulate the soil and prevent frost heaving . Consider wrapping evergreens , especially newly planted ones , in burlap to protect them from winter burn . Young trees may need tree guards to prevent damage from rodents and deer .
If you have roses , fall is the time to prepare them for winter . Stop fertilizing to discourage new growth , and after a few hard frosts , mound soil or compost around the base of the plant for insulation .
To overwinter a containerized plant outdoors , wrap the container with an insulator such as fibreglass home insulation to protect against freezing and thawing . The insulation should be added around the sides of the container as well as the bottom . It is best to keep the plant in a shady location , as placing it out in the sun increases the chances of exposing it to the freeze and thaw cycle . Also , try to keep the plant protected from the prevailing winds , as the drying winter winds are another problem when it comes to overwintering . If you have the room , a garage can be a good location to try to overwinter delicate plants .
Extending the Season
With some planning , you can extend your growing season well into fall . Cold frames and row covers can protect tender crops from early frosts , allowing you to continue harvesting fresh vegetables . Coolseason crops like lettuce , spinach , and radishes can be sown in late summer for fall harvest .
Wildlife and Pollinators
As you prepare your garden for winter , don ’ t forget about the wildlife that depends on it . Leave seed heads on plants like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans to provide food for birds . Consider installing bird feeders to support our feathered friends through the winter .
Fall is also a crucial time for many pollinators . Leave some areas of your garden a bit “ messy ” to provide overwintering habitat for beneficial insects . Leaf litter and hollow plant stems are important shelters for many species .
Planning and Reflection
As the outdoor gardening season winds down , take time to reflect on your successes and challenges . Keep a garden journal to record what worked well and what you ’ d like to change next year . Sketch out plans for new garden beds or landscaping projects . Research and order seeds for next year . Many seed companies offer early bird discounts , and ordering ahead ensures you ’ ll have the varieties you want come spring .
As days grow shorter and nights cooler , there ’ s still plenty to do in Alberta gardens . By taking the time to properly close down your garden , protect your plants , and plan for the future , you ’ ll set yourself up for a successful and bountiful growing season next year . Embrace the unique opportunities that fall gardening offers , and you ’ ll find that the garden can be a source of joy and productivity well into the autumn months .
Gerald Filipski has always considered fall his favourite time of year . He enjoys gardening in the cooler days and finds it a very productive time in the garden . Plus , he finds planning exciting as we get ready for another year .
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