As the months grow colder, your plants will need extra protection to ensure that they are kept healthy. There are a number of steps that you can take to ensure that your outdoor plants are provided with everything they need to remain at their best during winter.

To protect your plants from frost, provide them with extra insulation and thick mulch to keep them healthy. Shrubs, new perennials and roses will need extra protection during the winter, so provide them with shelter. Move any vulnerable plants indoors or into your greenhouse for the winter period.

Use bedding straw to keep vegetable plants such as carrots protected from frost during the winter. If you have a set of cold frames, then these are ideal for providing extra insulation during the colder months. Cold frames come in a variety of sizes and are suitable for all types of garden.

Create nutrient-rich compost for your plants by using dead leaves and plant stems. You can also use any household waster such as teabags or corrugated cardboard. These items will make healthy mulch for your plants and help to keep them at their best. It is recommended that mulch should be at least four inches thick.

As well as outdoor crops, you will also need to keep any indoor crops protected during winter. If you planning to continue growing a selection of plants in your greenhouse during the colder seasons, then consider adding extra heating or lighting. Insulate your greenhouse to keep your crops protected. Add temperature controls so that you can monitor the temperature within your greenhouse. Also make sure that your greenhouse is free from clutter and kept in good condition for your greenhouse crops during the winter.

You can also keep your crops healthy by ensuring that your garden is tidy and organised. Remove any dead plants, sweep your garden paths and tidy up your lawns. Protect any wooden furniture from frost by moving it indoors or use a cover to prevent it from rotting and creating an unhealthy environment for your garden and plants.

Store any garden tools in your greenhouse or shed for the winter. Avoid leaving any electrical tools or items out during winter as they could be damaged by frost and become unsuitable for use. Keeping your garden tools at their best will make them suitable for use on your plants and lawn when spring comes round.