Gardeners in the UK are being warned to take important steps to protect their plants as snow and ice sweep the UK.
The Met Office have put fresh weather warnings in place as of yesterday (Wednesday, November 20) as a sustained blast of Arctic air continues to have a severe impact on the UK’s weather.
Multiple Met Office National Severe Warnings have been issued for snow and ice, with the weather experts explaining that heavy snow is likely over high ground in Scotland, but there will also be significant amounts at lower levels at times, with snow even forecast for the south west of England.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said: “Overnight temperatures will drop below zero fairly widely over the next few days, which has resulted in some ice warnings, with further warnings likely through this week,” adding that from Thursday, snow is likely to affect the south west, with 2-5cm of snow possible at lower levels, and 10cm possible in higher-up areas.”
Heavy snow and ice can have a significantly detrimental effect on gardens, so experts are offering timely advice to minimise damage and keep gardens thriving despite the harsh winter conditions, the Daily Express reports.
Snow and ice can accumulate on tree branches and bushes, and if the weight of the snow gets too heavy the branches can break. It’s important that you brush snow off branches before it gets to that point.
However, ice build up brings its own set of challenges, and you need to take a different approach.
Experts at Greenhouse Stores warn that trying to remove ice can cause further damage. Instead, they say that you should let the ice melt naturally to avoid harming the bark or breaking limbs unnecessarily.
They also explain that for trees and shrubs already affected by snow and ice, prompt action is needed. You need to immediately prune any damaged limbs to prevent further tearing of the bark, which leaves plants vulnerable to disease and decay.
Greenhouse Stores say: “Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts and protect the plant’s health.”
It isn’t just trees and shrubs that are at risk from winter damage, either. Frost-covered lawns can easy be “injured” by people walking on them – so if your lawn is covered in frost its important you stick to the paths rather than stepping on it and causing long-lasting harm that could lead to unsightly bare patches when spring (finally) arrives.
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