Garden calendar for the week of Dec 15

Introduction

The world of gardening is a vast and fascinating realm, full of endless possibilities and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a newcomer to the world of gardening, there’s always something new to learn and discover. In recent years, online courses and tutorials have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient and accessible way to learn gardening skills from the comfort of your own home. One such online series is the 11-class series on Thursday nights, starting January 9, which promises to cover a wide range of topics essential for gardeners of all levels.

Class Structure and Content

The 11-class series is designed to be flexible and accommodating, with classes suitable for both newer gardeners and more experienced gardeners. The topics covered in the series include:

Planning the vegetable garden

Soils and fertilizers

Starting seeds

Specialized garden techniques

These topics are carefully selected to provide a comprehensive foundation for gardeners, covering the basics of garden planning and maintenance, as well as more advanced techniques for experienced gardeners.

Benefits of Online Learning

Online learning offers a number of benefits, including:

Convenience: Online courses can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to fit learning into a busy schedule.

Winter Burn: The Hidden Dangers of a Frozen Ground Thaw.

The most common cause of winter burn is winter “thaws,” which occur when the ground is frozen and then suddenly thaws, causing the soil to become saturated with water. This can lead to root rot and other problems for the plants.

Understanding Winter Burn

What is Winter Burn? Winter burn is a type of damage to evergreen foliage that occurs over winter. It is characterized by browning and dying from foliage tips, extending inward. This damage can be unsightly and can also be a sign of underlying problems with the plant. #### Causes of Winter Burn

Several factors contribute to winter burn, including:

Winter “thaws,” which occur when the ground is frozen and then suddenly thaws, causing the soil to become saturated with water. Dry soil in fall, which can lead to water stress in the plant. Long periods of very cold temperatures, which can cause the plant’s water-conducting tissues to become damaged. #### Symptoms of Winter Burn*

Symptoms of Winter Burn

The symptoms of winter burn can vary depending on the severity of the damage. However, common symptoms include:

Browning and dying from foliage tips, extending inward. Wilting or drooping of the plant. Yellowing or discoloration of the leaves. #### Prevention and Treatment*

Prevention and Treatment

While winter burn can be unsightly, it is often preventable. Here are some steps you can take to prevent winter burn:

Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Water the plant regularly during the fall to ensure it has enough moisture to survive the winter. Protect the plant from extreme cold temperatures by covering it with a frost blanket or bringing it indoors. If your plant does develop winter burn, there are several steps you can take to treat it.

I live in a region with a moderate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). I have a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, including oak, maple, and pine.

Understanding Winter Burn Damage

Winter burn damage, also known as winterkill, occurs when trees are exposed to extreme cold temperatures for an extended period. This can cause significant damage to the tree’s bark, leading to reduced growth and increased susceptibility to disease and pests.

Factors Contributing to Winter Burn Damage

Several factors contribute to winter burn damage, including:

Temperature: Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) can cause significant damage to tree bark. Moisture: Lack of moisture in the soil can exacerbate the effects of cold temperatures. Tree species: Some tree species are more susceptible to winter burn damage than others. Soil quality: Poor soil quality can reduce a tree’s ability to withstand cold temperatures. ## Identifying Winter Burn Damage

Identifying Winter Burn Damage

Identifying winter burn damage can be challenging, but there are several signs to look out for:

Bark damage: Check for cracks, splits, or peeling bark on the tree’s trunk and branches. Leaf loss: Look for signs of leaf loss, such as bare branches or a lack of new growth. Tree decline: Monitor the tree’s overall health, looking for signs of decline such as yellowing leaves or a decrease in growth.

Products containing ingredients such as silica, calcium carbonate, and magnesium carbonate are not effective in preventing winter burn. Products containing ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol, and aloe vera are not effective in preventing winter burn. Products containing ingredients such as petroleum jelly, beeswax, and paraffin wax are not effective in preventing winter burn.

Causes of Winter Burn

Understanding the Problem

Winter burn, also known as winter damage or winter kill, is a common issue faced by gardeners and plant enthusiasts during the cold winter months. It occurs when plants are exposed to extreme cold temperatures, causing damage to their leaves, stems, and roots. The damage can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

Extreme cold temperatures

Wind

Drought

Lack of protection from snow and ice

Factors Contributing to Winter Burn

Temperature: Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 25°F (-4°C) can cause winter burn. Wind: Strong winds can strip plants of their protective waxy coating, making them more susceptible to cold damage. Drought: Plants that are already stressed due to drought are more likely to suffer from winter burn. * Snow and Ice: Prolonged exposure to snow and ice can cause plants to become waterlogged, leading to root rot and other problems.

*Title: Gardening in Dane County

Gardening in Dane County, Wisconsin, is a rewarding and enriching experience. The area’s climate and geography offer ideal conditions for a wide range of plants and flowers to thrive. With the right guidance and planning, anyone can create a beautiful and productive garden. Climate and Geography Dane County’s climate is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 14°F (-10°C), while the average temperature in July, the warmest month, is around 73°F (23°C).