How to Prep Your Plants for Winter in Northwest Louisiana
As temperatures drop across Shreveport and surrounding areas, preparing your plants for winter becomes essential to protecting your landscape investment. While winters in Northwest Louisiana are typically mild, sudden freezes and cold snaps can still damage sensitive plants, weaken root systems, and impact spring growth.
With the right winter prep strategy, your plants can stay protected, retain moisture, and emerge healthy and ready to thrive when warmer weather returns. Here’s how Lawnmasters recommends prepping your landscape for winter the right way.
Protect Sensitive Plants From Frost
Cold-sensitive plants and shrubs are especially vulnerable when overnight temperatures dip below freezing. Covering these plants during cold snaps helps prevent frost damage and reduces stress.
Use frost cloths, burlap, or breathable blankets to shield plants, making sure covers reach all the way to the ground to trap warmth. Avoid using plastic directly on plants, as it can cause more harm than good.
For homeowners who want professional help protecting valuable landscape features, Lawnmasters offers expert landscape care services through our Landscape Design + Shrub & Bed Care program.
Mulch to Insulate Roots and Retain Moisture
Applying mulch is one of the most effective ways to protect plants during winter. A 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of plants helps insulate roots, regulate soil temperature, and retain moisture during colder, drier months.
Mulching also reduces weed growth and improves soil health, giving your plants a strong foundation heading into spring.
This service pairs well with ongoing Property Maintenance to keep your entire landscape clean, healthy, and well-protected year-round.
Avoid Overwatering During Winter
While plants still need moisture in winter, overwatering can lead to root rot and disease. Cooler temperatures slow evaporation and plant growth, meaning excess water stays in the soil longer.
Make sure irrigation systems are adjusted seasonally to prevent unnecessary watering. Lawnmasters can help fine-tune your system with professional Irrigation & Water Management services to ensure your landscape gets exactly what it needs—no more, no less.
Hold Off on Major Pruning Until Late Winter
Pruning too early can stimulate new growth that’s vulnerable to frost damage. For most plants and trees, it’s best to wait until late winter or early spring to handle major pruning.
However, removing dead or damaged limbs is still important for safety and plant health. Lawnmasters provides professional Tree Pruning & Removal to protect your property while preserving long-term tree health.
Use Winter as a Planning Season
Winter is the perfect time to plan ahead. Take this opportunity to:
- Map out spring planting areas
- Order seeds and plants
- Clean and sharpen garden tools
- Schedule professional lawn services early
Planning now helps you avoid the spring rush and ensures your lawn and landscape are ready to shine when the growing season begins.
If you’d like expert guidance, Lawnmasters is here to help you prepare your property for a successful year ahead. Visit our Contact Us page to schedule a consultation or request service.
Trust Lawnmasters for Year-Round Landscape Care
From winter plant protection to spring lawn revitalization, Lawnmasters provides reliable, professional lawn and landscape services throughout Shreveport and surrounding communities. Our team understands the unique challenges of Louisiana’s climate and knows how to keep your property looking its best in every season.
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