“A layer of snow insulates the plants and
ground from radical drops in temperature.”
Gardens don’t handle rapid variations in temperature well, and
evening out those transitions is a helpful defense. A layer of snow
insulates the plants and ground from radical drops in temperature. It also
prevents moisture from escaping. Also, the insulated “warm” soil melts
ground-level snow, feeding the plants.
However, there are downsides to snow. Buildups of snow are heavy and
too much will weigh the plants down, snapping stems or breaking leaves
off. Snow timing can be a critical factor as well. Plant growth syncs with the
changing seasons. When temperatures warm, the plants begin the process
of waking up. However, if some late snow comes through during this process,
then it might do more harm than help (remember, plants do not like rapid
variations in temperature). Lastly, snow conceals the presence of garden pests
like moles and voles. While everything looks calm on the surface, pests are
under the snow, feasting on your roots and stems.
Vegetables and Other Plants That Can Grow in the Snow
• SPINACH: It may not produce leaves during snowfall, but the plant will bear
the snow and continue to grow. Varietals such as Savoy do well and can be
identified by their wrinkled leaves.
• COLLARDS: Blue Max varietals can survive in 0˚F, making collards some
of the most freeze-tolerant plants there are.
• TURNIPS: Through the miracle of science, turnip flavors convert from spicy
to sweet during the snowy months. Sugar is a natural anti-freeze, so turnips
produce more of it to survive temperatures down to 10˚F. Hakurei varietals
are known for being hardy and simply need insulation, which may be
provided by the snow.
• CAMELLIA: An evergreen plant, the camellia brightly blooms from fall to
spring. As long as they are protected from heavy winds and have access
to the sun, they will grow brightly through the snow.
• FIRETHORN: Green leaves with orange/yellow berries, the
firethorn is a beautiful addition to a snowy garden. When
spring arrives, white flowers will bloom from them as well,
ensuring a dash of white remains even after the snow leaves.
It’s important to note that all plants and vegetables can use
some assistance. Just because they can survive through
cold weather and snow doesn’t mean they have to.
Mulching, ground-level irrigation, and greenhouses
greatly increase your garden’s growing power
during cold seasons, and they can be imple-
mented quickly and affordably. Snow on the
ground doesn’t mean your garden is done for
the season. It means a new rotation of plants
and vegetables are ready to be planted and a
new gardening strategy is ready to begin.
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