It's been a temperamental winter! With extreme cold and lots of snow, many have asked us what to expect for their garden plants and even pest populations.
Snow acts as nature's insulation during the winter. A heavy layer of snow will help keep temperatures at and below the soil level stable when compared to air temperatures like the blustery cold we've experienced this winter. Plant root zones are quite content with both a consistent temperature, and lots of available water about to saturate their root systems with the snow melting and forecasted rain.
The bigger risk to plants is freezing and thawing. Snow weighing down branches can also lead to physical damage in the form of broken branches. As the snow thaws and refreezes, ice crystals surrounding evergreen needles can cause damage as well. In the more mild winters we've observed in previous years, freeze and thaw cycles lead to frost heaving, which leaves plant roots susceptible to winter damage.
Piles of snow mixed with de-icing salts can cause trouble if on or near ornamental plants. Be sure to flush these areas with clean water in the spring to help reduce salinity in the soil.
Lighting Needs for Starting Seeds Indoors
Most windowsills in Connecticut are not bright enough or warm enough in late winter for starting seeds indoors.
For sturdy seedlings, you’ll want to choose bright, full‑spectrum lights. Use LED or fluorescent fixtures rather than incandescent bulbs and keep them six to eight inches above the seedlings. Raise the lights as seedlings grow to prevent burning the leaves or leggy growth. Aim for 14 to 16 hours of light per day and use a timer, so seedlings get consistent lighting each day.
The CT Flower & Garden Show 2026
