As the crisp chill of winter approaches, your landscape faces one of its toughest tests of the year. Snow, frost, and freezing temperatures can take a toll on your lawn, trees, and hardscaping features if they’re not properly protected. At Viking Landscaping, we believe that a little preparation now can save you a lot of time, effort, and expense come spring.
Here are our expert winter landscaping tips to help you keep your property healthy, safe, and beautiful — all season long.
1. Clean and Clear Before the First Snowfall
Before the snow begins to settle, make sure to rake up leaves, remove debris, and trim dead branches. Leaving organic matter on your lawn can trap moisture and promote mold or disease.
Pro Tip: Pay special attention to corners and flower beds — hidden debris under snow can damage turf and create messy spring surprises.
2. Protect Your Lawn
Your grass may look dormant, but it still needs care. Mow one final time before the first freeze and keep the grass about 2 to 2.5 inches tall. This helps prevent matting and fungal growth during long periods of snow cover.
Adding a winter fertilizer rich in potassium can also strengthen roots and promote early spring recovery.
3. Mulch and Insulate Plant Beds
Applying a fresh layer of mulch or wood chips around trees and shrubs helps lock in soil moisture and regulate temperature fluctuations. Mulching also shields roots from deep freezes and prevents frost heaving — a common issue across the Prairies, especially in Winnipeg and Calgary.
Bonus: Choose organic mulch for a natural look that complements your winter landscape.
4. Wrap and Protect Trees and Shrubs
Young trees, evergreens, and delicate shrubs are especially vulnerable to winter burn and heavy snow. Wrap trunks with burlap or tree guards to prevent splitting, and use supports for tall or thin plants to prevent breakage.
At Viking Landscaping, we use professional-grade materials designed to withstand harsh Winnipeg and Calgary winters.
5. Drain and Store Irrigation Systems
Frozen water in sprinkler lines can lead to cracks and costly repairs. Shut off your irrigation system, drain hoses, and blow out the lines before temperatures drop below zero.
If you’re unsure how to do this safely, our Viking Landscaping team can handle your winterization service professionally and efficiently.
6. Check Hardscaping and Walkways
Before the freeze, inspect driveways, patios, retaining walls, and pathways for cracks or uneven surfaces. Small repairs now can prevent frost from widening gaps and creating safety hazards later.
Our team offers stonework and paver maintenance to help protect your investment year-round.
7. Plan for Snow Removal
A snow-covered yard may look beautiful — until it becomes a safety concern. Schedule your snow and ice management services early to avoid last-minute rushes. Viking Landscaping provides reliable residential and commercial snow removal throughout the winter season, ensuring your property stays safe and accessible in both Winnipeg and Calgary.
8. Think Ahead for Spring
Winter is actually the best time to plan your next landscaping project. Whether you’re dreaming of a new patio, custom stonework, or garden redesign, working with our designers during the off-season means you’ll be ready to break ground as soon as the snow melts.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to mean neglecting your landscape — it’s a chance to protect and prepare. With these expert tips from Viking Landscaping, your yard will not only survive the cold but thrive in the spring.
If you’d like professional help preparing your property for the season, contact Viking Landscaping today for a free consultation. We’re proud to serve homeowners and businesses across Winnipeg and Calgary, delivering year-round beauty and functionality to every outdoor space.