How to Protect Your Lawn and Plants During Harsh Wisconsin Winters
Sheboygan County winters can be brutal—but your lawn and landscape don’t have to suffer. With freezing winds, fluctuating temperatures, and months of snow cover, knowing how to protect your outdoor spaces is essential.
Here are the best ways to keep your turf, trees, shrubs, and perennials healthy all winter long.
1. Prevent Snow Mold in Your Lawn
Snow mold thrives under long-term snow coverage. Reduce risk by:
- Mowing your lawn shorter in late fall
- Removing thick leaf cover
- Avoiding large piles of snow on the grass
- Improving airflow by trimming surrounding shrubs
Sunny Stripes can help with late-fall mowing and cleanup to minimize mold issues.
2. Protect Evergreens from Winter Burn
Dry winter winds pull moisture from evergreen needles. To prevent browning:
- Water deeply until the ground freezes
- Apply mulch around the base
- Use anti-desiccant sprays
- Wrap evergreens exposed to harsh winds
This is especially important along the lakeshore where wind speeds are higher.
3. Support Your Trees Against Freeze Damage
Young and thin-barked trees are prone to sunscald and frost cracks.
Protect them by:
- Wrapping trunks with breathable tree wrap
- Adding 2–3 inches of mulch
- Installing tree guards to prevent rabbit damage
4. Avoid Salt Injury to Turf and Plants
De-icing salt is one of the biggest winter threats to Wisconsin yards.
Reduce damage by:
- Using sand or calcium chloride instead
- Creating barriers near sensitive shrubs
- Flushing salted areas with water during warm spells
5. Don’t Disturb Snow-Covered Lawns
Walking on frozen grass can crush crowns and cause bare patches in spring. Keep pathways clear and avoid shortcuts to the garage or driveway.
6. Check for Winter Wildlife Damage
Rabbits, mice, and voles chew bark and tunnel under the snow. Look for:
- Chewed stems
- Girdled small trees
- Trails in the snow near foundations
Install guards or mesh around vulnerable plants.
7. Prepare Now for Spring Growth
Winter is the ideal time to plan:
- Landscape design updates
- Mulch installations
- Drainage improvements
- Hardscaping projects
Sunny Stripes offers design and scheduling throughout the winter months.
Final Thoughts
With the right winter care strategy, your landscape can emerge healthy and strong in spring. From plant protection to snow management, Sunny Stripes Landscaping helps Sheboygan County homeowners winter-proof their yards with confidence.