As the chill of winter approaches, gardening enthusiasts find themselves in a debate inspired by none other than Martha Stewart. The lifestyle guru, renowned for her gardening prowess, wraps her boxwood shrubs in burlap to shield them from the harsh elements. This practice aims to protect the branches from heavy ice, snow, and wind, ensuring the plants remain 5-7 degrees warmer during cold snaps. But is this a necessary step for every gardener?
The optimal time to begin wrapping boxwoods is mid- to late-November, or when nighttime temperatures consistently dip below freezing. In zones 5 and 6, wrapping both planters and boxwoods is crucial to prevent damage. However, in zone 7, the decision becomes more complex. Three factors—heavy snowfall, wind, and proximity to road salt—play a significant role in determining whether protection is necessary.
Hadley Peterson, a landscape designer, takes a different approach. She does not wrap her boxwoods or planter pots. Instead, she advises gardeners to shake off heavy snow from shrubs as soon as possible. Despite her preference, Peterson acknowledges the merits of Stewart's method.
“I think there is no denying Martha is doing it right in the way she burlaps her boxwoods and the rationale,” – Hadley Peterson
Christina Koether, another advocate for wrapping, suggests following Stewart's timeline for protection. She emphasizes that if gardeners face two out of three issues—heavy snowfall, wind, and proximity to road salt—wrapping becomes essential.
“For zones 5 and 6, wrapping both planters and boxwoods is important if you'd like to avoid damage, and Martha lays out how to do it perfectly.” – Christina Koether
Stewart's choice of burlap as a wrapping material offers a dual advantage. Burlap allows for air circulation, which prevents moisture buildup that can lead to rot. Additionally, it is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly option compared to plastic.
However, not everyone finds the aesthetic of wrapped boxwoods appealing. Peterson notes that the look may not suit every property.
“Where I live, the yards are relatively small, so I personally don't want to look out on burlap,” – Hadley Peterson
Ultimately, deciding whether to wrap your boxwoods depends on your location and garden's microclimate. While wrapping can be skipped if gardeners are cautious about not salting too closely to their plants, those in vulnerable zones may find it beneficial.
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