How do I know if my winter protection is working?

Assessing the effectiveness of your hydrangea winter protection means monitoring for a few specific indicators. I have been checking once a month in the cold months for a few indicators of successful care or not. Being proactive ensures that plants receive the proper care and insulation, rather than it being an afterthought that leads to issues or climatic factors that destroy bud viability.

Conduct a monthly inspection reliably. If a storm occurs, check for any damage that needs immediate attention. I conduct mine on the first weekend of December, January, and February. Watch for mulch cover displacement damage. Look for slight changes in bud color, which can indicate potential issues.

Check beneath snow lines with care for possible problems. When needed, carefully sweep snow away to examine stems for potential rodent damage, discoloration, or soil heaving. Look for small holes and teeth marks at the base. I carry wire mesh patches that allow for rapid fixes while inspecting.

Check for condensation accumulating inside the protective cover. Moisture accumulation will always lead to a fungal problem. I lift the covers occasionally to allow air exchange. After losing plants to mold, I put vent flaps in my burlap wraps. Air circulation prevents more damage than cold.

Evaluate bud health with sensations and sight. Healthy buds feel firm, not brittle. The color needs to remain stable, with no graying. I check buds about once a month to see how they are changing. Because you are doing the checking, you will also be promptly alerted to any needed changes to your protection.

Read the full article: Essential Hydrangea Winter Care Guide