Swaddling evergreens should be unnecessary

Why would anyone plant an evergreen and then swaddle it in burlap for the winter? Sure, the burlap protects the plant. But the nice thing about evergreens is that they are "ever green," winter as well as summer, spring, and fall.

If fear of winter cold is what drives you to swaddle your evergreens, instead plant species or varieties known to laugh off cold. For instance, Korean boxwoods and their hybrids are cold-hardy where most other boxwoods are not. Shop around for the right evergreen before you plant.

Leaves drying out is as much a threat to evergreens in winter as is cold. And this is another reason for the burlap. Problems arise because the roots find it difficult to draw water from frozen soil. All the while, though, the leaves are more or less active and losing water. The problem is compounded when sunlight reflected off snow increases water loss through the leaves. Instead of using burlap, though, site the plant correctly, away from the intense sun of south-facing walls.

Protection from wind also cuts down on water loss. No, we're not back to burlap; instead, choose locations sheltered from excessive wind by walls, woods, and fences. No need to press evergreens right up against walls, woods, or fences because protection of any windbreak extends along the ground about 10 times its height.

With the right plant and the right site, also make sure the ground is moist going into winter. It's too late for this winter, but in the future give your plants extra water if autumn weather is dry.

One of the best things you can do for your evergreens is to pile leaves, straw, or some other mulch a few inches deep on the ground beneath the plant to limit frost penetration.