Front Yard Evergreen Winter Protection in Toronto: Burlap, Salt, and Japanese Maple Care

Dave in Toronto moved into a home with professionally landscaped front yard (evergreens, grasses, perennials, Japanese maple). Previous owners wrapped evergreens in burlap. He wants low-maintenance care and asks if burlap is necessary.

First Answer (C.L.)

Evergreens (upright needled plants) were likely wrapped to prevent wind/salt burn. To wrap: stake 2 inches from foliage, wrap burlap around stakes (keep off needles). Not mandatory—previous owner may have had damage history or landscapers sold it as precaution. Check neighbors for salt spray/snow plow issues. Grasses/perennials die back; leave foliage until spring. Personal philosophy: if plant can't survive winter unaided, it's wrong plant for spot. Would design with perennials/grasses near street.

Follow-Up (Dave in Toronto, Zone 5)

Dave decides against burlap (slow street, parked cars block salt). Concerned about young Japanese maple. C.L. warns: heavy wet snow on horizontal branches can break them. Some prop limbs with boards. Again, prefers letting plants weather storms. Toronto is USDA Zone 5—choose plants hardy to Zone 5.

Second Answer (The Long Island Gardener)

Emphasizes sidewalk salt danger (even if Dave doesn't use salt, neighbors might). Salt murders plants, gets into soil. Burlap protects from salt drift. Also: water evergreens monthly in winter (deep soak) unless rainy. Mulch with compost/manure—no fertilizer in fall. Warns against garden center scare tactics selling sprays.