Winter Containers, Moist vs Well-Drained Soil, and More! | Gardening Simplified Radio Show | Ep. 10

Plants that are hardy in your area need to be kept outside during winter. Do not try to bring them indoors as they require a dormant period. The biggest threat to survival is the freeze-thaw cycle, which can cause issues with moisture retention. It's important to have a bit of tolerance for wet soil conditions and to ensure that the soil can drain properly. Unheated spaces can help, and you might need to take additional measures such as mulching if a perennial heaves out of the soil.

For container plants in winter, be creative with your solutions based on the specific needs of the plant and your yard conditions. Consider sinking containers in soil at ground level, moving them to unheated spaces, or even pulling plants out of containers, planting them in the ground, and then replanting them in containers the next spring. Regular checks are necessary during winter.

Some more shrub-like crepe myrtle varieties, like those offered by Proven Winners Color Choice shrubs, have been grown successfully in colder climates such as in West Michigan. They may die back in harsh winters but regrow from the roots. Many are hardy up to USDA zone 6, and experimental gardeners outside those areas may also have success.

Yes, it is safe to replant crepe myrtles after a bark scale infestation as long as you've removed all parts of the diseased plants and raked up all the leaves. Scale insects do not live in the soil, and they are typically species-specific. Keeping new plants healthy and stress-free can also help prevent infestations.

Panicle hydrangeas like Fire and Ice can be pruned anytime during dormancy, either after Thanksgiving when all foliage is gone, or in early spring before new growth emerges. Pruning in early spring can be easier as new growth indicates where to cut. Ensure you know the type of hydrangea you have before pruning, as different types may require different approaches.