How Does Northern Michigan Winter Weather Impact My Landscape and What Can I Do to Help Prevent Damage?

Northern Michigan’s winter weather is a force to be reckoned with. While the snow-blanketed scenery is undeniably beautiful and invites all sorts of seasonal fun, the harsh conditions can wreak havoc on your landscape. Freezing temperatures, bitter winds, and heavy snowfall challenge the survival of your plants and the durability of your hardscapes. It’s essential to understand how these elements affect your outdoor spaces to ensure they emerge from winter as beautiful and functional as ever. Just as you prepare yourself with warm clothing and winter gear, your landscape also requires preparation and care.

In this blog, we will explore how Northern Michigan weather impacts your landscape during the winter months and what you can do to protect your investment and keep it thriving.

Wind Damage

Bitter wind is one of the primary causes of plant damage during winter in Northern Michigan. Winter burn is a particular concern for Broadleaf and Needled Evergreen plants, such as boxwood and yews. When high winds combine with freezing temperatures, plant leaves or needles can turn yellow and eventually brown. In severe cases, winter burn can kill a plant entirely.

To mitigate wind damage:

• Wrap vulnerable plants in burlap to shield them from exposure.
• Consider applying anti-desiccant sprays before regular freezing to help protect plants from moisture loss.
• Monitor snow accumulation on plants caused by drifting winds. Use a broom to gently remove excess snow to prevent breakage.
• Plan your landscaping to provide natural windbreaks, such as hedges or strategically placed structures, to reduce exposure.

Salt Damage

Salt is a double-edged sword in winter—it keeps walkways safe but can be detrimental to plants and hardscapes. Plants near driveways and walkways are particularly vulnerable to salt damage, which can dehydrate them or cause chemical burns. Similarly, common rock salt can corrode concrete, damage mortar joints in pavers, and cause flaking or discoloration.

To reduce salt damage:

• Use salt alternatives, such as sand or calcium magnesium acetate, near delicate plants and hardscapes.
• Deep-root fertilize plants in the spring to help them recover and prune back damaged areas if necessary.
• Clean and seal hardscapes before winter to provide a protective barrier against salt.
• Avoid spreading salt directly on hardscapes whenever possible.
• If plants are exposed to salt spray, rinse them off with fresh water when temperatures allow to minimize damage.

Snow Damage

Northern Michigan’s heavy, wet snow can place excessive weight on plants, leading to broken branches and other structural damage. This can be particularly problematic for shrubs and trees that are not pruned or supported properly.

To prevent snow damage:

• Prune plants in the fall to reduce their susceptibility to snow load.
• Regularly brush snow off plants to prevent them from becoming weighed down.
• Consider staking or reinforcing young or vulnerable trees to help them withstand the weight of snow.
• For evergreens, gently tie branches together with soft material to provide additional support without causing injury to the plant.
• Keep an eye on snowbanks around your property; excessive snow buildup can smother smaller plants or lead to breakage if it shifts suddenly.

Protecting Your Property This Winter

Winter in Northern Michigan demands proactive care to protect your landscape and hardscapes. Snow and ice can cause damage to patios, walkways, and driveways if not handled properly. Your landscape contractor can guide you in preserving the investment you’ve made in your outdoor spaces during the winter months.

For hardscape care:

• Clear snow carefully using plastic shovels or snow blowers with rubber blades to avoid scratching surfaces.
• Avoid using harsh de-icers on pavers or concrete surfaces.
• Schedule regular maintenance to address any concerns before winter intensifies.