Winter Garden Myths: What Your Landscape Really Needs This Time of Year

As winter settles into Grass Valley and communities across Nevada County, it’s easy to assume the garden can be ignored until spring. Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and slower growth make many homeowners think their landscape is “on pause.” While plants do rest during winter, there are a few common misconceptions that can actually lead to problems come spring.

In this customer education corner, we’re clearing up some of the most common winter landscaping myths and sharing simple, practical guidance to help your yard stay healthy through the colder months.

Myth #1: You Don’t Need to Water Plants in Winter

This is one of the most common winter gardening myths—and one of the most harmful. While plants aren’t actively growing, they still need moisture to survive. In Nevada County, winters often bring stretches of dry weather between storms, especially during colder years when precipitation is inconsistent.

Trees, shrubs, and perennials can suffer from drought stress during winter, particularly newly planted landscapes. Deep watering during dry periods—especially before a hard freeze—helps plants tolerate cold temperatures and prevents root damage. Established plants usually need less frequent watering, but they shouldn’t be completely ignored.

If you’re unsure whether your landscape needs water, checking soil moisture a few inches below the surface is a good place to start. Winter watering doesn’t mean frequent watering it means thoughtful, occasional watering when nature doesn’t provide it.

Myth #2: Plants Don’t Grow at All in Winter

While it may look quiet above ground, many plants are still active below the soil. Root growth continues throughout winter, especially in our Sierra foothill climate where the ground doesn’t stay frozen for long periods.

This is why fall and winter are actually great times for planting trees and shrubs. Cooler air temperatures reduce stress on plants, while continued root development helps them establish before spring growth begins. Assuming that plants are completely inactive can lead to missed opportunities for planting and care that benefit long-term health.

Myth #3: All Pruning Should Wait Until Spring

Some pruning can—and should—wait until late winter or early spring, but not all pruning needs to be delayed. Removing dead, damaged, or hazardous branches in winter is not only safe, it’s recommended. Winter storms, snow, and wind can put extra stress on weakened limbs.

That said, heavy structural pruning or cutting back certain flowering plants too early can reduce spring blooms. Knowing what to prune and when makes all the difference. If you’re unsure, it’s better to take a conservative approach or ask for guidance rather than cutting everything back at once.

Winter is a good time to clean up problem branches, improve safety, and prepare plants for healthier growth later on.

Myth #4: Mulch Isn’t Necessary in Winter

Mulch is often thought of as a summer tool for keeping soil cool, but it’s just as valuable in winter. A layer of mulch helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and protect roots from freezing nights.

In Nevada County, where temperatures can swing from warm days to cold nights, mulch acts as insulation. It also helps reduce erosion during heavy rains. Just remember to keep mulch pulled back a few inches from plant trunks and stems to prevent rot and pest issues.

Adding mulch in winter is a simple step that offers benefits well into spring.

Myth #5: Fallen Leaves Are Always a Problem

While leaves on walkways and driveways should be cleared for safety, fallen leaves in garden beds aren’t always a bad thing. In fact, leaving some leaf litter can help protect soil, retain moisture, and provide habitat for beneficial insects.

In natural landscapes, leaves break down over time and return nutrients to the soil. Instead of removing every leaf, consider lightly mulching them into garden beds or leaving them under shrubs and trees. This more natural approach supports soil health and reduces unnecessary cleanup.

Myth #6: Winter Is a Bad Time to Work on the Landscape

Many people assume landscaping should wait until spring, but winter is actually one of the best times for certain projects. Cooler weather makes planting easier on plants, and contractors often have more availability than during the busy spring season.

Winter is ideal for:

• Planting trees and shrubs

• Making irrigation repairs or adjustments

• Improving drainage

• Updating mulch and soil

• Planning larger landscape changes

Taking care of these tasks now helps avoid the spring rush and gives plants a strong start when warmer weather returns.

Myth #7: Irrigation Systems Don’t Matter in Winter

Even if irrigation systems aren’t running as often, winter is a critical time to make sure they’re protected and functioning properly. Freeze damage, broken valves, and clogged drip lines often go unnoticed until spring—when repairs become urgent.

Checking irrigation systems before and during winter helps prevent costly damage and ensures everything is ready when watering needs increase again. Drip systems, in particular, benefit from winter checks to avoid leaks and uneven watering.

Myth #8: Native and Drought-Tolerant Plants Don’t Need Any Winter Care

Native and drought-tolerant plants are well adapted to our climate, but that doesn’t mean they require no care. Newly planted natives still need regular watering during their first few winters, and even established plants benefit from mulch and occasional attention during extreme weather.

Understanding the difference between low maintenance and no maintenance helps keep native landscapes healthy and resilient.

A Smarter Approach to Winter Landscape Care

Winter doesn’t need to be complicated. By letting go of a few common myths and focusing on simple, thoughtful care, you can protect your landscape through the colder months and make spring easier and more successful.

If you ever have questions about winter watering, pruning, planting, or irrigation, we’re always happy to help. Stop by our nursery to talk through your landscape needs, explore winter-friendly plants, or get advice specific to your property. A little guidance now can make a big difference when spring arrives.