As the gardening season winds down, now is the perfect time to prepare your landscape for the colder months ahead. A few smart steps taken today can protect your plants, soil, and tools—ensuring a healthy, thriving garden when spring returns. Use this checklist from Town & Country Nurseries in Haddam to make winter prep easy and effective.
Your End-of-Season To-Do List
Cut back perennials once they’ve gone dormant, but leave seed heads on select plants to provide food for birds.
Clean and store garden tools to prevent rust and keep them ready for next season.
Drain and disconnect hoses and outdoor water sources before temperatures drop to avoid damage.
Protect your pots and containers by emptying and storing ceramic or clay planters in a frost-free space.
Feed and insulate your soil by applying compost and mulch, which help retain moisture and regulate temperature through winter.
Shield delicate shrubs and evergreens with burlap wraps to guard against harsh winds, snow, and ice.
Check stored fertilizers and grass products, and stock up on trusted Jonathan Green lawn care essentials to strengthen turf before winter sets in.
Everything you need for a smooth transition into winter—mulch, burlap, compost, fertilizers, and expert advice—is available right here at Town & Country Nurseries.
Download Your Free Winter Garden Checklist
Stay organized and make sure nothing gets overlooked. Download our printable Town & Country Winter Garden Checklist to guide you step-by-step through each task.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start winterizing my garden?
Begin once night temperatures consistently drop into the 40s and plants begin to die back naturally.
Do I need to cover all my plants?
No—focus on tender shrubs, newly planted trees, and perennials that are less cold-hardy.
Why mulch before winter?
Mulch regulates soil temperature, protects roots from frost, and adds valuable organic matter for spring growth.
Prepare early, protect wisely, and visit Town & Country Nurseries for everything you need to keep your garden thriving all year long.
