Tips to Keep Your Plants Safe During Fall and Winter in Texas

As temperatures drop and the weather shifts, it’s essential to protect your plants from the challenges of fall and winter in Texas. While our state often experiences milder winters compared to other regions, sudden freezes, strong winds, and dry conditions can still damage your landscape. With the right preparation, you can ensure your plants survive and thrive through the cooler months. Here are some expert tips to keep your Texas plants safe this fall and winter.

1. Mulch for Insulation

Mulching is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your plants during cooler months. Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of your plants to:

• Retain Soil Moisture: Prevent the soil from drying out during dry winter spells.

• Regulate Temperature: Mulch acts as insulation, keeping the soil warmer during cold snaps and cooler during daytime temperature spikes.

Best Mulch Types for Texas: Shredded hardwood, bark mulch, or pine needles work well to protect plant roots.

2. Water Properly Before a Freeze

While overwatering can harm plants during winter, proper hydration is essential before a freeze. Dry soil loses heat faster, which can damage roots. A thorough watering a day or two before a predicted freeze helps:

• Protect roots by insulating them with moisture.

• Keep plants healthy and less stressed during cold weather.

Pro Tip: Avoid watering during the evening; water early in the day so the moisture has time to soak in before temperatures drop.

3. Cover Plants During Freezing Temperatures

Frost can harm even hardy plants, so having coverings ready is key to protecting your garden during unexpected freezes. Here’s how to cover effectively:

• Use Frost Cloth or Burlap: These materials provide insulation while still allowing plants to breathe.

• Secure with Stakes: Avoid having the covering directly touch your plants by propping it up with stakes or hoops.

• Remove During the Day: Take off coverings when temperatures rise above freezing to prevent overheating.

4. Prune Strategically

Late fall is an excellent time to prune dead or damaged branches, as this can prevent further damage during winter storms. However, avoid pruning in early fall, as it may encourage new growth that’s vulnerable to cold. Stick to:

• Removing weak or dead limbs.

• Shaping plants to reduce the risk of wind damage.

5. Bring Potted Plants Indoors

Potted plants are more vulnerable to temperature changes since their roots are exposed. Move them indoors or to a sheltered area, like a garage or patio. For plants that must remain outside:

• Wrap pots with bubble wrap or blankets to insulate roots.

• Group pots together to create a microclimate of warmth.

6. Choose Hardy Plants for Your Landscape

If you’re planning a fall landscape redesign, focus on hardy, cold-tolerant plants that can handle Texas winters. Some great options include:

• Texas Sage: A native shrub that thrives in cooler weather.

• Holly: Perfect for adding color with its bright red berries.

• Winter Jasmine: A low-maintenance plant that blooms even in cold months.

7. Adjust Fertilizing Practices

In fall and winter, plants enter a period of dormancy and don’t require as many nutrients. Over-fertilizing during this time can lead to stress or unnecessary growth that’s sensitive to cold. Focus on:

• Applying a slow-release fertilizer in late fall to sustain plants through winter.

• Avoiding high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote growth over root health.

8. Monitor Weather Conditions

Texas weather can be unpredictable, with sudden freezes or warm spells. Stay informed with local forecasts and prepare your garden accordingly.

• Keep frost covers and mulch on hand for unexpected freezes.

• Be ready to water plants during dry periods or warm days.

With proper care and preparation, your plants can remain healthy and vibrant throughout fall and winter. From mulching and watering to choosing cold-tolerant species, these tips will ensure your landscape weathers the cooler months with ease.

At Complete Landscape & Design, we specialize in creating resilient, beautiful outdoor spaces tailored to the Texas climate.

Need help preparing your landscape for fall and winter? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!